Q1. Do I need to be an Australian citizen or a Permanent Resident of Australia before I can apply to join WAPOL?
Yes. One of the requirements to join WAPOL is Australian Citizenship, Australian Permanent Residency or New Zealand citizenship.
If applicants meet the necessary pre requisites as outlined in the previous section headings of International Applicants or Transitional Applicants they may also apply through those avenues. Further information on visa and residency application may be obtained from www.immi.gov.au.
Q2. Is there any recognition for prior learning or previous experience?
Yes. The process allows for successful applicants to apply for recognition of prior service either with the WAPOL or with another compatible police jurisdiction (worldwide). An abbreviated Academy course and accelerated progression through the Constable rank structure (up to the base level of Senior Constable) may be possible.
Applicants must however still qualify for selection by undergoing the selection process described within this site.
Q3. What are the promotional opportunities in WAPOL?
The promotional process consists of automatic promotion to First Class Constable after five years if all studies and assessments for that rank have been completed, then promotion to Senior Constable after a further four years if studies and assessments to that rank have been completed. After promotion to First Class Constable, officers may apply for promotion to rank of Sergeant. Senior Constables may apply to promote to Senior Sergeant. Promotion for the ranks of Sergeant and above is based on a merit system.
Q4. Am I paid whilst being trained in the Academy?
Yes. An attractive commencement salary of $42,507 is paid during training with an increase to $56,556 plus penalties, on graduation. Transitional applicants can however be paid up to that of a 5th Year Constable, pending experience and qualifications.
Q5. How can I get into a specific area of WAPOL?
To gain entry into any specific area of the WAPOL, each recruit must attend the Police Academy for a total of 30 weeks (28 weeks training and 2 weeks annual leave) and then remain on probation of up to 18 months. After this probationary period, an officer may then apply for a vacant permanent position within WAPOL. If more than one officer applies for a position, a selection process will determine the most suitable person. If the position sought is a specialist position, appropriate skills or qualifications may be required and it may also be necessary for you to have at least five years general policing experience before you would become competitive for the position. The mentioned time periods may be affected by officers receiving recognition of prior service and learning.
Q6. Is there an upper age limit that could restrict me from becoming a police officer?
No. Whilst there is a minimum age limit of 18, there is no maximum age limit.
Q7. I didn't pass the Entrance Evaluation, when am I next allowed to reapply?
You are permitted to re apply six months after the original date that you sat the exam.
Q8. Is there any recommended study materials I can use to help prepare for the entrance evaluation exam?
In addition to the sample questions, the following texts may also help you prepare for the entrance exams.
| Text Book: | Preparing For Career Selection Tests |
| Subject Area: | Numeracy & General Ability |
| Author: | Vera Freeman |
| Text Book: | Preparing For Career Selection Tests |
| Subject Area: | Literacy |
| Author: | Helen Fletcher |
| Text Book: | How to Pass Selection Tests |
| Subject Area: | General |
| Author: | Mike Bryon |
Q9. Do police officers have to work in country towns?
