General duties police work is a rich and rewarding career, as well as the gateway to other specialist roles and areas. It allows you to meet and help people from all walks of life.
Duties of a police officer
A general duties officer is a first responder at any reportable crime or public need, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. They provide a vital service to the community and are a key part of Victoria Police.
General duties policing is vital to protect the community, and to set and uphold Victoria Police’s values and standards.
Your duties will change every day, and the role is like no other.
Should you wish, it can also be the first step in your journey to other specialist roles and areas. All recruits are typically required to complete a minimum of two to four years in general duties prior to applying for these areas.
General duties requirements
Every day is different as a general duties officer.
One day you might be responding to emergencies or restoring public order, then investigating crimes and engaging with the community.
Out in the field
General duties police officers deal with a wide range of people every single day.
You will interact with community members, victims of crime, suspects, and those in need of help.
That help might include those experiencing:
- mental health crises
- substance abuse issues, or,
- family violence situations.
You will be required undertake a range of duties including:
- responding to emergencies and calls for service
- investigating crimes including theft, assault, and property damage or assisting specialist units
- enforcing traffic laws including monitoring traffic and responding to traffic accidents
- maintaining public order to prevent and address anti-social behaviour and ensure public safety
- community engagement including building relationships, providing information, resolving disputes, and addressing local concerns.
Administrative tasks
You are also required to perform administrative duties such as:
- submit paperwork on jobs you attend
- keep an ongoing diary of the duties you perform during each shift
- prepare paperwork for courts
- attend court hearings
- give evidence in court.
Community engagement
You may also be required to do community engagement tasks such as:
- attend community events
- talk to and assist vulnerable members of the community
- general interaction with the community members of diverse backgrounds
- build positive relationships with community groups and members.
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Promotion through the ranks of Victoria Police
Further to specialist areas and general duties, you also have the option to seek promotion through the ranks.
We provide you with this training, support you in developing skills, and help you pursue your goals.
Thinking about applying to be a police officer?
For the best chance of success, follow these steps:
- Check your eligibility and suitability.
- Meet our entry requirements.
- Understand our recruitment process.
- Apply online to be a police officer.
Already started your application?
Log in to our careers portal
Continue your police officer application by logging in to our careers portal.
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