Does your UK service count in Australia?
Yes for pay, in three forces. No for rank, anywhere.
When a force says it "recognises" your UK service, it means one thing: where you start on its pay scale. None of them treats you as a lateral transfer at your UK rank. You go through a shortened course, serve a probation period and wear constable's insignia, even if you were a sergeant or inspector at home.
Forces that sponsor and credit you
3
WA, SAPOL, Queensland
WA top entry pay
$109,553
First Class Constable increment, after exams
SAPOL credit cap
7 years
for probation and increments
QPS ceiling
SC 2.10
$118,127 base
The way each force counts is different. WA uses a published table that turns completed years into a Constable year. SAPOL credits every year up to 7 but pays you as a Probationary Constable until probation ends. Queensland weighs the kind of policing you did, not just how long, and tells you your pay point in the offer letter.
Your years come with you. Your rank, your detective status and your firearms ticket mostly don't.
This page is about recognition only. For the visa, costs and the selection process at each force, read the force guides: UK police to WA, UK police to SAPOL and UK police to Queensland. Every rule below comes from the forces' own pages, read on 9 and 10 October 2026.
How every Australian force treats UK service
Eight forces, three that will sponsor you.
WA Police
- Takes UK officers?
- Sponsors UK and Irish officers (186 visa)
- Rank on entry
- Constable (rank capped at Constable 5th year)
- How service is counted
- Completed years mapped to a Constable year, up to 9 years counted
- Training
- 13 weeks + 6 months' probation
SAPOL
- Takes UK officers?
- Sponsors UK (incl. BTP), Irish, Guernsey, 5 Canadian services (186 visa)
- Rank on entry
- Probationary Constable; ex-substantive Sergeants can apply for Senior Constable after probation
- How service is counted
- 100% of continuous service, capped at 7 years, for increments and probation
- Training
- 15 weeks + 6, 9 or 12 months' probation
Queensland Police
- Takes UK officers?
- Sponsors international officers (186 visa)
- Rank on entry
- First Year Constable, paid at a pay point up to Senior Constable 2.10
- How service is counted
- Case by case; qualifications don't count
- Training
- PACE (18 to 20 weeks) + First Year Constable Program
Victoria Police
- Takes UK officers?
- No sponsorship; citizens and PR only
- Rank on entry
- Not published
- How service is counted
- Recognises operational UK service once you're resident; skills gap analysis
- Training
- Individual Training and Assessment Plan
NSW Police
- Takes UK officers?
- No: Professional Mobility Program is for Australian and NZ officers
- How service is counted
- None for UK service directly
- Training
- New recruit route
Tasmania Police
- Takes UK officers?
- No: Accelerated Training Program is for Australian and NZ officers
- How service is counted
- None for UK service directly
- Training
- New recruit route
NT Police
- Takes UK officers?
- No: doesn't sponsor visas; ARP is Australia and NZ only
- How service is counted
- None for UK service directly
- Training
- New recruit route
AFP
- Takes UK officers?
- No: Australian citizenship required
- How service is counted
- None for UK service directly
- Training
- Citizenship first
| Force | Takes UK officers? | Rank on entry | How service is counted | Training |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WA Police | Sponsors UK and Irish officers (186 visa) | Constable (rank capped at Constable 5th year) | Completed years mapped to a Constable year, up to 9 years counted | 13 weeks + 6 months' probation |
| SAPOL | Sponsors UK (incl. BTP), Irish, Guernsey, 5 Canadian services (186 visa) | Probationary Constable; ex-substantive Sergeants can apply for Senior Constable after probation | 100% of continuous service, capped at 7 years, for increments and probation | 15 weeks + 6, 9 or 12 months' probation |
| Queensland Police | Sponsors international officers (186 visa) | First Year Constable, paid at a pay point up to Senior Constable 2.10 | Case by case; qualifications don't count | PACE (18 to 20 weeks) + First Year Constable Program |
| Victoria Police | No sponsorship; citizens and PR only | Not published | Recognises operational UK service once you're resident; skills gap analysis | Individual Training and Assessment Plan |
| NSW Police | No: Professional Mobility Program is for Australian and NZ officers | – | None for UK service directly | New recruit route |
| Tasmania Police | No: Accelerated Training Program is for Australian and NZ officers | – | None for UK service directly | New recruit route |
| NT Police | No: doesn't sponsor visas; ARP is Australia and NZ only | – | None for UK service directly | New recruit route |
| AFP | No: Australian citizenship required | – | None for UK service directly | Citizenship first |
Sources: each force's international or prior-experience pages, read 9–10 October 2026. '–' means the force has no route for serving UK officers. The NSW, Tasmania and NT lateral programs take serving Australian and NZ officers, which matters later (see below).
