Ben Roberts is all trained up and ready to roll as one of Victoria’s first PSOs. Picture: CONTRIBUTED
By LAURA WAKELY
THE eyes of Victoria will be on the first batch of Protective Service Officers (PSOs) when they step out in November.
Despite the scrutiny, Keilor East’s Ben Roberts is excited about being one of the first officers in the Baillieu Government scheme that will eventually see 940 PSOs standing guard at railway stations across Melbourne.
Previously working as an operations supervisor in vehicle fitment at the Victoria Police transport branch, the 34-year-old was eager to try out something new that would “make a difference”.
“I am finding it both enjoyable and challenging,” Ben said of his training.
“The staff and other recruits are very supportive.
“I’m looking forward to getting out there and putting into practice what we have learned.”
Ben is one of a handful of PSOs graduating from the Victoria Police Academy this month, and will soon take up a position at an inner city railway station as part of the first stage of PSO rollouts.
Chief Commissioner Ken Lay said PSOs would provide the “safety reassurance” that public transport users want.
“It is a chance for Victoria to establish the safest railway network in Australia,” Mr Lay said.
“The PSOs will provide not just comfort to evening commuters and families, but also a friendly and professional point of contact for those in need of assistance.
“They will be trained, equipped and ready to make a difference, bringing reassurance to the hundreds of thousands of people who use our railway network every day.”
Victoria Police are still recruiting for the role, which involves working with transit safety police across the public transport network.
PSOs receive 12 weeks of training which encompasses law, risk assessment, emergency management, group behaviour and dynamics, conflict resolution, dealing with the vulnerable, mental health, diversity, youth engagement, human rights and ethics.
PSOs are also given firearms training.
“This job requires dedication and commitment, but it will be rewarding,” Ben said.
Victoria Police are having a recruiting information day at the Academy on Sunday 26 February.
For more information visit www.policecareer.vic.gov.au
