Constable Maha Sukkar yesterday became the first Victoria Police officer to wear a traditional Muslim hijab as part of her uniform.
The 30-year-old former graphic designer was supported by her parents, who flew in from her native Beirut for her graduation ceremony, and friends from the Muslim community.
“At first we were worried by how people would respond but we really admired her courage and she has been an inspiration to us,” said her best friend, Aiesha Hussain, at the ceremony.
The navy, lightweight hijab, specifically designed for Constable Sukkar, has Velcro to enable its release should she get caught in a physical scuffle.
Constable Sukkar, of Dandenong, said it had been her dream to join Victoria Police since she arrived in Australia from Lebanon four years ago. She said she did not expect the traditional Muslim headpiece would attract any unwanted attention, but if it did she would handle it “just like any other police officer”.
Chief Commissioner Christine Nixon said Victoria Police wanted to attract more women and more recruits from culturally diverse backgrounds that reflected the community.
“I think this is Victoria Police showing that we are very welcoming of people from a whole range of backgrounds and nationalities who want to join us,” she said.
At yesterday’s marching out ceremony at Victoria Police Academy in Glen Waverley, 46 graduates were sworn in.
Police Minister Andre Haermeyer warned they were entering the force at a time when it faced intense criticism and scrutiny, and a mounting battle against organised crime.
Source: www.theage.com.au
