Turning a passion for policing into a justice career

“From an early age, I was drawn to police-related activities, often persuading my grandmother to engage in role-playing scenarios with me,” said Rhys.

“As I grew older, my passion for law enforcement intensified. I actively sought out podcasts featuring active and retired police officers to get insights into the life of homicide detectives.

Recognising that a career in the police requires a comprehensive understanding of justice, Rhys pursued justice studies to gain the knowledge and skills he needed to fulfil his dream while laying the foundation for future opportunities.

With his sights set on a career with the police, he enrolled to study Certificate IV in Justice Studies (10971NAT) with TAFE Queensland through TAFE at School.

TAFE at School allows students to gain nationally-recognised qualifications from industry-experienced teachers, giving them a head start on their career or future study plans.

“Studying at TAFE provided me with a practical, hands-on education emphasising critical thinking, communication and problem-solving skills. The training goes beyond traditional classroom learning, offering experience, scenarios, forms and documentation that simulate what it is like in the real world,” explained Rhys.

“My teachers brought real and raw firsthand experience and industry insights from their various justice-related roles. This connection to industry professionals gave me a deeper understanding of the practical applications in the workforce and how to enable myself in certain situations.”

Rhys credits TAFE Queensland’s relationship with industry for helping him secure his Administrative Officer role with the Department of Justice and Attorney-General at Brisbane Magistrates Court.

TAFE Queensland’s long-standing industry connections with Queensland Courts, Queensland Police Service, Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, Queensland Corrective Services, Justice of the Peace Branch, and Youth Justice see their members attend annual Industry Events.

These events connect students and staff with invaluable insights into the operations of these agencies and get guidance on the qualities and skills they seek in prospective employees.

Attendees get essential information on the application process for employment opportunities within these organisations, with Brisbane Magistrates Court successfully recruiting Rhys and seven other graduates.

“Because of TAFE Queensland’s excellent relationship with the Department of Justice and Attorney-General, I successfully interviewed for a position within the courts, which is a direct benefit of TAFE’s industry connections,” he explained.

In his role, Rhys provides essential administrative support to keep the Brisbane registry running smoothly, managing correspondence, court documents, and exhibits and updating and monitoring databases and files.

“Working in the justice sector has put me on the path to becoming a police officer. I have already attended the Queensland Police Service Open Day and Roma St Headquarters Recruitment Seminar and talked with multiple police officers.”

Rhys is now looking forward to gaining more work experience while he continues building his career in justice, thanks to the knowledge, skills and confidence TAFE Queensland gave him.

“Everyone should study with TAFE Queensland’s passionate teachers. They genuinely want students to succeed, and you gain so much from them in a supportive learning environment are invaluable.”

“I see myself serving as a Police Officer within the Queensland Police Force or the Australian Federal Police Force five to ten years from now. My commitment, discipline and education will pave the way for a successful and fulfilling career within public service,” concluded Rhys.