61 recruits join Queensland Police ranks

The Queensland Police Service (QPS) has received a boost with 61 new officers inducted into the service this afternoon.

Police Minister Jack Dempsey said the 61 new police officers had spent the last 25 weeks learning the skills they need to improve the safety of Queensland communities, which had deteriorated under Labor.

“I thank the 61 First Year Constables (FYCs) who have accepted the responsibilities of maintaining law, order and public safety in their role as police officers,” Mr Dempsey said.

“Each officer brings with them unique experiences and enthusiasm which they will be able to draw upon while serving and protecting communities across the state.

“Policing can be an incredibly challenging career but, as I found during my time as a police officer, it can also be incredibly rewarding.

“I wish each of the new FYCs the best in their careers and hope they enjoy their time with the QPS.”

Mr Dempsey said the new FYCs were a part of the Newman Government’s commitment to revitalise frontline services after 20 years of neglect from the former Labor Government.

“The State Government has promised to provide an additional 1,100 police officers over four years to ensure Queensland remains a safe and secure place to live, work and play,” he said.

“We are well on track to reaching that goal with an additional 300 police officers starting last financial year and a further 267 additional officers to go through the QPS Academy this financial year.”

Commissioner Stewart congratulated the 38 male and 23 female constables on their graduation and announced that they would be deployed to the Central, Brisbane, South Eastern, Northern and Southern Regions.

“This is a proud moment for me in my role as Commissioner, but also for the families, friends and other support networks, who I would like to thank for all the support they have provided to this point, as you see the completion of your loved ones’ education as a police officer,” Commissioner Stewart said.

“It is my vision that these new constables will be courageous, fair and proud in their duties as they work to stop crime, make the community safer and build relationships.

“I would like to extend my thanks to the Education and Training Command staff at the Queensland Police Service Academy, both police officers and staff members, who have taught, mentored and shaped the officers who have graduated today.

“I wish luck to every officer in their career and feel confident that they will uphold the QPS standards of excellence and service.”

The new FYCs will be initially deployed to the following areas:

• Cairns (5)
• Townsville (5)
• Maryborough (5)
• Sunshine Coast (10)
• North Brisbane (6)
• South Brisbane (5)
• Caboolture (2)
• Ipswich (5)
• Toowoomba (2)
• Warwick (1)
• Redcliffe (1)
• Logan (7)
• Gold Coast (7)