SA Police has a long and proud commitment to volunteering, historically through programs such as Neighbourhood Watch and Blue Light. In 2010 SA Police embraced the broader use of volunteers across a range of functions in support of our everyday business, and more recently brought other long-standing activities under the banner of the Police Volunteers Program, such as the Police Historical Society and police chaplains.
Recruitment to some activities is limited by availability of places, and the need for specific individual or organisational skills. For specific programs and roles, eligibility criteria may also apply. All volunteer applicants undergo probity checking before being accepted as a police volunteer.
If you are interested in one of the roles listed below contact the Volunteer Coordination Unit.
“Volunteering allowed me to work alongside Police Officers and exposed me to the diverse working environment and job opportunities available which bolstered my ambition to pursue a career in SAPOL…Anyone with the desire to pursue a career in SAPOL should consider volunteering. It's a fantastic way to see the diverse working environment and job opportunities available." - Maddy, 21, former volunteer, now Probationary Constable.
SAPOL volunteer Susan Payne is this year's recipient of the South Australia Police Volunteer Program – Commissioner's Volunteer of the Year award for 2024. This annual award, celebrated during National Volunteer Week, was presented to Susan by Commissioner Grant Stevens during a ceremony this morning recognising her outstanding dedication to volunteering in SAPOL.
The theme for National Volunteer Week 2024 is 'Something for Everyone'.
'Something for Everyone’ recognises the diverse passions and talents every individual brings to volunteering. This theme gives us an opportunity to explore:
‘Something for Everyone’ embraces volunteer possibilities and the impacts that emerge when everyone finds their meaningful role in making a difference, and Susan has found her meaningful role. Susan commenced her volunteering with SAPOL on 31 July 2010 with the launch of the volunteer program at the Elizabeth Police Station. Susan is recognised for her service to the community with over 3000 volunteering hours for our organisation.
Another volunteer heralded during National Volunteer Week is 101-year-old Wilfred ‘Wilf’ Taylor. Joining Reynella Neighbourhood Watch group in 1997, Wilf enjoyed “doing his bit” for the community for almost 30 years, delivering newsletters around his block and helping to host crime prevention awareness events along the way. Read media release
Congratulations to Susan, Wilf and all our volunteers.
“I learned how to work collaboratively with key stakeholders to achieve shared goals…If you are considering it, just do it. The people you meet are all lovely, and it's a great way to see the positive work SAPOL does." - Ryleigh, 22, former volunteer, now Probationary Constable.
Volunteers provide a meet and greet role at the front counter of metropolitan police stations, offering support to staff and customer service to the public.
Through its unique partnership with SA Police, Neighbourhood Watch provides members and the broader community a means to build a safe and connected community. Whether you want to be a leader for change in your community, build your skills to improve your CV or employment prospects, or simply catch up with the neighbours, Neighbourhood Watch provides you with many opportunities to get involved and make a difference. Volunteers are able to participate in local crime prevention activities such as crime prevention displays, neighbourhood improvement projects, plate safe days or participate in events such as the Australia Day Parade.
In partnership with SA Police, Blue Light provides young people with entertainment and activities in an environment free form alcohol, drugs, smoking an violence. Volunteers assist with supervision and other activities at Blue Light Discos, camps and approved Blue Light programs. There are Blue Light groups across the state.
Volunteers are involved in tasks including delivering a range of information sessions to the public, preservation and restoration of police property and memorabilia, and participation in events which support SA Police. Guided tours at the facility, which is located at Thebarton Barracks on Port Road, are also conducted.
Volunteers are recruited and trained in relation to role playing to support the training in areas including recruit training at the Academy, Detective Development course training, training for the Call Centre and Communications courses, Mounted Operations and Special Tasks and Rescue training. Opportunities also exist for volunteers to participate in joint emergency services operation training.
Volunteers provide assistance and support with the delivery of approved school programs at the Road Safety Centre. Volunteers work weekdays to assist with the delivery of the program to students who attend the Centre from across the state.
Download the Volunteer at the Road Safety Centre flyer.
Volunteer police chaplains support the spiritual welfare of employees and retired members of SA Police, their partners and immediate families. Chaplains provide coverage across the state and work in conjunction with SA Police’s Employee Assistance Program.