Chief Commissioner Shane Patton said he had advised the Victorian government he would step away from the role "effective immediately".

"It is with a heavy heart that I have made this decision. However, I think it is the right one to allow fresh leadership in the role," Patton said in a statement on Sunday night.

Of the 14,571 Police Association members who took part in the online ballot, more than 12,600 - or 87 per cent - did not have confidence he could lead and manage Victoria Police in the future.

After triggering the events leading to Mr Patton's resignation, police union secretary Wayne Gatt thanked him for his service.

Mr Gatt said the association would continue fighting to address many issues impacting the force, its members, and the community.

Victoria's opposition leader and former police officer, Brad Battin, said a leadership change wouldn't resolve the systemic issues plaguing law and order in the state.

"The dismissal of the chief commissioner is also not going to change many of the frustrations that our officers are experiencing when the criminals they arrest are released hours later, or the resources they need to do their jobs are not forthcoming," he said.

Victoria's Emergency Management Commissioner Rick Nugent would step into the role "as soon as practicable" until a replacement was chosen, Premier Jacinta Allan said in a statement.

"On behalf of the Victorian people, I thank Shane for his long and decorated service and his leadership through challenging times," Ms Allan said.

Deputy Commissioner Wendy Steendam AM will lead the organisation temporarily.

Mr Patton thanked his family and friends for their "love and support over a lifetime of policing" and the Victorian community for "the privilege to have served you".

He also thanked Victoria police and protective services officers, police custody officers, public servants, and his executive command team members.