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A Police Officer enforces laws, investigates crimes and maintains public safety. You might gather evidence of alleged criminal activity and appear in court during prosecution proceedings. Police Officers may attend to other duties such as attending traffic accident scenes or patrolling areas of concern. You might specialise in a particular type of policing such as traffic branch, dog squad or criminal investigations.
Police Officers should have good personal skills and be good at communicating with members of the public. You’ll need to be a good problem solver and have strong attention to detail. It’s important that you can work as part of a team and follow correct procedures when carrying out your duties.
There are 13 courses available for people who want to become a Police Officer. These are the top 5 most popular courses.
Possible job outcomes:
If you have a passion for social justice how about launching your career with the Certificate IV in Justice Studies. This nationally recognised qualification opens up a wide range of employment opportunities within court services, youth justice, correctional services, law enforcement, and community services. The course covers: Australian legal system, workplace communication, social justice issues, applying regulatory powers, preparing documents and reports, understanding court proceedings, and more. Enquire now for the list of entry requirements, career outcomes, and enrolment centres in your area..
Average duration: 18 months.
The nationally recognised 10972NAT Diploma of Justice Studies is the qualification to launch your career in the state and federal police, court services, border security, private investigations, youth justice and more. The course begins with an in-depth introduction to the Australian legal system and the prevailing issues in social justice, crime, and victimology. You’ll then begin learning the applications of criminal law alongside the principles of evidence law. The course also covers evidence gathering, interviewing and investigation techniques, court proceedings, and document preparation. Enquire now for the full list of entry requirements, justice career outcomes, and training providers near you that deliver this qualification..
If you want to work in law enforcement, correctional services, policing, or social welfare how about the Bachelor of Criminal Justice? This exciting degree program will help you understand complex issues in crime, public safety, and law enforcement. Depending on your chosen university, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about criminal law, psychology, mental health, gender and crime, drugs and society, plus emerging issues in crime and justice. You could specialise in child protection, policing, addiction crimes, ethics, investigations and interviews, intelligence, or emergency management. Enquire now for admissions criteria, the full list of study majors and specialisations, and universities in your area that offer the Bachelor of Criminal Justice..
Average duration: 36 months.
Do you live in Queensland and need a gun licence? The 11029NAT Course in Firearms and Weapons Safety (Approved for Firearms Licensing in Queensland) is recognised by the QLD Police and can licence you to use a wide range of guns, paintball weapons, crossbows, and hunting knives. Just choose the elective units that apply to your preferred weapon-type. The course covers: Queensland weapons legislation, weapon and community safety, live firing practice, safe handling and storage, weapon transportation, and much more. Enquire now for the full list of entry requirements, weapons licensing outcomes, and training providers in your area that offer this course. PLEASE NOTE: check with your course provider before enrolling to ensure you have selected the units that apply to your licence type..
Average duration: 1 day.
Get started in the Victorian justice system with the 22594VIC Diploma of Justice. This qualification focuses on criminal justice practices in the state of Victoria but is recognised by employers and higher education bodies Australia-wide. The course covers: foundational legal principles, writing skills for the justice environment, conflict resolution and mediation processes, working within family violence contexts, introduction to criminal law, cultural diversity, working with adult offenders, supporting children, and much more. Enquire now for entry requirements, Victorian justice career outcomes, and upcoming enrolment dates..
Average duration: 12 months.
In Australia, a full time Police Officer generally earns $1,050 per week ($54,600 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.
The number of people working as a Police Officer has increased in recent years. There are currently 48,200 people employed in this job role compared to 46,700 five years ago. Police Officers may be employed across all regions of Australia.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights
If you’re interested in applying to become a Police Officer, consider enrolling in a Diploma of Crime and Justice Studies. This course will develop your skills in interviewing, conflict resolution, investigations and court document preparation. You could also consider a Diploma or Advanced Diploma of Justice or a Certificate IV in Crime and Justice Studies.
We’ll find nearby campuses and check if you’re eligible for funding in your state.
Here are some potential career pathways within police and law enforcement. Click on an occupation to learn more about the role and the qualifications that can help you get started in this industry.
Police and Law Enforcement
Crime Prevention Officer
$1,250 weekly pay
Police Officer
$1,050 weekly pay
Duty Manager (Police Force)
$1,550 weekly pay
Project Manager (Police Force)
Learn more about Police Officer courses in your area.