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This paper presents findings from an exploratory study, which examined Chinese police officers' perceptions of training experiences. This study, which was undertaken in 2005 in Australia, set out to investigate the key factors influencing the effectiveness of Chinese police training programs. The research is significant in that it investigated police training particularly from the perspective of the trainees while in Australia. An in-depth face to face interview method was employed. Five Beijing police officers, who came from different departments and pursued Masters Degrees at the University of Canberra, were interviewed in March 2005. The interviews were digitally recorded, transcribed verbatim and the transcripts were translated from Chinese into English. The findings showed that individuals' needs for professional development should be considered in designing training programs. To enhance the effectiveness of police training, a needs analysis system should be established. Police trainees would not benefit greatly from training if their expectations were neglected. Competent trainers, updated curricula, consideration of individual professional competence, and a linkage between knowledge and practical work were regarded significant factors contributing to effective training. The findings also suggested that application of knowledge into workplaces needs to be connected with the performance appraisal. This study carries strong implications for police training and development in the Chinese context.