More than 40 Victoria Police staff have been stood down and face losing their jobs after refusing to have the COVID-19 vaccine. 

Victoria Police on Monday confirmed 34 police officers and nine Protective Services Officers had not complied with the vaccination order by the state’s chief health officer and by a specific chief commissioner instruction. 

Exemptions from having the mandatory vaccine only apply if an employee is unable to be vaccinated due to a medical issue, the force says.

Those refusing the jab have been referred to Professional Standards Command for failing to abide by an instruction of the chief commissioner and subsequent disciplinary action, which may result in their sacking. 

They have been stood down and directed to take accrued leave.

The Police Association backs mandatory vaccinations and has been contacted for comment.

AAP

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