Brett Pointing has been appointed interim commissioner of the Queensland Police Service (QPS), replacing outgoing commissioner Steve Gollschewski.
Mr Pointing, a former QPS deputy commissioner, previously served four decades on the police frontline before taking on the role of deputy commissioner of operations in the Australian Federal Police (AFP). He described the appointment as a “great honour.”
“Like Steve [Gollschewski], I am also very proud to have been part of a police family, with my father and two brothers retiring in senior positions … I also had many uncles and other relatives in the Queensland police,” Mr Pointing said.
He added that his more than 40 years of service in the QPS, combined with his experience in the AFP, has given him a valuable national and international perspective on policing. “Returning to the QPS feels like coming home,” he stated.
Mr. Pointing’s appointment follows a review that found QPS staff were overworked and in necessitate of greater support. He indicated he intends to continue the changes and improvements initiated by Mr. Gollschewski, with a focus on core policing, strengthened governance, and member wellbeing.
He identified reducing car thefts, unlawful entry, and robbery, decreasing road fatalities, addressing domestic and family violence, and combating child exploitation as high priorities.
Police Minister Dan Purdie stated he utilized a provision allowing him to appoint an interim commissioner for a 12-month term without a standard merit-based selection process. Mr. Pointing confirmed he intends to apply for the full-time position when it is advertised.
Expert Insight:
Mr. Purdie and Mr. Gollschewski jointly agreed that Mr. Pointing was the “stand-out” candidate, citing his leadership of a bikie-busting taskforce and his work reforming domestic and family violence responses. Mr. Gollschewski himself stated that Mr. Pointing has “one of the best policing minds in Australia” and expressed confidence in his ability to succeed.
Mr. Pointing will assume his new role on Friday.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is replacing Steve Gollschewski as Queensland Police Commissioner?
Brett Pointing has been appointed as the interim commissioner, replacing Steve Gollschewski.
What is Brett Pointing’s background?
Mr. Pointing is a former QPS deputy commissioner who also served as deputy commissioner of operations in the Australian Federal Police (AFP).
What are some of Mr. Pointing’s priorities?
Mr. Pointing has identified reducing car thefts, unlawful entry and robbery, decreasing road fatalities, addressing domestic and family violence, and combating child exploitation as areas of high priority.
As the QPS transitions under new leadership, what impact will these stated priorities have on policing strategies across Queensland?
