Recruitment drive on with Lockyer Valley Correctional Centre set to open in the coming months
Hundreds of well-paying government jobs are on offer as Queensland Correctional Services prepares to open the state’s largest jail, just a short drive from Brisbane and Toowoomba.
Regional News
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The latest crop of Toowoomba and Darling Downs prison officers graduated into frontline duty this week, with many set to be deployed to the expanded Lockyer Valley Correctional Centre.
They completed a 10-week Custodial Officer Entry program, held in Toowoomba for the first time
When the new centre is commissioned, it will be staffed by about 800 corrections employees.
Led by experienced instructors from the Queensland Corrective Services Academy, the entry program included training in conflict management, tactical skills and Queensland Corrective Services policies and legislation to assist with prisoner rehabilitation.
Lockyer Valley Regional Council Mayor Tanya Milligan congratulated the new officers on their achievement.
“I have always said the Lockyer Valley Correctional Centre will result in local jobs and supply opportunities for local businesses, and it’s great to see this come to fruition,” she said.
“When the time comes for you to be based in our region, know that we welcome you with open arms and look forward to you experiencing the delights of our beautiful region.”
When complete, the expanding prison will be the largest in Queensland, with more than 1500 beds.
The expansion cost about $885 million and is set to be complete by the end of 2024.
The facility features about 30,000 cubic metres of concrete, 11km of fencing, 34km of razor wire and more than 1800 doors.
Queensland Corrective Services is actively recruiting in the Lockyer Valley for good, public safety-focused jobs and careers, including occupational therapists, social workers, psychologists, education and program delivery officers as well as administration officers.
“We are incredibly proud of today’s group of graduates for their commitment and service to frontline public safety,” Lockyer Valley Correctional Centre Chief Superintendent Bernie Kruhse said.
“Working in corrections can be challenging, but also incredibly rewarding and our officers are equipped with the highest level of training, skills and support to perform their roles safely and effectively.
“Our recruits come from all walks of life and previous backgrounds, bringing real world experience to their roles.
“Problem solving, listening and helping people change their behaviour are all attributes that make a great custodial correctional officer.”
Originally published as Recruitment drive on with Lockyer Valley Correctional Centre set to open in the coming months
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