New correctional officers improve community safety in Far North Queensland

Queensland’s newest corrective services officers have moved to the frontline of public safety today, working to reduce reoffending to keep Far North Queensland safe.

16 new custodial correctional officers were sworn into their roles at a Queensland Corrective Services’ (QCS) graduation ceremony on Friday 16 December.

QCS Acting Assistant Commissioner Eloise Hamlett congratulated the graduates who join the forward-thinking agency at an exciting time of transformation and growth.

“Queensland Corrective Services is an essential part of our criminal justice system, delivering innovative, effective, evidence-based correctional services which contribute to a safer Queensland,” A/g AC Hamlett said.

“Correctional officers make public safety the priority every day, striving to ensure prisoners and offenders are less likely to return to crime.

“Every interaction they 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.”

Acting Assistant Commissioner Hamlett said the new officers were ready to take on the many challenges of working in a correctional centre after successfully completing the paid 10-week Custodial Officer Entry Program.

“Our correctional officers are equipped with the highest level of training, skills and support to enable them to perform their roles safely and effectively,” A/g AC Hamlett said.

“We acknowledge their achievement and their commitment to model the key principles of the Corrections 2030 strategy – safety, respect, excellence, empowerment and accountability.”

The 16 graduating officers will be posted to Lotus Glen Correctional Centre.

A/g AC Hamlett said Queensland Corrective Services was actively recruiting to fill positions across the State.

“QCS offers a great opportunity for people throughout Queensland to join a frontline public safety agency and make a real difference to their community,” A/g AC Hamlett said.

“There are many career paths in QCS, from custodial correctional officers, trade instructors, dog squad officers, psychologists, case managers and administrative roles, all of which play a vital role in managing and rehabilitating prisoners.”

The total remuneration package for a QCS Custodial Correctional Officer ranges from $81,645 to $117,152 which includes base salary plus allowances and employer superannuation contributions.

Eligible candidates who relocate from interstate or South East Queensland to Capricornia, Townsville or Lotus Glen Correctional Centres may also be eligible for a relocation assistance package up to the value of $7,000.

To find out more about career options in some of the world’s most modern and technologically-advanced prisons, visit corrections.qld.gov.au/careers