Prison Officer

Role overview

The Department of Justice in Western Australia is hiring Prison Officers to join Corrective Services in a permanent, full-time role. This position offers the chance to contribute to rehabilitation, support safer communities, and work in a people-focused environment where your judgement and life experience can make a real impact.

The advertised base pay is POSH, $94,082 to $107,133 per annum plus superannuation (POA), with a competitive shift-work salary of $97,610 to $111,150 per annum after 12 weeks of paid training at $75,520 per annum pro-rata, effective 11 June 2026.

Location and role details

Position number: Pool Ref 232207. Work type: Permanent - Full Time. Location: Statewide. Closing date: 2026-06-30 4:30 PM.

Opportunities are available at prison sites across the Perth metropolitan area and in selected regional locations, including Albany, Bunbury, Eastern Goldfields (Kalgoorlie), Greenough (Geraldton) and West Kimberley (Derby). Perth placements may be at Bandyup (West Swan), Casuarina (Casuarina), Hakea (Canning Vale) or Melaleuca (Canning Vale).

What the job involves

You will work as part of a professional custodial team responsible for maintaining safety, order and secure operations across a rotating 24/7 roster. The role includes working with prisoners across all security levels, managing everyday interactions, reducing conflict when tensions rise, and using strong communication to encourage safer choices and constructive behaviour.

Training and career support

Successful applicants receive 12 weeks of fully paid training and nationally accredited Certificate III in Correctional Practice (Adult Custodial). The role also includes ongoing mentoring from experienced staff, clear pathways for advancement, annual pay progression, supplied uniforms, and access to up to 6 weeks of annual leave. The roster is designed for work-life balance, with 10 shifts across a 21-day cycle.

Regional and additional information

Refer to the Information Booklet for details on additional regional benefits available for certain locations. Overseas and interstate applicants may need to attend assessments in Perth, and the recruitment team will provide advance notice; however, travel costs are the applicant’s responsibility.

Eligibility

Applicants must be Australian citizens, permanent residents, or New Zealand citizens. A current unrestricted Australian C-Class driver’s licence, or equivalent, is required. Former employees must not have had an unsuccessful re-engagement application or a termination from the Department.

How to apply

Candidates should review the Job Description Form and Prison Officer Information Booklet before applying. Applications must include a current, detailed resume or CV tailored to the job requirements, contact details for two referees who are current or recent direct supervisors or managers, and responses of up to 250 words each to two online questions about teamwork under pressure and handling important information with accuracy and confidentiality.

Late submissions and emailed applications will not be accepted. The recruitment and selection process may take several months. For help or enquiries, the recruitment team can be contacted on 1800 974 199 or [email protected].

Supporting documents and recruitment resources

Attachments include the Job Description Form, Prison Officer Guide for Applicants, Prison Officer Information Booklet, and updated regional benefits information dated 14 May 2026. Applicants can use the information session option, available in person or online via MS Teams, to learn more about the role, ask questions, and hear from current staff. Registration requires an email address.

Workplace values and policy

The Department of Justice maintains a smoke-free policy across the Corrective Services Academy and all women’s prisons, with the remaining prison sites expected to follow during 2026.

The organisation is committed to diversity, inclusion and equitable recruitment, with active support for Aboriginal Australians, people with disability, youth and other diverse groups. Reasonable adjustments are available for applicants and employees who need support. The department also welcomes Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants and encourages contact with the Aboriginal Workforce Development team for culturally appropriate recruitment advice. Candidates with disability who need accessibility support can reach the Workforce Diversity team for a confidential discussion.

Ideal candidate profile

This position may suit people who communicate well, remain steady in fast-moving and difficult situations, work effectively in teams, show resilience and adaptability, and demonstrate cultural awareness and respectful engagement with diverse people, including Aboriginal communities.

Important note

Successful applicants with relevant adult custodial qualifications and experience may be considered for an Accelerated Training Program at the Academy, which can shorten the training pathway if the eligibility criteria are met.