The National Terrorism Alert Level for the police sector was raised from Medium to High on Tuesday, bringing it in line with the public alert.
It is the second highest level in the Australian system.
In a statement, the Australian Federal Police said that the recent events in France, Canada and Australia served as a “sobering reminder” of the risks associated with police work.
“While relatively small, there are increasing numbers of Australians who are connected with or inspired by overseas terrorist groups,” it read.
Police Commissioners in Western Australia and Queensland have addressed the media, while comment from the NSW Police Commissioner is due at 1.30pm.
In Western Australia, Acting Police Commissioner Stephen Brown said there was an "emerging and increasing threat against people who wear a blue shirt like me".
"We now have advice from the federal authorities that there is a specific threat... against police officers," he said.
Acting Commissioner Brown said he had advised officers to be vigilant and take small safety measures, such as hiding their uniform when placing it in their personal car.
In Queensland, Commissioner Ian Stewart said it was the highest level police had faced since 9/11.
"There is only one higher level," he said.
Commissioner Stewart also voiced concerns for the wider police community.
"I am concerned about the families and loved ones of officers," he said.
"By default, [they] could even be the focus of a threat."
Australia is currently at a High level of alert publicly, the second highest rating in the National Terrorism Public Alert System.
The public level was last changed in September, increasing to High due to the increased likelihood of a terrorist attack in Australia.
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