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How to Become A Federal Police Officer

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What is a Federal Police Officer

A Federal Police Officer is one of Australia’s most exciting jobs in law enforcement. Officers join the Australian Federal Police (AFP) and take on serious crime at a national level. From cybercrime to terrorism, each day brings new challenges.

AFP officers do far more than patrol streets. They lead cases, gather intel, and work on issues that affect the whole country. Some guard VIPs and secure key government sites. Others work with local people through ACT Policing.

The AFP works across Australia and has posts overseas. Officers work with ASIO, state police, and global bodies like INTERPOL. This reach makes AFP work unlike any other police role in Australia.

The AFP values diversity and offers real career growth. With over 200 role types, you can build a path in cybercrime, counter-terrorism, or community policing. New recruits are fully paid during training.

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Career Outlook for Federal Police Officer

The AFP is actively hiring more officers. It graduated 298 new officers across 11 recruit programs in 2024-25 (AFP Annual Report, 2024-25). Annual growth for police jobs in Australia is around 900 per year (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025). This is a stable, growing field.

AFP officers often enter the workforce in their mid-to-late twenties. Most work full-time, putting in about 43 hours per week (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025). The median age for police is 40. Demand keeps growing as cybercrime rises and cross-border crime gets more complex.

Starting pay is $91,726.74 per year after graduation (Australian Federal Police, 2024). With experience, pay can reach $111,861 per year. The AFP also offers 15.4% super and 6 weeks of annual leave. This is one of the best pay deals in Australian policing.

On this Article

Introduction

Average Salaries

Resources

Steps to Become a Federal Police Officer

Step 1: Check the AFP Eligibility Requirements

Confirm you meet all AFP eligibility criteria before applying. You must be an Australian citizen and at least 18 years old. A current Australian driver’s licence is required. You must also be willing to obtain and maintain a security clearance. You will need to pass a medical exam and physical fitness test. Fitness standards are published on the AFP website at afp.gov.au.

Step 2: Build Relevant Knowledge and Experience

The AFP does not require a specific degree to apply. However, a relevant qualification strengthens your application. Good options include a Bachelor of Criminology, Bachelor of Justice Studies, or Bachelor of Policing. Check current course details and entry requirements at your chosen university. These courses typically take 3 years full-time. Work experience in community services, the Australian Defence Force, or the security sector is also valued. The AFP also runs a Graduate Program for eligible university graduates.

Step 3: Apply Through the AFP Careers Portal

Submit your application at careers.afp.gov.au. Provide your personal details, employment history, and referee contacts. Confirm your eligibility at this stage. The AFP runs recruit intakes throughout the year. Check the portal regularly for open rounds.

Step 4: Complete the AFP Selection Process

Shortlisted applicants go through a multi-stage selection process. This includes written aptitude tests, a structured interview, and a psychological assessment. You will also complete a physical fitness test and a thorough background check. A medical examination confirms you meet health requirements for sworn officer duties.

Step 5: Complete the AFP Recruit Training Program at AFP College

Successful applicants attend the AFP College in Canberra for approximately 6 months of residential training. The AFP Recruit Training Program covers criminal law, investigative techniques, first aid, firearms training, and community engagement. Training is fully paid and accommodation is provided at the College. You earn a salary from day one of training.

Step 6: Begin Your Career as a Sworn AFP Officer

After graduation you are sworn in as an AFP police officer. Starting pay is $91,726.74 per year (Australian Federal Police, 2024). The AFP posts officers across Australia and overseas. You can specialise over time in areas such as cybercrime, counter-terrorism, or international liaison. The AFP supports ongoing career development at every stage.

What does a Federal Police Officer do?

A Federal Police Officer’s day is packed with variety. They look into serious crimes like drug trafficking, cybercrime, and people smuggling. Officers gather intel, run surveillance, and act on search warrants. They guard VIPs, respond to critical events, and support communities across Australia. In the ACT, AFP officers also handle day-to-day policing for local people. Overseas, they join global ops to fight crime across borders.

Tasks

A career as a Federal Police Officer is fast-paced and full of variety. AFP officers protect Australia from serious crime at a national and global level. From counter-terrorism to cybercrime, each day brings new challenges. Officers work across Australia and can be posted overseas.

  • Investigate crimes including drug trafficking, human trafficking, and cybercrime
  • Carry out counter-terrorism operations and intelligence gathering
  • Deliver community policing in the Australian Capital Territory
  • Enforce border protection and customs laws
  • Provide protective security for government officials, events, and critical sites
  • Work with global partners including INTERPOL to fight transnational crime
  • Gather, preserve, and analyse evidence for criminal cases
  • Respond to emergencies and critical incidents
  • Collect intelligence and assess security threats
  • Engage communities through outreach and public safety programs

Skills for Success

To thrive as a Federal Police Officer, you need brains and backbone. Sharp thinking helps you piece together evidence and build a case. Clear speaking and writing let you talk to witnesses, write reports, and present findings in court. Physical fitness keeps you ready for anything.

You also need to know the law. AFP officers must understand criminal law, how cases are run, and how AFP powers work. Cultural awareness helps you connect with diverse groups across Australia. Above all, a drive to do what is right is at the core of AFP work.

Skills & Attributes

  • Strong communication and report writing skills
  • Critical thinking and problem-solving
  • Physical fitness and stamina
  • Attention to detail
  • Ability to work under pressure
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Integrity and ethical judgement
  • Knowledge of criminal law and federal regulations
  • Adaptability and resilience
  • Digital and technological literacy
  • Cultural awareness and sensitivity
  • Leadership and initiative
  • Conflict resolution and negotiation
  • Observation and situational awareness
  • Commitment to public service and community safety

Average Salaries

AFP police and protective service officers earn a base salary from $64,754 to $111,861 per year (Australian Federal Police, 2024). New graduates start at $91,726.74 per year. Pay rises with experience and rank. Officers also receive 15.4% employer superannuation, including during parental leave.

min $65 K

max $112 K

av $92 K

About the author

Laura Atkinson - Course Finder Groups
Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson is an Account Management and SEM specialist at Course Finder Group with six years' experience in the Australian education sector. She works day to day with universities, TAFEs and independent training providers, which gives her a close view of how courses map to real career outcomes. She writes practical guidance on career pathways, choosing the right qualification and what to expect when moving into a new field.