Behind the Badge

I’m Station Sergeant Susie Ball and I’ve been with the AFP for the past 28 years. 

I knew I wanted to become a police officer when I was just 12-years-old. Being in uniform is what I love. Protecting the community is what I enjoy.

My career has seen me work in many diverse and rewarding areas across the organisation. I spent my first 10 years with ACT Policing before moving to the National side of the AFP for 15 years.  I’ve worked overseas in the Solomon Islands and Cambodia. I’ve since returned to ACT Policing and am now the Officer in Charge of Traffic Operations. It’s my dream job and I could not be happier to be back where it all began.

But, it hasn’t been an easy road and I have faced a few challenges over my 28 year career. Safe to say, 2014 was my year from hell.

First I was diagnosed with breast cancer, turning my world upside down.  But, I was one of the lucky ones.  Early detection and medical intervention now leaves me healthy, happy and around to celebrate all the valuable and important things in life.

In that same year I had a near miss with a bus whilst cycling, fell and fracturing my back.  

Then, my family and I discovered we had a Mr Fluffy house.

But I faced all these challenges, and by overcoming and surviving them it made me realise I can believe in myself. I stepped out of my comfort zone and tried new things. Including the decision to strive for a leadership role and go for a promotion. 

Now, in my role as Station Sergeant my aim is to achieve a zero fatality on Canberra roads. I work with dedicated men and women each day who, like me, want nothing more than to reduce the road toll and trauma in ACT.

I’m a wife, a mum and a Station Sergeant and I need to juggle all these commitments at once. But I’m here to tell you it can be done.

Women are and can be leaders. Just believe in yourself. Be true to yourself.