Federal Police Officer Salary in Australia by Rank & State (2025 Update)

Are you considering a career in the Australian Federal Police (AFP) or simply curious about how much officers make across different ranks and states in 2025? Whether you’re an aspiring recruit, a career switcher, or just comparing public sector jobs, understanding the federal police officer salary in Australia is key to making informed decisions.

This comprehensive guide walks you through the current pay structure of the AFP, the ranking system, and how salaries differ across states and territories. It also includes extra allowances, career progression incentives, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Let’s explore what federal police officers in Australia truly earn in 2025.

Federal Police Salary Structure in Australia: How It Works

The salary of a federal police officer in Australia is determined by several factors including:

• Rank within the AFP structure

• Years of experience

• Duty location (state/territory)

• Special duties and operational roles

• Allowances and overtime

Unlike state police departments, AFP officers are employed federally and typically enjoy uniform base pay scales across Australia. However, regional hardship allowances, cost-of-living adjustments, and operational postings can result in salary differences across states.

Salaries are governed by the Enterprise Agreement between the AFP and the Commonwealth Government, with updates typically every few years. In 2025, officers are paid under the latest updated enterprise agreement covering a wide range of classifications.

Federal Police Salary by Rank in 2025

Here’s a detailed breakdown of salaries for federal police officers in Australia based on rank as of 2025:

1. Police Recruit (Training Phase)

• Annual Salary: AUD $61,000 – $65,000

• This is the entry-level training stage before full graduation into sworn duty.

• Recruits undergo a paid training program and may receive relocation and living allowances.

2. Constable (Upon Graduation)

• Annual Salary: AUD $71,000 – $86,000

• After graduating, recruits become sworn constables.

• Salary increases with years of experience and performance ratings.

3. Senior Constable

• Annual Salary: AUD $87,000 – $99,000

• This rank is achieved after a few years of satisfactory performance.

• Officers at this level may take on additional leadership duties and tactical roles.

4. Leading Senior Constable

• Annual Salary: AUD $100,000 – $108,000

• Often involved in mentoring junior officers.

• Some officers remain at this rank for most of their careers due to its stability.

5. Sergeant

• Annual Salary: AUD $110,000 – $121,000

• First formal supervisory role.

• Oversees small teams or operational units in the field.

6. Senior Sergeant

• Annual Salary: AUD $122,000 – $130,000

• Manages large teams or highly sensitive operations.

• Often assigned to key strategic areas or leadership programs.

7. Inspector

• Annual Salary: AUD $135,000 – $150,000

• Middle-management role overseeing multiple units or divisions.

• Often responsible for budgeting, strategic oversight, and inter-agency coordination.

8. Superintendent

• Annual Salary: AUD $155,000 – $175,000

• Senior command-level rank.

• Works closely with top-level law enforcement, public service officials, and policymakers.

9. Commander

• Annual Salary: AUD $180,000 – $195,000

• High-level leadership position in charge of major branches or departments within the AFP.

• Responsible for nationwide initiatives and strategy.

10. Assistant Commissioner and Above

• Annual Salary: AUD $200,000 – $260,000+

• These are executive-level roles that involve national and international policing coordination.

• Includes positions such as Deputy Commissioner and Commissioner.

How Federal Police Salaries Vary by State and Territory

Although base salaries are generally consistent nationwide, additional allowances can vary depending on where an officer is stationed. Here’s how:

1. Remote Location Allowance

Officers posted to remote regions (e.g., Northern Territory, Western Queensland) often receive extra allowances ranging from AUD $5,000 to $15,000 annually.

2. Cost-of-Living Adjustments

Higher allowances are paid to officers stationed in cities like Sydney or Melbourne where living costs are significantly higher.

3. Hazard and On-Call Pay

Roles involving higher risk or irregular shifts (e.g., counter-terrorism, cyber operations) attract special pay bonuses across all regions.

4. Relocation and Accommodation Support

Officers transferred between states or posted temporarily may receive relocation grants, rent subsidies, or accommodation stipends.

Additional Benefits and Allowances for AFP Officers

In addition to base salary, federal police officers in Australia enjoy a range of extra benefits:

• Superannuation (retirement pension): 15.4% employer contribution

• Annual Leave: 6 weeks paid leave per year

• Sick Leave: 18 days paid sick leave annually

• Overtime Pay: Time-and-a-half or double-time depending on the situation

• Training and Career Development: Access to fully funded courses and upskilling programs

• Uniform and Equipment Allowance

• Health and Wellbeing Support

How to Join the Australian Federal Police in 2025

Here’s a quick step-by-step guide if you’re planning to join the AFP this year:

1. Check Eligibility

   • Must be an Australian citizen

   • Aged 18 and above

   • Clean criminal record

2. Apply Online

   • Visit the official AFP careers portal

   • Submit your application and required documents

3. Pass the Entry Tests

   • Medical assessment

   • Psychological screening

   • Physical fitness test

   • Background and security clearance

4. Undergo Training

   • Attend the AFP College for paid training (3–6 months)

5. Graduate and Begin Duty

   • Upon successful completion, you’ll be sworn in and begin duty as a Constable

Summary Table: Federal Police Salary by Rank (2025)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the starting salary for a federal police officer in Australia?

The starting salary for a recruit in training is around AUD $61,000. Once graduated, a Constable earns between $71,000 and $86,000.

2. Do federal police officers in Australia get paid overtime?

Yes, officers are compensated for overtime work with either additional pay or time off.

3. Which state offers the highest pay for AFP officers?

Base pay is uniform, but officers posted in high-cost cities like Sydney or remote areas may receive additional allowances.

4. How long does it take to become a Sergeant in the AFP?

It typically takes 5–10 years of service, depending on performance, training, and openings in the structure.

5. Is the AFP different from state police?

Yes, the AFP operates at the federal level and handles crimes that cross state borders or impact national security.

6. Are AFP officers entitled to pension?

Yes, they are eligible for superannuation benefits, with employer contributions of 15.4%.

7. Can foreign nationals apply to join the AFP?

No. Only Australian citizens are eligible to apply.

8. Do federal police salaries include bonuses?

Bonuses are not standard but may be awarded for special duties, outstanding performance, or hazard postings.

9. What is the highest rank in the AFP?

The Commissioner is the highest rank, earning over AUD $260,000 annually.

10. Are women encouraged to join the AFP?

Yes, the AFP actively promotes gender diversity and equal opportunity recruitment.

Final Thoughts

Federal police officers in Australia enjoy competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, and rewarding career paths. Whether you're entering the force or aiming to rise through the ranks, knowing how the federal police officer salary in Australia is structured can help you plan your journey better.

With opportunities across states and territories, and an emphasis on professional development, the AFP remains one of the most attractive public service careers in Australia in 2025.

If you’re serious about joining, now is the time to prepare, apply, and take the first step toward a stable and impactful future.