‘Never afraid to speak up’: Former police union boss Ian Leavers found dead at home
Former Queensland Police Union president Ian Leavers was found dead at his Brisbane residence on Monday morning. He was 57 years old.
Leavers led the police union for fifteen years, from 2009 to 2024, and in August 2024 became Queensland’s first Cross-Border Commissioner, a role focused on supporting communities along the state’s borders.
Police were called to the scene in Mount Ommaney, in Brisbane’s southwest, around 9:50 a.m. and confirmed that the death was not considered suspicious. Investigations remain ongoing.
“Police investigations in relation to this matter are ongoing,” a police spokesperson said.
Tributes and legacy
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli praised Leavers for his integrity and commitment to public service.
“He earned the respect of Queenslanders for saying it how it was, and always standing up for the police service he loved,” Crisafulli said.
“He was dedicated, principled and driven to make a difference for this state. Queenslanders will remember his leadership during some of our state’s most tragic and defining events.”
The Police Federation of Australia also paid tribute to Leavers, describing him as a valued figure in law enforcement.
The federation said he was a “long-serving and respected leader within the policing community for more than three decades.”
Author’s Summary
Ian Leavers, a respected police union leader and commissioner known for his forthright leadership, was found dead in Brisbane, leaving behind a long legacy of service to Queensland.