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Six neurodivergent graduates take up permanent positions within the AFP’s Covert and Technical Operations area.
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) called the recent graduation of six participants of the Dandelion Program a “landmark celebration” for the law enforcement agency.
Starting in July 2023, with the support of DXC Technology and Untapped Talent, the Dandelion Program aimed to provide neurodivergent individuals with the skills, training, and confidence needed to enter the AFP workforce.
“I feel privileged to see our Dandelion trainees graduate today – they have leaned into every new opportunity, assisted with several major investigations, and their impact has reinforced to our entire workforce the value of diversity and different ways of thinking,” AFP Commander Rob Nelson said in a recent statement.
“For many of this group, the program has been their first entry into the workforce, and while it has required some adjustment for them to get into the groove of a workplace, we have watched them flourish in their roles and build their skills, providing great service to the AFP, which we are sure will continue well into the future.”
The six new graduates have now taken positions in the AFP’s Covert and Technical Operations section, where their unique skill sets have proven of immense benefit.
“In Covert and Technical Operations, problem-solving is critical, and it has been incredible to see how the neurodiverse skill set of the Dandelion members has benefited the work we do,” Commander Nelson said.
“Their ability to think outside of the box and innovate has inspired other members to consider different perspectives, which bring different solutions.”
Commander Nelson was also proud of the program earning an Inclusive Communities trophy at the 2024 National Disabilities Awards.
“I am extremely proud of this program, and the internal changes this has influenced,” Commander Nelson said.
“We have seen the organisation expand our internal support network and capabilities, with the goal of the AFP having the skills and experience to independently support and ultimately enable our neurodiverse employees to flourish within a policing agency.”
David Hollingworth has been writing about technology for over 20 years, and has worked for a range of print and online titles in his career. He is enjoying getting to grips with cyber security, especially when it lets him talk about Lego.
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