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Entry pathways

How can I become a Police Officer?

Confirm you meet all the mandatory requirements, then submit your application online, along with any required supporting documents. You will then go through a number of steps - starting with an Integrity Check, then Police Entrance Evaluation, Physical Performance Evaluation and a Psychological Assessment. If you've been progressed at each stage, you will then go for a panel interview. Further assessments will be required for those who are successful at the interview.

Find out more about each step to becoming an Police Officer (Entry-Level)

Can I join straight after highschool?

Yes! You must be at least 17 years and 6 months of age to apply for Police Officer positions (18 upon appointment), 17 years old for Police Auxiliary Officer roles and 16 years old to apply for Cadet positions (17 upon appointment).

What qualifications do I need?

You don't need any qualifications to apply to become a Police Officer. We welcome all levels and ranges of skills, experience and abilities. Each application will be assessed on individual merit.

What certifications do I need?

You will need to have a current First Aid Certificate (HLTAID003 or HLTAID011 - Provide First Aid). Please note, this can be completed within 90-days of submitting your application.

How do you become a Police Officer from a Cadet position?

You must achieve satisfactory performance appraisals as a Cadet. You will then need to meet all the mandatory entry requirements for recruitment and go through the formal application process which includes all required checks, evaluations and assessments. As a Cadet, you will have the advantage of policing knowledge and insights which will assist with becoming a Police Officer.

How can I get into a specific area of the WA Police Force?

After successfully completing the 18-month probationary period, you will be permanently appointed to the rank of Constable and can apply for any advertised vacant Police Officer role. If the position sought is a technical position, appropriate skills or qualifications may be required.

How long does the recruitment process take?

We strive to process applications as quickly as possible but timeframes can vary. Its also dependent on the extent of information we need to collect from you. Please allow up to six months to complete the entire application process and be placed in a selection pool.

Eligibility requirements

What if I have a criminal record or traffic offence?

You can still apply for the WA Police Force however some types of convictions may impact your suitability for a position.

Are tattoos allowed?

Yes, you can apply if you have a tattoo. You will be required to send a photo and we will review your tattoos to ensure they comply with our policies.

Images depicting drugs, death or violence are likely to be considered unsuitable if visible when wearing a short sleeve shirt.

Face tattoos are currently not permitted and tattoos on the neck and hands will be considered on a case-by-case basis. All other tattoos will be assessed considering their location, size, and imagery.

Am I allowed to have secondary employment?

Yes. However, approval will be given only if it maintains the integrity of the the WA Police Force, operational capabilities and workplace safety plus avoids any real or perceived conflict of interest with police duties and responsibilities. Applications for certain occupations that are considered 'high risk' will only be approved in exceptional circumstances.

Training

Am I paid while training at the WA Police Academy?

Yes. All successful applicants, whether you are a Cadet, Police Officer (Entry-Level), Police Auxiliary Officer or an interstate/overseas transitional Police Officer will be paid while training at the WA Police Academy.

Should I research or study anything prior to starting at the WA Police Academy?

There are no expectations to have prior knowledge or a level of understanding of any specific topics before you start training. Everyone will start at the same level, covering the same topics.

Can I study externally while I'm at the WA Police Academy?

We suggest holding off on any study commitments until you have finished your academy training. Once you become a Police Officer there are many additional opportunities for development and study.

Career growth

What are the promotional opportunities in the WA Police Force?

There are many ways and opportunities to advance your career. You can progress to First-Class Constable after five years (all studies and assessments for that rank must be completed). You can continue to a Senior Constable role after a further four years, pending completion of studies and assessments for that rank. 

As a First-Class Constable, you may then apply for promotion to the rank of Sergeant. Promotion for the ranks of Sergeant and above is based on a merit system. There are also opportunities to learn new skills and move into technical roles.

What qualifications can I obtain while in the WA Police Force?

We offer many opportunities for upskilling and development. Depending on interests, experience and aptitude, there are many opportunities available. You can discuss this with the WA Police Force Recruiting team, your trainers in the academy or your Officer in Charge (OIC), once you've been successful in becoming a Police Officer.

Is time off allowed while undertaking training at the Academy?

Due to the rigorous training program, it is not possible to take time off during your training at the WA Police Academy.

Medical & wellness

Are applicants subject to drug testing?

Yes, we must ensure all WA Police Force employees are drug-free at all times. All applicants will undergo drug screening and testing. We do random drug testing on applicants throughout the recruitment process. In addition, all applicants who progress to the final health assessment undergo drug testing.

Do I need to supply any medical information?

Yes, you will be asked to provide medical information during the recruitment process to determine any relevant previous or current medical illnesses or injuries. This will be submitted to the WA Police Force Occupational Physician, who may seek further information from General Practitioners or other treating specialists. This information will be used to assess your suitability for the job.

What are the vision standards that apply?

