Crime Prevention and the LGBT Community

In 1997 the Queensland Police Service responded to concerns from the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) community regarding equitable services for crime prevention issues. A considerable degree of distrust of police existed within LGBT communities, and in response to this call the QPS developed the LGBT unit, aimed at providing an accessible, equitable and professional policing response and committed to keeping our community safe within an environment which is free of crime, violence, fear or discrimination.

Coming under the banner of the Crime Prevention Unit, the LGBT Unit provides training and awareness programs to voluntary LGBT Liaison Officers. The role is part-time, in conjunction with normal duties and responsibilities and is open to both Police officers and staff members of the QPS. There are now over 140 LGBT liaison officer's state wide.

A training and awareness program ensures officers receive information about the many issues impacting on the LGBT community. Liaison officers receive training in legislation and policy, which will assist them in providing professional advice, instigate appropriate actions and ensure that the full range of client services offered by the QPS are provided through the liaison process.

On Tuesday the 28 October 2003, the QPS Commissioner attended a forum at the Concord Hotel at the Gold Coast. About fifty members of the LGBT Community and Police LGBT Liaison officers had the opportunity to ask some pertinent questions regarding police, policy and the community. For more information on this program contact the LGBT State Coordinator on 3234 2111.