The split comes down to visas. Police officer isn't on Australia's skilled occupation list, so the only way a serving UK officer gets a visa to police here is through a force's labour agreement. WA, SAPOL and the QPS have one. Victoria doesn't, so its recognition rules only help you once you have residency another way.
Recognition isn't promotion
Starting on a higher pay point doesn't put you on a faster promotion track by itself. Each force still expects you to meet its own promotion rules. For how those work, see our ranks and promotion guide.
WA Police: completed years become a Constable year
The only force that publishes a year-by-year table.
WA counts completed years with a compatible force (UK or Irish, not BTP, military police or Specials). Part-years are dropped. Rank on entry is capped at Constable 5th year, but WA counts up to 9 years for pay, which you unlock by passing online exams after you start.
Under 3 years
- Where WA starts you
- Not eligible: you need 3 years by visa nomination
3 years, less than 4
- Where WA starts you
- Constable 4th year
- Pay from 1 July 2026
- $99,900
4 years, less than 5
- Where WA starts you
- Constable 5th year
- Pay from 1 July 2026
- $102,263
5 or 6 years
- Where WA starts you
- Constable 5th year, then First Class Constable base once you pass the online exams
- Pay from 1 July 2026
- $102,263 → $107,977
7 or 8 years
- Where WA starts you
- Constable 5th year, then First Class Constable increment after the exams
- Pay from 1 July 2026
- $102,263 → $109,553
9 years or more (cap)
- Where WA starts you
- As above; you can then complete the Senior Constable requirements
- Pay from 1 July 2026
- $109,553 → $115,722
| Completed UK service | Where WA starts you | Pay from 1 July 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Under 3 years | Not eligible: you need 3 years by visa nomination | – |
| 3 years, less than 4 | Constable 4th year | $99,900 |
| 4 years, less than 5 | Constable 5th year | $102,263 |
| 5 or 6 years | Constable 5th year, then First Class Constable base once you pass the online exams | $102,263 → $107,977 |
| 7 or 8 years | Constable 5th year, then First Class Constable increment after the exams | $102,263 → $109,553 |
| 9 years or more (cap) | As above; you can then complete the Senior Constable requirements | $109,553 → $115,722 |
Source: WA international recruitment page and Transitional Officers Hub, read 9 October 2026; pay from the WA Police Force Industrial Agreement 2024. WA's two pages differ on whether recognition applies 'on commencement' or 'on completion of training', so check your offer letter.
The exams matter. WA's FAQ says officers recognised as having the required service "can complete the requirements to progress to the rank of First-Class Constable" through online exams once they've started. If you have 5 or more years and don't sit them, you stay on Constable 5th year pay.
Promotion from there
WA says First Class Constables and above can apply for promotion to Sergeant (base $127,619). That's a merit process, not a reward for UK rank. Our WA police promotion guide explains it. The WA recruitment page also asks for 3 years' service by the time you're nominated for the visa, so you can apply from 2 years 8 months.
SAPOL: 100% of your service, capped at 7 years
Generous credit, but you're paid as a Probationary Constable first.
SAPOL's FAQ says it will "acknowledge 100%" of your former continuous and active police service with an approved service, at the point of permanent appointment. The maximum credit is 7 years. SAPOL uses it for two things: setting how long your probation is, and setting your increment at the rank of Constable.
