\’Always Stood Up For The Police He Loved\’: Tributes to Ian Leavers Detail Relentless Support for QPS Frontline

The death of former Queensland Police Union (QPU) President Ian Leavers has prompted an outpouring of highly personal tributes, emphasizing his fierce loyalty and profound dedication to the welfare of frontline police officers and their families.

Leavers, who served as QPU President from 2009 to 2024, was found deceased at his Mount Ommaney home. Police have confirmed his passing is not suspicious.

Former Opposition Leader Peter Dutton, who previously served with the Queensland Police Service, shared a poignant anecdote illustrating Leavers\’ character, noting that this display of support earned him \”enormous respect.\”

Dutton recalled that Leavers would \”break every rule in the Traffic Act\” to get to the scene of a police shooting in order to provide comfort to the family of the deceased officer.

\”In every conversation he was a fierce advocate for police officers. He led a distinguished police career and he was loyal to his friends,\” Dutton wrote. \”May his passing remind us to do even more to look out for a mate or someone in need.\”

Premier David Crisafulli added that Leavers \”earned the respect of Queenslanders for saying it how it was, and always standing up for the Police Service he loved.\”

Police Commissioner Steve Gollshewski confirmed Leavers\’ commitment translated into tangible results: \”Ian\’s leadership was defined by his relentless support for the workforce, with the introduction of significant policy improvements, and better conditions and entitlements for members.\”

Leavers was recently appointed Queensland\’s first Cross-Border Commissioner before his passing.