WITH A DUTY TO PROTECT
POLICE officer roles are extremely popular among jobseekers, with recruitment drives consistently attracting massive volumes of applicants – but it is not the only career option for those passionate about protecting their community.
PSOs (protective services officers) share some role similarities with police and PSO experience is looked upon favourably by police recruiters.
Exact roles and powers differ between states but in Queensland PSOs provide 24hour management and security to 77 Government buildings, 384 state education sites and 155 Catholic schools and churches.
Protective Services was formerly known as State Government Security but was renamed and welcomed into the Queensland Police Service in 2016.
Across Australia, salaries start at about $45,000 to $60,000, and this increases with experience.
A short training course is required to initially become qualified.
Victoria Police senior recruitment marketing coordinator Angela Vescovi says they accept PSOs from all walks of life, whether straight out of school or after a career change, and look for people who have strong communication skills and a sense of community.
“We want anyone who has a desire to make a difference, a desire to serve their community, work experience, a healthy level of fitness, and who enjoys interacting with the public,” she says.
Those hired straight out of high school generally have worked during their studies in a customer-facing role.
Ex-PSO Humayun Wafajo is now in the Constables Qualifying Program with Victoria Police.
“I love to be engaged with the community,” he says.
“The best part is when you see someone feeling safe, for example a young lady asking us to walk with them to their car and appreciating your job.”