Amanda Paton
CEO/Director
With over 26 years of experience in legal and justice education, Amanda currently holds teaching positions in the Bachelor of Criminology and Justice at the University of the Sunshine Coast. For the past 15 years, she has delivered the Certificate IV in Justice Studies to students across Queensland, equipping learners with a solid foundation for careers in the justice sector. With 26 years as a secondary Legal Studies teacher, Amanda has inspired generations of students to engage with the law and justice system with curiosity, integrity, and confidence. Additionally, she is a Careers and Pathways Leader, guiding students in planning and pursuing their future pathways.
Areas of Expertise
- Criminal law
- Regulatory Law
- Domestic Violence Risk Responses
- Career Coaching
Experience
With over 26 years of experience in legal and justice education, Amanda has dedicated her career to shaping the minds of future professionals in the field. She currently teaches in the Bachelor of Criminology and Justice program at the University of the Sunshine Coast, where she brings a wealth of knowledge and practical insight into the classroom. Her commitment to quality education and student engagement ensures that learners are not only well-informed but also inspired to explore the complexities of the justice system with critical thinking and purpose.
For the past 15 years, Amanda has also delivered the Certificate IV in Justice Studies to students throughout Queensland. This role has seen her play a pivotal part in preparing individuals for careers in various areas of the justice sector, including law enforcement, corrective services, and legal administration. Her ability to translate theoretical concepts into practical learning experiences has empowered her students with the confidence and skills needed to thrive in justice-related roles.
In addition to her tertiary and vocational teaching, Amanda has spent 26 years as a secondary Legal Studies teacher, inspiring generations of young learners to engage with legal concepts from an early age. Her influence in the classroom extends beyond subject content, she promotes values such as integrity, curiosity, and respect for the legal system. As a Careers and Pathways Leader, Amanda further supports students in identifying their goals and mapping out their educational and professional journeys, ensuring they are well-equipped to pursue fulfilling careers in law, justice, and beyond.
Education and Professional Accreditations
- Bachelor of Education (Secondary) (QUT)
- Bachelor of Justice and Legal Studies (UniSC)
- Graduate Certificate in Domestic Violence Risk Responses (QUT)
- Diploma of Justice (TAFE QLD)
- Certificate IV in Training and Assessing
- Certificate IV in Career Development
Meet the Experts Behind PICA
Meet the Experts
Behind PICA
Our trainers aren’t just educators, they’re seasoned investigators, compliance professionals and industry leaders who bring real-world experience, insight and mentorship to every course that Professional Investigators College of Australasia delivers.
CEO/Director
Associate
Associate
RPL Officer
Trainer and Assessor
Trainer and Assessor
Student Support & Enrolments Officer
Explore Our Training and Development Courses
We deliver a range of certificate and practical training programs designed to build skills and confidence in the workplace. From nationally recognised certificates to short courses and tailored staff development programs, our training is designed to support individuals, teams and organisations to grow.

Certificate Courses
Gain the qualifications you need to become a licensed private investigator with our Certificate III and Certificate IV courses. All courses are online, with expert support every step of the way.

Short Courses
Learn Skip Tracing, Investigative Interviewing, Information Gathering skills and much through our online Short Courses at the Professional Investigators College of Australasia (PICA).
Training and Staff Development
At PICA, we offer more than just Certificate qualifications and Short Courses, we also provide tailored training solutions designed to meet the specific needs of your staff or team.
