What’s it like to train like a Queensland police officer? A group of Brisbane teens found out as they stepped into one of the state’s most advanced police training centres.
Real-world Learning In A Real Police Setting
In May 2025, Brisbane students took part in a Queensland Police Service work experience program. They visited the $52.8 million Bob Atkinson Operational Capabilities Centre at Wacol, used by thousands of officers and recruits each year. The Centre includes a mock village and train platform to simulate real emergencies. It gives trainees practical experience in realistic settings.
The tour also took in the Centre’s indoor live-fire ranges and training zones where officers rehearse responses to high-risk incidents. These specialist spaces are used to build skills in areas like decision-making, de-escalation, and tactical operations.
More Than A School Visit
During the week, students explored QPS units including the Dog Squad, Water Police and Road Policing Command. They took part in hands-on activities like fingerprinting and crime scene analysis.
These sessions showed how real investigations are carried out across different areas of policing. Officers also shared their career paths, giving students insight into the variety of roles and how to get started.
Connecting Police With The Next Generation
The program also aimed to strengthen community ties by showing students the real work of police and encouraging open engagement. It gave young people a clearer view of how police serve the public, while giving officers a chance to connect with future generations.
The Bob Atkinson Centre supports this mission by hosting not only police training, but also joint exercises with emergency services and defence. Built by the Department of Housing and Public Works, it equips Queensland’s responders with the tools and spaces needed for complex, real-world scenarios.
Named For A Leader In Policing
The Centre is named after Bob Atkinson, a former Queensland Police Commissioner who served from 2000 to 2012. His leadership focused on training, accountability and improving the public’s trust in police.
Part of the facility includes the refurbished Jacaranda House, a heritage-listed building adapted for modern training needs. With a team of 121 staff and specialist instructors, the Centre ensures every officer receives consistent and high-quality training.
Published 20-May-2025
