Proud new recruits strengthen SAPOL’s security capability

The cohort completed the Police Security Officer (PSO) Development Program 1, and includes 18 operational PSOs and one member posted to the Security Control Centre.

The group spans from 18 to 49 and represents a wide range of backgrounds and life experiences with career history including retail, disability support, labouring and corrections.

Recruits also come from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, including Namibian, Croatian, Indian, Vietnamese, Nepalese and African heritage, as well as one member who relocated from interstate to join SAPOL.

Police Security Officers play a vital role in protecting government facilities, public officials and the community.

Their duties include electronic surveillance, monitoring alarms and CCTV systems, mobile patrols of government sites, static guarding and custodial responsibilities – supporting sworn officers by enabling more frontline police to be deployed where they are most needed.

Graduates Christian and Robert said the Academy experience challenged them, helped them grow and prepared them for the responsibilities of the role.

Christian, 21, moved to Adelaide from Namibia as a child and previously worked in disability support. He said the variety of training experiences surprised him.

“Each area required different skills and approaches, which showed how diverse the role can be,” he said.

“The Academy pushed me out of my comfort zone and taught me how to perform under pressure.”

Robert, 19, who has a background in soccer and taekwondo, said firearms training was initially challenging but became a highlight.

“Firearms training was challenging at first because it was my first time shooting a gun, but by the next week I achieved nearly a perfect score,” Robert said.

“Since joining I have become more confident, disciplined and resilient. The academy has pushed me out of my comfort zone and taught me how to perform under pressure.”

Graduates will now move into operational roles across metropolitan SA, including patrols, the Police Security Unit and the Security Control Centre.

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).

Christian (left) & Robert (right)


Robert (left) & Christian (right)