BADGE AND BEYOND
01 Images Badge and beyond 01 M s Nicholson as a young constable. 02 A fter a distinguished career in policing, she now enjoys travelling and studying Shakespeare.
SANDRA NICHOLSON Retired Victoria Police Assistant Commissioner Sandra Nicholson is a role model for many police. She tells Police Life about her policing career and how it opened up a range of opportunities. “I was told becoming the first female district detective inspector in the western suburbs in 1996 would be a difficult job, but that didn’t stop me. It turned out to be an interesting and challenging experience where I was in charge of criminal investigations. Being part of a brilliant and supportive team allowed me to thrive and love my job even more. I worked there for four years before being promoted to detective superintendent at the Ethical Standards Department where I worked on a major project that changed how the department operated by getting more experienced investigators on board. In 2005, I became the state’s sole female assistant commissioner for Victoria Police’s largest region. Although it was highly demanding, I always strived to maintain a personal connection with colleagues. It was important for them to know I was there to listen and help solve their issues.
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One of the best parts of policing for me was getting out there and speaking to the community. Some career highlights include being the first female lecturer at Detective Training School and facilitating the introduction of Justices of the Peace at police stations. The skills I’ve acquired from policing, such as great communication and negotiation skills have definitely contributed to the work I am doing now. Since retiring in 2010, I’ve kept busy as a member of five board committees including the Blue Ribbon Foundation Westgate Branch. I also chair La Trobe University’s Art and History Alumni and volunteer at The Youth Junction Inc, an organisation aiming to reduce youth offending rates in Melbourne’s west. I’m passionate about helping young people and believe if you can divert one person away from trouble, it’s worth it. I travel a lot, am currently enjoying studying Shakespeare and French and frequently go to the opera, ballet and theatre.” Women’s Police Office The Women’s Police Office dealt with inquiries involving the welfare of women and children. Female officers would often support young children at court appearances and helped women in need.
HIGHLIGHT ON NICHOLSON 1975
Appointed Constable and worked in the Russell Street, Fitzroy and Mildura Women’s Police Offices
1977
Appointed Detective at Russell Street Criminal Investigation Branch
1977 – 1989
Worked at Doncaster, Reservoir, Preston and Russell Street police stations
1990
Lecturer at Detective Training School. Awarded the Australian National Medal
1996
Appointed Detective Inspector for Melton, Werribee, Sunshine, Footscray and Altona North
2000
Appointed Detective Superintendent at Ethical Standards Department
2000 – Worked at Geelong, Altona North 2005 and Broadmeadows police stations 2004
Awarded the Australian Police Medal
2005
Received the Most Outstanding Female Leader Award at the Australasian Women and Police Awards. Appointed Assistant Commissioner
2010
Retired
If you are looking for a diverse, rewarding and sometimes challenging career, visit policecareer.vic.gov.au to apply.
Editorial: Mandi Santic Photography: Clay Burke
POLICE LIFE | AUTUMN 2015
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