Take our quiz to help you assess your eligibility to join the NSW Police Force – these 17 questions will help you decide if you’re ready to start your journey.
Q1. Are you an Australian or New Zealand Citizen or an Australian Permanent Resident?
To apply, you must meet one of these residency requirements. If not, you’ll need to contact the Department of Home Affairs for advice.
Q2. Are you at least 18 years old?
You must be at least 18 years old to submit a Professional Suitability Application.
Q3. Do you hold a current driver’s licence (Provisional P1 licence, minimum six month) or equivalent?
You’ll need to have held your licence for at least six months to be eligible.
Q4. Have you had a clean driving record for the past six months?
No traffic offences in the last six months is a must. Earlier offences may also be considered.
Q5. Have you ever been charged with a criminal offence?
A criminal history may affect your suitability. If unsure, contact the Police Recruitment Branch on 1800 222 122.
Q6. Have you been subject of an Apprehended Violence Order (AVO)?
If you’ve had an AVO in the past 10 years (excluding interim or revoked AVOs), you may not be eligible. Contact Police Recruitment Branch on 1800 222 122 for further information.
Q.7 Do you have strong English communication skills, both verbally and in writing?
Clear communication is essential. You’ll be tested on your English language proficiency during the application process.
Congratulations! Based on your responses, you meet the NSW Police Force basic eligibility requirements.
You will now need to complete the next suite of questions to determine your academic suitability, followed by your professional suitability. Please continue to the next section.
Thank you for completing the eligibility survey. Unfortunately, based on your responses, you do not currently meet the NSW Police Force eligibility requirements.
For further guidance, please contact the NSW Police Recruitment Branch on 1800 222 122 or recruiting@police.nsw.gov.au
Q8. Do you hold a Year 12 HSC (minimum ATAR 50 or equivalent), or at least one of the following equivalent qualifications:
It appears that you may meet the academic suitability requirements for the ADAP but this will be assessed by Western Sydney University when you’ve submitted your application to join the NSW Police Force.
It appears that you may not currently meet the Academic Suitability requirements for entry into the Associate Degree in Applied Policing (ADAP). This is something that can be further evaluated once you have submitted your application to join the NSW Police Force.
Q.9 Are you medically and mentally fit to perform policing duties?
You’ll undergo a medical assessment and psychometric testing to ensure you can meet the physical and mental demands of the role.
Q.10 Are you physically fit and ready for the challenge?
You’ll need to pass a fitness test covering strength, agility, and endurance.
Q.11 Do you have any visible body art or modifications on your face, neck, arms or hands?
All applicants must comply with the NSW Police Force Body Art and Modifications Policy. There may be an exception for tattoos of a cultural or religious reason.
Q.12 Are you open to being posted anywhere in NSW?
All recruits nominate five preferred locations for their first placement as a probationary constable. While most recruits receive one of their preferences, we cannot guarantee this, and you should be prepared to work anywhere in NSW. If you join through the Be A Cop In Your Hometown initiative, your preferred location will be given priority, as long as there are no reasons why you can’t be placed in your local area.
Q.13 Are you prepared to work rotating shifts including night shifts, weekends and public holidays?
Policing is a 24/7 commitment - flexibility is key.
Q.14 Are you willing to carry and use a firearm, Conductive Electrical Weapon (TASER) and pepper spray (OC) in line with Policing duties?
This is a core responsibility of the role.
Q.15 Are you confident that you could cope well in confronting situations such as domestic violence, serious accidents, crime scenes and deceased persons?
Being a police officer is challenging. You will receive training and support but resilience is essential. Extensive support services including mental health clinicians, peer support and chaplaincy services are readily available.
Q.16 Are you prepared to dedicate approximately 25 hours per week to online study during Session 1 of the Associate Degree in Applied Policing (ADAP)?
Session 1 includes essential online learning that sets the foundation for your policing career. Time management and commitment are key to success.
Q17. Are you ready to commit to four months of study at the Police Academy in Goulburn?
When you become a recruit, you will attend the Goulburn Police Academy as part of the Associate Degree in Applied Policing. You will be paid to train, receive free accommodation and meals, and receive the training and knowledge to become a police officer.
You will undergo extensive physical training to prepare you to deal with situations you'll face during your career as a police officer.
You will also have extensive academic training, including class room work, writing essays and exams. This ensures you understand the important aspects of being a police officer and performing your role in a safe and lawful way.
You haven't responded to all of the questions. Please check and make sure you respond to all questions.
You may not currently meet the eligibility criteria. We recommend contacting the Police Recruitment Branch on 1800 222 122 to discuss your individual circumstances.
Congratulations! Based on the responses you’ve given it appears you meet the eligibility, academic and professional suitability requirements to start your journey in becoming a NSW Police Officer.
Ready to take the next step? Your journey starts here!
