Training at the Academy
You'll begin your policing journey as a recruit at the WA Police Academy, undergoing 28-weeks of extensive and varied training, delivered by our supportive and knowledgeable police trainers and experts.
03. Training at the WA Police Academy
When you enter the WA Police Academy, you’ll be placed into a squad to start 28-weeks of paid training. Our experienced academy trainers will be with you every step of the way, encouraging, supporting, and guiding you through your journey.
Training modules will take place in lecture theatres, classrooms, inside the gym and at various outside locations. You'll learn about policing policies and procedures as well as your legal powers, responsibilities and expectations.
"When you join, you're put together with 30 people, called your squad. You're all individuals, all have your own personalities but you get along so well, it's like you become an instant family. Team work is such a massive part of academy life, the Instructors really want everyone to succeed, they push us so we become the best Police Officer possible."
Get paid to train
During your 28-weeks training to become a Police Officer, you'll earn an annual salary of $62,459 plus superannuation which is paid to you fortnightly.
A squad to support you
On the first day at the WA Police Academy, you will join a squad. Together you'll navigate new experiences, overcome any challenges and celebrate accomplishments with your team.
Facilities for your fitness
Improve and maintain your fitness using state-of-the-art fitness facilities, while being supported and encouraged by our personal training experts.
What you'll learn
The course is comprised of both theory and practice. This knowledge is put into practice through scenarios, simulations and tactics training.
When you begin, you'll be allocated to a squad. From here on in, you'll have plenty of mentors to guide you and peers to support you through your policing journey. Over 28-weeks, you'll learn a range of skills to become an operationally ready first responder with the WA Police Force.
Police Studies
Operational, Safety & Tactics Training
Legal Studies
Driver Training
Detective Training
Scenario Training
Physical Training
Training Hours
Training at the WA Police Academy is a full-time commitment.
Travel & Parking
The WA Police Academy is located 30km from Perth CBD in the northern suburb of Joondalup. It's a 15-minute walk or a short bus ride from the Joondalup Train Station. To find the best route to the WA Police Academy via public transport, use the Transperth Journey Planner.
Training at the WA Police Academy lasts 28 weeks.
What's the biggest challenge during training?
"The most challenging part of the WA Police Academy for me was the study. I haven't studied for a long time and there are quite a few exams to get through. Thankfully the instructors are there to help, they want you to pass and do well, so even in the tough days I felt supported."
Amanda Kickett, Recruit
Is the physical training difficult?
"There's a lot of physical training, because you need to be fit. This is something I needed to get better at. The PT instructors at the WA Police Academy are brilliant, they understand peoples challenges and difficulties. They help you improve and get your fitness up to the standards you need to be successful."
Michael Sharpe, Recruit
