LOOKING to boost numbers and increase diversity within its ranks, Victoria Police launched its largest ever recruitment campaign earlier this month targeting country residents, people from varying cultural backgrounds, women, and those with different life experiences.
With a culturally diverse and multi-skilled population, Shepparton Police Constable Gavin Sproule said he hoped the $6 m campaign, would reach members of the local community, acknowledging the importance of attracting more police to regional areas.
“We need more police,” he said encouraging others who have considered joining the force.
“Having life experience behind you in the police force is so beneficial so don’t be put off thinking you’ve left it too late in your career.”
Having previously worked in transport, mechanics and agricultural industries, Sproule, 30, made the decision to try policing two years ago and said he hasn’t looked back since.
“You really look forward to going to work every day, it’s diverse and exciting and you don’t get that in every job. One of the best parts about it is the camaraderie; you really feel as if you’re part of a team.”
Shepparton Police Constable Hannah Murnane also appreciates the value of having life experience prior to joining the force.
After finishing school, Murnane completed a Bachelor of Education at Monash University and Honours in Psychology, and since joining the police has undertaken a Graduate in Forensic Behavioural Science.
“People said I was wasting all my study when I joined but I continue to use so much of it in my job,” she said.
With the Shepparton Branch having less than 25% of its officers as females, Murnane is pleased with the campaign’s aims in targeting women, as well as those with different cultural backgrounds, who she believes have a lot to offer their community.
“Women are often more sympathetic and less intimidating to women and children, which comes in handy in a number of different situations,” she said.
“Having knowledge of another culture or language is very valuable in a job where you are constantly dealing with a very culturally diverse community, and we’ve certainly got that here.”
Victoria Police hope the campaign will attract 1700 officers state-wide over the next five years.
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.
