Police Officer - Australian Federal Police

Summary

Police officers working for the Australian Federal Police (AFP) are responsible for policing federal law in all states and territories, and for community policing in the ACT and Australia's external territories.

The AFP, with its headquarters located in Canberra, is Australia's international law enforcement and policing agency. It is the chief source of advice to the Australian Government on policing issues, enforces Commonwealth criminal law and protects Commonwealth and national interests.

Duties & Tasks

Australian Federal Police officers may perform the following tasks:

  • investigate and prosecute offences committed against the Commonwealth in areas such as organised, corporate and computer crime; environmental offences; drug trafficking; fraud; counterfeiting and terrorism
  • confiscate proceeds of crime when an offender is convicted
  • carry out VIP and diplomatic protection duties as directed
  • protect police witnesses and investigate the unlawful disclosure of government information and/or official corruption
  • work in joint operations with state and territory police
  • liaise with other police forces and crime prevention institutions to combat international crime
  • contribute to United Nations activities such as peacekeeping and international aid programs
  • undertake clerical and administrative duties.

Working Conditions

Australian Federal Police officers do shiftwork and their duties vary from team to team. They are required to serve anywhere in Australia, or in the Australian territories of Norfolk Island, Christmas Island, the Cocos (Keeling) Islands and Jervis Bay, and be willing to move with the job depending on operational requirements.

Personal Requirements

  • of sound character
  • at least 18 years of age
  • a full, unrestricted manual vehicle drivers licence
  • able to satisfy medical and fitness requirements
  • Australian citizenship.

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