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Victorian Police Minister Wade Noonan Commended For Speaking About 'Unexpected Toll' Of Seeing 'Unspeakable Crimes'

Police Minister Reveals 'Unexpected Toll' Of Seeing 'Unspeakable Crimes'
Fairfax Media

Victorian Minister for Police and Corrections, Wade Noonan, has been praised after coming forward with admissions he has struggled with the "constant exposure to details of unspeakable crimes and traumatic events" his job entails.

Noonan on Monday announced he would be taking a three month period of leave from his duties as Minister, and Member for Williamstown.

"It has been difficult to cope with the constant exposure to details of unspeakable crimes and traumatic events that are an everyday part of my role and the accumulation of these experiences has taken an unexpected toll," Noonan said in a statement.

"I need time to receive further support and assistance including professional counselling. This has been a difficult decision but I believe it is the right one."

Noonan thanked his family and Victorian premier Daniel Andrews, who gave supportive words to his minister.

"I support Wade in his decision to take leave while he receives the support that he needs. He has made a courageous decision that is in the best interests of his health and his family and I commend him for it," Andrews said in a statement.

Noonan's bravery and honesty in detailing his struggles was commended by anxiety and depression organisation, beyondblue. The group's chairman Jeff Kennett said Noonan's actions should be commended and congratulated.

"Today an individual’s health has been given a greater priority than the politics of the day," Kennett said.

"I hope that the Minister who I have come to know over the last year returns to good health and his job as quickly as possible. Mr Noonan is a man of good values with a compassionate heart. beyondblue wishes Minister Noonan and his family well and hopes for a speedy recovery."

In a statement, Kennett said that: "No one is immune from experiencing mental health issues and no workplace or profession is exempt."

If you need help in a crisis, call Lifeline on 13 11 14. For further information about depression contact beyondBlue on 1300224636 or talk to your GP, local health professional or someone you trust.

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