Steve Whan
Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education
MEDIA RELEASE
TAFE NSW celebrates 15 years of empowering Indigenous people through IPROWD
Tuesday, 27 August 2024
As TAFE NSW prepares to celebrate 15 years of its Indigenous Police Recruitment Our Way Delivery (IPROWD) program in September, the Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan, personally congratulated soon-to-be graduates during his visit to TAFE NSW Dubbo on Tuesday, 27 August.
These learners are set to join a proud group of more than 1,2000 graduates across NSW who have completed IPROWD since its inception in 2008. They are now one step closer to realising their dream of a career in policing.
The IPROWD program has been a transformative initiative, providing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with the skills and confidence needed to pursue careers in the NSW Police Force and the Australia Federal Police. The program goes beyond education - it empowers individuals, fosters cultural pride, and contributes the building a workforce that reflects the diversity of NSW communities.
This year marks a significant milestone for IPROWD, a program that has consistently opened doors and created opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across the state. The achievements of these learners are a testament to the enduring impact of TAFE NSW and its commitment to delivering education that meets the needs of both learners and the law enforcement sector.
IPROWD equips participants with essential skills in literacy, numeracy, communications, fitness and IT, while also strengthening their cultural identity. The program provides congoing support with job applications and recruitment mentoring, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce and make a positive impact in their communities.
Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan said:
"IPROWD is a crucial initiative for improving Indigenous employment and strengthening community relations within law enforcement. It plays a vital role in building a diverse and inclusive workforce.
"It was incredibly inspiring to talk with some of this year's graduates. Their dedication and determination to serve as role models and foster stronger ties between the community and police, is truly encouraging.
"IPROWD is life-changing, not only for participants, but also for their families, friends and their local communities.
"Graduates from the program have gone on to join the NSW Police Force, the Australian Federal Police, Australian Border Force, NSW Corrective Services, and other emergency services. Others have moved into careers with local and state government or pursued further study at tertiary levels."
Indigenous Police Recruitment Our Way Delivery graduate, Michael Boney said:
"IPROWD has given me the skills and confidence I need to start a career in law enforcement. The support from TAFE NSW and the program's focus on both practical skills and cultural identity have been incredibly helpful. I'm excited to take the next step and make a difference in my community as a member of NSW Police."
