Victoria's temporary top cop retiring from the force

Victoria Police needs two new top cops with acting Chief Commissioner Tim Cartwright set to retire in a few months.

Mr Cartwright's retirement, from July 4, comes as the force continues to search for a new police chief after Ken Lay resigned late last year.

Mr Cartwright has worked with Victoria Police for 41 years.

Police Minister Wade Noonan says Mr Cartwright has been a stable leader during a period of transition, also overseeing the introduction of a family violence command and a review into bullying within the force.