Selection and training of staff
Under the witness protection legislation, we must be ready to provide immediate protection to people under threat anywhere in Queensland, and sometimes beyond. This means maintaining a highly responsive and mobile professional capability at all times.
The Chairperson of the CMC appoints witness protection officers. Specialised selection and training are vital because witness protection makes major psychological demands on both the protectors and those protected.
Applicants must have passed a psychological test for suitability and have completed relevant training. For the most part, witness protection officers are sworn police officers.
Training
Witness protection officers are trained in:
- legislation
- policy and procedures
- management of court security
- use of firearms and tactics
- driving
- physical fitness
- advances in technology used by terrorists and criminals.
In conjunction with the Queensland Police Academy, we have developed the first accredited witness protection course in Australasia. It has been ratified by the Queensland Department of Education and Training as an Advanced Diploma in Public Safety (Witness Protection). The Diploma is based on the national competencies for witness protection officers.
