In Australia, the role of a Police Community Liaison Officer (PCLO) is vital in building trust between law enforcement and culturally diverse communities. These officers play a key part in strengthening public safety, promoting mutual understanding, and addressing social challenges across communities.
But one important question many Australians ask is: How much do Police Community Liaison Officers earn?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the full Police Community Liaison Officer salary pay scale in Australia, including:
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Average earnings by state and territory
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How salary changes with experience and qualifications
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Career progression opportunities
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Key benefits and allowances
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Realistic pathways to becoming a PCLO in 2025
This article is designed to provide accurate, up-to-date information on PCLO salaries, using clear grammar and practical explanations so it’s easy to follow, especially if you’re considering this career path.
What is a Police Community Liaison Officer?
A Police Community Liaison Officer is a civilian or non-sworn role in Australian police services, dedicated to improving communication and relationships between the police and communities with diverse cultural, ethnic, religious, or linguistic backgrounds.
Key responsibilities include:
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Promoting cultural awareness within the police
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Assisting in community engagement programs
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Supporting investigations with language and cultural expertise
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Mediating tensions or misunderstandings
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Providing feedback to improve local policing strategies
These officers are typically employed by state and territory police forces, such as NSW Police Force, Victoria Police, Queensland Police Service, and others.
Police Community Liaison Officer Salary Pay Scale in Australia (2025)
PCLO salaries are set by government pay bands, which differ by state and depend on experience, qualifications, and specific community engagement responsibilities.
Most PCLO roles fall within public service classifications, meaning they receive competitive salaries, stable conditions, and government employment benefits.
Average Salary Overview:
| Experience Level | Estimated Annual Salary (2025) |
|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0–2 years) | AUD $62,000 – $70,000 |
| Intermediate (3–6 years) | AUD $72,000 – $84,000 |
| Senior PCLO (7+ years) | AUD $85,000 – $95,000 |
| Team Leaders / Managers | AUD $95,000 – $110,000 |
Note: These figures are base salary estimates. They may increase with allowances, overtime, and regional adjustments.
Salary Breakdown by Australian States and Territories
The salary of a Police Community Liaison Officer in Australia varies depending on the jurisdiction, cost of living, and demand for cultural engagement.
New South Wales (NSW)
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Base salary range: AUD $65,000 – $93,000
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Employer: NSW Police Force
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Classification: Clerk Grade 3/4 to 5/6 (Public Service)
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Extra Benefits: 9-day fortnight, cultural allowance, training programs
NSW employs one of the largest PCLO workforces, with a strong focus on multicultural engagement in Sydney and Western NSW.
Victoria
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Base salary range: AUD $63,000 – $90,000
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Employer: Victoria Police
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Classification: VPS Level 3 or 4
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Allowance: Regional living incentives in rural towns
Victoria places PCLOs in metro and regional divisions, focusing on African, Middle Eastern, and Indigenous community engagement.
Queensland
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Base salary range: AUD $60,000 – $88,000
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Employer: Queensland Police Service
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Classification: AO3 to AO4 level (Administrative Officer Scale)
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Key Focus: Youth justice, First Nations communities, migrant groups
South Australia
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Base salary range: AUD $62,000 – $85,000
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Employer: SA Police
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Cultural Emphasis: Refugee integration, community mediation
SA roles often include collaboration with social workers and non-profits.
Western Australia
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Base salary range: AUD $68,000 – $92,000
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Employer: WA Police Force
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Benefits: Remote area housing assistance, cultural leave
WA has unique challenges in reaching remote Indigenous populations, so higher salaries may apply in certain areas.
Tasmania, ACT & Northern Territory
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Tasmania: $61,000 – $82,000
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ACT: $65,000 – $87,000 (AFP roles)
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NT: $66,000 – $89,000 + remote location benefits
Smaller forces but strong cultural outreach programs, especially in Indigenous and cross-border communities.
How Experience Affects PCLO Salary
Years of experience greatly influence salary within public sector pay bands.
Entry-Level PCLOs (0–2 Years)
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Receive lower-end of the salary range.
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Typically assigned to support roles or training programs.
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May work under supervision or as community assistants.
Mid-Level PCLOs (3–6 Years)
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Handle more complex engagement cases.
