Queensland’s policing system is designed to help residents report crimes and access police services efficiently. Policelink and Queensland Police Stations play different but complementary roles in this process.
Understanding when to call Policelink (131 444) and when to visit a police station ensures that emergency services aren’t overwhelmed. Policelink is for non-urgent matters like reporting stolen property or making general inquiries, while police stations handle serious incidents requiring in-person statements or urgent investigations.
This guide covers everything you need to know—from when to contact Policelink to when to visit or contact a Queensland police station. It also includes a list of police stations and their contact details for easy reference.
What is Policelink?
Policelink is the Queensland Police Service (QPS) contact centre for non-urgent police matters. It operates 24/7 and allows residents to report crimes, lodge complaints, and seek police assistance without calling emergency services.
The Policelink hotline (131 444) is the primary number for reporting incidents that do not require an immediate police response.
Policelink operates under Queensland’s criminal law framework, including the Police Powers and Responsibilities Act 2000 (Qld), ensuring that all reports are handled in accordance with legal and investigative procedures. It also supports Legal Aid Queensland and community legal centres by directing individuals to appropriate legal or government agencies when necessary.
Services You Can Access Through Policelink
Policelink offers various services to help Queensland residents handle police matters efficiently. Whether reporting an incident or seeking general police guidance, here’s what you can do through Policelink:
- Report non-urgent crimes – Theft, fraud, lost property, vandalism, and minor traffic offences.
- Lodge an official complaint – File a complaint about police misconduct or raise an integrity matter.
- Request a criminal history check – Obtain criminal history records, traffic history, or person history reports.
- Submit reports online – Use the Policelink online portal or mobile app to file reports digitally.
- General inquiries – Ask about crime reports, ongoing investigations, or legal procedures.
- Update an existing police report – Provide new details on a previously reported crime.
How Policelink Helps Reduce Emergency Call Volume
Policelink plays a crucial role in ensuring that 000 remains available for life-threatening emergencies. By redirecting non-urgent reports to 131 444, Policelink prevents unnecessary emergency calls, allowing emergency service workers to focus on critical situations.
Additionally, its online reporting system reduces the need for in-person visits to Queensland Police Service Headquarters and local stations, improving service delivery priorities and response times across the state.
When to Use Policelink vs. Queensland Police Stations
Knowing whether to call Policelink or visit a Queensland police station can make all the difference in how quickly and effectively your matter is handled. Here’s a breakdown of when to use each service.
When to Call Policelink (131 444)
Call Policelink for:
- Reporting non-urgent crimes – stolen bikes, vandalised property, or minor fraud.
- General inquiries – asking about criminal history records, police procedures, or crime reports.
- Filing reports online – through the Policelink website or mobile app.
When to Visit a Queensland Police Station
You should go to a police station when:
- Making a formal statement – for legal proceedings, indictable offences, or abuse reports.
- Reporting a serious crime in person – particularly family violence matters or contravention proceedings.
- Needing a face-to-face discussion – with an officer about ongoing investigations.
When to Call 000 Instead
Only call 000 for:
- Life-threatening emergencies – domestic violence, major accidents, or medical crises.
- Active crimes in progress – assault, break-ins, or dangerous behaviour.
- Serious criminal offences – including armed robbery or sexual violence.
List of Queensland Police Stations (Major Hubs)
Queensland is home to hundreds of police stations, ranging from small regional outposts to major metropolitan hubs. Below is a list of some of the largest and most active police stations including their contact details across the state, serving as key operational centres for law enforcement and public safety.
Note: Operating hours may vary, so it’s best to call ahead for non-urgent visits. For immediate police assistance in an emergency, always dial 000.
