Welcome to the Victoria Police High Challenge Program
On the 19th of January 1994, The High Challenge Program was launched by the Chief Commissioner of Police and Deputy Minister for Police and Emergency Services The implementation of this proactive police unit focuses on building better relationships, reducing stereotyping and assisting in attitudinal change between 'at risk' young people and Victoria Police. The learning model was developed using the "Challenge by Choice" philosophy whilst incorporating a number of adventure based learning tools. The basic theory behind the program is that people 'learn by doing' and they learn more effectively if they enjoy what they are doing.
The participants are made up of 'at risk' young people and local operational police members. These young people are selected from various welfare and educational institutions around the state. What makes this program unique is the participants are drawn from two dissimilar sub-cultures and put together on equal terms with a view to achieving common goals. The inclusion of the operational police ensures that the continuity of the program's positive outcomes are transferred back to the streets where future contact can be inevitable.
Our programs invite participants to experience the outdoors, whilst placing them in situations which involve a perceived element of risk, challenge and adventure. Our aim is to enable people to identify their strengths and weaknesses in regards to their personal skills with an overriding goal of improving self-concept, whilst working with others. After each activity, the benefits are discussed and then related back to the individual so the participant can identify how the skills are important in their personal development.
What sort of programs do High Challenge offer?
High Challenge specialises in programs that work with 'at risk' young people and operational Victoria Police members, by placing them in an environment that is positive, safe and encourages teamwork, leadership and self-development. The aim is to break down the barriers between young people and police, reduce stereotyping and allow the young people to interact in a positive way with their local police and vice versa.
The different of programs the High Challenge Program offer are:
- Base Camps
- Journey based programs including hiking, canoeing and bike riding
- Half Day Programs
- Full Day Programs
- High Challenge Amazing Race
All programs are individually designed to the clients' needs and tailored around the client groups desired outcomes.
High Challenge - Programs
High Challenge - Frequently Asked Questions
High Challenge - Photo Gallery
Contact Us
High Challenge Program
Youth Advisory Unit
637 Flinders Street
Docklands, VIC ,3008
Phone: (03) 9247 6139
Fax: (03) 9247 6939
Email: highchallengeprogram.yau@police.vic.gov.au
