If you’ve ever dreamt of a career in the force, now is the time to step up. Victoria Police have launched its largest-ever recruit campaign as it strives to attract 1700 more officers over the next five years.
Police Chief Commissioner Simon Overland indicated that he was strongly focussed on attracting officers from a wide range of cultural backgrounds.
“I think there is scope for us to attract a more diverse range of people so that our police are more reflective of the community they serve,” he said.
“This means attracting people of all ages, life and work experiences, levels of education and qualification, women and men, and people of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.”
Recent graduate Tiffany Delle-Vergini said that she is enjoying her time in the Victorian Police Force after the Frankston academy two months ago.
The 20-year-old said that she had an interest in investigative work since she was young.
“I was surprised that my mum and yiayia were happy with my choice to join the police force,”she said.
“My Yiayia even cried (with happiness) when she saw me in my uniform at my graduation.”
Ms Delle-Vergini said that her Greek background has worked to her advantage in her role.
“It’s a great asset to have because when I go into a situation where people are speaking Greek, I can translate it for other officers.”
There are currently approximately 250 recruits in training at the Victoria Police Academy.
As of July 19, there will be a recruit intake each fortnight, instead of monthly and by the end of the year, the number of graduations are also expected to increase from monthly to fortnightly.
A new recruitment website has been created to coincide with the launch of the Victoria Police advertising campaign, where potential applicants can take a test to see if they have what it takes for a policing career.
To find out more about entrance requirements, the application process and to take a test visit policecareer.vic.gov.au or SMS “Ready” to 132 001.