Reservists are former police officers who are returning in the role of Frontline Support Officers, working in police stations so our members can spend more time out in the community.
The first squad of Victoria Police Reservists was sworn in at the Victoria Police Academy in July 2026.
Video transcript
Pauline Kostuik: When I first heard about this opportunity, I thought it was a brilliant initiative and I'd been feeling a little bit lost, but I just thought it would be a fantastic idea if I could in some way lighten the load of operational members, I know that they work very, very hard.
Rodd Johnson: Having been in the police force for 44 years, I thought all the wealth of experience and life skills I’ve acquired over that time, how I could use that in an effective way, and when this job came up, I sort of jumped at it.
Kay Johnson: When I retired recently, it was fine, but then I found I had some hours in the week that were unfilled and I thought, “Well I can do something with purpose, worthwhile, help the members.”
Pauline Kostuik: The cohort that has decided to come back in this first squad is brilliant. There is so much experience there that I've realised for the first time, we'll actually be able to do some other things, like mentoring some of the junior members, helping them with things that they find quite difficult.
Kay Johnson: I've really enjoyed being back in the Academy, it reminds me of old times. It's nice to meet up with people who are like minded.
Pauline Kostuik: It's fantastic being back in uniform, but I really just want to get back into what I used to do because I do think I've still got something to offer.
Rodd Johnson: I'm going back to Oakleigh, I was a Senior Conny (Constable) there, I was a Sergeant there, and I left there as the OC (Officer in Charge) of the crime desk there so getting back in the police family, that's one part I'm looking forward to. It feels like coming home.
Police reservist roles and duties
Learn more about the duties of a frontline support officer.
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