The Palaszczuk Government’s investment in good, secure jobs for Queenslanders today saw the latest cohort of new custodial officers graduate from the Queensland Corrective Services training academy.
Thirteen new custodial correctional officers were sworn into their roles at the Queensland Corrective Services ceremony.
Representing Minister for Corrective Services, Mark Ryan, Member for Mount Ommaney, Jessica Pugh, joined QCS Commissioner Paul Stewart in congratulating the graduates.
“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,” Ms Pugh 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.”
Commissioner Stewart said the new officers were ready to take on the many challenges of working in a correctional centre after successfully completing the 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 13 graduating officers will be posted to Woodford Correctional Centre.
The ceremony also acknowledged some of QCS’ most experienced officers who are receiving Long Service and Good Conduct Medals.
Commissioner Stewart said QCS 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.”
