IBAC police hearing delayed again

A decision on whether anti-corruption hearings into serious misconduct by police can be heard publicly won't be made until May.

The Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission was expected to start public hearings into allegations of excessive force by police at the Ballarat police station last week.

But lawyers for two officers stood down over the allegations are seeking to have the matter heard in secret.

David Grace, QC, says hearing the matters publicly could damage the reputations of officers involved, and prejudice any potential criminal trial.

But counsel for the commission, Ted Woodward, SC, argues the circumstances surrounding the allegations are exceptional enough to warrant a public hearing.

Neither officer has been interviewed or charged over the allegations, and the male and female officers have both had their identities suppressed.

Justice Peter Riordan is expected to make his final decision in a hearing on May 21 and 22.

IBAC has adjourned examination of the officers until a decision is made.