Jul 13, 2026
G'day, and welcome back to True Blue Conversations.
Today's guest is Lucas Atkins, a former Australian Federal Police
Close Protection Officer whose 12-year career placed him at
the very centre of some of Australia's most significant
security operations. Lucas began his policing career
protecting high-profile dignitaries, including the
United States and Israeli Ambassadors, as well as international
VIPs such as the Dalai Lama. His professionalism and
dedication soon earned him a position within one of the AFP's
most elite close protection teams, where he became responsible
for the full-time security of Australian Prime Ministers Julia
Gillard and Kevin Rudd. Lucas was on the ground during the
dramatic events of Australia Day 2012, when protests marking
the 40th anniversary of the Aboriginal Tent Embassy escalated
into a major security incident. As the threat rapidly
intensified, Lucas played a key role in the emergency
evacuation of the Prime Minister and the Leader of the
Opposition from a Canberra venue surrounded by hostile
protesters.
After leaving the Australian Federal Police, Lucas continued
working in close personal protection operations across the
globe, protecting clients in some of the world's most
demanding environments. Today, he has taken that wealth
of experience and founded his own business.
But this conversation goes far beyond protective operations and
high-profile missions. It's a raw and honest discussion about
identity, purpose, and the challenges that so many veterans
and first responders face when the uniform comes off. We talk
about transition, rebuilding life after service, and finding a new
mission beyond the job.
This is an episode filled with stories from behind the security
cordon, lessons forged under pressure, and a powerful reminder
that the toughest battles often begin after the career
ends.
Ladies and gentlemen, this is the True-Blue Conversations of former
Australian Federal Police Close Protection Officer, Lucas
Atkins.
Presenter: Adam Blum
Guest: Lucas Atkins
Editor: Kyle Watkins