Issues in Vic Police exhibit management

Victoria Police is holding on to more seized property and exhibits than it needs to, putting a strain on staff, its budget and ability to keep items secure, according to a report.

The force lacked comprehensive management policies and guidelines for the 470,000 items it manages across 200 locations, according to an auditor-general report released on Wednesday. But there was also no evidence of adverse effects on investigations or court proceedings.

Victoria Police has started improving its systems in recent years and accepted all of the auditor-general's seven recommendations in full, including improving IT systems and staff training.