Police are pumping major resources into the search for Australia's most wanted man while extending an olive branch to those who might be helping him evade capture.

As the manhunt for Desmond "Dezi" Freeman enters its 17th day, authorities are hoping a $1 million reward and the offer of protection against prosecution for anyone who may have helped the fugitive could lead them to a breakthrough arrest.

Freeman is accused of shooting dead policemen Neal Thompson and Vadim de Waart-Hottart at a property at Porepunkah, about 300km northeast of Melbourne, on August 26 before escaping into bushland.

About 450 officers are searching in harsh and challenging bushland, caves, mineshafts, huts and properties in and around the area.

Twelve days into the manhunt, Victoria Police offered a $1 millio

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