[3] He was a mounted constable for about seven years,[3] at both country and metropolitan stations, until he was transferred to foot duty after two accidents indicated that he was not suited to horses.
Over the next few years he obtain qualifications in accountancy and mercantile law, and in 1945 was promoted to inspector, in charge of the branch, which by then was also responsible for firearms, weights and measures.
[5]: 264 As Commissioner, Andersen oversaw planning for the police presence during Queen Elizabeth's visit to the state as part of her 1954 tour of Australia.
[11] He was one of the welcoming committee on the Queen's arrival in Perth,[12][13] and escorted her as she inspected some of the police patrolmen on her final day.
[15][16][5]: 266 In 1954 the Betting Control Board was created to regulate gambling in WA, and Andersen was appointed as chairman.