← True Blue Conversations Podcast
Jul 13, 2026 · 6h 32m
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