Chief Commissioner Mike Bush of Victoria Police provides an international perspective on the UK’s new Police Reform White Paper and the Police Leadership Commission led by Lords Blunkett and Herbert. Drawing on decades of experience as former New Zealand Police Commissioner and now head of Victoria Police, he argues the proposals are “on the right path” – but calls for bolder, more integrated reform.
In this short but punchy conversation, Bush sets out why he believes the UK should move to a single police service, how to avoid chaos when merging forces, and why traditional command-and-control leadership alone is no longer enough. He makes the case for “one strategy, one operating model” and for growing leaders at every level who can create safe, inclusive, high-performing teams.
Takeaways
- Bush backs the UK White Paper direction and says the recommendations are “spot on.”
- He argues the UK should “tear off that bandaid” and move to one police service.
- The UK’s single government and legislation make full national integration more achievable.
- Any merger must start with one strategy, one set of outcomes, and one operating model.
- A common technology platform is essential to replace fragmented systems and branding.
- He warns leaders to be bold but not underestimate the scale of change.
- Command-and-control leadership is vital but only covers 10–20% of policing.
- Future leaders must create positive, safe, inclusive workplaces and enable their people.
Chapters
00:00 Global Perspectives on Police Reform
04:07 Leadership in Policing: Evolving Beyond Command and Control
Subscribe for more leadership conversations from inside and beyond policing
We have launched a YouTube channel where you can also view our videos – just click here and please like and subscribe PTV Youtube
PolicingTV content is being brought to you in partnership with Kodex & World Policing Advisory
Kodex revolutionises the way organisations manage sensitive data requests from law enforcement and government agencies, transforming a traditionally complex process into a secure, streamlined workflow that ensures compliance, enhances security, and reduces operational costs.
Trusted by over 90,000 government agents and industry leaders like Binance, Airbnb, Match Group, and LinkedIn, Kodex sets the industry standard for secure data exchange — powered by a global intelligence network and advanced threat detection capabilities.
To learn more about Kodex, click here – If you are part of a government agency and need to create an account, click here
World Policing Advisory is a global consultancy specialising in the future of policing and public safety. We offer global policing expertise, delivered locally through a model focused on consulting with conscience.
Our teams have direct experience of strategic and tactical policing and private sector leadership, blended with the globe’s best subject matter expertise to create high impact value for money services with in-year benefits.
For more information contact our MD, Gary Stuart ([email protected])