New police officers ready to hit the beat

The 25 new police officers offer a variety of former work experience, including from teaching, hospitality, the Australian Air Force, fitness coaching and the horse industry.

Ranging in age from 19 to 45, nine women and 16 men share a willingness to help others and desire to serve their respective communities.

Some graduates have ventured from overseas, including Singapore, while others have relocated from regional areas like Port Lincoln.

Adam was studying mechanical engineering when he decided to change career paths.

“Job variety was a big factor into why I applied for SAPOL. The fear of getting stuck in a job where there is no room for career change was so great that I knew I needed to change where I was heading,” he said.

“I have always wanted to help people and I originally envisioned this through engineering, but I wanted to be closer to the action and I felt this was how I would be most effective at making a difference.

“The team-building exercises and camaraderie I have experienced being a part of a course, and just learning how to be a police officer has been exciting and life changing.”

Fellow graduate, Jade, was similarly drawn to SAPOL’s vast career opportunities. She brings a wealth of life experience to the role.

“I worked between Mount Hotham, Victoria, and Big White Ski Resort, Canada, in the lift departments for around five years which I absolutely loved,” Jade said.

“I was able to snowboard daily for work and make friends from all around the world. This lifestyle allowed me to travel throughout Canada, a place that I hold close to my heart.

“When COVID-19 hit, I returned home to Adelaide and got a job as a Grape and Bulk Wine Broker. I worked with grape growers and winemakers throughout South Australia.

“I believe that all of my past experiences have helped me to build on my communication and resilience which has helped me to get through the academy and will help me as a general duties officer.”

Similarly, Matthieu wanted a career to be proud of and had recently moved from Melbourne before joining SAPOL.

He considers having job security for his future family to be of “huge benefit”, along with ongoing personal development opportunities.

“Already I’ve developed better studying skills and learnt a lot about myself and my strengths,” he said.

“Since being at the academy I’ve learnt to respond to situations which require being confident and assertive.

“I don’t have an academic bone in my body, but doing the work for something I’m passionate about makes it all worth it.”

Adam hopes to stay on the road as long as possible, while Jade is interested in working in the Child and Family Investigation Section (CFIS), and Matthieu has his eyes set on STAR Operations Section or Security Response Section (SRS), but is keen to “give anything a go”.

Course 68 graduates will be stationed to metropolitan and regional postings, including Port Augusta, Mount Gambier and Berri.

SAPOL is currently recruiting and is keen to hear from people interested in an inspiring career with unmatched experiences and rewards.

If you're looking for job security, career progression pathways and a chance to make a real difference in local communities visit achievemore.com.au

Jade, Adam and Matthieu are among 25 Course 68 members graduating today from the South Australia Police Academy.