The NT Police force is trying to recruit officers from New Zealand, offering remuneration packages it says are worth more than $136,000 in the first year, which includes rent-free housing, an advertisement in a newspaper shows and comes as the force identified it needs 300 more officers.
“The Northern Territory Police Force offers an accelerated recruitment pathway for experienced police officers. Upon completion of training, graduates will be posted to varying locations throughout the Northern Territory,” an advertisement placed in the NZ Herald newspaper said.
The ad continues: “As an experienced police officer, the Northern Territory will recognise your previous years of service with attractive remuneration. We are seeking applicants who understand the policing role, but who are enthusiastic about facing the unique challenges that the Northern Territory offers due to its vastness and diversity. You will be required to serve a minimum of 12 months in a frontline general duties position before being eligible to apply for specialist positions.”
A base and fixed allowance totalling between $93,000 and $108,000 is also being offered which comes with seven weeks holidays.
The advertisement says that officers could earn additional income by doing night shifts, overtime and, through general police and travel allowance.
Kiwi recruits are also promised free housing or $28,544, and up to $5,000, for relocation support.
The ads come as Deputy Police Commissioner Murray Smalpage used the coronial inquest into the death of Kumanjayi Walker to claim the force is short 300 officers that it needs to address the massive spike in crime rates over the last decade.
He said that was needed to “meet the demand on our services and provide an effective response to crime and social order right across the Northern Territory”.
In New Zealand, an officer in training receives NZ$56,219 rising to NZ$81,710 in their first year, while an officer in their fifth year of service gets NZ$93,268, the New Zealand Police website shows.
Based on the requirements that are now in place for certain sections of people (i.e ex defence personnel) such as having to apply to obtain all your medical documentation to take along to a medical, why would you join. So you filter those individuals and hold them to higher degree than a person coming in straight of the street who can lie and bs about mental health and physical health conditions. Does the NT police force expect police members from other jurisdictions to do the same. ????