Training at the Academy
If your application to join the WA Police Force is successful, you'll be offered a 13-week transitional training course at the WA Police Academy in Joondalup.
Training at the Academy
We train applicants to the highest level of excellence, with physically and academically enriching courses. You will join a squad with around 30 other successful applicants from varying backgrounds and policing jurisdictions to undertake training together.
What you'll learn
We recognise that successful applicants will arrive in WA with their own policing experience, but it is important that you are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed for for a successful career with the Western Australia Police Force.
The International Transitional Officer training course will provide Officers with foundation knowledge for policing in Western Australia, including legislation and powers, in addition to firearms and driver training, officer safety and more.
Get Paid to Train
Officers completing their Transitional training at the WA Police Academy are paid throughout the 13-week period.
After Graduation, Police Officers receive annual incremental pay increases as service and experience continues.
Finding the Academy
The WA Police Academy is located 30km from Perth CBD in the northern suburb of Joondalup. Limited parking is available on site and in the surrounding areas.
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.
Accommodation for International Officers
International Officers will need to source their own accommodation for the duration of the 13 week training course in Joondalup.
Our friendly international recruiting team will be on hand to answer your questions about getting settled in Western Australia, or you can learn more through the link below.
Your questions answered
When does training commence and what does the 13-week training program include?
It is expected successful applicants are available to commence as soon as possible after visa approval. 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
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.
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.
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.
It is expected during the training period that recruits do not take any personal leave, unless otherwise approved.
