Sixty-six new police officers are about to join the ranks in a major boost to Queensland’s frontline services.
Police Minister Jack Dempsey said the officers had spent the last 25 weeks learning the skills they needed to improve the safety of Queensland communities.
“I thank the 66 first year constables 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.
“We are absolutely committed to revitalising frontline services, as we promised at the election and these new officers are also dedicated to 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 first year constables the best in their careers and hope they enjoy their time with the QPS.”
Mr Dempsey said the new officers will join an expanded service under the Newman Government.
“After years of neglect from the former Labor Government, the Queensland Police Service is undergoing its biggest recruitment drive in 20 years,” he said.
“The Newman Government has already delivered more than 500 additional police officers across the state as a part of our election promise to providing 1,100 more police officers over four years.”
Seven general purpose police dogs were also sworn in to the Queensland Police Service as a part of the ceremony.
Police Dog Fitz will be deployed to Gladstone, Zuma and Bosco to Caboolture, Sabre and DJ to the Sunshine Coast, Ensign to the Gold Coast and Eli to Brisbane.
Queensland Police Commissioner Ian Stewart congratulated the constables on their graduation and announced that they would be positioned in the Brisbane, Central, Northern, South Eastern and Southern Regions to commence their career.
“I remember my induction ceremony well and I hope that this afternoon’s ceremony is a memory that each carries with them throughout a long and successful career within the QPS,” Commissioner Stewart said.
“There is no doubt that each of these new officers will experience some challenging situations, however there will also be many rewarding and humbling times.
“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:
- North Brisbane (9)
- South Brisbane (10)
- Bundaberg (2)
- Hervey Bay (1)
- Maryborough (2)
- Sunshine Coast (4)
- Cairns (4)
- Townsville (4)
- Gold Coast (7)
- Logan (11)
- Caboolture (1)
- Ipswich (8)
- Redcliffe (3)
