The AFP is celebrating the contributions of its female workforce to deliver maximum damage to the criminal environment, as part of International Women's Day 2023 (Wednesday, 8 March).
AFP Assistant Commissioner Hilda Sirec said International Women's Day was an important opportunity to acknowledge the achievements of women in both sworn and unsworn roles across the organisation each year.
"International Women's Day is a time for the AFP to highlight the contribution and impact of not only our female members across the country, but also female members working in law enforcement around the world," AC Sirec said.
"The AFP is incredibly proud of the outstanding work and commitment shown by its female workforce in both sworn and unsworn roles, who are each working tirelessly to keep Australians safe."
The AFP has a current total of 7,703 members in both sworn and unsworn roles, across Australia and overseas (as at 28 February, 2023). The AFP can confirm 40.6% (3,130) of these members are women.
There are currently 1,022 women in the AFP's sworn (police and PSO roles) workforce (making up 23.9% of the sworn workforce), and 2,108 women in the unsworn workforce (making up 61.6% of the unsworn workforce).
"The AFP is proud to be driving more female representation and diversity across our ranks - and this commitment remains our focus in 2023. We continue to keep our sights set on improvement and making progress towards our 30 per cent target for sworn-female officers by 2028," she said.
Assistant Commissioner Sirec leads AFP Southern Command, overseeing the operations of federal police officers, protective service officers and support specialists in Victoria and Tasmania.
AC Sirec is part of a powerhouse trio of executive officers leading the charge in Southern Command, together with Commander Investigations Raegan Stewart and Commander Operations Gail McClure.
The leadership team offered the following advice to women wishing to pursue a career in policing and law enforcement:
"I want to acknowledge the supportive male champions who work alongside women to build an inclusive culture," said AC Sirec.
"It's also really important to highlight on International Women's Day that women can achieve greatness in law enforcement, and in a way that allows them to blend a career with family. So I encourage women out there who want diverse and exciting opportunities to consider a career in policing," she said.
"International Women's Day is the perfect time to reflect on what the AFP has to offer, as there is no limit with what women can achieve in the AFP," said AFP Commander Investigations Raegan Stewart.
"Numerous opportunities will be presented to you along your career path which can lead to fulfilling and rewarding experiences. I encourage all women of diverse backgrounds to consider and amazing career in the AFP."
"International Women's Day is a great time to encourage women to consider a career with the AFP and help us build upon our commitment to a holistic, inclusive and diverse workforce reflective of the community we serve," said AFP Commander Operations Gail McClure.
"The AFP has given me an incredible career, with opportunities to work in Commands across the country and overseas. You won't regret it - submit your application today!"
