Queensland is to spend more than $14 million on buying 14,000 hand guns from Austria in a statewide upgrade.
The state government says the Glock 45 Generation 6 pistol will be issued to officers by the end of the year.
The Glocks will replace the 28-yead-old handguns in service that were first issued in 1998. The company’s website says they have a 17-round magazine with three automatic, mechanical safeties.
The govt has already spent more than $147.9m on 6546 new Taser 10s stun guns, 7826 body cameras, 12,500 first aid kits and 1400 tyre deflation devices.
Police Minister Dan Purdie says the decision is about giving police “the tools they need on the frontline”.
“Our government has a laser like focus on restoring safety where you live, which is why we are delivering stronger laws, more police, effective early intervention and rehabilitation,” he says.
QUEENSLAND GOVT CLAIMS SUCCESS
He claims that new police data shows victim numbers are down 9.6% statewide as a result of their tougher approach to youth crime; this includes a 19.5% reduction in break-ins, a 17.2% drop in robberies and a 5% reduction in stolen cars.
Deputy Police Commissioner Mark Kelly says that the decision will give officers contemporary operational equipment.
“The Queensland Police Service is the first policing jurisdiction in the country to upgrade its entire handgun fleet to the modern 9mm Glock 45 Generation 6,” he says.
“For our police, this means improved handling, control and accuracy, giving officers greater confidence in a high-risk operational environment.
“While the use of force is always a last resort, it is critical for our police to have the best available equipment to protect the community and safely resolve situations.”
NEW GRADUATES
The decision also follows the recent graduation of 47 constables in Townsville.
The constables will be deployed across Queensland with 17 for Townsville District and 12 to the Far North.
The graduation comes weeks after the 2026-27 state budget locked in $96m for new police facilities at Kirwan including a new academy and upgraded dog squad facilities.
CONSTABLE ALLOCATIONS: North Brisbane 5, South Brisbane 5, Mackay/Whitsunday 1 Far North 12, Mt Isa 2, Townsville 17, Gold Coast 3, Logan 2.
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