For decades, Victoria Police training has shaped the capabilities, culture, and confidence of the officers serving our communities. In this powerful firsthand reflection, former trainer John Basham revisits a time when recruits were immersed in rigorous, police‑led instruction designed to build resilience, competence, and a deep understanding of the profession. His perspective captures not only how training once forged “real police,” but also how those foundations contributed to strong operational performance and public trust.

Today, however, Basham argues that modern training approaches—and the external influences shaping them—have weakened the standards, mindset, and effectiveness of new recruits. His article offers a candid and compelling comparison between past and present, raising urgent questions about the future of policing in Victoria.

Read the full story at https://caainc.org.au/