Smart solution to secure jobs and enhance safety

Police Minister Jo-Ann Miller confirmed today that the Ipswich Police Communications Centre will remain open with all jobs there guaranteed.

Minister Miller said the centre would soon be fitted out with a state-of-the-art wireless network to enhance safety for the community and provide job security for police and civilian staff at the centre.

“Ageing technology at the Yamanto centre will be upgraded with the new government wireless network, which is expected to be operational in early 2016.

 “This means the centre will be best-placed to protect the community in emergencies, such as floods, fires and severe storms through the summer months.

 “These changes will have no effect on the ability of staff to monitor the Council’s CCTV cameras and dispatch local crews to any incidents. That’s the case now, and it will continue to be the case in the future.

 “After the Premier visited the centre, talked to staff and listened to their concerns, we decided that these jobs must stay in Ipswich.”

 Minister Miller said today’s outcome provided a six-month window of opportunity for the Queensland Police Service to work closely with all parties, including staff and the unions, to determine the ongoing role of the centre.

“Police and civilian staff at the Ipswich PCC do a magnificent job and I commend them for their ongoing commitment to keeping the community safe.

 “I thank everyone who has taken part in the consultation process. By working together and taking all concerns on board, we are best-placed to achieve an outcome that is in everyone’s best interests.”

 Member for Ipswich Jennifer Howard said today’s decision was good news for Ipswich.

 “We will be the beneficiaries of smarter, more efficient technology that will serve the needs of the local community well into the future.”

 Member for Ipswich West Jim Madden thanked the Premier, Minister Miller and Commissioner Stewart for their commitment to Ipswich.

 “It’s a welcome outcome and it couldn’t have come at a better time, when jobs and job security are more important than ever.”

Media contact: 0438 696 185