You are required to have a minimum of 6/30 unaided vision in each eye, with corrected vision to be no worse than 6/9 in the poorer eye. Peripheral vision of 70 degrees or greater on either side of the meridian horizontally is also required.

If you are outside the 6/30 range, there are conditions regarding the wearing of contact lenses that may apply. You must:

  • be able to wear soft contact lenses
  • supply relevant information including the history of wear duration/tolerance of soft contact lenses over a 12-month period
  • supply a report from a qualified person that outlines your expected future tolerance to wearing soft contact lenses on an ongoing basis.

The WA Police Force does not test for colour blindness.

Can I apply if I have epilepsy?

Individuals with epilepsy are to be seizure free for 10-years before they will be considered for employment by the WA Police Force Occupational Physician (exception for benign childhood epilepsy).

Salary & allowances

How much annual leave will I get?

Police Officers are entitled to six weeks of paid annual leave. Plus you’ll have access to other leave including sick leave, carers leave, rest days, cultural leave, military leave and bereavement leave.

What will I get paid?

You’ll start with 28 weeks of paid training and a competitive salary. After graduating, you’ll receive incremental pay increases each year along with additional shift allowances. View all salary and allowances here.

How will my rank and salary be determined?

The rank and level of salary for transitional officers is determined with reference to the table below. Recognition of prior service is based on completed years, excluding months of an incomplete year of service.

Complete Years’ Service with Compatible Policing JurisdictionRecognised Service on Completion of Training at the WA Police AcademySalary on Completion of Training at the WA Police Academy

Less than one year of service

Nil

N/A

One year but less than two years’ of service

If probation not completed, no recognition of prior service. Applicant to be assessed as a normal recruit applicant and undertake full academy Police Officer (Entry-Level) course.

N/A

If probationary requirements completed, one year recognised service

Constable second year of service

Two years’ but less than three years’ of service

Two years’ recognised service

Constable third year of service

Three years’ but less than four years’ of service

Three years’ recognised service

Constable fourth year of service

Four years’ but less than five years’ of service

Four years’ recognised service

Constable fifth year of service

Five years’ service

Five years’ recognised service

Constable, fifth year of service and thereafter until completion of requirements to attain First-Class Constable. First-Class Constable base rate salary then applies

Six years’ service

Six years’ recognised service

Constable, fifth year of service and thereafter until completion of requirements to attain First-Class Constable. First-Class Constable base rate salary then applies

Seven years’ service

Seven years’ recognised service

Constable, fifth year of service and thereafter until completion of requirements to attain First-Class Constable. First-Class Constable increment salary then applies

Eight years’ service

Eight years’ recognised service

Constable, fifth year of service and thereafter until completion of requirements to attain First-Class Constable. First-Class Constable increment salary then applies

Nine years’ service, or more

Nine years’ recognised service

Constable, fifth year of service and thereafter until completion of requirements to attain First-Class Constable. First-Class Constable increment salary then applies until requirements to attain the rank of Senior Constable are successfully completed

Regional policing

Will I be required to work in regional WA?

You should be prepared to work anywhere within the state of Western Australia. Officers are encouraged to work in as many diverse locations as possible to gain further skills and experience to advance their careers.

Working in regional or remote places provides a fantastic opportunity for developing meaningful and authentic connections and relationships. You will get to work, and get paid as you explore our great state!

If I need to relocate, will my accommodation and expenses be covered?

When working in regional locations, there are many additional financial benefits. All areas receive benefits for relocation costs and storage fees. Other benefits like free/subsidised housing, air-conditioning subsidy, district allowance (fortnightly payment), additional leave and remote community leave will be based on the location.

How is regional policing different to metropolitan areas?

As a Police Officer in a country town, you will handle nearly all aspects of policing which will enable you to gain a great deal of experience in a variety of roles. 

Like most frontline positions, you will often be amongst the first to attend crime scenes and traffic crashes and respond to public calls for help. You will also become an integral asset to the community by being actively involved with places like schools to tackle crime and safety.

Family

How will maternity leave affect my career progression?

As an equal opportunity employer, we understand the value of a diverse workforce and the importance of supporting female employees that take maternity leave, and in the time leading up to it. 

We offer 14-weeks paid maternity leave (to the main carer) which won't impact career progression, your opportunities to apply for promotions or changing career paths. We value our people and strive to create an inclusive, supportive workplace for all employees.

Do parents have flexible working hours?

Any flexible working arrangements are dependent on your role, location, resourcing and organisational needs at the time.

Transition Officers - International

I am over 55 years old, am I still able to apply?

No, applicants must be under 55 years old, upon visa nomination (end of the selection process). This is a condition of the Labour Agreement.

I am a Police Officer from a jurisdiction other than the United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland and New Zealand, am I eligible to apply?

No, only applicants from the identified jurisdictions (United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland and New Zealand) are eligible to apply.

