Katarina Carroll: Queensland Police Commissioner drops text bomb in extraordinary fashion

Queensland Police Commissioner Katarina Carroll has said she may not renew her contract. She bizarrely announced the move in a series of text messages to reporters.

It comes after a tumultuous week in which the commissioner faced pressure from within the ranks after a senior Gold Coast police officer resigned.

It was claimed the officer helped catch armed offenders by allowing officers to ram a stolen car.

Queensland's first female police commissioner will meet with Police Minister Mark Ryan on Tuesday to discuss her future.

Ms Carroll sent a text message to the media saying she was 'considering her options'.

'I have not yet had a formal conversation with the minister. Those discussions will begin soon and I will not be allowed to ask for an extension of my contract,” she said.

“I have been from the G20 to the Queensland Fire and Emergency Service at the highest level for over eleven years. I am seriously considering my options and no delay is being asked.'

However, an hour before the text message, Ms Carroll issued a statement saying discussions over her contract would begin 'in due course'.

“Until those discussions take place, I remain firmly focused on tackling crime from every angle to keep our community safe,” she said.

Ms. Carroll's five-year contract, worth $650,000 a year, expires on July 8. She has held the top role since July 2019.

Queensland's 20th police commissioner began her successful police career in 1983 in general duties before becoming a drug squad detective.

Ms. Carroll also worked in crime operations and ethics.

The Commissioner accepted the role of Queensland Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner in December 2014.

Five years later, Mrs. Carroll was offered her current position.

The police commissioner said Queensland Police dealt with 10,000 more people in 2023 compared to 2022 (Queensland Police photo)

The top cop said she has always been open about the challenges and pressures frontline officers face.

“I will always provide candid and fearless advice to government and as commissioner I will continue to advocate for additional resources, system improvements and the support police need to keep Queensland safe,” she said.

Ms Carroll said Queensland Police dealt with 10,000 more people through watchhouses in 2023 compared to 2022 as a result of proactive, high-visibility police operations targeting youth crime.

The Commissioner said the Queensland Police Service is committed to reducing youth crime through robust enforcement and bail activities.

High visibility policing and intervention and prevention programs are also used.

Police Minister Mark Ryan said he would support Ms Carroll in seeking an extension of her contract.