Proud Dulabed Malanbarra Yidinji woman Karren Edmonds has been successfully appointed as a Police Liaison Officer after graduating from the Queensland Police Service's First Nations Pathway to Policing Program.

Raised in Gordonvale, south of Cairns, Ms Edmonds primarily worked in retail but found her calling through a desire to serve her community.

"I've always wanted to be a Police Liaison Officer," she said.

"I want to be that bridge between the police and our mob - to help build understanding and trust."

The First Nations Pathways to Policing Program is delivered in collaboration between the Queensland Police Service (QPS), the Australian Border Force (ABF) and the Australian Federal Police (AFP).

The Program was established to increase First Nations representation in law enforcement and provide support for students in a culturally safe space in preparation for frontline careers.

Graduates receive a Certificate III in Vocational and Study Pathways for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander People (11036NAT) and a toolkit of skills that assist them with entering law enforcement academy programs with confidence.

Ms Emonds said her first time hearing stories from First Nations QPS officers was a turning point.

"They came in, shared their stories and shows us this career is possible," Ms Edmonds said.

"It was fascinating seeing all the different paths you can go down."

Teacher Roisin Murphy said the course builds students' confidence and capability.

"This course is designed to set students up for success," Ms Murphy said.

"We work closely with QPS, ABF, and AFP to bring in mentors so students can build real connections from the very start.

"We provide weekly learning support - both face-to-face and online - to help with everything from written assessments to digital skills."

Indigenous Student Support Officer Jodi Archer also assisted Ms Edmonds throughout her studies.

"We do a lot behind the scenes, but it's really about making sure students feel safe and supported," Ms Archer said.

"We're not just ticking boxes - we're walking with them."

Ms Archer said the program helps address the gap between First Nations communities and policing.

"A lot of First Nations people are hesitant when it comes to policing, and that's understandable," she said.

"But we need our people in these roles if we want to see change. That's how we shift perceptions – from the inside."

Ms Edmonds sid learning with a diverse group of students strengthened the experience.

"We were all different ages and from different places, but we really grew that strong connection," she said.

"That made a big difference. We learned and grew together."

Now working with QPS, Ms Edmonds said she is committed to her new role.

"I've done the work, and I'm ready," she said.

"I want to serve my community. I want to be a voice, and I want to help build better relationships between police and mob."

She encourages others to apply.

"Give it a go," she said.

"You might be surprised at what you can do. It's never too late."

TAFE Queensland North region Executive Director of Education and Training, Leanne Bell, said the program is already creating strong outcomes.

"This initiative is about changing lives and creating real career pathways," Ms Bell said.

"We are incredibly proud of Karren and all the graduates. Their commitment and resilience are inspiring."

The next intake for the First Nations Pathways to Policing Program begins on Monday, 21 July 2025, at TAFE Queensland's Cairns campus.

More information about the First Nations Pathways to Policing Program is available online.