The Queensland Police Service (QPS) will stand alongside local communities at candlelight vigils across the state tomorrow, 6 May, in honour of the lives tragically lost to domestic and family violence (DFV).
National Domestic Violence Remembrance Day is held annually on the first Wednesday of May, aligning with DFV Prevention Month in Queensland.
It is commemorated with candlelight vigils to honour those who have lost their lives or who continue to be impacted by DFV.
QPS Deputy Commissioner John Tims said it was an opportunity to reflect, listen, and reaffirm a collective commitment to safety and accountability.
"National Domestic Violence Remembrance Day is a time to honour and remember the lives lost to DFV and to stand with the families, friends, and communities who carry that loss," Deputy Commissioner Tims said.
"Tomorrow, Queensland Police Service members will join candlelight vigils across the state to remember, to show solidarity, and to reinforce that everyone has the right to live without fear of violence and to feel safe at home."
Domestic and family violence remains a serious issue that carries significant legal consequences, with police responding to more than 500 DFV-related occurrences every day on average - one every 3 minutes.
"Domestic and family violence has tragically claimed too many lives," Deputy Commissioner Tims said.
"Our officers are committed to doing everything in our power to protect victim-survivors and hold perpetrators to account.
"We will continue to work tirelessly to investigate these offences, support those impacted, and honour the memory of those who have lost their lives by striving for safer communities.
"This month we're asking everyone to stand together, support each other, and be part of the solution - because violence in any form will not be tolerated.
"If you are experiencing domestic and family violence, or you're concerned about someone you know, please reach out to police and support services - you are not alone, and help is available."
Community members are invited to attend the Brisbane Candle Lighting Vigil
When: 5.30pm, Wednesday 6 May
Where: Roma Street Parkland Amphitheatre, 1 Parkland Boulevard, Brisbane City
Local candlelight vigils can be found at www.qld.gov.au/dfvpmonth
Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month is an initiative of the Queensland Department of Families, Seniors, Disability Services and Child Safety.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic and family violence, report it to police at www.police.qld.gov.au/domestic-violence and reach out to support services.
If domestic violence is occurring now and someone is in immediate danger, call Triple Zero (000).
For all other DFV-related matters, phone police on 131 444, 24 hours, 7 days a week.
Support and counselling is available from the following agencies:
- DVConnect Womensline: 1800 811 811
- DVConnect Mensline: 1800 600 636
- 1800 RESPECT: 1800 737 732
- 13YARN: 13 92 76
- Diverse Voices: 1800 184 527
- Elder Abuse Helpline: 1300 651 192
Further information and local support service contact details are available at www.qld.gov.au/need-to-know.
