This evening, 59 police recruits will start the New Year with a new career when they march off from their graduation parade at the Joondalup Police Academy.
Police Minister Paul Papalia and Commissioner Chris Dawson will officially welcome the newest officers from Red and White squads into the Western Australian Police Force.
The 44 men and 15 women have undertaken six months of rigorous training, practical exercises and assessments.
They will begin their careers as probationary constables and will be deployed to both metropolitan and regional posts as determined by the Commissioner.
Among tonight’s graduates, 13 were born overseas in countries including Macedonia, Scotland, New Zealand, India and Ireland.
Eight of this evening’s graduates have joined the Force from previous occupations in retail, while a further five have held occupations as bartenders or hospitality workers.
The average age of this evening’s graduating officers is 26.
The Joondalup Police Academy continues to operate at capacity as the McGowan Government embarks on the biggest recruitment of police officers in the State’s history.
As stated by Police Minister Paul Papalia:
“I wish our newest officers safe and fulfilling careers and thank them for their dedication to keeping the community safe.
“It’s an exciting time for these new officers as the Force undergoes the biggest expansion in police numbers in the State’s history.
“Importantly, thanks to our historic police compensation scheme which has now passed through Parliament, these officers can be reassured they will be supported in the event they are injured and no longer able to serve as a police officer.
“It’s part of the McGowan Government’s commitment to community safety and support for our police officers.”
