New correctional officers improve safety in South East Queensland

Queensland’s newest corrective services officers step to the frontline of public safety today, working to reduce reoffending to keep South East Queensland safe.

19 new custodial correctional officers will be sworn into their roles at a Queensland Corrective Services’ (QCS) graduation ceremony at the QCS Academy today.

Commissioner Paul Stewart APM 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,” Commissioner Stewart said.

“Correctional officers work to improve public safety 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.”

Commissioner Stewart said the new officers are 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,” Commissioner Stewart 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 19 graduating officers will be posted across South East Queensland to Arthur Gorrie, Brisbane Women’s and Woodford Correctional Centres and the Escort and Security Branch.

The ceremony will also acknowledge some of QCS’ most experienced officers who are receiving Long Service and Good Conduct medals and the Australian National Medal for Diligent Service.

Commissioner Stewart 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,” Commissioner Stewart said.

“There are many career paths in QCS, from custodial correctional officers, trade instructors, dog squad officers, psychologists, social workers 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.

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