After becoming the second recipient of a Victoria Police Blue Ribbon Foundation Police Assistance Dog last year Julie “Jules” McAlister’s life has changed dramatically.

Speaking at the Victoria Past and Present Policewoman’s Association Lunch and with Rochelle Jackson on ‘The Crime Couch’ program, Julie said that the black Labrador Charlie-Kane has made a major difference to her life. Julie’s been through a lot; including a PTSD diagnosis, being forced to retire due to “ill-health”, a suicide attempt and getting accidentally shot with a shotgun at a rifle range. 

In March 2023, Julie was officially recognised for her service with Victoria Police, given an apology, her badge was given back to her “retired” and she was handed a certificate of service.

Since recently receiving her dog “Charlie”, Julie has been promoting this initiative, with her most recent interview on Rochelle Jackson’s ‘The Crime Couch’ giving listeners an insight into how a Police Assistance dog has changed her life and restored her sense of self-worth.

Listen (via the link below) to her interview with Rochelle and how the Police Assistance dog program has made an incredible difference to her life:

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