Queensland Police Service (QPS) is proud to share our third Multicultural Queensland Month Senior Police Liaison Officer (SPLO) spotlight, highlighting the inspiring story of SPLO Tial Hlawnching, a dedicated community leader, youth mentor and advocate for change.
SPLO Hlawnching is a proud Hakha speaking Chin man, born in the Chin state of Myanmar, who moved to Queensland with his family in 2011 as a refugee seeking safety, and a new beginning.
Growing up, he was aware of the negative interactions many in his community had experienced with law enforcement in his country.
These experiences left lasting impacts not only on individuals, but across generations, shaping the way many people from this community view authority.
Within his own family, this contributed to a deep mistrust of police and uncertainty about their role in the community, a fear and mistrust that followed them to Australia.
However, over time, SPLO Hlawnching came to understand the values and responsibilities of police in Australia.
This new perspective sparked a desire to be part of the solution.
He wanted to build understanding, foster trust and help the adjustment of other people from a refugee and migratory background to feel safe, supported, informed and heard.
Today as a SPLO, he works closely with culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities to build meaningful relationships, respond to community concerns and support safer and more connected neighbourhoods.
With a degree in Human Services, more than eight years working with non-profit organisations in Logan, supporting migrant refugee and youth communities, SPLO Hlawnching brought a wealth of experience and empathy to his role.
He is the driving force behind initiatives such as the Logan Youth Engagement Program and Recon Youth Jamming Sessions, both of which bring together young people aged 12 to 20 through music, sport and conversation.
From volleyball games to mentoring through music, these programs are designed to break down barriers and offer a safe, inclusive space where young people from all backgrounds can connect and grow.
SPLO Hlawnching often shares his own story with young people, using his experiences to inspire resilience, leadership and cultural pride.
His work reflects the power of perspective by sharing his lived experience, and he hopes to start conversations to encourage community trust and collaboration.
"PLOs are so important because we help bridge the gap between the community and police," he said.
"When people see someone who understands their language, culture and experience, it breaks down fear and replaces it with trust."
"Representation matters to the CALD community – it shows that we belong, we are heard, and we are part of a system that advocates for our wellbeing.
"PLOs bring understanding to conversation, making sure people from all cultures are treated with dignity and respect."
Through the work of SPLO Hlawnching, relationships between police and multicultural communities have strengthened, helping to build a Queensland where people feel safe and supported.
If you would like to get in touch, you can contact the Logan Cross Cultural Liaison Unit on [email protected]
A career within the Queensland Police Service is like no other. From protecting, responding, and investigating, to supporting, rescuing and learning – the sheer variety of roles make it both a challenging and rewarding career.
As a police officer, you can have one career that has endless possibilities. Now really is the best time to join.
Visit PoliceRecruit.qld.gov.au to kickstart your policing career and make a positive impact in your community.
