Behind the badge: PSO Sergeant Kaushal Purohit

I joined Victoria Police because it has always been my dream to help the community and make a real difference.

I believe in fairness, respect, honesty, support and teamwork, and I saw policing as a role that reflects those values.

Victoria Police is known for its strong focus on community and professionalism, and I am proud to be a part of that.

I began my career with Victoria Police as a protective services officer (PSO).

In this role, I responded to a wide range of situations and incidents across various train stations and had the opportunity to build positive relationships with members of the community.

But over the years, I’ve taken on greater responsibilities, progressing into the role of PSO senior, and now PSO sergeant.

These positions have involved mentoring new members and working in team environments that require strong communication, decision-making and leadership.

I’ve also been actively involved in community engagement initiatives and proactive policing strategies in which I take pride in being a part.

I lead and supervise a team of protective services officers, ensuring public safety and security at train stations in central Melbourne.

In my role, I manage daily operations, coordinate responses to incidents, provide support to my team, and work closely with other units and local authorities to address community safety concerns.

I also like to encourage team building through activities like sports and festive celebrations at the workplace to strengthen morale.

Tell us about a standout shift.

Last year, a distressed, homeless man with limited English approached me, clearly struggling.

Realising I could speak his native language, I switched, and he opened up about his mental health struggles and drug addiction.

I explained the support available, arranged crisis accommodation through my offsider, and spoke to him about recovery and change I had witnessed in other people over the years.

With his consent, I provided referrals to help him take the first steps toward rebuilding his life, and he left feeling hopeful and committed to change.

This was a standout moment for me because I was able to help someone in a vulnerable situation, and because being able to make a real, human impact like this is exactly why I made the career shift from finance to public service.

What is the most rewarding part of your work?

Knowing that I’m making a real difference in people’s lives by helping them feel safe and supported.

Whether it’s offering a listening ear to a colleague, stepping in to prevent an incident, or building trust with someone in the community – those moments remind me why I do this job.

There’s something deeply fulfilling about seeing that impact firsthand.

I also genuinely enjoy mentoring others.

Watching team members grow in confidence and capability is one of the most meaningful parts of what I do.

In addition to your role as a PSO, you’re the chairperson of Victoria Police’s Hindu Employee Network. What does this involve?

I founded the network in 2023, with the aim of providing peer support and promoting the rich spiritual heritage of Hindu culture within the organisation.

The network fosters connections among staff by sharing knowledge of Hindu traditions, values, and festivals such as Diwali and Holi.

As part of my role, I advocate for the needs of Hindu employees, contribute to diversity and inclusion initiatives, and support the development of inclusive policies.

I also work to strengthen relationships between Victoria Police and the broader Hindu community.

What is a career highlight that stands out for you?

Having the opportunity to mentor and support my team members.

Watching them grow, gain confidence, and reach their potential has been one of the most fulfilling parts of my career.

Another moment I hold close is creating the Victoria Police Hindu Employee Network.

Seeing how it has helped foster a sense of belonging and inclusivity for colleagues has been incredibly rewarding.

Knowing that I’ve played a part in making others feel supported and valued is something I truly cherish.

If you could give PSO recruits one piece of advice, what would it be?

To always approach your work with empathy and kindness.

The role you’re stepping into involves working with people from all walks of life, and sometimes simply listening or offering a helping hand can make a world of difference.

Never underestimate the power of teamwork – lean on your colleagues, share your experiences, and be open to learning from one another.

The work you do is important, and staying grounded in your values will help you navigate challenges with integrity and compassion.