Ten new Police Security Officers graduated from the South Australia Police (SAPOL) Academy today, officially joining the organisation’s protective security workforce.
The cohort completed Police Security Officer Development Program 3 (PSODP3) and brings a diverse range of skills and life experience to the role.
Graduates range from 20 to 41 and come from employment backgrounds including corrections, emergency veterinary nursing, timber labouring, disability support, private security, consulting, arboriculture, office administration, hospitality and retail.
The group also includes members from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, with Filipino, Nigerian and Chinese heritage represented, while one recruit relocated from Keith to pursue a career with SAPOL.
Police Security Officers play a vital role in protecting government facilities, public officials and the community through duties including mobile patrols, security monitoring, static guarding and custodial responsibilities.
Graduate Jimmy, 32, joined SAPOL after more than a decade working as a professional chef.
“The experience as a professional chef helped me develop teamwork, leadership, communication, time management and the ability to stay calm under pressure,” he said.
“One thing that surprised me during the Academy was how diverse the PSO role is. I initially thought the role was mainly focused on security and patrol duties, but I learned that PSOs are involved in a wide range of responsibilities and play an important role in supporting police operations.”
Jaikeb, 22, who previously worked as a supervisor in the timber industry and volunteered with the Country Fire Service in Keith, said he was attracted to SAPOL by the variety of opportunities available.
“SAPOL attracted me as it has a variety of jobs and each day is different. I love the fact that as a SAPOL member we are making a difference and helping in the community,” he said.
“My favourite thing about the academy was Firearms Week. My second contender was Active Armed Offender.”
Graduate Caitlin, 25, a former emergency veterinary nurse, said the Academy challenged recruits while helping them develop confidence and resilience.
“My most memorable experience at the Academy was Firearms Week. I really enjoyed the active armed offender drills, as they were challenging, realistic, and brought us together as a team,” she said.
“My advice to anyone considering applying to SAPOL is to back yourself and give it a go. There will definitely be times throughout the Academy that push you outside your comfort zone, but the amount of support from instructors and fellow recruits is incredible.”
Following graduation, six officers will be posted to the Protective Security Section and four to the District Support Section in metropolitan Adelaide.
SAPOL is currently recruiting PSOs and is keen to hear from people interested in a rewarding career helping keep South Australians safe.
If you are looking for career progression pathways, job security and a chance to make a real difference in the community, visit www.police.sa.gov.au/join-us/achievemore.
Jaikeb (left), Jimmy (middle), Caitlin (right)