What counts
- What SAPOL says
- Continuous and active police service with an approved service, credited 100%
Minimum to qualify
- What SAPOL says
- 3 years' continuous, active service within the previous 5, not counting initial recruit training or career breaks
Cap
- What SAPOL says
- 7 years' credit
Unpaid leave
- What SAPOL says
- Any period of unpaid leave of 14 days or more is excluded
Break in service
- What SAPOL says
- Unpaid absence over 12 months is a break and doesn't count
What the credit sets
- What SAPOL says
- Your probation (6, 9 or 12 months) and your increment at the rank of Constable
Pay while training and on probation
- What SAPOL says
- Probationary Constable, $83,398 from 1 January 2026
Ex-Sergeants and above
- What SAPOL says
- Substantive rank only (not acting or relieving): eligible to apply for Senior Constable after probation (Increment 1: $102,990)
| Rule | What SAPOL says |
|---|---|
| What counts | Continuous and active police service with an approved service, credited 100% |
| Minimum to qualify | 3 years' continuous, active service within the previous 5, not counting initial recruit training or career breaks |
| Cap | 7 years' credit |
| Unpaid leave | Any period of unpaid leave of 14 days or more is excluded |
| Break in service | Unpaid absence over 12 months is a break and doesn't count |
| What the credit sets | Your probation (6, 9 or 12 months) and your increment at the rank of Constable |
| Pay while training and on probation | Probationary Constable, $83,398 from 1 January 2026 |
| Ex-Sergeants and above | Substantive rank only (not acting or relieving): eligible to apply for Senior Constable after probation (Increment 1: $102,990) |
Source: SAPOL international applicants FAQ, read in the browser 10 October 2026; pay from SAPOL's current salaries page.
The fine print catches people. Maternity or career breaks taken unpaid don't count, and if you left your UK force more than 12 months before, that gap is a break in service. If you've had several unpaid periods of 2 weeks or more, add them up before you assume you have 3 clear years in the last 5.
Training and probation pay
$83,398
Probationary Constable
Constable scale
$86,125–$102,491
Increments 1 to 7
Senior Constable scale
$102,990–$117,542
Increments 1 to 6
SAPOL doesn't publish the salary for each Constable increment between 1 and 7, so we can't tell you exactly what, say, 5 years' credit pays. Ask SAPOL's Talent Acquisition team for the increment your service buys. Probation is 6, 9 or 12 months depending on your credited service, and SAPOL asks for documents to fix the exact length.
Queensland: your pay point is set case by case
What the QPS weighs, and the range it can pay.
The QPS doesn't publish a table. Its international FAQ says your service is recognised "through allocation of a higher pay point" than a mainstream recruit, assessed under the QPS Certified Agreement "having regard to the recency and relevance" of your service. You may be paid at that point from your first day at the academy.
Length of service
- What the QPS says
- Minimum 3 years, full-time equivalent; academy training counts towards eligibility but only up to 12 months
Pay point factors
- What the QPS says
- Length of service; recency, relevance and type of experience (mainly frontline general duties); transferability to General Duties; QPS operational needs
Recruit training
- What the QPS says
- Not included in pay point recommendations (case by case where training frameworks differ)
Qualifications
- What the QPS says
- Degrees and designations don't contribute to a higher pay point
Frontline test
- What the QPS says
- If your experience doesn't show recent frontline skills, you may get a lower pay point whatever your length of service
When it's paid
- What the QPS says
- You may be paid at your determined pay point from the day you start at the academy
Where you find out
- What the QPS says
- Your conditional offer letter states your pay point
| Factor | What the QPS says |
|---|---|
| Length of service | Minimum 3 years, full-time equivalent; academy training counts towards eligibility but only up to 12 months |
| Pay point factors | Length of service; recency, relevance and type of experience (mainly frontline general duties); transferability to General Duties; QPS operational needs |
| Recruit training | Not included in pay point recommendations (case by case where training frameworks differ) |
| Qualifications | Degrees and designations don't contribute to a higher pay point |
| Frontline test | If your experience doesn't show recent frontline skills, you may get a lower pay point whatever your length of service |
| When it's paid | You may be paid at your determined pay point from the day you start at the academy |
| Where you find out | Your conditional offer letter states your pay point |
Source: QPS Recruiting international police recruitment page and FAQs, read in the browser 10 October 2026.
The range is wide. QPS Recruiting says PACE recruits may be paid up to Senior Constable 2.10 as a recruit, and QPS's previous-experience page gives an example of an officer with 6 years' experience being eligible for Senior Constable 2.2 while training. Most general duties officers also get the 21% Operational Shift Allowance.
