Police officers protect people and property, keep the peace, prevent crimes, catch criminals and help those in need of assistance.

Police officers may perform the following tasks:

• patrol the streets on foot, on horseback or in vehicles
• catch people who break the law
• investigate crimes and question suspects
• direct traffic in busy areas
• guard prisoners
• search suspected criminals for weapons, drugs or stolen goods
• assist injured and distressed people
• search for missing or lost people
• issue tickets for traffic offences, such as speeding
• give evidence in court
• random breath test drivers
• examine scenes of crimes or accidents for evidence

After new police officers gain experience in general police duties, they may specialise in a particular area. For example, criminal investigation, accident investigation or traffic
control.

In order to become a police officer, it is necessary to complete year 12, and in some areas a university degree is also required.  New recruits then complete a police training course.