In Australia, there is a reliance on police to respond to and address social and health needs, including in situations for which they are neither suited nor trained. This default is causing significant harms to individuals, their families, and broader communities. Historically marginalised groups and individuals face an increased risk of harm due to the persistent structural and institutional barriers they encounter when navigating everyday life. 

The reliance on police-led responses is the result of a longstanding failure to commit to and support alternative models, properly address police malpractice, as well as the failure of local, state and federal governments to appropriately fund health, social, and community support services. 

This position paper, informed by broad stakeholder engagement, seeks to highlight the extent of the harm caused by current ad hoc police first responses, and explore the urgent need for, and effectiveness of, better responses in the future. The paper highlights the wealth of research and demonstrated best practice, both in Australia and internationally, that exemplifies the potential and effectiveness of alternative first responders to the police. Leading the way are community-based models. First responders must be experienced and skilled in communicating and engaging with individuals in a way that minimises harm and recognises the importance of individual agency.