Wayne Mills – Systems Strengthening Officer in Vanuatu

Wayne spent 30 years working for the NZ Police before taking up assignment with VSA.

What Wayne is doing in Vanuatu

Wayne’s experience working for the NZ Police makes him uniquely positioned to help his partner organisation (the State (Police) Prosecution Department – SPD) strengthen and streamline current case and file management practices. He is based in the capital, Port Vila, along with seven prosecutors and a records officer. Wayne works individually with all of them on a regular basis.

 Making a positive impact

Wayne says that streamlining a number of small processes within the SPD has made recording and retrieving case information much quicker. It has made the office more efficient allowing prosecutors to concentrate on their core role. He feels that improving management practices and strengthening staff capacity will result in more professional prosecution of cases.

Wayne recently carried out a national review of the reporting and recording of complaints to the Vanuatu Police Force (VPF), making several recommendations. If accepted he feels they will enhance the professionalism of the VPF in several areas.

Wayne’s highlights so far

“I am really enjoying putting more efficient practices in place and seeing how the prosecutors are now saving themselves unnecessary work or duplication. I am often thanked by the staff and that is really satisfying.”

“I love learning aspects of a new culture. There are so many different customs within Vanuatu communities.”

What Vanuatu has taught Wayne

“Family is very important to the Ni-Vanuatu. They look after their own. Something we could all learn I am sure. “

“The saying ‘Island time’ is completely true. All aspects of life in Vanuatu happen at a much slower pace. I have learnt to be very patient and things will get done eventually in their own time. “

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