My total policing experience is under three years', am I still eligible to apply?

Applicants must have a minimum of three years’ policing experience upon visa nomination (end of the selection process). We encourage you to apply when you have reached two years and eight months service however you must complete the three years to be nominated for a visa.

My total policing experience exceeds ten years, what recognition of prior service will I receive?

We recognise up to Constable 5th year of service for pay and rank.

If eligible, officers recognised as having the required service, can complete the requirements to progress to the rank of First-Class Constable and then Senior Constable upon commencement (online examinations). Thereafter, Police Officers at the rank of First-Class Constable and above are eligible to apply for promotion to Sergeant.

I resigned from my Police Officer position 12-months ago, am I able to apply?

Yes, applicants must either be a current or former sworn Police Officer. If you are no longer a serving Police Officer, your break in service must be no more than 18-months at the time of application.

I am currently on a career break, am I still able to apply?

Yes, your career break does not preclude you from applying, however your break in service must be no more than 18-months at the time of application.

I work for the British Transport Police, am I eligible to apply?

No, to maintain consistency of training and experience, we are only able to accept applications from Police Officers from compatible jurisdictions (this excludes the British Transport Police and Military/Defence Force Police). 

Applications from policing jurisdictions which are not considered compatible will not be accepted.

I am a Special Constable/Volunteer, am I eligible to apply?

No, to maintain consistency of training and experience, we are only able to accept applications from qualified Police Officers. Special Constables and Volunteers are not eligible.

What documents am I required to provide?

Applicants will be required to provide the following documents, in addition to any specific information requested on the application form:

  • Birth Certificate
  • Driver’s Licence and history – current UK/Republic of Ireland motor vehicle drivers licence
  • Passport Photo
  • Tattoo photos

A First Aid Certificate is not required, as Australian standard training will be provided upon commencement.

Will I be required to travel to Western Australia to complete any of the recruitment process assessments?

No, all assessments will be conducted online.

I have received an acknowledgement that you've received my application, what happens now?

Once we receive all your requested documents, we will be in touch with you to confirm the next steps in the process. 

Please note, if you have been unable to provide your performance and service records from your current employer, we will request the information on your behalf, this may take several weeks to receive. You will receive further updates from us as you progress through the process.

Will I receive sponsorship for a visa and can I include my family?

Yes, successful applicants will be nominated for an Employer Nominated Scheme (subclass 186) visa. This visa allows skilled workers who are nominated by their employer to live and work in Australia permanently. Under this visa, it is expected that the visa holder works for the nominating employer for at least two years.

Yes, family members can be included in the visa including partners, dependent child or stepchild and partner’s dependent child or stepchild.

What are the costs and processing times for the visa?

The costs for the visa are:

  • $4,240 AUD for the main applicant
  • $2,120 AUD for an additional applicant 18 years old and over
  • $1,060 AUD for an additional applicant under 18 years old

Costs can vary depending on your specific situation. Please refer to the Australian Department of Home Affairs website for further information.

Processing times will vary depending on your specific circumstances, however generally vary between two and six months.

Where can I find further details about the visa?

Further information, including eligibility, process and costs can be found on the Department of Home Affairs website.

What are the current pay rates and benefits I will receive?

Read about salaries here and benefits here.

What support will be provided?

There will be team members available to provide support during the recruitment process and beyond. Successful applicants will be provided with support to make your transition to Western Australia as smooth as possible, including assistance for members of your family.

When does training commence and what does the 13-week training program include?

Initial intakes are planned to commence late 2023, however the program will take place over the next five years. Specific commencement dates will be discussed with successful applicants.

During your transition course, you will be provided orientation and training in all aspects of policing in WA including:

  • Officer Safety & Tactics Training
  • Driver Training
  • IT Applications
  • Prosecution and court file preparation
  • Applied procedures including station procedures, custody, duty of care, dealing with drugs, firearms, bail, coronial enquiries, family violence, etc
  • Physical Training and Empty Hand Training
  • Forensics and fingerprinting
  • Ethics, Diversity, Aboriginal and Cultural Awareness Training
  • Legal procedures including giving evidence, powers of search & arrest, assaults, drugs, weapons, sex offences, stealing, burglary, damage, etc
  • Investigations including suspect/witness interviewing, completing crime files and completing witness statements
  • Effective communications
  • First-Aid
Where will I be deployed once I complete my training?

Post training, International Transition officers will be deployed to frontline stations across the metropolitan area or larger regional centres.

The WA Police Force operates a tenure policy to support organisational requirements and availability. It also provides opportunities for Police Officers to experience working at different locations or positions and engage in professional development.

Usually tenure is between two and four years.

Can I undertake detective training?

All investigative and some intelligence roles require National Vetting (NV) clearance, which can only be obtained by individuals holding Australian citizenship. Until citizenship is obtained, successful applicants may be restricted from performing some roles, including detective positions.