Graduation thickens blue line

In front of mentors, family and friends, this afternoon 15 men and three women marched into their new careers after 9.5 months of hard work and thorough training.

Ranging in age from 19 to 41, the new Probationary Constables bring a variety of experience to policing, including from the Air Force, information technology, personal training, hospitality, and as a mechanic, supply chain officer, stable hand, Police Security Officer, chef, and childcare worker.

After graduating from high school in 2023, Will decided to become a police officer like his dad.

“As a child I loved seeing my dad in uniform and he always came home with the best stories working at POLAIR,” he said.

“He was very supportive of me when I decided to join and he’s an influential figure in my life.”

Will encouraged anyone interested in policing to “give it a go” and he felt grateful to his academy mentors and colleagues for all their support.

“I think being a police officer is the best job in the world, and I have made lifelong friends here,” he said.

“My communication skills have improved extensively, along with my general confidence, and I’m glad to still have time to participate in other things I love like athletics and playing soccer.”

Fellow graduate Liam decided to view life through a different lens and joined SAPOL after a professional photography career, and managing a fast-food chain for 16 years.

“I’ve always had my sights set on becoming a police officer, but didn’t feel ready. Then, for my birthday I decided to give it a crack and I’m so happy with my decision and can’t wait to move forward,” he said.

“I’m in my 30s and haven’t studied since high school, so getting back into study was a slight challenge, however, the academy offers all the support needed to get back into it.”

Outside of the academy Liam is into cars and enjoys camping, fishing and exploring Australia with his partner.

“When I joined, I was worried being a little older that I may be held back in areas, but our mentors are there to help us succeed,” he added.

Becoming a police officer felt like a natural progression for fellow course mate, Jai, who brings four years of military experience as an artilleryman and infantryman to the role.

“There are many transferable skills coming from the Army into policing. Knowing legislation is different, but many of the operational safety tactics transfer over,” he said.

“My communication style has also been adjusted to tailor to the wider community.

“The benefits of joining SAPOL include a better work-life balance, good pay and you get to stay with your family.”

Jai similarly enjoys camping and fishing and hopes to get back into boxing.

“I’ve made lifelong friends throughout this journey and the appeal of having potentially a dual career may entice others to join up,” he added.

While Will’s dad policed from the sky, he hopes to one day join SAPOL’s Dog Operations Unit. Liam, however, has his sights set on working in cybercrime due to his love of computers and ambition to stop scammers, while Jai hopes to end up at the Security Response Section.

Course 80 members will be stationed to metropolitan and regional postings, including Port Augusta, Port Pirie, Mount Gambier and Berri.

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 Achievemore - Join Us (police.sa.gov.au)

Will, Jai, and Liam are among 18 new police officers to graduate today from the South Australia Police Academy.