The Queensland Police Service (QPS) welcomed thirteen newly appointed Protective Services Officers (PSOs) following their graduation from the QPS Academy in Brisbane today.
PSOs are integral members of the Protective Services Group (PSG) within the QPS, who ensure the safety and security of Queensland Government buildings, assets and people, whilst working closely with Queensland police officers.
Acting Superintendent Trevor Gould congratulated the graduates as they embark on their journeys as Queensland’s newest Protective Services Officers.
“Our new PSOs bring a wealth of experience and diverse backgrounds, including defence, retail, hospitality, education, and skilled trades, providing an invaluable boost to the capabilities of the Protective Services Group,” he said.
“I wish each of them the best and thank them for their dedication to a career of service, keeping Queensland safe.”
Among PSG’s newest Protective Services Officers is PSO Kevin Dolan, who, after following a life of service in the military, decided to focus on serving his local community.
“I have been fortunate to deploy on operations to many places in a military capacity through both the UK Military and Australian Defence Force,” said PSO Dolan.
“As a PSO, I look forward to serving my community in Townsville in a role that allows me to engage with people daily in a different and meaningful way.”
Inspired by his grandfather’s long career as a police officer in Iran, PSO Alirezar Salimifar has been passionate about pursuing a law enforcement career from a young age.
“My desire to contribute to the public safety of the community I value so dearly has been my motivating factor for wanting to become a PSO; a role where I can both give back and feel fulfilled,” PSO Salimifar said.
He looks forward to embracing the endless opportunities PSG offers for career progression, as he takes up his new role in the Brisbane Region.
During their comprehensive seven-week, full-time training program, PSO recruits earn a training salary to support them through their studies.
The PSO training program covers ethics and integrity, legislation relevant to their duties, operational skills and tactics, communication training surrounding de-escalation of incidents and communication with clients.
These 13 new PSOs take up their roles in Brisbane, Ipswich, Gold Coast, Townsville and Caboolture to help keep these communities safe.
PSG offers fulfilling and diverse opportunities, job security, and extensive prospects for career growth. To learn more about a career as a Protective Services Officer, register to attend the QPS Open Day, Saturday, July 20, to gain an insight into the rewarding career paths available with the PSG.