The Queensland Police Service (QPS) has celebrated a significant milestone as the organisation's Disability Network marked its first anniversary.
Established on 26 November 2024, the QPS Disability Network seeks to promote inclusivity, accessibility, and support for members across the organisation who live with disabilities, whether personally or through loved ones.
Over the last 12 months, the Network has delivered several education and awareness initiatives across the organisation to better support members within the Disability Network as well as break down barriers with the community.
Such initiatives include the launch the QPS Auslan Capability Project and the introduction of the Safe and Found program in Queensland.
The QPS Auslan Capability Project seeks to increase accessibility and inclusion for Deaf and hard-of-hearing members of the community by teaching frontline officers and staff members the basics of sign language.
The Safe and Found initiative seeks to assist people living with a cognitive impairment, which might increase their risk of becoming lost or reported as missing, by partnering with MedicAlert to allow unique insights into that person's behaviours.
QPS Assistant Commissioner Charysse Pond said the network creates a safe and supportive space for those who live with disability, those who care for someone with disability, and those who are actively engaged in disability advocacy.
"The one-year anniversary of the establishment of the Disability Network within QPS is a truly significant milestone," Assistant Commissioner Pond said.
"Our members who navigate disability-related challenges, whether personally or through loved ones, can feel ostracised when working environments or public spaces have not considered accessibility.
"Our commitment to accessibility and inclusivity is long-term and I am incredibly excited by the future of the QPS as we continue to have meaningful conversations to ensure all of our community members, both internal and external, feel seen, heard and cared for.
"The network is committed to walking alongside our members with empathy, respect, and practical support."
The QPS Disability Network recently celebrated Disability Action Week with an event held at Police Headquarters, which included accessibility organisations such as Guide Dogs Australia, Dementia Australia, and Just Auslan.
This year's theme, 'Communicate. Connect. Create', showcased accessible communication in action and the easy changes that can be made to improve access and inclusion at events, in our groups, and across our communities.
Disability Action Week highlights the importance of removing communication barriers and ensuring equal access to information and opportunities for all.
For more information, visit https://www.qld.gov.au/disability/community/awards-events/disability-action-week.
