Lockyer Valley custodial correctional officer graduates set to join frontline of public safety

• Recruits have completed rigorous 10-week Custodial Correctional Officer training for Queensland’s newest correctional centre
• Officers deployed to other centres until new correctional centre opens
• Recruitment underway for psychologists, occupational therapists, social workers, education and administration officers

Nineteen new Custodial Correctional Officers for the Lockyer Valley Correctional Centre graduated on Wednesday 17 April in front of family and friends at the Gatton Shire Hall.

After completing the rigorous 10-week paid training program, the new officers will be deployed to the frontline of public safety at centres throughout South East Queensland to further develop their skills until the state’s newest correctional centre is commissioned later this year.

The 1536-bed centre near Gatton will be a modern and fit-for-purpose facility focusing on rehabilitation to reduce reoffending. This will include mental health, drug and alcohol rehabilitation services in modern and fit-for-purpose spaces.

More than 800 roles will be available at the Lockyer Valley Correctional Centre including custodial officers, psychologists, occupational therapists, social workers, education and program delivery officers as well as administration officers. Queensland Corrective Services is actively recruiting for roles for the new centre and across the state.

Quotes attributable to Acting Deputy Commissioner Adam Black, Organisational Capability, Queensland Corrective Services:

“Welcome to our latest group of Custodial Correctional Officer graduates for the Lockyer Valley Correctional Centre.

“We thank them for their commitment to protecting the safety of Queensland communities.

“Our officers are our greatest asset, and we strive to ensure they are supported as they carry out their often-unseen duties.

“Every interaction our officers have is an opportunity to address offending behaviour and to improve the vocational and life skills of prisoners, assisting in their rehabilitation and reintegration back into the community.”

Quotes attributable to Chief Superintendent Bernie Kruhse, General Manager, Lockyer Valley Correctional Centre:

“We are building the workforce needed for Queensland’s newest correctional centre and I welcome our new officers to QCS.

“Corrections is challenging work at times, which is why the recruits are equipped with the highest level of training, skills and support to enable them to perform their roles safely and effectively.

“We have taken on board the latest research on corrections to create a modern centre at the Lockyer Valley that will provide better outcomes for everyone – our officers, the prisoners in our care and the community.

“Congratulations to our newest officers, I wish you all the best as your start your career on the frontline of public safety.”

Fast facts and further information:

• For more information about how to join the front line of public safety at QCS, go to https://corrections.qld.gov.au/lockyervalley

ENDS