Police Officer

What does it take to become a Police Officer?

Western Australia Police are seeking people with a passion for policing in a challenging and rewarding career to be trained in one of the most advanced law enforcement training facilities in the world.

The course is physically and psychologically demanding and designed to prepare you for life as a Police Officer. Upon completing the 28 week Academy course and subsequent probationary period, you can achieve a Diploma in Public Safety (Policing).

WA Police outcomes:

• Lawful behaviour and community safety;
• Offenders apprehended and dealt with in accordance with the law; and
• Lawful road-user behaviour.

Constable Elise Brown says:

I love being a Police Officer because I get to make a difference in the community

Police protect and preserve property, public order and safety through the enforcement of laws.

Most occupations in this field typically require an Associate Degree, Advanced Diploma or Diploma.

At least three years of relevant experience may substitute for the formal qualifications listed above. In some instances relevant experience and/or on-the-job training may be required in addition to the formal qualification.

Tasks Include:

• investigating and prosecuting offences committed in areas such as organised, corporate and computer crime, environmental offences, drug trafficking, fraud, counterfeiting and terrorism
• securing and examining scenes of crimes and accidents to locate and obtain evidence for analysis
• protecting witnesses and investigating official corruption
• maintaining public order and safety
• patrolling assigned areas to minimise potential for public disturbance and crime
• investigating accidents, crimes, minor offences and citizens' complaints, gathering evidence, and pursuing, arresting and interviewing suspected offenders
• testing persons suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs and issuing infringement notices for traffic offences
• directing and re-routing traffic at congested areas
• attending community meetings and answering inquiries from the public where necessary
• providing advice and assistance to victims of crime and their families
• maintaining records and preparing reports

Occupations:

• Detective 
• Police Officer

Detective

Investigates serious crimes, such as terrorism, homicide, armed robbery, vice and arson, and gathers evidence to arrest and prosecute suspected offenders.

Specialisations:

• Detective Sergeant
• Plain Clothes Police Officer

Police Officer

Maintains public order, and enforces laws by investigating crimes, patrolling public areas and arresting suspected offenders.

Specialisations:

• Bomb Squad Officer 
• Mounted Police Officer 
• Search and Rescue Officer 
• Tactical Response Group Officer