Applying to become a Queensland police officer
The Queensland Police Service (QPS) is looking for people who are passionate about making a difference and share our values of integrity, respect and courage. If you have strong communication and problem-solving skills, a sense of responsibility and compassion, and effective time management, you may be suited to a career as a Queensland police officer.
On this page:
-
Are you eligible to become a Queensland police officer?
New recruit applicants without policing experience are required to meet the eligibility requirements below.
- Be 17.5 years of age or older at the time of applying or less than 59 years of age at commencement of the First Year Constable program; and
- Meet the Year 12 education or work experience requirements with one of the following criteria:
- Currently completing Year 12 and have your QCE prior to starting at the academy with a passing grade in English and Mathematics; or
- Have completed year 12 (or equivalent - Certificate IV in Adult Tertiary Preparation 11240NAT); or
- IPROWD program (or equivalent); or
- Have three or more years of full time (or part time equivalent) work at the commencement of your application. The work needs to be either paid work or unpaid work at a recognised volunteer organisation; and
- By the time of graduating from the police academy, you must hold an open driver licence or a current provisional driver licence with a minimum of 12 months of driving experience as the licence holder (automatic or manual vehicle). You may apply in advance providing you have progressed from your learner licence; and
- Be an Australian citizen or hold permanent residency status, or be a New Zealand citizen holding a special category visa (SCV*) under the Migration Act 1958 (Cth).
More information regarding citizenship and permanent residency visas can be found on the Australian Government website.
-
Next steps
Becoming a police officer is a rewarding career choice requiring dedication, resilience, and a genuine commitment to serving your community. Take the time to ensure you’re fully prepared and ready to take the next step in this exciting journey.
Ready to start your application? If you appear eligible to apply after completing the EOI, you must be prepared to action several steps and assessments shortly after. Ensure you are prepared and have the time to fully commit to the recruitment process.
-
FAQs for General Entry applicants
-
When are the next intake dates?
The QPS accepts police recruit applications year-round, not tied to specific intake commencement dates.
QPS Academy in Brisbane offers multiple intakes throughout the year for both the mainstream Recruit Training Program and PACE program. The North Queensland campus conducts one intake approximately every nine months.
If successful, when will I know my start date?
Once you have met all requirements and are deemed suitable, QPS Recruiting will determine the appropriate recruit training program to suit your background and experience.
You will then receive a letter of offer outlining your training program, academy location (Brisbane or Townsville) and intake commencement date.
Queensland Police Service Recruiting