- 91 new Custodial Correctional Officers join the frontline of public safety throughout South East Queensland
- Officers equipped with highest level of training after 10-week Custodial Officer Entry Program
- QCS actively recruiting for a variety of roles
Correctional officers from other states, territories and countries are among the 91 new Queensland Corrective Services recruits who graduated into the frontline of public safety in South East Queensland this week, in the largest QCS graduation of the year.
Swapping their badge from jurisdictions in New Zealand, New South Wales, Northern Territory and South Australia, the eight recruits with previous corrections experience have successfully completed the 10-week Custodial Officer Entry Program alongside their fellow trainees.
Led by experienced instructors from the Queensland Corrective Services Academy, the entry program includes training in conflict management, tactical skills and Queensland policies and legislation to assist with prisoner rehabilitation.
The new Custodial Correctional Officers will be posted to Arthur Gorrie, Brisbane, Brisbane Women's, Wolston, Woodford, Maryborough, Palen Creek and Borallon and Training correctional centres, and the Escort and Security Branch, in coming days.
At the ceremony, two officers with 20 years of experience between them were also recognised with the Long Service and Good Conduct Medal.
QCS is actively recruiting with many career paths on offer at the top tier public safety agency, including CCOs, trade instructors, dog squad officers, psychologists, counsellors, cultural liaison officers and administrative roles, all of which play a vital role in managing and rehabilitating prisoners.
Quotes attributable to Member for Mount Ommaney Jess Pugh:
"I want to thank our newest Correctional Officers for their commitment to keeping Queenslanders safe.
"Graduates bring to the frontline the new skills and the expert training of the QCS Academy's instructors.
"These recruits will be an exceptional asset to Queensland Corrective Services' laser-like focus on innovative, evidence-based rehabilitation."
Quotes attributable to Corrective Services Minister Nikki Boyd:
"Congratulations to Queensland's newest Correctional Officers.
"This is the biggest graduation ceremony so far this year and since July, we've seen more than 850 recruits commit to frontline Corrective Services careers.
"It's another example of growing skilled frontline jobs to reduce prisoner reoffending.
"We need the right people with expert training to keep correctional centres running smoothly, because keeping Queenslanders safe is a priority."
Quotes attributable to QCS Commissioner, Paul Stewart APM:
"We welcome today's 91 new Custodial Correctional Officers to Queensland Corrective Services and thank them for their commitment to helping keep communities safe.
"Working in corrections can be challenging, but also incredibly rewarding so I am not surprised that our newest colleagues with previous corrections experience are bringing that commitment over the border and across the Tasman to continue their vocation here in Queensland.
"Our officers are our greatest asset, and we strive to ensure they are supported as they carry out their often-unseen duties.
"Every interaction our officers 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."
