First Nations Pathways to Policing Program

The First Nations Pathways to Policing Program is a collaboration between TAFE Queensland, the Queensland Police Service, the Australian Border Force and the Australian Federal Police.

TAFE Queensland Director of Education and Training Services and the Arts for North and Far North Queensland Leanne Bell said the program was the first of its kind to be rolled out in the state.

"The First Nations Pathways to Policing Program is an exciting initiative aimed at promoting diversity and inclusion on the frontline," Leanne said.

"Participants will develop their language, learning, conflict resolution, critical thinking, team participation, fitness, and digital literacy skills."

"The program also provides students with an opportunity to explore and learn more about their culture, as well as strategies to express their identity."

"The students have the opportunity to tour law enforcement workplaces and gain valuable industry insight by working closely with a mentor from the Australian Federal Police."

"When students complete the 24-week-long course, they will have the skills they need to confidently enter a law enforcement academy program, empowering them to pursue careers on the frontline," she said.

Upon graduation, First Nations Pathways to Policing students will receive a Certificate III in Vocational and Study Pathways for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander People (11036NAT).

Student Devante Robinson

Devante Robinson, 17, said the First Nations Pathways to Policing Program was setting him up for future career success.

"I am considering joining the army or becoming a police officer, so this course really interested me," Devante said.

"The program is good and I have been learning a lot about communication skills, which is really helpful."

"I have also met a lot of different people who work in law enforcement and they have been open about their field of work to help me and my classmates decide if we want to pursue the same career path."

"I've met members of the Queensland Police Service, border force and dog squad, and I went on a study tour to Canberra to visit the Australian Federal Police College and learn more about forensics and tactical response."

"If anyone is thinking about joining the program, I would say just go for it!"

"If you get an opportunity like this and you're interested in doing any police work, this program is a really good step in that direction."

First Nations Pathways to Policing students