Queensland Police Service Headquarters
Address: 200 Roma St, Brisbane City QLD 4000
Phone: (07) 3364 3010
Brisbane Region (or under Brisbane North or South Jurisdiction)
- Brisbane City Police Station
Address: 16 Mary St, Brisbane City QLD 4000
Phone: (07) 3258 2582
- Fortitude Valley Police Station
Address: Cnr Brookes St and Wickham St, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006
Phone: (07) 3737 5757
- South Bank Police Station
Address: 3 Glenelg St, South Brisbane, 4101
Phone: (07) 3849 3344 - Acacia Ridge Police Station
Address: 7 Chardean St, Acacia Ridge, 4110
Phone: (07) 3014 3200 - Albany Creek Police Station
Address: 179 Old Northern Rd, Albany Creek QLD 4035
Phone: (07) 3264 0599
Gold Coast Region
- Southport Police Station
Address: 96 Scarborough St, Southport QLD 4215
Phone: (07) 5571 4222
- Surfers Paradise Police Station
Address: 23 Orchid Ave, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217
Phone: (07) 5657 6888
- Coomera Police Station
Address: 11 De Barnett St, Coomera QLD 4209
Phone: (07) 5519 5555
Sunshine Coast Region
- Maroochydore Police Station
Address: 13 Cornmeal Parade, Maroochydore QLD 4558
Phone: (07) 5475 2444
- Caloundra Police Station
Address: 1 Gregson Pl, Caloundra QLD 4551
Phone: (07) 5439 4444
Far North Queensland Region
- Cairns Police Station
Address: 5 Sheridan St, Cairns City QLD 4870
Phone: (07) 4030 7000
- Townsville Police Station
Address: 134 Stanley St, Townsville QLD 4810
Phone: (07) 4759 9777
Central Queensland Region
- Rockhampton Police Station
Address: 161 Bolsover St, Rockhampton QLD 4700
Phone: (07) 4932 3500
- Mackay Police Station
Address: 57-59 Sydney St, Mackay QLD 4740
Phone: (07) 4968 3444
Sourthern Queensland Region
- Toowoomba Police Station
Address: 161 Hume St, Toowoomba City QLD 4350
Phone: (07) 4631 6333 - Ipswich Police Station
Address: 37 Ellenborough St, Ipswich QLD 4305
Phone: (07) 3437 2777
This is not a complete list of all Queensland police stations. For a full directory, visit the Queensland Police Service website or use Google Maps to find your nearest station.
Talk to VM Family Law
Dealing with police matters can sometimes involve legal issues, especially in cases of domestic violence, family disputes, or police complaints. Whether you need legal advice after filing a report or assistance with a police-related legal matter, VM Family Law is here to help.
How VM Family Law Can Assist You:
- Support for Domestic Violence Matters – Assistance with protection orders and legal guidance if you’ve reported family violence to the police.
- Legal Help with Police Report –Help with preparing and submitting a police report for a crime, incident and other relevant concerns, ensuring it is properly documented and follows the correct legal process.
- Representation in Court – Guidance through criminal proceedings, contravention proceedings, or court-related matters involving police reports.
- Advice on Child Safety Issues – Help navigating cases involving Child Safety Service Centres or child protection reports made to police.
If you’re facing a legal matter needing police assistance, don’t navigate it alone. Call VM Family Law at (07) 3447 8966 or visit vmfamilylaw.com.au for expert legal support today.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Report a Crime Anonymously?
Yes. You can file an anonymous complaint about police misconduct, abuse reports, or criminal behaviour through Policelink or Crime Stoppers Queensland.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Response from Policelink?
Response times vary, but online and phone reports are typically processed within a few days unless an ongoing investigation is required.
Are Queensland Police Stations Open 24/7?
Most major stations operate 24/7, but some smaller or regional stations have limited hours.
Can I Make a Report on Behalf of Someone Else?
Yes, but you may need written consent unless reporting domestic violence, child abuse, or criminal proceedings.
How Do I Obtain a Criminal History Check in Queensland?
You can request a criminal history check through Queensland Police by submitting a formal application and paying a processing fee.
Can I Report Past Crimes to Policelink?
Yes. Historical matters, such as old traffic history or unresolved criminal offences, can be reported online or in person.
What If My Complaint Involves a Police Officer?
You can lodge a complaint about police through the Queensland Police Service or Legal Aid Queensland if the issue involves misconduct or an integrity matter.
How do I contact Policelink in Queensland?
You can contact Policelink by calling 131 444 for non-urgent police matters. You can also report incidents online through the Policelink website or use the Policelink mobile app.
How to contact local police for non-emergencies?
For non-emergency police assistance, call 131 444 to reach Policelink or visit your nearest Queensland Police Station. To find a local station, use the Queensland Police Service website or Google Maps.
Final Thoughts
Knowing when to call Policelink or visit a Queensland Police Station can help you get the right assistance without unnecessary stress. Whether you’re reporting a non-urgent crime, filing a formal statement, or seeking legal support, understanding how these services work makes the process smoother.
If your situation involves family violence, child safety, or a legal matter connected to a police report, getting professional advice can make all the difference. VM Family Law is here to provide support and guidance. Call 07 3447 8966 today to book your free consultation and get the help you need.
