Queensland police recognised at excellence in policing awards

The Australasian Council of Women and Policing’s (ACWAP) Awards for Excellence in Policing are an opportunity to publicly acknowledge and reward the achievements of women and men who are contributing to improving policing and law enforcement and ensuring policing services are enhanced for women.

Among the award recipients were two Queensland Police Service members who received highly commended acknowledgments demonstrating their commitment to improving policing.


Acting Superintendent Ben Martain was awarded highly commended in the Champion of Change Award acknowledging his extensive work and commitment to improving policing for women.

This award acknowledges the importance of men’s role in increasing women’s representation in leadership within policing and how policing is delivered to women in the community. Areas of particular focus are how individuals have achieved a real change in workplace culture and mindset and empowered both women and men within law enforcement to advance gender equality and improve policing for women.


Sergeant Kate Maxwell was named highly commended in the Integrity and Courage Award category which acknowledges the courage required to make the community and law enforcement better for everyone.

This award recognises more than just physical bravery but seeks to recognise the courage and integrity of the circumstances where someone has the time to think about the implications of their actions and the impact those actions will have on their career, their family and themselves. It includes resolving conflict or situations that require challenging established beliefs or practices and protecting others who are negatively affected by unlawful, dangerous discriminatory or unethical practices or events.

Congratulations to all award winners on their outstanding achievements.

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