Police commissioner on leave after shock cancer diagnosis

Queensland Police Commissioner Steve Gollschewski has stepped away from his duties after a shock cancer diagnosis.

The Queensland Police Service confirmed the news on Friday afternoon, through a brief statement from its media unit.

“Commissioner Steve Gollschewski has advised he will be taking immediate leave due to an unexpected cancer diagnosis,” the statement said.

Queensland Commissioner Steve Gollschewski. Credit: Getty

Deputy Commissioner Shane Chelepy will act as commissioner from Saturday, police said, to ensure continuity of leadership.

“The Commissioner requests privacy at this time and appreciates the support of his colleagues and the community,” police said in the statement.

Premier David Crisafulli said Gollschewski had the “full support” of the state government as he faced his health challenge.

“Right now, his focus must be on his health and his family,” he said.

“But on behalf of Queensland, I want to thank him for his outstanding contribution to the state, and wish him all the best on his journey ahead.”

Police Minister Dan Purdie said he wished Gollschewski a full and speedy recovery.

Deputy Commissioner Shane Chelepy will take the top job in an acting capacity from Saturday

“I welcome the appointment of Deputy Commissioner Shane Chelepy, who will step into the role of Acting Commissioner ... ensuring strong and stable leadership continues,” he said.

Opposition Leader Steven Miles, who as premier appointed Gollschewski commissioner last April, said he was devastated to hear of the diagnosis.

“You were with Queensland during our toughest times, and now we are with you mate,” Miles said, addressing the commissioner.

Gollschewski was a familiar face to Queenslanders during the daily COVID-19 briefings that featured in the early period of the pandemic.

He became acting commissioner in March last year and was officially appointed to the role in April 2024.

With more than four decades of policing experience, Gollschewski led the security operation for the 2018 Commonwealth Games and was also Queensland Disaster Co-ordinator during several floods and cyclones.