Program for police diversity

A LOCAL information session on the Victoria Police Diversity Recruitment Program will take place next week.

Delivered by Victoria Police, Jesuit Social Services and Victoria University, the program aims to increase multicultural participation in police branches throughout the state.

“We know we’re underrepresented in terms of diversity, so for us to continue to grow, we need that, to make sure we’re reflective of our community,” Victoria Police superintendent for western region division five Brad Dixon said.

“It’s important we support them and this program helps them prepare for entrance exams, fitness, swimming, all that stuff.

“Over 165 have enrolled in the course since its inception. From that, 20 have been offered places at the academy. That’s about one in eight which is better than our general recruitment.”

Bendigo resident Laila Hashimi has signed up,and said women from multicultural backgrounds have an important role to play.

“We can provide language support for cases of domestic violence,” she said.

“It’s culturally difficult for some women to share their experience, so I want to be a role model especially for young girls from diverse countries.

“In my country of Afghanistan, there is no right for women to be a police officer, engineer, doctor because the government don’t give those opportunities. Since childhood, my dream has been to become a police officer.”

The session is slated for Tuesday, 15 November from 5pm at The Old Church on the Hill in Quarry Hill. Applications for round four of the program will close on Sunday, 27 November.