Mr Cameron described the new museum as an exciting and significant milestone in the history of Victoria Police.
“The museum displays more than 150 years of evidence, records and archives, photographs and technical innovations,” he said.
“From the capture of the Kelly gang through to today’s high-tech forensic investigation methods, the museum is a showcase of police work and crime fighting through Victoria’s history.”
On exhibition are two suits of armour belonging to the Kelly gang, the shell of the car involved in the Russell Street bombing, and extensive historical material, including old fingerprinting equipment, the first breathalyser and modern forensic displays.
“The museum also shows the change in the make up of Victoria Police. The first females did not enter the force until 1917 and in the 1870’s more than 80 per cent of officers were Irish,” he said.
“Now we have a truly diverse force that reflects the community it serves.”
Mr Cameron said that the museum captures some of the more colourful moments in Victoria’s policing history.
“In 1896 during a football match between North Melbourne and Collingwood, police had to stop a riot when 2000 angry spectators, including men with sticks and iron bars and women armed with hat pins, tried to attack the umpire and several victorious Collingwood players,” he said.
“The museum provides us with a wealth of treasures, artefacts and documentation about our history and is a vital link to our police force today.”
When Victoria Police formed in 1853, it had 875 staff. Today the diverse and inclusive force has more than 14,000 staff.
“I encourage all Victorians to visit the new museum,” Mr Cameron said.
Entry to the museum is free. It is open to the public from 10 am to 4 pm Monday to Friday, excluding public holidays. It is located on the lower concourse level of the Victoria Police headquarters at the World Trade Centre, 637 Flinders St, Melbourne.