Strategy & Capability | ABF Operational Capability | ABF College | Foundational Capability Faculty
Join the Australian Border Force - Protecting Australia's Future
Looking for a career that makes a real impact?
The Australian Border Force (ABF) is the frontline agency protecting Australia's borders and supporting national security. As part of the Department of Home Affairs, the ABF plays a critical role in safeguarding our nation's interests by enabling legitimate trade and travel while detecting and disrupting threats to Australia's safety, economy, and way of life.
Joining the ABF means becoming part of a dynamic, professional, and purpose-focused workforce. Whether you're working on the frontline at airports or seaports, investigating illicit activities, or supporting operations behind the scenes, your contribution helps protect Australia and uphold our national interests.
Become a Border Force Officer
Successful applicants for this entry level role will undertake the Border Force Officer Recruit Training (BFORT) program. The program, involving classroom learning and on-the-job experiences, prepares you for operational duties across Australia's border environments.
Why choose a career with the ABF?
We recognise the dedication of our officers and offer a range of benefits to support your career and wellbeing:
* Earn while you train through the Border Force Officer Recruit Training (BFORT) program at the APS3 classification ($66,839 - $76,792) + 15.4% superannuation, with additional shift penalties and allowances applicable during operational placements
* Successful applicants will benefit from an Enterprise Agreement salary increase effective 12 March 2026, Enterprise Agreement
* Permanent employment as a Border Force Officer upon successful completion of training
* Enjoy generous leave (including NAIDOC and Ceremonial leave) and allowance entitlements, with further benefits available depending on our placement and career pathway
* A dedicated Indigenous Staff Support Network, with mentoring, training, events and additional development opportunities
* Opportunities for career progression and ongoing professional development
* Once you have graduated, you can apply to work across Australia from major cities to remote locations
* Access to health and wellbeing services to support your journey
* A team-orientated culture, built on integrity, respect, and service.
Please visit our website for more information about the Department of Home Affairs or Australian Border Force
Our ideal candidate
* Acts with honesty and integrity
* Communicates respectfully and work well in teams
* Is adaptable, disciplined, and committed to public service
* Thinks critically and can apply rules to situations
* Understands the importance of professional presentation, including dress, grooming, and conduct, as part of maintaining the ABF's public image and reputation.
The key duties of the position include:
* Participate in classroom and on-the-job training across various locations
* Undertake work placements in both standard and shift-work environments, including weekends and nights
* Use protective equipment and advanced technology
* Operate vehicles and vessels in varied environments
* Work as part of a team, you will learn how to process travellers at air and seaports, search cargo and much more!
Additional Information
Mandatory requirements are required under legislation or policy.
To apply for this role, you must:
* Be able to obtain and maintain relevant medical and fitness requirements
* Successfully complete all elements of the training and probationary requirements.
Evidence of Heritage
Applicants must also provide confirmation of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander heritage preferably prior to interview. Confirmation must state that you:
* Are of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander descent; and
* Identify as an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person; and
* Are accepted as such by the community in which you live or have lived.
Suitable evidence of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander status may include:
* A letter signed by the Chairperson of an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisation that recognises you as an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person
* Confirmation from an incorporated Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisation.
A wide range of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations and bodies can provide confirmation. This commonly includes, but is not limited to:
* Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Land Councils
* Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Corporations (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Corporations can be incorporated under the Corporations (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander) Act 2006, the Corporations Act 2001, or other states and territory legislation)
* Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander medical services.
Training Locations
Training locations are determined by ABF operational requirements. Courses may not always be available in your preferred state or region. It is recommended that you select the location that best suits you when applying for a BFORT role.
If you apply for a BFORT role that is located outside your current city or region, you will be responsible for any relocation costs. You must be available to commence training on the specified start date when you are offered a BFORT role. You will remain in this location for the duration of the training program as well as after you successfully complete and graduate. Classroom-based training is currently offered at the following locations: Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne and Adelaide.
Eligibility
To be eligible for the position you must be an Australian Citizen.
The successful candidate will be required to obtain and maintain a Baseline Vetting (AGSVA) security clearance, and:
* ABF Workers will also be required to obtain and maintain an Employment Suitability Clearance (ESC).
* Home Affairs Workers will also be required to obtain and maintain an Onboarding Check.
In certain circumstances, an Employment Suitability Clearance (ESC) may be required in addition to, or in lieu of, an Onboarding Check, which will be determined by the delegate as necessary.
Notes
The Department of Home Affairs offers an attractive remuneration package, including salary, superannuation benefits and flexible working conditions appropriate to the level of the position.
The Department may provide relocation assistance to eligible APS employees required to relocate. The level of assistance will vary depending on the reason for relocating and your personal circumstances. For further information please enquire with the contact officer listed in the advertisement.
Information about employment and advice on how to apply for vacancies can be obtained from the Department’s website at
Getting to know the Department of Home Affairs
The Department of Home Affairs is responsible for central coordination, and strategy and policy leadership in relation to cyber and critical infrastructure resilience and security, immigration, border security and management, counter-terrorism, the protection of our sovereignty, citizenship and social cohesion. The Department implements a strategically coordinated approach to the cyber security and resilience of all Australians through the appointment of a Cyber Security Coordinator and continues to enable rapid responses to threats of foreign interference through the dedicated Counter Foreign Interference Coordinator. Additionally, the Department contributes to Australia’s prosperity and unity through the management and delivery of the migration, humanitarian and refugee programs. The Department also promotes social cohesion through multicultural programs, providing settlement services and through managing and conferring citizenship. We encourage applications from Indigenous Australians, people with disability and people from other diverse backgrounds. We are committed to providing a working environment that values diversity and inclusion and supports staff to reach their full potential. For more information