Custody Officer

Role overview

Ventia is recruiting dependable and resilient people for a Custody Officer position supporting custodial services for the WA Department of Justice. This is a meaningful long-term opportunity in the justice sector, offering structured training, stable conditions, and a clear pathway for career growth without compromising pay certainty or work-life balance.

In this role, you will contribute to the safety, dignity, and wellbeing of people in custody while helping court and custodial operations run smoothly. Work spans courts, prisoner transport, and secure medical escorts, so the environment is varied and purpose-driven.

What the role involves

• Safely supervising and transporting people in custody.
• Supporting security requirements during court proceedings.
• Carrying out welfare checks and maintaining duty of care.
• Responding to difficult situations in a calm, professional manner.
• Preparing clear and accurate reports and records.
• Working closely with a small operational team.

Training, pay and conditions

This position includes fully funded training toward a Certificate III in Correctional Practice, with five weeks of paid training before you begin operational duties. No previous custodial background is needed.

• $27.35 per hour during the 5-week training period.
• $29.50 per hour after training.
• $30.93 per hour after 12 months and completion of the Certificate III.
• Western Australian State Government Pay Contribution Allowance (PCA) of $256 per fortnight before tax.
• Guaranteed minimum hours under the Enterprise Agreement.
• Overtime applies for work beyond 7.6 hours in a day, before 5:00am, or after 7:00pm.
• Saturday work is paid at 175% of the base rate.
• Sunday work is paid at 200% of the base rate.

Allowances and additional benefits

• Regional allowance of $5,943 per year, paid across fortnightly instalments.
• Meal allowances for shifts longer than 9.6 hours or when an overnight stay is required.
• On-call allowance of $25.73 per day where applicable.
• Officer in Charge allowance of $3 per hour when performing extra duties.
• Paid travel time and allowances for approved regional secondments.
• Parking reimbursement where eligible.
• Uniforms and footwear supplied.
• Paid breaks and TOIL options.
• Five weeks of annual leave for shift workers.
• Ongoing paid training and refresher courses.

Career development

The role offers a structured progression path through accredited classifications, with opportunities to move into senior, specialist, or supervisory positions over time.

What we are looking for

• Availability for full-time training from Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 4:30pm.
• Commitment to complete 12 months of service to finish the Certificate III.
• Australian citizenship or permanent residency.
• A respectful, resilient, and professional attitude.
• Ability to pass pre-employment medical, fitness, and background checks.

About Ventia

Ventia is an infrastructure services organisation operating across Australia and New Zealand. The company supports essential community assets and focuses on delivering work safely, sustainably, and with the help of modern technology and skilled people.

Diversity and inclusion

Ventia states that it values the range of experiences, talents, and cultures its people contribute. The organisation says it is committed to a safe and positive workplace with equal opportunity for people from all backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, LGBTQIA+ people, women, veterans and spouses, and people with disabilities.

Additional information

Position reference number: 167072. For more information, contact Meg Petsa at meg.petsa@ventia.com.