The NSW Police Force has today officially launched a new recruitment initiative aimed at attracting people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds to become police officers.
'Be a Cop in your Community' is launching as a 12-month pilot program designed to recruit police officers to serve and connect with their own communities in Sydney's south west.
Officers who sign up and graduate as part of the program will be placed in one of four South West Metropolitan Region Police Area Commands - Burwood, Auburn, Cumberland and Liverpool - based on the command's cultural and operational needs.
The program is focusing on nine languages and community groups, officers signing up required to speak at least one of the focus languages.
The languages and communities foscused on as part of the program are Mandarin, Arabic, Turkish, Urdu, Syrian, Dari, Nepalese, Hindi and Assyrian.
The pilot program is only for new recruits, who will need to meet the standard requirements.
Applicants do not need to live in a priority area, but they must be willing and able to work in one.
Premier of New South Wales, Chris Minns said the pilot program gives people in South West Sydney a chance to start a career in policing.
"This program will give people the chance to try something new, take on a challenge and keep their
community safe," Premier Minns said.
"You can't make the job of a cop safe, you just need good, brave people willing to step up."
Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism, Yasmin Catley said the program is part of the Government's commitment to ensuring the NSW Police Force reflects the community it serves.
"We're removing barriers and opening pathways into policing - from paying recruits during training,
to supporting officers to serve in their own communities, alongside delivering fair, modern pay.
"These reforms are already helping get more police where they're needed most.
"We want people from all walks of life to see policing as a career they can step into and succeed in.
A more diverse police force strengthens trust and delivers better outcomes on the ground.
"Today's announcement builds on that momentum and with the Cadet Program in Sydney on the
horizon, it's a clear sign we're continuing to invest in and strengthen our police force."
Corporate Services Deputy Commissioner Dean Smith said the initiative was designed to build a police force that is a reflection of the community.
"The South West Metropolitan Region is the most culturally and linguistically diverse area in the state," Deputy Commissioner Smith said.
"Representation matters. And while we're proud of our diverse police workforce, we're committed to strengthening that even further.
"This initiative will enable recruits to serve in their own communities, strengthen local relationships and ensure the police force reflects the people it serves."
