Volunteers in Policing (VIPS) help police officers and civilian staff in the station, provide victim support and assist in delivering crime prevention information at schools, community groups/events. This special role within NSW Police Force helps deliver an even better service to the local community.

Launched in 1993, this program now has hundreds of volunteers attached to 80 police Local Area Commands across NSW. VIPS have a strong sense of community commitment and give their time freely to help make a difference.

What do VIPS do?

Policing is a dynamic environment. Every day is different and diverse.

Following basic training, VIPS may work up to 16 hours per week in local police commands. They may:

• Assist police in community policing initiatives such as safety audits, Community Safety Princinct Committees and property engraving programs.
• Assist police in victim support and language liaison.
• Help develop and/or maintain local registers for Citizens at Risk, Key-holder registers and community help agencies.
• Assist in local command strategies such as letter box drops and distribution of crime prevention brochures.
• Assist at local Police and Community Youth Clubs.
• Assist at special events such as Police Open Day, local events such as school fetes, community festivals and presentations
• Provide support to witnesses attending court and during court processes.
• Support special client groups such as youth, elderly, cultural groups, gays/lesbians and the disabled. (Naturally the function does not extend to counselling victims as this requires special training).

How often do VIPS work?

A minimum commitment of 16 hours per month is required, but VIPS may work up to 16 hours a week.

Who can become a VIP?

Anyone over 18 years of age who enjoys reasonably good health may apply to become a VIP. They must also:

• Be an Australian Citizen or have permanent resident status.

• Possess good communication skills.

• Have credibility and good liaison with their community.

• Undergo a police records check and fingerprinting.

• Understand the principles of equal employment opportunity, a culturally diverse society and occupational health and safety.

Those particularly welcome are people trained in victim support and those who have community language skills and/or educational, cultural or practical experience. A current First Aid Certificate is desirable but not essential.

How do I become a VIP?

VIPS are recruited by local police commands. Successful applicants must undergo a criminal history check and be interviewed by the local area commander. They must also be fingerprinted.

Information and Application

For further information you can contact the Crime Prevention Officer at your local area police command. Or you can contact the State Coordinator for Volunteers in Policing on Ph: (02) 4323 5501 or by email: vip@police.nsw.gov.au