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How to Become a Customs and Border Protection Officer: Australian Careers in Government

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What is a Customs and Border Protection Officer?

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

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What is a Customs and Border Protection Officer?

A Customs and Border Protection Officer enforces Australia’s customs, immigration, and biosecurity laws at the border. They work at airports, seaports, and border crossings to stop illegal activity and protect the community. Officers check that people and cargo entering or leaving the country meet all legal rules.

Officers work for the Australian Border Force (ABF), a federal law agency within the Department of Home Affairs. The ABF has around 5,800 employees at over 100 locations across Australia and overseas (ABF, 2024). It was formed on 1 July 2015 under the Australian Border Force Act.

On any given shift, an officer may inspect luggage, scan cargo, review travel papers, or interview passengers. They use x-ray gear, detection dogs, and data systems to find risk. Officers also gather evidence, write reports, and refer cases to partners such as the Australian Federal Police.

This career offers strong job security and a clear path to growth. Officers can move into intelligence, investigations, marine work, or team leadership. The role suits people who value public service, attention to detail, and contributing to national security.

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Career snapshots For Customs and Border Protection Officers

Customs and Border Protection Officers work for the Australian Border Force (ABF). The ABF is a federal law enforcement agency within the Department of Home Affairs. It has around 5,800 employees at over 100 locations across Australia and overseas (ABF, 2024). Officers work full-time on shift rosters that include nights, weekends, and public holidays.

Starting pay during the 12-month BFORT training program is $70,477 per year at the APS3 level. This includes 15.4% superannuation and applicable allowances (ABF, 2025). Experienced officers can earn up to approximately $140,000 per year (ERI SalaryExpert, 2024). The Department of Home Affairs Enterprise Agreement 2024-27 sets all pay and conditions.

The ABF advertises BFORT positions several times per year. Selection includes cognitive assessments, fitness and medical tests, and a security and character screening process. Most new officers are posted to major airports or seaports. Career paths include specialist roles in intelligence, investigations, maritime operations, and management.

What will I do?

Customs and Border Protection Officers carry out a wide range of tasks to keep Australia’s borders safe. Each shift is different. Officers handle everything from routine passenger checks to complex cargo cases. They stay alert and apply their training to protect the community and uphold the law.

  • Inspecting passengers and luggage: check documents, ask questions, and screen bags at ports to ensure legal compliance.
  • Examining cargo and freight: screen shipments for contraband, prohibited goods, and undeclared items using x-ray and physical checks.
  • Interviewing travellers: speak with passengers to verify their declarations and assess whether further action is needed.
  • Enforcing customs and biosecurity laws: seize prohibited items, issue infringement notices, and refer serious cases to investigators or prosecutors.
  • Monitoring border activities: use surveillance and intelligence systems to detect suspicious patterns and prevent illegal crossings.
  • Collaborating with other agencies: share intelligence and coordinate with the Australian Federal Police, state police, and other government bodies.
  • Preparing reports: document inspections, incidents, and enforcement actions accurately for compliance records and legal proceedings.
  • Participating in ongoing training: complete required training to stay current on laws, procedures, and detection techniques.

What skills do I need?

Customs and Border Protection Officers need a sharp eye and a calm head. They must assess risk quickly, handle unexpected situations, and make sound decisions under pressure. Strong communication skills are vital for interviewing passengers, explaining laws, and working with other agencies.

Officers must also maintain a high level of integrity at all times. They work with vulnerable people and serious offenders alike. Cultural sensitivity and ethical judgement are just as important as technical skills. Physical fitness, attention to detail, and technology skills are all needed for daily tasks.

Skills/attributes

  • Risk assessment and threat identification
  • Attention to detail
  • Clear verbal and written communication
  • Critical thinking and decision-making
  • Knowledge of customs and immigration law
  • Physical fitness and stamina
  • Cultural awareness and sensitivity
  • Integrity and ethical conduct
  • Teamwork and inter-agency collaboration
  • Use of detection technology and data systems
  • Calm under pressure
  • Conflict resolution and de-escalation
  • Report writing and documentation
  • Adaptability to changing procedures

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About the author

Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson is an Account Management and SEM specialist at Course Finder Group with six years' experience in the Australian education sector. She works day to day with universities, TAFEs and independent training providers, which gives her a close view of how courses map to real career outcomes. She writes practical guidance on career pathways, choosing the right qualification and what to expect when moving into a new field.