- Published:
- Friday 17 July 2026 at 9:30 am
| Sen Sgt Khush Kullar and his son Const Jappreet Kullar may be at opposite ends of their policing careers, but an overseas move gave them the opportunity to train at the Victoria Police Academy at the same time. |
An overseas move and a shared drive to make the community safer have seen a father and son start their Victoria Police careers together at the Academy.
Senior Sergeant Khush Kullar is a 22-year veteran from New Zealand Police who recently completed a seven-week prior policing experience bridging course, while his son, Jappreet Kullar, is currently completing his recruit training.
Despite being at opposite ends of their policing journeys, Khush and Jappreet’s time at the Victoria Police Academy crossed over, attending some of the same classes, catching up over lunch and supporting each other throughout their training.
From New Zealand to Victoria
Khush moved to Melbourne from Auckland earlier this year after his wife accepted a new role in the insurance industry. Their daughter also relocated after finishing school.
With a 22-year career with New Zealand Police under his belt, Khush decided he wanted to continue his policing journey in Victoria.
“I’m incredibly proud to join Victoria Police,” he said.
“After many fantastic years with the New Zealand Police, I am incredibly grateful for this new opportunity.”
Khush graduated from the Academy on 3 July, after completing the bridging program, and was sworn in as a senior sergeant, bringing a wealth of experience to the organisation.
“I look forward to bringing my operational and investigative experience to the frontline here,” he said.
Khush was one of five members with prior policing service who graduated on the same day, the largest group Victoria Police has had in a squad to date.
His fellow prior policing service officers came from Queensland Police, another from New Zealand Police and a former Victoria Police officer who returned.
Service has always been the goal
Throughout his policing career, Khush has remained motivated by a strong commitment to helping others.
He is highly respected in New Zealand policing circles and has served in a range of operational and investigative roles.
“I love this job. I always have, from the very beginning,” he said.
“In the Sikh faith, we have a core value called ‘Seva’, which means selfless service to the community. That philosophy has always guided my policing.”
Khush said Victoria Police's focus on training and developing members had left a strong impression.
“The instructors work incredibly hard to give these recruits the tools they need to stay safe and protect the community,” he said.
“Seeing that dedication first-hand gives me so much confidence.
“It shows that Victoria Police has great leaders being shaped right here, and that the future of the force is in very good hands.”
Following a familiar path
For Jappreet, policing had long been on his radar.
After moving to Melbourne almost three years ago, he worked in a factory and helped set up retail stores across the city before deciding it was time to pursue a career with Victoria Police.
“I remember I'd always be driving around and one thing you always hear on the radio is all this crime happening and how understaffed Victoria Police was,” Jappreet said.
“That sort of gave me the inspiration and purpose to be part of the solution, rather than just watch the problem happen.”
Having his father at the Academy has made the experience even more meaningful.
“It was just nice to have my dad here so I can share that with him,” he said.
“When I do need help, he's always here – he’s got so much experience that he can just give me the advice I need.”
A shared commitment to community
Training together was never part of the family's plan, but both father and son are driven by the same goal: making the community safer.
“Both of us are invested in the community because we live in the community,” Khush said.
“That’s the point. It’s our community and you have got to try and make it better.
“You have just got to get out there and be part of it.”
Now sworn in and preparing to start at Melbourne East Police Station, Khush is beginning a new chapter in an enduring career built on service, while Jappreet continues his recruit training and works towards joining the frontline.
Together, they represent two generations of police members committed to making a difference in the Victorian community.
Prior policing experience may be recognised in the Victoria Police recruitment process. This includes experience across Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. Find out more on the Recognition of prior policing experience page.
Editorial Wes Hosking and Danielle Ford
Photography Supplied
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