Selection process and training for correctional officers

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When applications are open, you will need to submit an application through the ACT Government jobs website.

To be considered for these opportunities, you need to submit a one-page pitch. Your pitch should tell us why your life experience would make you perfect for this role.

Applications that do not provide all the required documentation may not be considered for the role.

Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) assessment

This online assessment is to make sure you have the required skills to meet the competency levels needed to complete the Certificate III in Correctional Practice.

The written assessment assesses your observation skills and ability to write.

If you reach this stage of the process, you will be invited to one of our offices to do the assessments. This will be around 3 weeks after the application closing date.

Psychometric testing

Psychometric testing provides a robust assessment of an applicant’s potential including their fit for the role and any potential risks to be considered.

If you reach this stage of the process, you will be invited to complete an online psychometric test. You will need access to a computer or laptop. It will be about 4 weeks after the application closing date.

Interview and references

The interview is the opportunity for us to get a better understanding of you. If you reach this stage of the process, you will be invited to attend an in-person interview for us to get to know you better.

The selection committee are people with both industry and recruitment expertise. They are involved in each stage of the recruitment process. The interview includes questions for you to answer to show the panel that you are the right person for the job. This may include scenario and role-play-based questions.

You will also have to give 2 written referee reports. The panel can consider independent information regarding your skills, experience, and knowledge.

You will need to be available to attend the interview about 2 months after the application closing date.

Medical and functional assessment

Medical and functional assessments help to determine your physical fitness and capacity to perform the role of a corrections officer safely and effectively.

If you reach this stage of the process you will be invited to a scheduled medical assessment with an independent medical assessment provider and a scheduled functional assessment with an independent physiotherapist.

You will need to be available to take these assessments around 2 to 3 months after the application closing date.

Background checks

We expect a high standard of integrity and conduct from our correctional officers.

Before we can offer you a role, you have to complete a National Police Check and declare any associations with current or former detainees or offenders.

If you fail to declare any relevant information it may result in your application being unsuccessful.

Selection

If you have made it this far, you have progressed through one of the most rigorous correctional officer recruitment processes in Australia.

Successful applicants will have the opportunity to complete a 12 week Custodial Recruit Training (CRT) program as a Trainee Correctional Officer or be placed on the order of merit. If you are placed on the order of merit you may be offered a place in a future CRT course.