The NSW Police Force is officially launching a Cadet Traineeship Program for school leavers and young adults.
The 12-month pilot program will provide an authentic hands-on experience, combining practical training, academic study and paid employment to provide a structured pathway for aspiring police officers to enter the NSW Police Force.
Applications for the program are now open to Year 10 school leavers, but will accommodate young adults up to the age of 21.
Applicants will undergo physical, medical and psychometric testing, as well as baseline vetting, to determine their professional suitability for the program.
The program will launch in April 2026, with successful candidates to undertake a three-week induction.
Cadets will then be placed at either The Hills or Sutherland Police Area Commands, where they will complete 12 months of field-based learning, rotating through four placements, including six months in general duties, two months with Traffic and Highway Patrol Command, two months with the detectives unit and two months with the crime prevention unit.
Cadets will also obtain first aid and aquatic sequence rescue training, as well as a driving certification.
During the cadetship, trainees will wear a dedicated uniform, easily distinguishing them from other officers.
At the conclusion of the program, cadets will have completed the traineeship qualification, being a Certificate III in Business.
Applicants can apply when they are aged 16, but will need to have turned 17 by the time the program commences in April 2026.
The first NSWPF cadet program successfully ran in 1977 and was followed by a traineeship, with officers from both those programs still serving today.
Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley MP said policing was one of the toughest jobs in our community.
"The stakes are high but the reward – the pride of serving your community and making a real difference is unmatched," Minister Catley said.
"Just as some choose to go to university or pick up a trade, the Cadet Traineeship Program gives young people the chance to experience life in the NSW Police Force.
"These cadets are not just trainees, they are the next generation of NSW Police officers.
"While there's more to do, we're rebuilding the NSW Police Force into a modern organisation that reflects and protects the community it serves."
Commissioner Mal Lanyon said it was hoped the program would offer an insight into what a very rewarding career with the NSW Police Force could look like.
"I'm very happy to be able to announce the commencement of the Cadet Traineeship Program for school leavers and young adults," Commissioner Lanyon said.
"Cadets will be exposed to policing culture, values, and expectations, by structured mentorship and support to build confidence and resilience resulting in a smoother transition into the NSWSPF.
"We hope the program will attract diverse talent and encourage school leavers to pursue a career filled with opportunity and purpose."
