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Customs and Border Protection Officer

ANZSCO 599511

A Customs and Border Protection Officer inspects luggage, verifies documents, and enforces border laws, requiring strong focus, judgement, and communication skills.

  • This role has a low level of AI exposure. Core skills such as adaptability, social intelligence, and complex physical tasks remain beyond the capabilities of current AI.
      • NSW
  • 10,000 people employed in Australia
AI exposure data adapted from Felten, Raj & Seamans (2021). Shortage data sourced from Jobs and Skills Australia (2024).

How do I become a customs and border protection officer

Get qualified to work as a customs and border protection officer with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.

Related career opportunities

Browse occupations related to Customs and Border Protection Officer.

Common questions

In Australia, a full time Customs and Border Protection Officer generally earns $1,900 per week ($98,800 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.

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The number of people working in this industry has dropped slightly in recent years. There are currently 2,300 people employed as a Customs and Border Protection Officer in Australia compared to 4,000 five years ago. Customs and Border Protection Officers may find work in areas near border control points.

Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights

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A Certificate II in Transport Security Protection is a good qualification if you’re hoping to start a career as a Customs and Border Protection Officer. This course will prepare you to work at border check points at airports, maritime ports or cargo stations. You’ll cover topics such as conducting a physical search of cargo or luggage and identifying and handling prohibited items such as weapons or explosives.

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Related fields of study

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Obtain valuable skills and knowledge for maintaining the inner workings of the public service, including leadership, compliance, project management and government processes.

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Courses in border security and customs will prepare you for a successful career, including units in legislation, government policy and organisational procedures.

Career opportunities

Further reading

Choosing a security licence course in Australia: A step-by-step guide for jobseekers

10th November 2023

What can you do with a Certificate II in Security Operations?

5th January 2022

Most popular security courses

13th June 2022

All customs and border protection officer courses

Customs and Border Protection Officer careers

A Customs and Border Protection Officer enforces Australian legislation at borders to ensure no illegal items or people are allowed entry. You might work with air freight or passengers, maritime vessels or mail and cargo. A CBP Officer might search luggage, ships or aircraft to check for prohibited items. You might also check the documentation of passengers or crew before they are permitted entry.

A Border Protection Officer needs to be focused and have excellent attention to detail. You’ll need to be a good communicator and be able to deal with people from a range of backgrounds. It’s important that you have sound judgement and are aware of things happening around you.