The Queensland Police Service (QPS) has welcomed 17 new Protective Services Officers (PSOs) in the first of six intakes scheduled for the 2025 year.
These new officers will contribute to the safety of Queenslanders, enhancing security at key government sites, including state government buildings, courthouses, schools, and public transport infrastructure while working closely alongside QPS officers.
Aged between 18 and 57, the officers bring experience from professional backgrounds including support work, retail, fitness, private security and policing.
Members of the cohort come from a range of diverse cultural backgrounds and bring a wealth of knowledge to support the Queensland community.
Commissioner of Police, Steve Gollschewski APM, congratulated the new PSOs, highlighting the valuable experience and cultural understanding they bring to QPS's Protective Services Group.
"In addition to their valued skills, this cohort is one of the most culturally diverse we have welcomed in recent years, collectively speaking 14 languages, including Malayalam, Tamil, Persian, Xhosa, and Portuguese," Commissioner Gollschewski said.
"Their diversity reflects the communities we serve and reinforces our commitment to supporting all Queenslanders.
"Becoming a PSO is a fantastic career opportunity and a chance to help protect the people and places of Queensland," Commissioner Gollschewski said.
PSO Shanee Smith is turning her passion for community work into a new career, serving the Logan and Gold Coast communities she knows and loves.
"Through my experience in retail and NDIS support, I've developed strong communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and attention to detail-all essential for working on the frontline," PSO Smith said.
"I thoroughly enjoyed the academy training program, especially the physical skills and communication techniques, and I'm proud to join a team who are committed to caring for the community."
Former retail hospitality manager, PSO Ninan Kurian, is embracing a career change that offers a better work-life balance.
"I wanted a career that would take me out into the community and allow me to make a difference," PSO Kurian said.
"I've built great friendships at the academy and found the training invaluable-not just for the job, but for my personal growth and everyday life.
"I'm proud to begin my role in my hometown of Townsville and hope to inspire other Malayali people to consider roles with the QPS."
Protective Services recruits undertake a seven-week training program at the QPS Academy in Brisbane before being deployed across Queensland.
For more information on a career in the Protective Services Group, visit protectiveservicesgroup.qld.gov.au.
