Unlock an in-demand career in justice

Career prospects in justice aren’t limited to a role in the police service however, a qualification can lead to a range of in-demand careers, from roles in local and state governments through to customs, courts, and correctional facilities.

TAFE Queensland Justice Teacher and retired Queensland Police Officer, Frank Sgualdino, has experienced first-hand the job opportunities available, from frontline policing to the courtroom.

“After serving as a police officer for more than two decades, I transitioned into teaching at the Police Academy, and then later in my policing career, I worked in the legal section of the Queensland Police Service,” Mr Sgualdino said.

“I left the Queensland Police Service as a Sergeant and subsequently completed my law studies and was then admitted as a Barrister at Law in Queensland, practicing as a barrister in criminal law.”

Mr Sgualdino said that TAFE Queensland justice students graduate with job-ready skills to secure employment in their desired career.

“It's always rewarding when I hear from a previous student who has commenced training at the Police Academy, with their experience at TAFE Queensland giving them the confidence to pursue their goals,” he said.

“Or in many cases, students have gained employment in law firms as paralegals after completing the Diploma of Justice Studies (10972NAT).” 

TAFE Queensland’s Diploma of Justice Studies (10972NAT) has been designed in conjunction with industry practitioners from the Queensland Police Service, Department of Justice and Attorney General, Australian Federal Police, and the Office of Industrial Relations.

Successfully completion of the Diploma of Justice Studies (10972NAT) offers a pathway to university, with many graduates securing university places in undergraduate degrees like the Bachelor of Laws or Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice.

Delivered online or on campus, the Certificate IV in Justice Studies (10971NAT) and Diploma of Justice Studies (10972NAT) are Fee-Free TAFE courses. This means eligible students have the opportunity to train in those qualifications for free if they enrol before the end of the year.

TAFE Queensland General Manager of the South West Region, Jenni Butler, said that Fee-Free TAFE courses are based on local skills demand and advice from industry.

“Completing a course in a high-priority area, like justice, means you’ll graduate with in-demand skills and strong job prospects,” Mrs Butler said.

“Fee-Free TAFE is a great opportunity for more Queenslanders to access training with TAFE Queensland.”

Mrs Butler said Fee-Free TAFE funded courses will be available for Queenslanders until December 31, 2023.

“With the demand for people with job-ready skills at an all-time high, take the opportunity to learn more about Fee-Free TAFE courses – it could open the door to the career of your dreams,” Mrs Butler said.