Constable 1.1 (mainstream recruit start point)
- Base from 1 July 2026
- $78,505
- With 21% OSA (calculated by us)
- $94,991
Constable 1.5
- Base from 1 July 2026
- $92,541
- With 21% OSA (calculated by us)
- $111,975
Constable 1.6
- Base from 1 July 2026
- $96,528
- With 21% OSA (calculated by us)
- $116,799
Senior Constable 2.1
- Base from 1 July 2026
- $96,528
- With 21% OSA (calculated by us)
- $116,799
Senior Constable 2.2 (QPS's 6-year example)
- Base from 1 July 2026
- $98,751
- With 21% OSA (calculated by us)
- $119,489
Senior Constable 2.10 (the PACE maximum)
- Base from 1 July 2026
- $118,127
- With 21% OSA (calculated by us)
- $142,934
| QPS pay point | Base from 1 July 2026 | With 21% OSA (calculated by us) |
|---|---|---|
| Constable 1.1 (mainstream recruit start point) | $78,505 | $94,991 |
| Constable 1.5 | $92,541 | $111,975 |
| Constable 1.6 | $96,528 | $116,799 |
| Senior Constable 2.1 | $96,528 | $116,799 |
| Senior Constable 2.2 (QPS's 6-year example) | $98,751 | $119,489 |
| Senior Constable 2.10 (the PACE maximum) | $118,127 | $142,934 |
Base pay from the QPS CPI uplift schedule. OSA column calculated by us as base × 1.21; you only get OSA in an eligible operational shift position. The 6-year example comes from a search extract of the QPS previous-experience page, so treat it as an illustration.
When you become a Senior Constable
After PACE you do the First Year Constable Program. On confirmation (12 months as a police officer and completing the program), the QPS says you can wear Senior Constable epaulettes if your pay point is 2.1 or higher. Below that, the normal rule applies: 12 months on pay point 1.5, satisfactory performance reports and compulsory training.
Compare your starting point across WA, SA and Queensland
Line up WA's Constable years, SAPOL's Probationary Constable rate and QPS pay points with employer super, before you choose a force.
Victoria Police: recognition, but no sponsorship
Your UK service counts only if you already have the right to live here.
Victoria Police's prior-experience page (updated 12 December 2025) recognises service as an operational police officer in Australia, New Zealand or the UK, and no other country. UK Special Constables are excluded. You must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident, and Victoria Police doesn't sponsor visas.
What Victoria says it does with recognised UK officers
- ✓ May exempt you from the entrance exam if your experience is from the last 5 years or you're currently serving (Recruiting Services' discretion)
- ✓ Still runs background checks, the medical, psych testing and panel interview
- ✓ Runs a skills gap analysis that produces an Individual Training and Assessment Plan
- ✓ Doesn't publish a course length or a starting pay point for recognised officers
So Victoria is a real option for UK officers who move on a partner's visa or later become permanent residents, but it isn't a way in from a UK force today. Our UK police to Victoria guide covers the residency rule and the Opposition's election pledge on overseas recruits.
NSW, Tasmania, the NT and the AFP
No direct route, but your Australian service counts later.
These four don't take serving UK officers. NSW's Professional Mobility Program, Tasmania's Accelerated Training Program and the NT's Accelerated Recruitment Program are for serving Australian and NZ officers, and all three need citizenship or residency. The AFP requires Australian citizenship for police roles.
- 1
Join a sponsoring force
Year 0Enter WA, SAPOL or the QPS on a permanent 186 visa, with your UK service credited as above.
- 2
Finish probation and serve
Years 1–2You're now a serving Australian officer with permanent residency.
- 3
Use a lateral program if you want to move
Year 2+NSW's PMP recognises rank up to Senior Constable after a 12-week course, for officers with a year's full-time service after probation. Tasmania and the NT run their own programs for Australian officers.
- 4
Citizenship for the AFP
Year 4+Citizenship needs 4 years' residence including 12 months as a permanent resident, so the AFP is a longer-term option.
Most visa holders are expected to work for the nominating force for at least 2 years, so plan any move around that. See UK police to NSW, UK police to the AFP and our guide to transferring between Australian forces.
UK sergeants, inspectors and acting rank
What happens to rank, force by force.
If you're a UK sergeant or above, the honest answer is that you'll start as a constable everywhere. The forces are recruiting for general duties vacancies, and they want you to learn their law and systems on the street before you supervise anyone.
