45 new officers join the front line of public safety in Queensland

45 new custodial correctional officers (CCOs) were sworn into their roles on the front line of public safety in a ceremony in Brisbane yesterday.

Queensland Corrective Services (QCS) Commissioner Paul Stewart APM congratulated the officers for completing the Custodial Officer Entry Program (COEP) and joining the front line of community safety.

“Queensland Corrective Services (QCS) custodial corrections officers are the best trained and equipped in Australia and these graduates stand ready to take on the many challenges of working in Queensland prisons,” Commissioner Stewart said.

“QCS officers perform a vital, often unseen role in the criminal justice system, transforming the lives of those in their care and custody on a daily basis, helping to prevent further offending.”

“Our new officers join us at a very exciting time as we use the five principles of Corrections 2030 – safety, excellence, empowerment, respect and accountability to continue to strive for world class corrective services,’ Commissioner Stewart said.

“The diversity of our workforce is our greatest strength and each of these new officers will bring their own life experience and unique perspective as we work together to make our community safer places.”

The officers will be posted across South East Queensland, including:
• 27 officers at Arthur Gorrie Correctional Centre
• 10 officers at Brisbane Women’s Correctional Centre
• Five officers at Wolston Correctional Centre
• Three officers at Southern Queensland Correctional Centre

Two officers were also awarded with their Long Service and Good Conduct medals for 40 years of service, and one officer for 30 years of service.

To find out more about career options within Queensland Corrective Services, visit corrections.qld.gov.au/careers