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Contribute to community strategy planning.
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Salary increments applied annually.
Senior PCLOs (7+ Years)
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Lead projects, mentor new staff.
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Represent police in high-profile community events.
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Eligible for promotion to supervisor or coordinator roles.
Education and Skills That Impact Salary
While formal education is not always mandatory, qualifications in the following fields may increase employability and salary:
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Community Services
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Social Work
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Cultural Studies
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Criminology
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Public Administration
Additional skills that may influence pay:
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Bilingual or multilingual proficiency
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Experience in community outreach
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Conflict mediation or restorative justice
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Knowledge of specific cultural/religious protocols
Benefits and Entitlements Beyond Salary
Police Community Liaison Officers receive a wide range of non-monetary benefits as government employees:
Leave and Holidays
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4 weeks of annual leave
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Cultural and religious leave (in some states)
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Paid parental leave
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Long service leave after 10 years
Superannuation
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Employer contributions between 10.5%–12% depending on state
Training and Development
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Paid training programs in cultural safety, communication, leadership
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Pathway programs into broader public sector roles
Work-Life Balance
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Flexible work hours (in many states)
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Options for part-time or job share roles
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Access to mental health and wellbeing support
Career Progression for Police Community Liaison Officers
Although PCLOs are typically civilian employees, there are numerous career paths available:
Possible Advancements:
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Senior Community Liaison Officer
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Community Engagement Coordinator
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Diversity and Inclusion Advisor
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Transition to Sworn Officer (Police Recruit)
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Transfer to Department of Justice, Health or Education
Many PCLOs use their experience as a stepping stone to roles in community development, policy, or social work.
Summary Table: Police Community Liaison Officer Salary (2025)
| State / Territory | Entry-Level Salary | Senior-Level Salary | Classification |
|---|---|---|---|
| NSW | $65,000 | $93,000 | Clerk Grade 3–6 |
| Victoria | $63,000 | $90,000 | VPS Level 3–4 |
| Queensland | $60,000 | $88,000 | AO3–AO4 |
| WA | $68,000 | $92,000 | Level 3–5 (WA Govt) |
| SA | $62,000 | $85,000 | ASO Level |
| ACT | $65,000 | $87,000 | AFP Public Sector |
| Tasmania | $61,000 | $82,000 | Government Officer |
| NT | $66,000 | $89,000 | Remote + Cultural Bonus |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the average salary for a Police Community Liaison Officer in Australia?
The average salary in 2025 is between AUD $65,000 and $95,000, depending on experience and location.
2. Do PCLOs need to be sworn police officers?
No. Most PCLOs are civilian staff, not police officers, though they work closely with sworn members.
3. Can I become a PCLO without a university degree?
Yes. A degree is not mandatory, but experience in community work and cultural engagement is often required.
4. Are there PCLO jobs in regional or remote areas?
Yes. Remote postings exist and may come with higher allowances or housing support.
5. Do PCLOs get police pensions or super?
They receive public sector superannuation, but not police pensions unless transitioning into sworn roles.
6. What is the difference between a PCLO and a Multicultural Liaison Officer?
The terms are sometimes used interchangeably, but roles may differ by state police agency.
7. How can I apply for a PCLO role?
Check your state police careers page or jobs.gov.au for current PCLO vacancies.
8. Can PCLOs become full police officers later?
Yes. Many PCLOs use the role to transition into the Police Academy, especially those interested in community policing.
9. What languages are in demand for PCLOs?
Arabic, Vietnamese, Mandarin, Swahili, Dari, Dinka, and Indigenous languages are commonly sought after.
10. Are there part-time PCLO positions?
Some forces offer flexible arrangements, especially in urban areas.
Conclusion: Is Becoming a PCLO in Australia Worth It?
The Police Community Liaison Officer salary pay scale in Australia offers solid financial rewards, job security, and the chance to make a real impact. With annual salaries ranging from AUD $62,000 to over $100,000, plus benefits like paid leave, superannuation, and flexible work conditions, it's a valuable public service role especially for those passionate about diversity and social inclusion.
If you're interested in working with local communities, promoting cultural understanding, and contributing to public safety, a career as a PCLO could be the right path in 2025 and beyond.
Check your state’s police recruitment site and start your application today.