Born: 1963 (Innisfail, Queensland)
Biography:
Katarina Ruzh Carroll (nee Bošnjak) APM, born on November 17, 1963, in Innisfail, Queensland, is an Australian police officer who has made a significant impact on law enforcement in Queensland. She is currently serving as the Commissioner of the Queensland Police Service (QPS), becoming the first female commissioner in the history of the organization.
Katarina Carroll was born to Ivan and Antonia Bošnjak, who were Bosnian Croat immigrants from Ljubuški and Trebižat, Bosnia and Herzegovina. She grew up on a tobacco farm in Innot Hot Springs, a small rural town in Queensland. Raised in a hardworking and humble environment, Carroll learned the value of perseverance and determination from an early age.
Carroll’s educational journey started at Mount Garnet State School, and later, she boarded at Mount St Bernard College in Herberton. She displayed a zest for knowledge and an inherent desire to make a difference in her community. Following her secondary education, Carroll pursued an associate diploma in community welfare at James Cook University in Townsville. Recognizing her potential, she continued her academic pursuits and obtained a Bachelor of Arts in criminology and criminal justice from Griffith University.
In 1983, Katarina Carroll joined the Queensland Police Service, beginning her illustrious career in law enforcement. She started her journey in general duties, gradually honing her skills and expertise. Throughout her career, Carroll served in various roles, including detective in the drug squad, crime operations, and ethical standards, showcasing her versatility and adaptability.
Carroll’s dedication and commitment to duty were recognized when she was awarded the Australian Police Medal in the 2008 Australia Day Honours. This prestigious award acknowledged her exceptional service and contribution to the field of law enforcement. Her accomplishments continued to grow, and in 2014, Carroll played a pivotal role as the Operations Commander for the G20 summit held in Brisbane, demonstrating her leadership skills and ability to handle high-pressure situations.
In December 2014, Katarina Carroll took on a new challenge and joined the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) as the acting commissioner. Her appointment was officially confirmed on August 1, 2015, making her the Commissioner of the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services. Carroll’s strategic vision and decisive leadership steered the organization towards greater efficiency and effectiveness.
On April 23, 2019, it was announced by Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk that Katarina Carroll would succeed Ian Stewart as the Commissioner of the Queensland Police upon his retirement in July 2019. On July 8, 2019, Carroll was officially appointed as the Commissioner of the Queensland Police Service, assuming the highest-ranking position within the organization.
Katarina Carroll’s contributions to public service and her dedication to upholding the law have garnered widespread recognition. In October 2019, she was honored as one of The Australian Financial Review’s 100 Women of Influence in the Public Policy category, underscoring her impact and influence in shaping policy and making a positive difference.
Throughout her career, Carroll has been decorated with numerous awards and honors, reflecting her commitment and exceptional service. She proudly wears the Australian Police Medal (APM), the National Emergency Medal, the National Police Service Medal, the National Medal, the Queensland Police Meritorious Service Medal, the Queensland Police Exemplary Conduct Medal (with category clasp), the Queensland Police Service Medal (with relevant years of service clasp), the G20 Citation, the Commonwealth Games Citation, and the 2010-2011 Queensland Flood and Cyclone Citation.
Katarina Carroll’s remarkable journey from a small rural town to becoming the first female Commissioner of the Queensland Police Service serves as an inspiration to aspiring law enforcement officers and women in general. Her dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment to serving the public have left an indelible mark on the history of Queensland, making her an influential figure in women’s history.
Awards:
– Australian Police Medal (APM)
– National Emergency Medal
– National Police Service Medal
– National Medal
– Queensland Police Meritorious Service Medal
– Queensland Police Exemplary Conduct Medal (with category clasp)
– Queensland Police Service Medal (with relevant years of service clasp)
– G20 Citation
– Commonwealth Games Citation
– 2010-2011 Queensland Flood and Cyclone Citation
– QPS 150 Years Citation