WA Police welcomes first Aboriginal Cadet Program graduates

• First four Aboriginal cadets graduate as fully sworn police officers
• Expansion of the Aboriginal Cadet Program underway to increase Aboriginal representation in the WA Police Force 

Four recruits from the Aboriginal Cadet Program's inaugural intake begin their police careers from today, after successfully graduating from the Western Australia Police Force Academy.

The two men and two women were among 41 graduating officers cheered on by family and friends during a ceremonial march-past parade at the Western Australia Police Force Academy in Joondalup.

The Aboriginal Cadet Program is a partnership between the WA Police Force and North Metropolitan TAFE, and is open to applicants from 17-25 years of age.

The cadetship has been designed to create a more accessible pathway for young Aboriginal people who wish to become police officers, and to increase Aboriginal representation in the Force.

Cadets receive on-the-job training within police stations, while attending formal class-based training with North Metropolitan TAFE to achieve a Certificate II in General Adult Education.

They then go on to complete the 28-week intensive training course to become fully sworn officers.

There are currently 12 participants in the Aboriginal Cadet Program, with a recruitment process underway to identify further potential applicants.

Comments attributed to Police Minister Michelle Roberts:

"Today marks the beginning of a new and exciting career for all our new officers, and I am particularly delighted to welcome the first of our recruits who've been part of the Aboriginal Cadet Program.

"Increased representation of Aboriginal people in the WA Police Force is something I know Commissioner Dawson is committed to, and something we as a Government whole-heartedly support.

"It is important WA Police continually strive to have a diverse and culturally rich workforce, to ensure it reflects the community it serves.

"All of our new recruits have shown enormous determination and professionalism, and the Government thanks you for the positive difference you will be making to communities throughout Western Australia."

Comments attributed to Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery:

"This program is the first WA TAFE and WA Police initiative of its kind, and today's graduation is proof of its success.

"The cadets have also been supported by North Metropolitan TAFE's Koolark Centre for Aboriginal Students which has provided advice, and academic and cultural mentors throughout their study.

"Graduates will now be deployed to regional and metropolitan police stations to start their police career.

"The cadets graduating today should be really proud of their achievements and excited for the careers they have ahead of them - no doubt they will inspire others to pursue a great career in the Police Force."

Police Minister's office - 6552 6900

Education and Training Minister's office - 6552 5700