Commissioner Karl O’Callaghan

PhD Curtin APM
Adjunct Professor (Sellenger Centre)

Background

Police Commissioner Karl O’Callaghan's academic studies have focused on police reform, culture and ethics.  He holds a PhD, Bachelor of Education and Bachelor of Arts (Education) and in 1997, was awarded a Churchill Fellowship.  This allowed him to complete an international study of the development of ethics and professional standards education in police services.

Prior to his appointment as Commissioner in 2004, Mr. O’Callaghan ran operational police districts in both metropolitan and country areas and currently, is transitioning the WA Police through a large-scale cultural reform process.  Improving customer service at all levels, developing aspirant female leaders within the Police and building stronger relationships with stakeholders and the community, are all major priorities for him.

Commissioner O’Callaghan is a regular keynote speaker at local, national and international conferences that promote the agenda of police at all levels, along with sitting on the board of a number of private sector and not-for-profit organisations, including the Asthma Foundation and Youth Focus WA.