BRISBANE, 16 February 2026 – In a major leadership transition for Queensland’s law enforcement, Brett Pointing APM has been officially appointed as the state’s Police Commissioner. The announcement, made today, follows the retirement of Steve Gollschewski and marks a significant return for one of Australia’s most experienced policing figures.
Appointment and Interim Leadership
Pointing has been appointed to lead the Queensland Police Service (QPS) for an initial 12-month term. His return to the top job comes at a critical juncture for the force, which has recently faced internal reviews regarding officer morale and operational fatigue. Pointing is expected to focus on restoring public safety and addressing the “deep fatigue” he previously warned was affecting frontline officers during his time as a consultant for the service.
A Distinguished Career in Law Enforcement
Brett Pointing brings decades of high-level experience to the role, having served across state, federal, and international jurisdictions. His career is defined by high-stakes leadership and strategic overhauls of major police units.
| Role / Milestone | Details |
|---|---|
| Deputy Commissioner, QPS | Appointed in December 2012, overseeing Regional Operations. |
| Bikie Taskforce Leader | Led the high-profile crackdown on outlaw motorcycle gangs following the Broadbeach brawl. |
| AFP Deputy Commissioner | Served as a Deputy Commissioner for the Australian Federal Police. |
| International Command | Commander of the Jakarta Centre for Law Enforcement Cooperation (JCLEC). |
| Private Sector Leadership | Served as CEO of the Australian Live Exporters’ Council (ALEC) starting in 2018. |
| Current Appointment | Queensland Police Commissioner (Effective 16 February 2026). |
Addressing Police Fatigue and Reform
The appointment follows a 100-day review of the QPS conducted in 2025, in which Pointing was a key contributor. During that review, he highlighted that junior officers were frequently burning out within three years due to systemic pressures. His mandate as Commissioner includes implementing recommendations from the July 2025 overhaul report, which aimed to boost morale and modernise policing across the state.
Public and Political Reaction
The Queensland Government has expressed confidence in Pointing’s ability to guide the service through its current transition. Known for his “tough on crime” approach during his tenure leading anti-bikie operations on the Gold Coast, his return is seen by many as a move to stabilise the force while a long-term permanent successor is finalised over the coming year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the new Queensland Police Commissioner?
As of 16 February 2026, Brett Pointing has been appointed as the Queensland Police Commissioner, taking over from the retiring Steve Gollschewski.
What is Brett Pointing’s background?
Pointing is a former Deputy Commissioner of both the Queensland Police Service and the Australian Federal Police. He has also held leadership roles in international law enforcement and the private sector.
How long will Brett Pointing serve in this role?
He has been appointed for an interim period of 12 months to lead the force through a period of reform and recruitment.
What are the main challenges facing the QPS under Pointing?
The primary focus areas include addressing officer burnout, improving retention rates for junior police, and implementing the 65 recommendations from the 2025 QPS review.