Queensland’s first Japanese Police Liaison Officer appointed

Queensland’s first Japanese Police Liaison Officer has been appointed in Cairns.

Police Minister Judy Spence and Police Commissioner Bob Atkinson today announced the appointment of Mrs Keiko Berry as a liaison officer.

Ms Spence said: “This will strengthen the relationship between the Queensland Police Service and the Japanese community in Far North Queensland.

“Across Queensland police liaison officers (PLOs) facilitate links between the Police Service and multicultural communities by building trust, helping to reduce and prevent crime and diverting people from the criminal justice system.

“Police officers in Cairns will gain a lot from the appointment of Mrs Berry in terms of understanding cultural issues but in return the Japanese community will improve their understanding of Queensland and Commonwealth laws, crime prevention and personal safety, and a range of other important issues,” Ms Spence said.

Police Commissioner Bob Atkinson said Mrs Berry has over 10 years experience in the tourism industry of Far North Queensland and brings to the position a wealth of knowledge of the Japanese culture.

“She will establish a strong liaison between the members of the Japanese community, business representatives and police, with a particular focus on crime prevention.

“As with the many police liaison officers engaged by the Queensland Police Service, Mrs Berry will be integral in ensuring we are servicing the community of Queensland effectively,” Commissioner Atkinson said.

During 2006-07, the PLO scheme, which has been operating for over 10 years, included 146 positions throughout the State.

The majority of PLOs are from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. However, the program also includes PLOs from Chinese, Vietnamese, Croatian, Samoan, Sudanese, Fijian Indian and Muslim backgrounds.

Media contacts:

Minister Spence’s office: Ph: 3239 6218

Police Media: Ph. 3015 2444