Queensland Police Bolsters Ranks with 39 Veteran Officers

The Queensland Police Service (QPS) proudly celebrates the addition of 39 experienced officers to its ranks following their successful completion of the rigorous Police Accelerated Competency Education (PACE) program.

The graduates bring extensive policing expertise from interstate and international jurisdictions, including the United Kingdom, New Zealand, South Africa, Western Australia, and Victoria.

After completing an intensive 20-week training program, the new constables are now ready to be deployed to frontline roles across Queensland.

With backgrounds in investigations, child protection, domestic and family violence, and sexual offences, their wealth of experience and dedication will further enhance the QPS's ability to protect and serve communities, reinforcing its unwavering commitment to community safety and security.

In a testament to the success of the Police Accelerated Competency Education (PACE) program, the Queensland Police Service has proudly sworn in 358 experienced recruits over the past two years, with 157 in 2024 and an impressive 201 recruits already joining the ranks in 2025.

Acting Commissioner of Police, Cheryl Scanlon, congratulated the graduates, highlighting their diverse backgrounds and the unique skills they bring to the Service.

"These officers are a testament to the QPS's dedication to attracting experienced and skilled individuals from across the globe," Acting Commissioner Scanlon said.

"Their expertise and fresh perspectives will undoubtedly enhance our ability to meet the needs of Queensland's growing and diverse communities."

Among the graduates is Constable Kere Taurere, who served as a Detective with the New Zealand Police in South Auckland for 11 years. Constable Taurere was drawn to Queensland by the opportunity to enjoy a better lifestyle with his family.

"Family was the biggest motivator, but I was also looking for a change of pace and a better everyday lifestyle," Constable Taurere said. "I'm looking forward to getting on the road, learning the lay of the land, and exploring Queensland on my days off. The size of Queensland is something I'll need to adjust to, but I'm excited to bring my investigative skillset to the QPS and contribute to the community."

Constable Kere Taurere being sworn into the Queensland Police Service
Constable Kere Taurere
Constable Kere Taurere standing with his intake

Another graduate, Constable Petrus Viljoen, brings 25 years of experience as a Warrant Officer with the South African Police Service. Constable Viljoen was inspired to join the QPS after visiting Queensland in 2024 and falling in love with its sense of community, natural beauty, and opportunities for his family.

"I was drawn to Queensland by the strong sense of community and belonging," Constable Viljoen said. "This is a place I want my kids to grow up in. The QPS has exceeded my expectations with its support and opportunities, and I'm excited to take my policing career to the next level. I'm particularly looking forward to using my experience in family violence and child protection to make a positive difference in the lives of young people."

Constable Petrus Viljoen saluting
Constable Petrus Viljoen

Constable Viljoen will be stationed at Edmonton in the Far North Region, where he is eager to become part of the local community and contribute to its safety and wellbeing.

Dylan Holland, a former Constable with the New Zealand Police in Hamilton, has joined the Queensland Police Service, inspired by the lifestyle and opportunities Queensland offers for his young family.

"I'm looking forward to hitting the streets running, getting back to doing what I love, and adapting to the fast-moving environments while serving the Crestmead community."

Constable Dylan Holland
Constable Dylan Holland saluting

The QPS remains committed to attracting and retaining skilled officers from diverse backgrounds, ensuring the Service is well-equipped to meet the needs of Queensland's growing and dynamic population.

Queensland Police Service Pipes and Drums
Intake 2-2025 of the Police Abridged Competency Education course
Intake 2-2025 of the Police Abridged Competency Education course congratulating each other

This intake will be deployed throughout Queensland in the following stations:

RegionDistrictStationTotal
Brisbane (17)North Brisbane (8)Boondall1
Carseldine1
Hendra2
Indooroopilly1
Sandgate1
Stafford2
South Brisbane (9)Calamvale1
Carina1
Dutton Park2
Inala1
Mt Ommaney1
Redland Bay1
Upper Mount Gravatt1
West End1
Central Region (3)Capricornia (3)Gladstone1
North Rockhampton1
Rockhampton1
Far Northern (2)Far North (2)Edmonton1
Innisfail1
North Coast (4)Moreton (4)Bribie Island1
Caboolture1
Deception bay1
Mango Hill1
Northern (5)Townsville (5)Kirwan2
Mundingburra1
Townsville2
South Eastern (8)Logan (8)Beenleigh2
Crestmead2
Logan Central2
Loganholme1
Springwood1

A career with the Queensland Police Service offers diverse roles, unique challenges, and the chance to make a real difference every day. From emergency response and crime prevention to community engagement and public safety, no two days are ever the same.

From our bustling cities to remote towns and pristine coastline, policing in Queensland offers a career and lifestyle as diverse as the communities you'll serve.

Looking for a career that stands for more? Stand with us in a challenging and rewarding career. Visit policerecruit.qld.gov.au to apply now.

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