Training Program structure
The Border Force Officer Recruit Training (BFORT) is our entry level program comprising a mix of instructional (classroom based) and operational (on-the-job) training. During the classroom training you will be based at an ABF College campus. The classroom based portion incorporates 5 capability blocks:
- Orientation and foundation
- Traveller one
- Law enforcement essentials
- Cargo examination and trade
- Traveller two.
Each of these capability blocks will have mandatory assessments that you will be required to pass, including both written and holistic assessments.
Within these capability blocks you will study the theory that you need to know to perform your duties as a Border Force Officer. You will need to pass mandatory assessments on the training content which could include:
- legislation
- powers
- information and intelligence gathering
- operational frame of mind
- passenger processing
- baggage and traveller search
- detection
- seizure processes
- foundational tactics.
During the program, you may also undertake some of the operational safety training package.
Generally, you will complete instructional training Monday to Friday during business hours, although we may require you to work outside of these hours.
On-the-job training involves rotations through various work locations/business areas in your region. This will most likely include shift work and weekend work. During this part of the training you will consolidate your instructional learning. There are also assessable components in this stage and you’ll need to work through a task book to demonstrate competency.
We regularly review our training courses to ensure recruits are equipped to deal with changing operational demand. The exact breakdown of your training, along with your training location will be confirmed with you during the verbal offer of employment.
Training and posting location
We may not offer BFORT courses and jobs in your preferred state or region. Training and posting locations available will be based on ABF operational requirements at the time the courses are due to commence.
If the location offered is not your current state, you will have to relocate permanently at your own expense. It is important to remember that you will remain in your location on conclusion of your BFORT training.
If you have applied through a regional (state) specific advertisement, we will only offer jobs to you in that region. If you live outside the region, and we offer you employment, all expenses to relocate and travel are at your own cost, and you must be available to start the class on the applicable start date.
Leave
Periods of leave during the 12 month training program are rarely supported. Absences may impact your successful completion of the training program, and there are limited opportunities to catch up on the work.
Pay and conditions
During your initial 12-month training course, you will be paid $56,774.00 (plus 15.4% superannuation). This is an APS2 Border Force Officer Recruit salary, and is accurate as at February 2023.
If you undertake shift work at any time, additional shift penalty rates will apply to your salary:
- 15% for hours worked between 18:00 and 06:30
- 50% Saturday
- 100% Sunday
- 150% public holidays.
When you successfully complete the training course, you will become an APS3 General Duties Border Force Officer. You will be paid $64,392.00 (plus 15.4% superannuation and applicable allowances) as at February 2023.
