Graduation day celebrates new Police Security Officers

Seven men and two women bring a wealth of valuable employment experience, including from Australia Post, sales, retail, and education. A former Northern Territory frontline auxiliary police officer is also among today’s PSO Qualification Program 1 graduates.

Ranging in age from 19-40, some new PSOs have international backgrounds, including from Afghanistan, the United Kingdom, and Scotland.

Among those graduating today, Justin, after aspiring to become a professional tennis player, decided to take a swing at a different, rewarding career and serve the South Australian community.

“Before joining the academy, my background included sales in a supplement company, playing sport, coaching, extensive travel, volunteering as a youth leader, and recently tying the knot,” he said.

“Sport has imbedded in me self-motivation to be the best player I can be, along with self-discipline, and to encourage teamwork to do what is necessary to get the best result. I believe these traits helped me throughout my academy journey.

“I used self-discipline learned through tennis to handle the fitness aspects, and self-motivation to grapple with legislation, which didn’t come naturally to me at first, but with time and effort began to stick.”

Reflecting on the academy training, Justin felt “blown away” by the tight-knit camaraderie shared with his course mates.

“They are genuinely some of my closest friends now,” he added.

“From day one right up to the end of our time here at the academy we have supported one another and worked as a team.”

Fellow PSO graduate Shay similarly enjoys sport and offers diverse work experience as a youth worker, swimming and pilates instructor, plus a bachelor’s degree in criminology.

“These roles have helped me develop valuable communication skills and a strong understanding of the significance of maintaining personal mental and physical health – all of which I believe are important for the role of a Police Security Officer,” she said.

“My upbringing has also shaped me due to the support and guidance of my parents. My mother was born in Bais City, Philippines, and moved to Australia around the age of 30. Whereas, my father was born in Adelaide, South Australia.

“Their lessons on the importance of pursuing my dreams, believing in myself, and never giving up, have proven invaluable throughout my time at the academy.”

Furthermore, Shay felt “immensely grateful” for the support given during her academy journey.

“All my mentors were highly encouraging and supportive throughout the entire training process, which helped us learn and grow in a positive environment,” she added.

“The academy has instilled in me a sense of self-belief and confidence in my abilities, which has taught me that anything is possible with patience, determination, and resilience. As I leave the academy, I am confident that the lessons and skills I have acquired will help me excel in my duties as a Police Security Officer.”

Justin is looking forward to school patrols and getting out and about while Shay is eager to delve deeper into custody management, including detainee checks, conveyances, and working in a multidisciplinary team.

Today’s PSO graduates will be posted to operational areas within the Police Security Services Branch (PSSB), including the Protective Security Section.

SAPOL is currently recruiting for Police Security Officers and is keen to hear from people who are committed to the state’s safety and security.

If you are looking for job security, career progression pathways and a chance to make a real difference in local communities visit Achievemore - Join Us (police.sa.gov.au)

Shay and Justin are among nine new Police Security Officers who graduated today from the South Australia Police Academy.