There will be more police on the beat across Western Australia with 119 new officers graduating from the Joondalup Police Academy this evening.
Premier Mark McGowan and Police Minister Michelle Roberts will be in attendance to congratulate the Force's newest graduates from Grey, Red, Gold and Blue squads.
The 78 men and 41 women vary in age from 19 to 51 years and reflect the diversity of the Western Australian community with almost half born overseas and three of Aboriginal heritage.
The graduates bring a wealth of different skill sets and life experiences, with 22 having served in the armed forces, 14 can speak a second language and many possess tertiary qualifications.
They have all undergone 28 weeks of intensive training, including in operational settings and at locations throughout the metropolitan area.
The officers start their new roles from Monday and will be deployed across the State into frontline roles according to operational needs, including to regional WA.
The Joondalup Police Academy will continue to run at full capacity over coming years, as it works to deliver the McGowan Government's fully funded commitment of an additional 950 police officers.
So far 198 new frontline officers have already hit the beat this year, with another 300 scheduled to be rolled out by November next year.
The McGowan Government's unprecedented investment in community safety is delivering 1,100 new police officers as well as record funding for digital technologies, protective body vests and new police stations across the State, to give the community better access to police services.
As stated by Premier Mark McGowan:
"Our police have done terrific work this year, and have really stepped up when it comes to keeping us safe.
"They've not only safeguarded us from crime, they've kept our borders secure in a time of pandemic.
"We know that we ask a lot of our police and my Government is determined to ensure that they are as well-resourced and equipped as can be.
"That is why we've stepped up to provide an extra 800 officers on top of the 300 already being delivered, with half of them already doing their duties, plus the latest in digital technology and protective body armour.
"I wish our latest graduates all the best, hope they stay safe and do well as they walk the beats of Western Australia."
As stated by Police Minister Michelle Roberts:
"I'm really pleased our Government is able to deliver an extra 950 police officers.
"The officers graduating this evening are indicative of large graduations to come, as our Government builds on our record of recruiting more police for the frontline.
"I always find police graduations inspiring occasions.
"They showcase the best in our community, especially because tonight we're not only honouring our newest graduates, but also the bravery of a number of serving officers.
"These are people who put themselves in harm's way without a second thought to keep our community safe.
"I wish our newest graduates long and rewarding careers on the frontline and thank them for their commitment to serving the community of Western Australia."
Police Minister's office - 6552 6900
