Shane Patton joined the Champions of Change Coalition in 2020, as a member of the National 2015 Group.
Shane Patton commenced his appointment as the 23rd Chief Commissioner of the Victoria Police on 27 June 2020. He leads an organisation of over 22,000 staff, including more than 16,000 police officers. His focus is on ensuring police prevent and reduce crime; are visible, accessible and transparent to the community; and that his workforce is supported, decisive and inclusive.
Prior to this appointment, Shane was Deputy Commissioner, Regional Operations from November 2018, with responsibility for all four Regions, Transit and Public Safety, State Emergencies and Support, and Family Violence.
In 2015 Shane was promoted to Deputy Commissioner, Specialist Operations for 3½ years where he was responsible for Crime, Counter Terrorism, Road Policing, Forensics, Intelligence & Covert Support and Legal Services. Previous executive level roles were as Assistant Commissioner for State Emergencies and Security Command and North West Metro Region having responsibility for the City of Melbourne and its major events.
Shane brings significant experience and expertise to his leadership of Victoria Police. He has acted as Chief Commissioner on six separate occasions between 2016 – 2019 and over the course of his career undertaken diverse policing roles including operational uniform policing, criminal investigations, internal investigations, prosecutions, public transport safety, traffic, education and counter terrorism. His achievements include leading the expansion of the State’s Road Safety Camera program, overseeing the lowest ever road toll in Victoria in 2018, and driving major reform projects such as the creation of a Counter Terrorism Command.
He has been the State Police Commander for major emergency management responses and counter terrorism operations in Victoria and has progressed significant legislative and operational reform in combatting serious and organised crime.
Shane is a former member of the Australia-New Zealand Counter Terrorism Committee (ANZCTC), Sentencing Advisory Council and Coronial Council of Victoria. Until recently, Shane was the National Chair of the ANZCTC Crowded Places Advisory Group sub–committee.
Shane has received several internal commendations and is a Williamson Fellow, ANZSOG and LinCT (Leadership in Counter Terrorism program) alumni. He holds tertiary qualifications, including a Master of Public Policy and Administration. Shane is currently half way through completing a Law Degree.
Shane is married with two children and his interests include travel, history, reading and sport.
Updates from the Founding Group
Champions of Change National 2015 Group
Shane Patton is a Member of the Champions of Change National 2015 Group. Based in Victoria, the National 2015 Group represents some of Australia’s most significant local, national and international organisations. Members work within and across their organisations to improve the representation of women in leadership positions and non-traditional roles.