Griffith alumnus makes policing history

Katarina Carroll receives her Outstanding Alumnus Award from Professor Paul Mazerolle in 2018

Queensland has its first female Police Commissioner, and she is a proud Griffith graduate who was the recipient of the university’s inaugural Outstanding Alumnus Award in 2018.

Commissioner-elect Katarina Carroll APM is the first woman to fill the position in the Queensland Police Service’s 159-year history.

Graduating from the police academy in 1983, Katarina began her career ‘on the beat’ before becoming a detective, with roles in the drugs squad, crime operations and ethical standards.

A trailblazing role model for women in the male-dominated police and fire services, Katarina became Australia’s first female fire commissioner in 2015 after spending time as Police Assistant Commissioner in 2010 and responsible for security at the 2014 G20 Summit in Brisbane.

With a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and Criminal Justice Studies (1996) and an Executive Master of Public Administration, Katarina says during her time at Griffith and whilst in policing and emergency services there has been extraordinary change in the industry.

“There is a lot more emphasis on educational qualifications and career development, and my advice always to young people is never let those opportunities pass, as you just never know where they can take you,” the mother of two said.

Arts, Education and Law Pro Vice Chancellor Professor Paul Mazerolle says Katarina’s rise to the state’s top policing job is a proud moment for her and Griffith’s School of Criminology.

“This is a wonderful reflection of Katarina as a leader and all of the Griffith community is delighted she’s made history for this role in Queensland,” Professor Mazerolle said.

Katarina will commence in the role as Police Commissioner in July.