The Queensland Police Service (QPS) has released the findings from its 100-Day Review, marking a pivotal step toward modernising the organisation, strengthening frontline capability, and improving workforce wellbeing and service delivery across the state.
The Review commenced in March to assess whether the QPS stays aligned with its legislative mandate, find ways to better support its workforce, and meet the evolving needs of Queensland communities.
The Review found that while officers and staff deliver exceptional results under pressure, the QPS has experienced significant ‘mission creep,’ with officers increasingly tasked with non-core functions such as mental health response, domestic and family violence case management, and prisoner transport.
This has contributed to resource strain, workforce fatigue and reduced operational agility, the review report states.
In total, the Review makes 65 recommendations across three strategic priorities:
- Resource and Wellbeing Prioritisation
- Attrition and Retention
- Organisational Assessment
Key recommendations include:
- Legislative reform to clearly define core policing responsibilities under the Police Service Administration Act;
- The creation of a QPS Service Charter and Demand Management Framework;
- A shift from centralised corporate support to a locally led, centrally supported model;
- Improved fatigue management and wellbeing initiatives; and
- Strategies to address workforce attrition, including enhanced leadership development, career planning and flexible work options.
Acting Commissioner of Police, Shane Chelepy APM, said the Review reflects the voices of the QPS workforce and sets a strong foundation for reform.
“This Review is not about looking inward, it’s about delivering better outcomes for Queenslanders,” Acting Commissioner Chelepy said.
“It confirms that while our people are going above and beyond, we must change how we support them with better structures and stronger leadership.
“This marks the beginning of meaningful reform. We are acting now to realign our purpose, modernise our support systems, and build a more resilient, community-focused police service.”
Review Panel member, Brett Pointing said the Independent Advisory Panel was grateful to all stakeholders who provided advice.
“What the Independent advisory panel found was a dedicated and hard-working frontline doing their best, but who are suffering fatigue and need additional support,” said Mr Pointing.
“The Independent Advisory Panel are confident the 65 recommendations in the report provide a solid blueprint for reform. This reform will ensure the QPS is a highly accountable and responsive organisation dedicated to the safety of the community of Queensland.
“The Independent Advisory Panel would also like to acknowledge the support of the QPS review team who worked collaboratively during this process.”
Minister for Police and Emergency Services, Dan Purdie, has also welcomed the Review.
“The Review paints a clear picture that our police have been asked to do too much with too little,” Minister Purdie said.
“After a decade of the blue line thinning, we need more police on the beat to make Queensland safer – that’s what we promised, and that’s what we will deliver.
“I thank the Commissioner, the Independent Advisory Panel, the police unions and everyone from Queensland Police who participated for their work and support of this vital review.”
The implementation of the Review will be led by Acting Deputy Commissioner Mark Kelly, supported by a detailed Implementation Framework with clear timeframes, accountable leadership and measurable outcomes, the Queensland Government said in a statement.
The QPS said it will continue to engage with government and its workforce throughout the reform process and provide regular updates as the organisation moves into this next phase of transformation.
The Commissioner’s 100-Day Review of the Queensland Police Service – Final Report can be read here: https://www.police.qld.gov.au/qps-corporate-documents/reports-and-publications.
