Dozens of Queensland's most senior police officers may have their promotions scrapped after an independent review found the appointments were flawed.
The Queensland Police Service (QPS) held recruitment processes for the ranks of chief superintendent, superintendent and inspector last year.
The ABC understands the review was instigated following complaints by unsuccessful applicants.
A QPS spokesperson confirmed the Commissioner for Police Service reviews had recommended the appointments of 36 officers be voided.
"The review was focused on process-related issues rather than the merit of applicants," a QPS spokesperson said.
"The review commissioner's findings remain under consideration by Commissioner [Katarina] Carroll.
"The Commissioner is focused on the welfare of QPS members and is seeking urgent advice to have this situation resolved as soon as possible."
While the state is facing significant budgetary pressures and billions of dollars in lost revenue, it is understood re-running the appointment process could cost hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Queensland Police Minister Mark Ryan said the matter was being looked at by the Commissioner.
"Like all Queenslanders, I expect the highest standards from the Queensland Police Service," he said.
"I am advised that the Police Commissioner is seeking urgent advice to have this matter resolved as soon as possible."
