NSW Nationals: Dubbo students set sights on police careers

Seven young people from Dubbo are one step closer to becoming police officers following their graduation from the Indigenous Police Recruitment Our Way Delivery Program (IPROWD).

Nationals Member for Dubbo Dugald Saunders said the IPROWD program is designed to increase the number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people employed in emergency services.

“The program not only opens opportunities for employment in the NSW Police Force, but in other emergency and public service areas,” Mr Saunders said.

“Police go above and beyond to protect and serve our community each and every day, and this program engages locals to continue learning in their community and set them up for work at the end of their training.

“I have no doubt these outstanding young men and women will make a tremendous contribution to their communities, no matter the path they choose next. Congratulations!”

Narromine’s Nick Newman has gone from sold-out shows with the Bangarra Dance Company to considering a career as an Aboriginal Community Liaison Officer (ACLO).

“IPROWD is really helping me speak up to others more because I’m a shy person. I’m learning new skills and making new friends,” he said.

“When I graduate, I want to try and walk out of here and get a job in the NSW Police Force. I want to make my Mum, my family and myself proud.”

Katie Cohen grew up in Warren and would also like to be an ACLO.

“I want to be the first police officer in my family, and to also be there to help and protect my family and my community,” she said.

“I’ve loved this journey – I’d recommend it to anyone.”

Since 2008, more than 700 Aboriginal students have enrolled in the IPROWD program, with many going on to gain employment with the NSW Police Force as sworn and unsworn officers, or working in other government agencies.

For more information about the IPROWD program, visit tafensw.edu.au/iprowd