A one-of-a-kind course funded by the Andrews Labor Government is giving more Victorians from culturally diverse backgrounds the chance to pursue rewarding jobs in the emergency services, creating a more diverse police force.
The Policing Recruitment Pathway TAFE course offered through Victoria University has helped dozens of African Australian students into employment at Victoria Police since it began in 2019.
The free 15-week short course was developed to improve cultural understanding, build better relationships between African Australian communities and police, and create a more inclusive and representative police force.
Students learn literacy and numeracy skills, personal fitness and an understanding of policing as a foundation to undertake the Victoria Police Academy entrance exam.
More than 110 students have enrolled in the course with many supported to pass the Victoria Police entrance exam and at various stages of the recruitment process. Some graduates have taken alternative pathways, including into the health industry.
Graduates are now working in a variety of roles including as Victoria Police constables, Protective Services Officers and Police Custody Officers right across Melbourne—in Williamstown, Dandenong, Melton, Sunshine, South Melbourne and Cranbourne.
Policing Recruitment Pathway is offered in partnership with Africause, Jesuit Social Services, AMES Australia, Maurice Blackburn Lawyers and Matchworks.
The Labor Government invested $137,000 in this program as part of its record $3.2 billion investment to rebuild TAFE and support universities and higher education to ensure Victorians have access to high quality education and rewarding career pathways.
Follow The Indian Sun on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
