Empowering Future First Nations Police Recruits

As NAIDOC Week 2024 shines a spotlight on the rich cultures and history of First Nations peoples, the Queensland Police Service (QPS) is highlighting its commitment to fostering diversity within its ranks through the First Nations Recruit Preparation Pathway (FNRPP).

The six-week preparatory course provides aspiring First Nations police recruits with personal and professional development through theory, practical and physical skills, preparing them to successfully transition into the 38-week mainstream Recruit Training Program (RTP) before becoming a Queensland police officer.

Additionally, through the FNRPP program, instructors support First Nations recruit applicants who are preparing for the final elements of their police recruit application process, including the QPS Entrance Assessment, physical fitness testing and panel interview.

Since 2003, the QPS has proudly supported 210 individuals on their journeys to becoming police officers through the FNRPP and similar preparatory programs. These officers' unique perspectives and backgrounds have enriched our diversity and allow us to better reflect and serve our community.

FNRPP instructor, Donna Stephens, says the FNRPP helps participants build confidence in themselves, in their skills and in their dream of pursuing a policing career.

"Participants begin to develop an understanding of what it means to be a police officer, through basic policing concepts, visits to courts and police establishments, developing an understanding of legislation, and operational policing skills such as physical fitness."

"During the six weeks, instructors and fitness coaches also work closely with participants who may be yet to complete their final QPS Entrance Assessment, fitness testing and panel interview, supporting them through their assessment preparation."

For recent graduate, Constable Samuel Woodman who is stationed in Bundaberg, the FNRPP provided a unique opportunity to connect with many experienced officers who shared valuable insights into the job, that he had not been able to gain elsewhere.

"I was first inspired to join the police as a primary school student in my small hometown of Childers, after a local police officer spoke to my prep class about the role the police played in helping the community."

"Even at that young age, his presentation resonated with me on that day, and with support from my friends and family, I overcame many challenges to recently achieve my dream of becoming a police officer."

"One of the things that kept me motivated to pursue a policing career was witnessing the devastating impacts of alcohol and drugs on the lives of many people I considered friends. I lost some of them to these struggles, and seeing the negative impacts sparked a determination in me to make a change."

Constable Woodman encourages other First Nations people to consider a policing career.

"The QPS is going through a time of change and transforming itself which gives us the greatest opportunity to move forward together, and we get to play an active role in that transformation," encouraged Constable Woodman.

"The QPS provides many opportunities for growth and self-discovery and a variety of ways to engage with the community and strengthen our relationship."

"It has made me feel secure in my career choice and given me the confidence that I can start a family of my own and provide a good future and opportunities for them."

Through initiatives like the FNRPP, the QPS is not only preparing First Nations people for successful careers and leadership opportunities, but also actively building a Service that better reflects the community we serve.

To learn more about the First Nations Recruit Preparation Pathway, visit our website or contact Indigenous Employment Officer, Adrian Coolwell on 1300 232 267 or email [email protected].