General News
29 April, 2022
New corrections officers improve community safety
QUEENSLAND’S newest corrective services officers move to the frontline of public safety today, 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 on Friday, April 22.
Acting Assistant Commissioner Northern Region Command Eloise Hamlett congratulated the graduates who joined 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 prioritise public safety every day, ensuring prisoners and offenders are less likely to return to crime.
“Every interaction they have is an opportunity to address offending behaviour and improve prisoners’ vocational and life skills, 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 perform their roles safely and effectively.
“We acknowledge their achievement and 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 an excellent opportunity for people throughout Queensland to join a frontline 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.”
To find out more about career options in some of the world’s most modern and technologically-advanced prisons, visit www.corrections.qld.gov.au/careers
