Assistant Commissioner Jonathan Higgins has been awarded the Australian Police Medal in today’s Queen’s Birthday Honours Awards.

Jonathan Higgins was appointed to Tasmania Police on 4 October 1999 and has progressed through the ranks, appointed to Sergeant in 2006, Senior Sergeant in 2009, Inspector in 2015, Commander in 2017 with secondary roles in counter-terrorism, and Assistant Commissioner (AC) in 2018.

AC Higgins also holds a number of tertiary qualifications from the University of Tasmania – a  Bachelor of Professional Honours (Leadership and Public Sector Management), Graduate Certificate in Police Studies, Bachelor of Social Science (Police Studies and Human Resource Management), and Bachelor of Science.

“The professionalism, skills and commitment shown by Jonathan Higgins saw him promoted to the position of Assistant Commissioner, responsible for the Specialist Support portfolio, in 2018,” said Commissioner Darren Hine.

“AC Higgins fosters teamwork, motivates staff to overcome challenges, leads by example and demonstrates high-level initiative.

“He develops staff and achieves outcomes through encouraging them to challenge assumptions and ‘traditional approaches’ to enhance their capabilities in what is an ever-changing political, social and economic environment.”

AC Higgins is a demonstrated leader and has developed high-level knowledge and a sound understanding of policing over his 20 year career.

“AC Higgins upholds the highest professional standards and has high level investigative and operational leadership skills,” said Commissioner Hine.

“He is an inclusive leader who develops strong and effective stakeholder relationships to achieve positive organisational outcomes and drive cultural change.

“AC Higgins brings his commitment to inclusion, diversity, and workforce engagement to the Executive of Tasmania Police to provide the best outcomes for a safe community.

“On behalf of Tasmania Police, I congratulate AC Higgins on this honour,” said Commissioner Hine.

On receiving the Australian Police Medal, Assistant Commissioner Higgins said “I am very humbled in receiving this award and attribute it to the strong support my family and colleagues have provided throughout my career.”