Constable (any length)
- WA Police
- Constable year by completed service (rank capped at Constable 5th year)
- SAPOL
- Probationary Constable, then a Constable increment from credited service
- Queensland
- Pay point set case by case; up to Senior Constable 2.10
Acting or temporary Sergeant
- WA Police
- As a constable
- SAPOL
- As a constable: acting rank isn't counted
- Queensland
- Rank attained is one factor; acting status not addressed
Substantive Sergeant
- WA Police
- As a constable; apply for Sergeant once at First Class Constable
- SAPOL
- Can apply for Senior Constable after probation
- Queensland
- Rank attained is one factor; no published rule
Inspector and above
- WA Police
- As a constable
- SAPOL
- Can apply for Senior Constable after probation
- Queensland
- As above
Detective (any rank)
- WA Police
- Detective status not carried over
- SAPOL
- Detective status not carried over; IITC and DTC
- Queensland
- Apply for RPL from the detective program once in a plain-clothes role
| Your UK rank | WA Police | SAPOL | Queensland |
|---|---|---|---|
| Constable (any length) | Constable year by completed service (rank capped at Constable 5th year) | Probationary Constable, then a Constable increment from credited service | Pay point set case by case; up to Senior Constable 2.10 |
| Acting or temporary Sergeant | As a constable | As a constable: acting rank isn't counted | Rank attained is one factor; acting status not addressed |
| Substantive Sergeant | As a constable; apply for Sergeant once at First Class Constable | Can apply for Senior Constable after probation | Rank attained is one factor; no published rule |
| Inspector and above | As a constable | Can apply for Senior Constable after probation | As above |
| Detective (any rank) | Detective status not carried over | Detective status not carried over; IITC and DTC | Apply for RPL from the detective program once in a plain-clothes role |
Sources: WA FAQ, SAPOL international FAQ and QPS international FAQs, read 9–10 October 2026. Queensland lists 'the rank you had attained' as one eligibility factor but doesn't publish what it does with it.
The money matters more than the epaulettes. A UK sergeant at the top of the England and Wales scale earned £56,208 from 1 September 2025, which is about A$106,657 at A$1 = £0.5270 (RBA, 9 October 2026). That's an illustration, not a comparison: tax, pension and living costs differ. SAPOL's Senior Constable Increment 1 is $102,990; WA's First Class Constable increment is $109,553.
Acting rank doesn't count
SAPOL says relieving or acting at Sergeant won't be considered. If you're hoping to rely on a temporary promotion, assume it won't help with any force unless you're told otherwise in writing.
Your UK qualifications, firearms and driving
No force publishes an equivalence table. Here's what we found.
None of the forces publishes how UK policing qualifications map to Australian ones. What they do publish points one way: pay comes from service, and operational skills are retrained to local standards. WA tells international recruits no prior study is expected because everyone starts the course at the same level.
Degree (e.g. PCDA or DHEP) or Certificate in Knowledge of Policing
- What happens in Australia
- No published equivalence. QPS says degrees don't raise your pay point; WA and SAPOL don't link pay to qualifications
Initial recruit training
- What happens in Australia
- SAPOL excludes it from the 3-year minimum; QPS caps academy training at 12 months for eligibility and leaves it out of pay point recommendations
Firearms (AFO, ARV)
- What happens in Australia
- Retrained: WA's course and SAPOL's program include firearms training, because general duties officers carry firearms
Response or pursuit driving
- What happens in Australia
- Retrained: WA and SAPOL include police driving in the course
Driving licence
- What happens in Australia
- Your UK licence gets you through selection; you must convert to a state licence (QPS: open or P2 before graduation)
Officer safety and Taser
- What happens in Australia
- Retrained on the force's own tactics and equipment
First aid
- What happens in Australia
- WA doesn't require a first aid certificate from international applicants; first aid is in the course
Detective accreditation (PIP2 and above)
- What happens in Australia
- Not transferred: see the detectives section
| UK qualification or skill | What happens in Australia |
|---|---|
| Degree (e.g. PCDA or DHEP) or Certificate in Knowledge of Policing | No published equivalence. QPS says degrees don't raise your pay point; WA and SAPOL don't link pay to qualifications |
| Initial recruit training | SAPOL excludes it from the 3-year minimum; QPS caps academy training at 12 months for eligibility and leaves it out of pay point recommendations |
| Firearms (AFO, ARV) | Retrained: WA's course and SAPOL's program include firearms training, because general duties officers carry firearms |
| Response or pursuit driving | Retrained: WA and SAPOL include police driving in the course |
| Driving licence | Your UK licence gets you through selection; you must convert to a state licence (QPS: open or P2 before graduation) |
| Officer safety and Taser | Retrained on the force's own tactics and equipment |
| First aid | WA doesn't require a first aid certificate from international applicants; first aid is in the course |
| Detective accreditation (PIP2 and above) | Not transferred: see the detectives section |
Sources: QPS international FAQs; WA training and FAQ pages; SAPOL international FAQ; read 9–10 October 2026. 'No published equivalence' means we found no rule either way.
