Being part of an association, no matter what industry you operate in, empowers you to have a joint purpose with the other members sharing a similar view. Associations have been around for a very long time, playing a vital role in supporting its members. Not only do they provide a cooperative link between its members and other organisations with similar purposes, but they also protect any special needs of the group.
Associations have been set up for various industries such as psychologists, sport players, coaches, and so much more. Police officers can also join a police association and benefit from being a member. You may be wondering what other advantages there are to signing up to membership of such an association besides being with members who share your career path.
Read on to discover why joining an association designated to the police sector will benefit you.
1. It’s Voluntary to Join Associations
You’re not legally bound to join an association, giving you the choice to decide if such a membership is worthwhile or not. Some associations don’t charge for membership. However, if they do the fees are normally minimal, making it affordable for anyone to become a member. Most police associations in Australia offer a tax-deductible membership fee.
2. They Advocate for Your Rights in the Workplace
Every association has its own method of providing support and advice to its members. But, most of them advocate for your rights in the industry, ensuring your remunerations and conditions are reflected fairly. Associations can assist you in knowing your obligations as well as your rights in your workplace.
3. They Speak with One Voice
By sharing a common ground with other police officers, you’re empowering the association to not only support your role in the community but to also be able to speak with one voice. This is often stronger while placing a greater emphasis on both your economic and social needs.
4. You Get Top Financial Advice
When joining a police association in Australia, you can rely on financial advice when wanting to maximise your superannuation outcomes. Your employers are required to contribute to your retirement funds. When you’re a member of an association, you can expect expert assistance when planning your retirement.
5. Transparency is a Requirement
A legit association has to follow certain regulations stipulated by the government. This includes being transparent with all financial transactions. Reporting such as financial disclosure statements and operational reports will give you peace of mind your association is properly managed.
6. Keep Up to Date with Developments in Your Industry
A well-run association will keep you up to date with the latest developments in your industry. This can be in the form of email newsletters, journals and other member publications. What’s more, signing up to an association that specifically focuses on your local area also means you’re well-informed with what’s happening in your sector and community.
7. Critical Incident Support
One of the biggest advantages of joining a police association is getting 24-hour critical support. This is vital when you need someone to assist you should there be a shooting, a death in custody or being involved in an accident while in pursuit. This kind of support will ensure you’re fully protected under the law.
8. Offer a Range of Other Services
Police associations not only advocate for your rights in the workplace, but they also offer a range of other services. This could include the following:
- Insurance coverage for illnesses and injuries
- Health and safety advice in the workplace
- Discounted products and services from other organisations
These associations align their services to the industry requirement of their members.
9. Assist with Disputes
Associations will assist members of the police force with disputes such as those related to salaries and suspensions. They’ll also represent you in various situations where a dispute resolution is called for. This includes handling negotiations for enterprise agreement.
10. Skilled Support Team
What makes most police associations invaluable is the skilled support team available to advise and represent their members. The team members are experts in the police sector, having the experience and skill to understand exactly what happens in the industry. The support team is kept up to date with the latest developments in the sector which means you get the best support when you need it.
11. Online Support
Police associations have had to change the way they operate in a digital world. This means you get full online support from registering as a member to accessing all the services offered by the association. A user-friendly website makes it easy for members to navigate through the pages, finding what they need, simply and quickly.
Final Thoughts
Signing up a membership with a local police association in your district makes a whole lot of sense if you’re looking for support and advice in your industry. It’s your go-to when you need representation in an enterprise agreement negotiation or need emergency support when there’s been a critical incident. Joining a police association also means you’re in a group of like-minded people who have a joint purpose to support each other.
