Tactical Options Framework
Perceived cumulative assessment
Your subjective assessment and continuous reassessment of an incident, using the TENR model, 
based on information known about the situation and the subject’s behaviour. The PCA may 
escalate and/or de-escalate more than once during an incident. 
There are five categories in the PCA, which are represented in the TOF – cooperative, passive 
resistance, active resistance, assaultive, GBH or death.
Engage, disengage or delay?
Your decision to escalate or de-escalate your response, and your choice of tactical option(s),  
must be continuously reassessed, using the TENR model, so you choose the most reasonable 
option, given all the circumstances known at the time.
M
O
C        
M
N
A
U
L
Effective communication between police is as critical as effective tactical communication with 
N
P    
C I
   
the subject(s). Constant assessment, planning and communication between police should occur 
A
S
T
S
E
E
throughout a use of force incident.
S S A      E
Presence and tactical communication
TA
Tactical communication is Police’s preferred option for resolving incidents. Use tactical 
ICN
communication throughout an incident, alone or in conjunction with any other tactical option used.
U
M
M
AS
Tactical options and degrees of force
SESS    PLAN    CO
 
» officer presence and tactical communication
 
» mechanical restraints eg handcuffing
 
» empty hand techniques eg physical restraints and strikes
 
» OC spray
 
» baton – Taser - dogs – weapon(s) of opportunity
 
» firearms and other force with serious implications
Prepare, show and use force
“Prepare” force means carriage of a tactical option.
“Show” force means presenting a tactical option at a subject.
“Use” force means the application of force on a subject.
Reporting use of force
The Use of Force chapter of the Police Manual outlines which “shows” and “uses” of force you 
are required to report. Reporting force facilitates evidence-based decision-making to improve 
employee and public safety.
THREAT
The subjects intent, capability or opportunity along with the physical environment
The legal authority to use force is derived from the law, not the TOF. If you use force that is not 
authorised by law, or is excessive, the fact that you relied on the TOF will not justify or legitimise 
EXPOSURE
Awareness of  safety, security or public trust and confidence issues
the use of that force.
NECESSITY
Assessment of the need to intervene (act) now, later, or not at all
Reasonable force includes force that is necessary and proportionate, given all the 
circumstances known at the time.
RESPONSE
Proportionate, timely, reasonable, and lawful Police actions using tactics  
and tactical options
TENR requires assessment and constant reassessment, planning and communication to be successful

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