Firearms is the big adjustment for most UK officers. SAPOL confirms general duties and operational members carry firearms, and both the WA course and SAPOL's 15-week program include firearms training. If you've never carried, budget extra practice time. If you're an authorised firearms officer, expect to qualify again on the force's own weapon and law.
Your UK driving licence lets you apply, but you must swap to a state licence once you live there. The QPS says you need an open or P2 licence before you graduate. Police response driving is retrained in the WA and SAPOL courses. Our practical first steps guide covers licence conversion in each state.
Can a UK detective stay a detective?
Not on day one, in any force.
All three sponsoring forces recruit international officers into general duties. Detective status doesn't carry across, but each force gives you a way back in, and your experience is considered.
WA Police
- Route to detective
- Detective training after you start
- What we found
- WA's FAQ says yes, but some sensitive investigative and intelligence roles need a national security clearance, which only Australian citizens can get
SAPOL
- Route to detective
- Probation, then IITC and DTC, then CIB
- What we found
- Finish probation and be permanently appointed; complete the Investigation and Interviewing Techniques Course and the Detective Training Course (merit-selected, previous experience considered); then a workbook to become a Designated Detective
Queensland
- Route to detective
- Recognition of prior learning
- What we found
- Once you're appointed to a substantive plain-clothes position, apply to the Detective Training section for RPL from the program, then to the Detective Application Board
Victoria
- Route to detective
- Not published for recognised officers
- What we found
- Some specialist commands, including Crime Command, need an Australian Government security clearance, which needs citizenship
| Force | Route to detective | What we found |
|---|---|---|
| WA Police | Detective training after you start | WA's FAQ says yes, but some sensitive investigative and intelligence roles need a national security clearance, which only Australian citizens can get |
| SAPOL | Probation, then IITC and DTC, then CIB | Finish probation and be permanently appointed; complete the Investigation and Interviewing Techniques Course and the Detective Training Course (merit-selected, previous experience considered); then a workbook to become a Designated Detective |
| Queensland | Recognition of prior learning | Once you're appointed to a substantive plain-clothes position, apply to the Detective Training section for RPL from the program, then to the Detective Application Board |
| Victoria | Not published for recognised officers | Some specialist commands, including Crime Command, need an Australian Government security clearance, which needs citizenship |
Sources: WA FAQ; SAPOL international FAQ; QPS international FAQs; Victoria Police eligibility page. Read 9–10 October 2026.
Queensland's RPL route is the most promising for experienced investigators, because it's built to recognise what you've already done. In SA, SAPOL expects members who finish the Detective Training Course to apply for CIB vacancies and complete the program within 3 years. Read our detective career guide and detective allowances for what the role pays.
Citizenship timing
Citizenship needs 4 years' residence, including 12 months as a permanent resident. Because your 186 visa is permanent from day one, the clock starts when you arrive, so you could be eligible about 4 years after you land.
Probation and field training after the course
Shorter than for new recruits, but still real supervision.
Recognition shortens your training, not your learning curve. Each force puts you on probation at a station after the course, usually paired with experienced local officers while you learn the law, the systems and the area.
WA Police
- Course
- 13 weeks, Joondalup
- Probation and field training
- 6 months' probation at your posting
- New recruits, for comparison
- 28-week academy and 18 months' probation
SAPOL
- Course
- 15 weeks, Taperoo
- Probation and field training
- 6, 9 or 12 months by credited service; patrols generally go out in pairs
- New recruits, for comparison
- 9 to 11 months' academy training
Queensland
- Course
- PACE, 18 to 20 weeks
- Probation and field training
- First Year Constable Program (about 12 months with Field Training Officers) and at least 12 months' probation
- New recruits, for comparison
- Mainstream recruit training of about 8 months
| Force | Course | Probation and field training | New recruits, for comparison |
|---|---|---|---|
| WA Police | 13 weeks, Joondalup | 6 months' probation at your posting | 28-week academy and 18 months' probation |
| SAPOL | 15 weeks, Taperoo | 6, 9 or 12 months by credited service; patrols generally go out in pairs | 9 to 11 months' academy training |
| Queensland | PACE, 18 to 20 weeks | First Year Constable Program (about 12 months with Field Training Officers) and at least 12 months' probation | Mainstream recruit training of about 8 months |
Sources: WA, SAPOL and QPS international pages and our force research notes, read 9–10 October 2026. QPS sources differ on PACE length (18 weeks in October 2024, 20 weeks in July 2026).
