The Queensland Police Service is mourning the loss of former Commissioner of Police Steve Gollschewski AO APM, who lost his courageous battle with cancer on Friday.
Acting Commissioner of Police Brett Pointing described Steve was a strategic and visionary leader, respected for his courage, professionalism and unwavering commitment to community safety.
“Throughout his distinguished career, Steve was a remarkable strategist and contemporary leader, disciplined in his thinking, measured in his decisions and guided by deeply held personal values,” Acting Commissioner Pointing said.
“Steve was admired by many for his judgement, foresight and deep understanding of policing, and his impact will continue to be felt across Queensland, nationally and internationally for many years to come.
“He will be remembered as an exceptional leader who used insight and innovation to strengthen the organisation and help keep the community safe.
“Steve’s legacy of service, courage, integrity and dedication will be remembered with great respect and gratitude by the many people and communities influenced by him.”
With a career spanning more than 46 years, former Commissioner Gollschewski was the third longest serving police officer in QPS’ history.
“The QPS extends its sincerest condolences to Steve’s family, friends, colleagues and all who knew him during this difficult time.”
Former Commissioner Gollschewski was appointed Queensland’s 21st Police Commissioner on 22 April 2024 and retired on 20 February 2026.
Premier of Queensland, David Crisafulli said Mr Gollschewski had devoted his life to the Queensland Police Service.
“Queenslanders will remember his exemplary leadership, during some of the State’s most difficult challenges,” the Premier said.
“He spent more than four decades serving with remarkable dedication and integrity, leaving behind a legacy of outstanding contribution to policing and community safety.
“On behalf of all Queensland, we extend our deepest condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time.”
Minister for Police and Emergency Services, Dan Purdie said Mr Gollschewski will be remembered as one of Australia’s most respected police leaders – a colleague, friend and mentor to many – who was instrumental and relentless in his pursuit to reform the QPS and make Queensland safer.
“My thoughts are with the loved ones of former Police Commissioner Steve Gollschewski AO APM following the news of his tragic passing,” said Mr Purdie.
“Mr Gollschewski dedicated his life to Queenslanders with more than 46 years of service, having joined the then-Queensland Police Force in 1980 and is currently the third longest serving police officer in the QPS’ history.
“On behalf of the Crisafulli Government, I extend my heartfelt condolences to his wife Rebecca and his children,” he said.
