Everyday people, legendary work: My day with ACT Policing’s finest.

Posted on 21 April, 2026

Nervous. That was the first thing I felt when my boss told me I’d be participating in a ‘ride-along’ with two ACT Policing officers for a day.

What if I accidentally called them the ‘popo’ and they arrested me for disrespect?

If I’m honest, I’d always imagined policing as intense, intimidating – and not exactly something I could see myself doing.

Then I met the incredible Detective Acting Inspector Heather and Constable Jasmine, and I learned what it really means to be a woman working in ACT Policing.

My day started in the police car (yes, I got to ride in the popo mobile). Heather put me on speed check duty, and let me tell you, I took my role as Head Road Safety Officer very seriously.

The streets of Canberra have never been safer. You’re welcome.

Between the bursts of radio chatter and the quiet moments cruising through suburban streets, I started to get a feel for the rhythm of the job – equal parts waiting, watching and being ready to act at a moment’s notice.

As we rode together, Constable Jaz (I can call her that because we are now besties) opened up about her time at the AFP Recruit College. She learned all the skills she needed to feel safe and capable out in the world – but also discovered she was capable of things she never thought possible.

“I met my best friend during recruit college,” Jaz told me, her infectious laugh lighting up the car.

“And I found out I’m way stronger than I ever gave myself credit for.”

It was a reminder that strength in this job isn’t about being superhuman – it’s something you build, step by step. Jaz has the brightest, bubbliest energy but is able to snap into serious mode as soon as the situation needs it.

Then there’s Detective Acting Inspector Heather – aka Mumma Heather, the Boss Lady of the station.

As a working mum, Heather loves that her job is fulfilling, rewarding, and different every single day. But here’s what really struck me: she still has the freedom to sit in on her kids’ school assemblies, get her nails done (yes, police girlies can have their nails done in neutral colours) and have rostered days off that allow her to be present for her family.

“Every day is different,” she told me. “That’s what I love about it. It’s challenging, but it’s so rewarding knowing you’re making a real difference.”

This woman means business. She’s commanding, authoritative, and you can tell she doesn’t mess around when it comes to protecting our community. But at the same time? I genuinely felt like I could tell her my deepest, darkest secrets and she’d make me feel okay about the world.

That’s the Mumma Bear effect. (I told her I may or may not come back to the station regularly for a cuppa and a chat).

One of the most important conversations we had was about why having women in the police force matters. Both Heather and Jaz spoke passionately about the qualities women bring to the team – particularly empathy.

“Often when it comes to intense confrontational situations, I can talk a person down so there aren’t any physical altercations,” Heather explained.

“As a mother, sister, and daughter, I have a different perspective. That empathy is an advantage in being able to understand how people in any given situation are feeling, and jump in to help them feel better and improve things.”

What struck me most was how different this version of ‘strength’ looked from what I’d imagined. It’s not about being “soft”; it’s about being smart, strategic, and seeing the human in every situation.

These women are protectors, problem-solvers, and community champions.

Before this experience, I’ll admit, I was intimidated by the idea of being a police officer. It felt like this unattainable, hyper-masculine, physically impossible career that wasn’t “for people like me.”

But spending the day with Heather and Jaz (Mumma Heather and Princess Jasmine) completely changed my perspective.

What I saw instead was a role that’s as much about connection as it is about capability – where communication, empathy and quick thinking are just as important as physical strength.

These women are incredible. The way they protect our community, the city they both grew up in – making sure the streets we live on are safe places where our friends and family can move about their day without fear. And if something does go wrong? They’ll be there in moments.

They’re strong, capable, empathetic, funny, and real. They’re everyday people doing legendary work.

And honestly? If you’ve ever thought about joining ACT Policing but didn’t think you were “tough enough” or “fit enough”, I’m here to tell you that Heather and Jaz prove that there’s no one way to be a police officer. The fitness requirements are achievable. The training prepares you for everything. The team supports you.

And the work? It’s some of the most meaningful, rewarding, and challenging work you could ever do.

You could spend your days keeping our community safe, and who knows…maybe you’ll be the next boss lady of the station. And yes, you can absolutely call it the popo.

My new besties are cool like that.