Queensland can also put you on mainstream training instead of PACE if your experience "isn't applicable or recent". That doesn't cost you your pay point: the QPS says experience is still recognised in salary even if you do mainstream training. Our QPS Academy, WA Academy and SAPOL Academy guides cover each course.
Worked examples: three UK officers
Real pay points, our tax calculations.
These examples use each force's published rules and current pay. Take-home is calculated by us with 2026-27 resident tax rates and the 2% Medicare levy, with no HELP debt, deductions or shift allowances unless shown.
Example 1: constable, 4 years' service, aged 34
A UK constable with 4 years starts WA on Constable 5th year ($102,263, about $3,039 a fortnight after tax). In SAPOL they'd earn $83,398 as a Probationary Constable (about $2,546 a fortnight) through the course and probation, then move to the Constable increment that 4 years' credit buys. In Queensland, the pay point is set case by case; at the mainstream 1.1 start with OSA, take-home is about $2,849 a fortnight.
Example 2: substantive sergeant, 12 years, aged 43
WA counts 9 of the 12 years. They start as Constable 5th year and, once they pass the exams, move to First Class Constable increment ($109,553, about $3,230 a fortnight). In SAPOL they're credited 7 years and can apply for Senior Constable after probation ($102,990, about $3,058 a fortnight). They're under 45, so SAPOL's age limit isn't a problem yet.
Example 3: detective constable, 8 years, aged 50
SAPOL is out on age (under 45 at visa application). WA and Queensland are open (under 55). If Queensland followed its 6-year example and set them at Senior Constable 2.2, with OSA they'd take home about $3,490 a fortnight. That's an illustration, not a promise. They'd go into general duties first and apply for detective RPL later.
Where UK service helps most
- ✓Constables with 3 to 9 years in WA's table
- ✓Substantive Sergeants under 45 in SAPOL
- ✓Experienced frontline officers in Queensland's case-by-case system
- ✓Investigators, through Queensland's detective RPL
Where it helps least
- ✕Acting ranks, which SAPOL ignores
- ✕Service over 7 years in SAPOL or 9 in WA
- ✕Non-frontline or specialist roles where the QPS sees less transferable general duties skill
- ✕UK degrees, which don't raise pay
Get your recognition in writing before you resign
The questions to ask, and the documents to gather.
Every force reserves some discretion. WA's two pages word the timing differently, SAPOL doesn't publish each increment, and the QPS only tells you your pay point in the offer. Don't hand in your notice on the strength of a web page.
Before you resign from your UK force
- ✓ Ask for your starting pay point or Constable year in writing, and whether it applies from day one of training or after it
- ✓ Ask how long your probation will be (SAPOL: 6, 9 or 12 months)
- ✓ Get your service record showing continuous service, unpaid leave and any breaks (WA can request it for you, which takes weeks)
- ✓ Confirm whether your rank was substantive, with dates, if you're relying on SAPOL's Senior Constable rule
- ✓ Ask what exams or requirements unlock the next pay step (WA's First Class Constable exams)
- ✓ If you're a detective, ask how the force handles RPL or detective courses for you
- ✓ Check your UK pension position with your administrator first
For the UK side, Police Pay UK explains what leaving does to your police pension and our own guide covers your UK police pension in Australia. When you're ready to plan dates, use our UK to Australia timeline.
Not sure which force fits your service?
Answer a few questions about your age, service and priorities and see which Australian forces match.
Free email alerts
Know when the recognition rules change
WA, SAPOL and Queensland change their service-recognition tables without notice. We re-read them and email you once when a cap, pay point rule or rank rule moves, so you don't plan around an old version.
- ✓Changes to WA's service table and SAPOL's 7-year cap
- ✓New pay points for transferring officers after each pay deal
Frequently asked questions
Do Australian police forces recognise UK police service?
Three forces sponsor UK officers and credit their service for pay: WA Police, SAPOL and the Queensland Police Service. Victoria Police recognises operational UK service too, but only if you're already an Australian citizen or permanent resident. NSW, Tasmania, the NT and the AFP don't take UK officers directly, so your UK service isn't credited there unless you first serve in an Australian force.
Can I keep my UK rank if I join an Australian police force?
No. Every force that recruits UK officers brings you in at constable level. WA caps rank on entry at Constable 5th year. SAPOL lets former substantive Sergeants and above apply for Senior Constable after probation. Queensland can pay you up to Senior Constable 2.10 while you're a recruit, and you wear Senior Constable epaulettes after confirmation if your pay point is 2.1 or higher.
