Police Delighted with New Record in Applications and Admissions

More than 12,000 men and women applied for a job with the police last year. 2,600 of these individuals made it into the police academy, according to a statement from the Ministry of the Interior (BMI) on Monday. In general, the number of applications and admissions doubled in 2024, reaching a record level. The BMI attributed this development to both a corresponding campaign and the so-called "attractiveness package" for police recruitment.

Police Personnel Offensive: High Approval for Attractiveness Package

Interior Minister Gerhard Karner (ÖVP) has strongly promoted additional incentives, according to the ministry. Last year, 1,727 police cadets received the free climate ticket and another 111 were reimbursed for the cost of their car driving license. In addition, innovations were intended to attract more young people to the force: regulations on visible tattoos were relaxed, which no longer have to be a reason for exclusion. The "one-click application" or round-the-clock availability for questions about the police profession should also make the job more attractive.

Furthermore, the internal measure "Police Officers Recruit Police Officers" was used significantly more often last year. 1,300 applications were made through this route. The bonus for successful recruitment is 1,000 euros. "Highest staff levels, highest number of applications, doubled admissions - sufficient police are also necessary for the safety of the population. This path must be consistently pursued," said Karner according to the press release.

(APA/Red)

This article has been automatically translated, read the original article here.