What’s Happening?
Queensland Police Service (QPS) has officially sworn in 136 new officers following their completion of eight and a half months of rigorous training. This marks the first graduation of 2025 and reaffirms QPS’s commitment to maintaining a strong recruitment pipeline. Among the graduates, three new constables will be stationed in Rockhampton, reinforcing frontline policing in the region.
Why It Matters?
With increasing demands on law enforcement, the arrival of new officers ensures that Queensland communities continue to receive strong, well-trained policing support. The recruits bring a diverse range of experiences, from emergency medical dispatch and finance to international policing and Australian Defence Force (ADF) service. Their varied backgrounds strengthen the force’s ability to address complex community issues.
Local Impact
For Rockhampton, the addition of three new officers enhances the local policing capability, supporting the Capricornia District’s commitment to community safety. These recruits will play a key role in frontline response, mental health incidents, and crime prevention strategies.
By the Numbers:
- 136 recruits graduated as sworn officers in the first QPS graduation of 2025.
- 8.5 months of training covered both theoretical and practical components, including scenario-based exercises.
- 3 new constables will serve in Rockhampton, joining the Capricornia District’s policing team.
Zoom In
Among the new officers is First Year Constable (FYC) Bing Cheng, whose path to policing began unexpectedly. While working in the finance industry, he assisted in a car accident, directing traffic in his pyjamas while supporting a shocked parent. Reflecting on his journey, Constable Cheng said:
“Becoming a police officer is the ultimate way I can contribute to my community and do something my kids can be proud of while keeping their future safe. My goal in the service is not to be in specialist units, but to be part of the front line, in the community.”
Similarly, FYC Camryn Hayden brings extensive experience from her previous role as an Emergency Medical Dispatcher with Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS). She shared how her past role prepared her for the transition to policing:
“Working in my prior role exposed me to high-pressure situations, critical decision-making, and fuelled my passion for fostering strong relationships and serving the community.”
Zoom Out
This graduation continues a trend of strong recruitment in QPS. Commissioner Steve Gollschewski APM noted that in 2024, the service saw a 36% increase in appointments compared to 2023. He emphasised the organisation’s dedication to maintaining a robust recruitment pipeline:
“I am pleased to welcome these new officers into the QPS and know they will serve their communities with honour. This year, QPS is reaffirming its commitment to a strong recruitment pipeline, with a focus on attracting the right people that align with our values.”
What to Look for Next?
With recruitment efforts continuing, QPS is expected to welcome more recruits throughout the year. The focus remains on strengthening frontline policing across regional Queensland, including further appointments to Rockhampton and other parts of the Capricornia District.