What pay point will I start on in WA Police with UK service?
WA maps your completed years: 3 years starts you on Constable 4th year ($99,900 from 1 July 2026) and 4 years on Constable 5th year ($102,263). With 5 or more years you can sit online exams to move to First Class Constable pay, up to $109,553. WA counts up to 9 years in total.
How much UK service does SAPOL recognise?
SAPOL credits 100% of your continuous, active service with an approved service, up to 7 years. You need at least 3 years in the previous 5, not counting recruit training or career breaks. Unpaid leave of 14 days or more is excluded, and a break of over 12 months doesn't count. The credit sets your probation (6, 9 or 12 months) and your Constable increment.
Do UK degrees or the PCDA get me a higher pay point in Australia?
No force we checked links pay to a UK policing degree. The QPS says plainly that qualifications, including degrees and designations, don't contribute to a higher pay point. WA and SAPOL set pay from years of service. Your degree may still help later, for example in promotion or specialist applications, but it won't change where you start.
Can a UK detective join an Australian force as a detective?
Not directly. In SAPOL you finish probation, then complete the Investigation and Interviewing Techniques Course and the Detective Training Course before applying to the Criminal Investigation Branch. In Queensland you apply for recognition of prior learning from the detective program once you're in a plain-clothes role. In WA you can train as a detective, but some sensitive roles need citizenship.
Do I have to redo firearms and driving training?
Yes. Most UK officers aren't routinely armed, and Australian general duties officers carry firearms, so the WA course and SAPOL's transition program both include firearms training and police driving. Even authorised firearms officers retrain on the force's own weapons, law and tactics. You also need to convert your UK driving licence to a state licence after you arrive.
Does acting rank count for SAPOL's Senior Constable rule?
No. SAPOL's FAQ says only the substantive rank of Sergeant or above counts, and periods of relieving or acting at the rank won't be considered. If you're an acting sergeant, you'll be treated as a constable, with your service credited up to 7 years for your Constable increment and probation.
Evidence
Sources and how we checked them
Every figure on this page comes from the sources below, read on 10 October 2026. Pay rates and rules change when new agreements are made, so check the source for the date you're reading this. Where we couldn't confirm something from an official source, the page says so instead of guessing. Spotted an error? Read our corrections policy.
- Let's Join Forces (WA): International Transitional Officer, eligibility and recruitment — service recognition table, visa reimbursement, age limit; read 9 October 2026
- Let's Join Forces (WA): Transitional Officers Hub — eligible countries, 6-8 week processing, recognition table, FAQs
- Let's Join Forces (WA): FAQs, Transition Officers - International — under 55 at nomination, 3 years by nomination, BTP exclusion, visa costs
- Let's Join Forces (WA): International Transitional Officer, training at the Academy — 13-week course, own accommodation
- SAPOL: International applicants — eligible services, remote process, recognition of prior service; read 9 October 2026
- SAPOL: International applicants, frequently asked questions — age, visa, 15-week program, $83,398, reimbursement
- QPS Recruiting: International police recruitment and FAQs — pay point factors, qualifications, Senior Constable epaulettes, detective RPL; read in the browser 9 October 2026
- Queensland Police Service: Previous interstate police experience (non-QPS) — 6 years' experience → Senior Constable 2.2 example; search extract
- Western Australia Police Force Industrial Agreement 2024 (WAIRC, WES338) — pay points from 1 July 2026
- SAPOL: Career progression and salaries
- Queensland Police Service: CPI Uplift Adjustment (CUA) FAQ and visual aids, Tranche 3 (official pay and allowance schedules)
- Queensland Police Service Certified Agreement 2025 (QIRC CB/2025/116) — cl 89 previous experience; section 12 progression
- Victoria Police: Prior interstate and international policing experience — updated 12 December 2025
- GOV.UK: Police Remuneration Review Body report 2026, England and Wales — constable scale from 1 September 2025
- Reserve Bank of Australia: exchange rates, table F11.1 — A$1 = £0.5270 on 9 October 2026; illustration only
Related guides
Joining the police
More in this series
General information, not advice. This guide explains published rules and rates. It doesn't consider your personal circumstances and isn't financial, legal, tax or credit advice. Confirm anything you rely on with your force, your police association, the ATO or a licensed professional.