‘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 home on Monday morning. He was 57 years old. Authorities reported the death occurred under non-suspicious circumstances around 9:50 a.m. at Mount Ommaney, in Brisbane’s south-west.

“Police investigations in relation to this matter are ongoing,” a spokesperson said.

Career and Contributions

Leavers led the Queensland Police Union for 15 years, from 2009 to 2024. In August 2024, he became the state’s first Cross-Border Commissioner, supporting communities along Queensland’s borders.

Tributes and Legacy

Premier David Crisafulli said Leavers “earned the respect of Queenslanders for saying it how it was, and always standing up for the police service he loved”.

“He was dedicated, principled and driven to make a difference for this state,” Crisafulli added. “Queenslanders will remember his leadership during some of our state’s most tragic and defining events.”

The Police Federation of Australia described him as a “long-serving and respected leader within the policing community for more than three decades”.

Summary

Ian Leavers, a respected law enforcement leader and advocate for Queensland’s police force, passed away at 57 after decades of service and dedication to his profession.

Brisbane Times — 2025-11-10