Queensland’s newest corrective services officers have moved to the frontline of public safety, working to reduce reoffending to keep Far North Queensland safe.
Fifteen new custodial correctional officers were sworn into their roles at a Queensland Corrective Services’ (QCS) graduation ceremony in Mareeba.
Acting Assistant Commissioner Northern Region Command 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,” Acting Assistant Commissioner 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.
“We acknowledge their achievement and their commitment to model the key principles of the Corrections 2030 strategy – safety, respect, excellence, empowerment and accountability.”
The 15 graduating officers will be posted to Lotus Glen Correctional Centre which comprises high and low security facilities.
The ceremony also recognised long-standing officers with the QCS Long Service and Good Conduct Medal for 20 years’ service and the Commissioner’s Medal for retiring officers.
Acting Assistant Commissioner 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 front-line public safety agency and make a real difference to their community.
“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.”
