Today, 24 police officers have graduated from the Police Academy as part of Course 90, bringing a wide range of life experience, skills and career pathways into South Australia Police (SAPOL).
Aged between 18 and 45, the graduates backgrounds span security, healthcare, real estate, education, hospitality and retail, reflecting the varied pathways into a policing career.
The cohort includes graduates from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, including members with connections to Iran and the Philippines, contributing to SAPOL's commitment to reflecting the community it serves.
Among the graduates is 45-year-old Janice, who previously worked as a chef and spent time as a stay-at-home parent. She said her life experience helped shape her approach to police training.
"Being a stay-at-home mum taught me patience, communication and the ability to multitask, [and] working as a chef helped me develop discipline, teamwork and the ability to perform under pressure," she said.
Janice will be posted to the Western District and is looking forward to continuing to learn from experienced officers, with long-term aspirations in areas including victim management, negotiation and prosecution.
Cameron, 28, entered policing after working as football umpire and retail sales assistant.
He said his previous roles helped him develop decision-making skills and confidence when working with the public.
"Job variety was a big attraction for me, the fact that no two days will be the same is very exciting," he said.
Reflecting on his time at the Academy, Cameron said driver training was a standout, with the firearms course becoming a challenge he ultimately came to enjoy.
"In terms of assessments, it's all about trusting your abilities but also leaning on others around you to help through anything you are struggling with."
Cameron will be posted to the Limestone Coast, where he is looking forward to gaining experience in country policing, with future ambitions to work in investigations.
Also graduating is 22-year-old James, who studied criminology at university while working in hospitality.
Originally from the Philippines, James said his background and interests in intelligence and crime influenced his decision to join SAPOL.
"I eventually want to work in the Counter Terrorism and Security section, as intelligence and prevention in general have always intrigued me," he said.
James will begin his career in the Eastern District and looks forward to furthering his skills in real-world policing.
Almost half of the course will be deployed to regional South Australia, with 11 officers posted to country locations including Whyalla, Port Augusta, Port Pirie, Mount Gambier, Gawler and Mount Barker.
Graduates said the Academy experience challenged them both mentally and physically, while building resilience, confidence and strong camaraderie across the course.
Want more from your life? Want to make an impact in your community? SAPOL is currently recruiting and is keen to hear from people interested in an inspiring career with unmatched experiences and rewards.
If you're looking for job security, career progression pathways and a chance to make a real difference in local communities visit https://www.police.sa.gov.au/join-us/achievemore.
Cameron (left), Janice (middle), James (right)
