Careers in focus
A Career in Policing: Quick Facts about Applying
Students are eligible to apply at 18 – There is a misconception that young adults do not have enough life and work experience for the role. To the contrary, a large number of members of the Police Force joined at the age of 18. Police recruitment staff and psychologists will assess applicants to determine their suitability for the policing environment at each of the 11 stages of the recruitment process.
Work experience is determined by a number of factors – When asked about previous work experience, answers may include customer service experience, exposure to conflict resolution, ability to adapt to the workplace, teamwork, leadership and developed emotional intelligence. For example, part-time work at McDonald’s is highly regarded. However, if a student is only working 5 hours a week over an extended period of time, they may not be consistently developing the skills required for the Police role.
Life experience will be different for each applicant – Again, police recruitment staff and psychologists will assess this factor on a case-by-case basis. There are times where a young applicant ticks the boxes but fails to demonstrate the required maturity and communication skills necessary to perform the duties of a Police Officer or Protective Services Officer (PSO) at the panel interview stage.
While taking a gap year to find employment or travel is an option, it is important that during those 12 months those young applicants are actively looking to further develop themselves in other areas. Volunteering, involvement in a community group or sporting club is also highly regarded. Again, it is important to note that in order to be a competitive applicant, applicants must show that they have had consistent part-time or full time employment.
It can take anywhere from 6 to 9 months to complete the 11 stages of the recruitment process. Applicants are responsible for preparing themselves for each stage. Resources are available on the police careers website, and the Police Applicant Attraction Team is more than happy to support applicants throughout the recruitment process.
A large number of applicants are unsuccessful due to a lack of preparation for the entrance exam and fitness assessment, as well as a lack of understanding of the role they have applied for. Students are encouraged to speak to Police and PSO members at their local police station or train station so that they have a greater understanding of what is expected at the Police Academy and on the job. Download a free exam info booklet and start preparing!
If an applicant is deemed unsuccessful, they will usually be required to wait 12 months before reapplying.
Students are recommended to browse Police Career, visit the Victoria Police YouTube channel, and watch the following recruitment videos: