What is your role here at Flinders?
I am one of the two Security Team Leaders here at Flinders University. In this role, I oversee the daily operational activities of our security officers, ensuring the campus remains a safe and secure environment for students, staff, and visitors. My responsibilities include coordinating incident responses, managing risk and safety concerns across the campus, supporting major university events, and ensuring our team maintains a high level of professionalism and readiness. I also work closely with university leadership and other departments to help identify potential security risks and implement strategies that protect both people and infrastructure.
What initially drew you to working in security?
I entered the security industry when I was quite young. At the time, I was focused on finding a career that offered stability and consistent employment, particularly because I wanted to support a family at a young age. Security stood out as an industry where there would always be a demand for reliable and capable people. Over time, what started as a practical career choice developed into something I became very passionate about. The role provides an opportunity to help people, solve problems, and contribute to the safety of others, which has made the career incredibly rewarding.
What is unique about higher education security?
Working in a higher education environment is unique because of the incredible diversity of the community we serve. Universities bring together people from many different races, religions, cultures, and backgrounds from across Australia and around the world. Every day we interact with students, academics, researchers, and visitors who each bring their own perspectives and experiences. In many ways, universities represent a microcosm of the global community. Knowing that we are helping protect an environment where future leaders, innovators, and professionals are being educated adds an extra level of responsibility and pride to the role.
Describe the variety of tasks you and your team might be involved in.
No two days in campus security are ever the same. My team and I are involved in a wide range of duties that support both safety and operational needs across the university. These can include responding to emergency incidents, providing welfare support to students, conducting patrols of buildings and grounds, managing access control, and ensuring that facilities remain secure outside of operating hours.
We also assist with events held on campus, provide guidance to visitors, respond to medical incidents, investigate safety concerns, and work closely with emergency services when required. In addition to responding to incidents, we are proactive in identifying potential risks, monitoring security systems, and ensuring that safety procedures are followed. Ultimately, our role is about maintaining a safe environment where students and staff can focus on learning, research, and collaboration.
What has been your career highlight to date?
One of the most meaningful moments in my career was being thanked by a student whom I had supported during a very difficult period in their life. At the time, they were going through some extremely dark circumstances, and simply being there to listen and help them access support services made a difference. Seeing that same student later at the end of their studies—happy, confident, and smiling—was incredibly rewarding. Moments like that remind you that security is not just about responding to incidents; it’s about supporting people and making a positive impact on their lives.
What do you enjoy about working at Flinders?
The best part about working at Flinders University is the people and the strong sense of community. Universities bring together individuals from all walks of life, and there is a genuine sense that everyone is working toward a shared goal of education, research, and progress. The relationships built across different departments, with students, and within the security team itself make it a very rewarding place to work.
Tell us about your ideal weekend.
My ideal weekend usually starts with catching some waves with my mates early in the morning. There’s nothing better than being out in the ocean to clear your head and reset after a busy week. After that, I enjoy spending time with my large family and close friends—usually relaxing by the pool, having a barbecue, and listening to music. Those moments of connection, laughter, and good company are what make weekends truly enjoyable for me.