AFP logo at EBB Canberra

AFP College

First-rate training for police and protective service officers

A College that backs you

Big goals, new mates and a college that’s with you every step of the way. At the AFP College, you’ll step into your future with confidence and use your learning mindset to gain the skills and knowledge required to be a Protective Service Officer (PSO), National Police Officer (NPO) or ACT Policing Officer.

Offering nationally recognised training that blends theory with practical application, your experience will be hands on, fast paced and designed to give you the confidence to excel in your next move.

As a recruit, you’ll earn while you train and benefit from the College’s facilities, resources and ongoing support – all geared to help you succeed.

At a glance

Canberra

Training duration

PSO: 15 weeks
NPO: 26 weeks
ACT Policing Officer: 26 weeks

Salary

Generous salary plus 15.4% superannuation

Benefits

Free single-room accommodation main meals, gym, fitness classes, access to health practitioners

Brisbane

Training duration

PSO: 15 weeks

Salary

Generous salary plus 15.4% superannuation

Benefits

Free single-room accommodation main meals, gym, fitness classes, access to health practitioners

Equipped for what’s ahead

From day one you won’t just be studying, you’ll be stepping into an environment built to challenge, inspire and prepare you for of the realities of policing. Side by side with your fellow recruits, you’ll dive into law, police powers, protection, investigative techniques and operational safety.

You’ll learn to manage your time, stay sharp under pressure and balance study, fitness and downtime. Just as importantly you’ll build friendships and connections that will stay with you throughout your career.

At the AFP College, no two days are the same. You’ll sharpen your skills through immersive training in:

  • Legislation and Australia’s Judicial System
  • Scenario based exercises that feel like the real thing
  • Note taking and analytical thinking to help you respond quickly and effectively
  • Investigations and case management
  • Driver training
  • Firearms handling and safety training
  • Defensive tactics to protect yourself and others
  • De-escalation techniques to defuse pressure situations.

This is more than just training, it’s the start of something bigger. By graduation, you won’t just have the skills and knowledge to succeed, you’ll have the pride, resilience and confidence to step forward to protect your community.

Qualifications

As an enterprise registered training organisation, AFP College RTO (#1056) offers 8 nationally recognised qualifications: 

  • POL60121 Advanced Diploma of Police Close Personal Protection 
  • POL65125 Advanced Diploma of Police Investigation 
  • POL62422 Advanced Diploma of Surveillance 
  • POL50124 Diploma of Policing 
  • POL58121 Diploma of Police Search and Rescue Coordination (Marine/Land) 
  • POL50225 Diploma of Police Intelligence Practice 
  • POL41225 Certificate IV in Protective Services 
  • PSP40416 Certificate IV in Government Investigations.
     

For a snapshot of what to expect watch our life as a college recruit video

AFP College, Canberra 

Nestled between the city and Lake Burley Griffen, AFP College in Barton offers an opportunity to live and train in a well-connected part of Canberra with nature and a vibrant lifestyle on your doorstep. 

Everyday perks, just outside the College:

  • A short walk to Kingston for shops, restaurants and cafes
  • Minutes away from the city
  • Complete the iconic bridge to bridge walk at Lake Burley Griffin
  • Vibrant events calendar throughout the year
  • Connect with friends and family at local cafes, restaurants and bars
  • Mountain bike riding at Mount Stromlo
  • A short drive to the snow, beach or National Parks
  • Museums and galleries.

Whether you’re into quiet moments or a weekend adventure, you’ve got the freedom to shape your downtime in Canberra and the surrounding area.

Discover more about Canberra 

Pinkenba, Brisbane  

Based near the airport in Brisbane, the Pinkenba Training Centre (PTC) and Pinkenba Hub (the Hub) host multiple training programs for the AFP inclusive of the AFP Protective Service Officer recruit training. The PTC is a fit for-purpose training environment for the AFP with a focus on supporting the Pacific Policing Initiative and AFP recruit classes. The Hub provides accommodation and training facilities, located a short distance (approx. 10 minutes) between sites.

Facilities

AFP College provides the essentials you need to train, learn and live during your time on site, including:

  • free single-room accommodation equipped with an ensuite, single bed, computer facilities and television 
  • free breakfast, lunch and dinner each day
  • coffee shop*, bar* and dining hall
  • exercise classes and a fully equipped gym 
  • access to health practitioners during designated times
  • free laundry facilities
  • technology-enabled training rooms and a resources centre
  • free off-street parking.

*Canberra College only. 

Explore our roles

Protective service officer

Join our team and be a first responder to national security threats

Police officer - national

Combat crime with one of the most advanced police forces in the world

Police officer - ACT

Keep the community safe by investigating and preventing crime.

Events

View our events

Ready to apply?

Attend one of our information sessions or in-person events to find out which role in the AFP is the best fit for you or apply now.

AFP K9 Officer and AFP Canine (Golden Labrador) walking along a concrete pier with large rocks and water either side, there are people fishing and taking photos in the background.

Get in touch

AFP College Reception

For AFP College facilities enquiries