The Queensland Police Service confirmed the news on Friday afternoon, through a brief statement from its media unit.
The Queensland Police Service confirmed the news on Friday afternoon, through a brief statement from its media unit.
- Updated
- National
- Queensland
- Queensland Police
By Cameron Atfield
February 28, 2025 — 4.28pm
Queensland Police Commissioner Steve Gollschewski has stepped away from his duties after a shock cancer diagnosis.
The Queensland Police Service confirmed the news on Friday afternoon, through a brief statement from its media unit.
“Commissioner Steve Gollschewski has advised he will be taking immediate leave due to an unexpected cancer diagnosis,” the statement said.
Deputy Commissioner Shane Chelepy will act as commissioner from Saturday, police said, to ensure continuity of leadership.
“The Commissioner requests privacy at this time and appreciates the support of his colleagues and the community,” police said in the statement.
Premier David Crisafulli said Gollschewski had the “full support” of the state government as he faced his health challenge.
“Right now, his focus must be on his health and his family,” he said.
“But on behalf of Queensland, I want to thank him for his outstanding contribution to the state, and wish him all the best on his journey ahead.”
Police Minister Dan Purdie said he wished Gollschewski a full and speedy recovery.
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“I welcome the appointment of Deputy Commissioner Shane Chelepy, who will step into the role of Acting Commissioner … ensuring strong and stable leadership continues,” he said.
Gollschewski was a familiar face to Queenslanders during the daily COVID-19 briefings during the early period of the pandemic.
He became acting commissioner in March last year and was officially appointed to the role in April 2024.
With more than four decades of policing experience, Gollschewski led the security operation for the 2018 Commonwealth Games and was also Queensland Disaster Co-ordinator during several floods and cyclones.
Cameron Atfield is a journalist at Brisbane Times.Connect via Facebook or email.
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