Ex-DFV Offender: Reflect After QPS Aided Reform

A former Domestic and Family Violence (DFV) perpetrator has spoken out about his journey to rehabilitation, and how the Queensland Police Service (QPS) helped him identify and address his behaviours.

Working with perpetrators and putting them in touch with support services is just one of the many initiatives the QPS utilises to drive down offending rates and better protect victim-survivors.

Operation Shield was launched in April 2024 in Southern Region, and in the 12 months since it started, 80-high risk DFV offenders have been charged.

The operation brings together general duty police and specialist units such as the Tactical Crime Squad and Domestic, Family Violence and Vulnerable Persons Unit (DFVVPU), to ensure a comprehensive approach to policing DFV.

The focus has been on holding perpetrators to account and ensuring victim-survivor safety, but it also presents an opportunity to support those perpetrators who are seeking to change their behaviour.

The formed perpetrator said the turning point for him was being arrested.

"That's what made me realise things weren't going well," he said.

"Queensland Police gave me information and put me on the right path regarding programs that were available. That helped me seek out what I needed to make a change.

"There are a lot of people who want to help and are quite willing to do so. So, if you can look inwards and understand you're not ok, don't be too ashamed or too proud to reach out and ask for help."

Officer in Charge of Karana Downs Police Station, Senior Sergeant Lee Fortune, said Operation Shield demonstrates QPS's unwavering stance on DFV.

"DFV offending will not be tolerated by police," Senior Sergeant Fortune said.

"We remain firmly committed to protecting victim-survivors as well as ensuring support referrals are made to treat the underlying issues

"The community can expect continued prioritisation of DFV matters, and Operation Shield reflects our dedication to reducing harm and improving the safety of victim-survivors.

"Our officers will continue to act decisively and urgently to address this serious issue of DFV."

Senior Constable Jane Henderson, a frontline general duties officer, highlighted the critical role police play in both enforcement and education.

"It is important that police are supporting both parties – the aggrieved and the respondent," Senior Constable Henderson said.

"A significant part of our work involves explaining Domestic Violence Orders to those who may not fully understand their legal obligations, helping prevent further breaches.

"For some, this can be a turning point in recognising the impact of their actions."

Senior Constable Henderson said police can connect individuals who want to change their behaviour with specialist support services.

"If someone is ready to take responsibility and make a change, we will absolutely support that by referring them to the programs that promote healthier relationships."

This Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month, the QPS is reminding the community that DFV remains a top priority.

The ongoing efforts of Operation Shield sends a clear message that DFV will not be tolerated, and those who engage in such behaviour will be held accountable.

Domestic and Family Violence is a whole-of-community issue that requires a whole- of-community response.

QPS DFV VPUs are established in each district to provide an integrated service response, which means they work with Queensland Government departments and the community service sector to keep victim-survivors safe and hold perpetrators to account.

The QPS is working around-the-clock to keep Queenslanders safe. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence - call Triple Zero (000).