For some migrant communities, perceptions of the police force are shaped by experiences in other countries, where policing may be viewed with mistrust, influencing how the role is understood in Australia. Constable Wali Ahadi, who speaks five languages, reflects this change. His work with the New South Wales Police shows how cultural understanding plays out on the ground. Superintendent Robert Toynton outlines efforts to broaden access, while community liaison officer Rima Elhage shares insights into building trust with multicultural communities.
Migrant participation in the police force has been relatively low but is gradually changing, with Constable Wali Ahadi a clear example. Wali says that an English accent or different background is not a weakness but can strengthen recruitment prospects and build bridges with the community.
Constable Wali Ahadi, from Auburn (Sydney's South West Metropolitan Region) speaks five languages, including Urdu. Superintendent Robert Toynton outlines efforts to expand recruitment, while NSW Police liaison officer Rima Elhage highlights relationships with multicultural communities. This podcast examines the barriers to multicultural community participation in the police force and why that inclusion matters in practice.
Find out how to bookmark SBS Urdu homepage Every Wednesday and Friday Listen to this link, Other ways to listen to Urdu programs, Install our mobile app called “SBS Audio” on Apple (iPhone) or Android, devicesInstall our mobile app called “SBS Audio”
