Tributes flow after COVID border boss dies suddenly

Tributes Flow After Sudden Death of Ian Leavers

Tributes are being paid to Queensland’s Cross Border Commissioner and former police union leader Ian Leavers, who passed away suddenly at the age of 58. Known for his decades of service in law enforcement and his advocacy for police officers, Leavers is remembered as a prominent and influential figure in Queensland.

Leadership and Legacy

For many years, Leavers served as president of the Queensland Police Union, where he defended the interests of officers and promoted safer and better-supported workplaces. His leadership continued as Queensland’s first Cross Border Commissioner, where he became a strong voice for communities and businesses along the state’s borders during the difficult recovery period after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Tributes from Queensland Leaders

“Queenslanders will remember his leadership during some of our state’s most tragic and defining events,” said Premier David Crisafulli. “As Queensland’s first Cross-Border Commissioner, Mr Leavers has been a strong voice for the challenges facing communities and businesses along the State’s borders during a critical stage of rebuilding following the impact of the COVID pandemic.”

“He left a strong contribution first as a member of the Queensland Police and later as President of the Queensland Police Union. He championed safer working environments for police and advocated for them to be well-resourced and supported,” Crisafulli added.

Condolences to Family and Colleagues

On behalf of all Queenslanders, Premier Crisafulli extended sincere condolences to Leavers’s family, friends, and colleagues, acknowledging his lifelong commitment to the police service and to the people of Queensland.

Author’s Summary

Ian Leavers is remembered as a respected police advocate and public servant whose leadership profoundly shaped Queensland’s law enforcement and border community support.

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The Nightly The Nightly — 2025-11-10