Queensland Police Service (QPS) officers joined local communities across the state to honour victims of domestic and family violence (DFV) at National Domestic Violence Remembrance Day candlelight vigils last night, 6 May.
Held annually on the first Wednesday in May, during Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month (DFVPM), officers attended events in metropolitan, regional, and remote locations to honour and remember the lives lost to DFV.
QPS Deputy Commissioner John Tims, who attended the Brisbane vigil, said it was an opportunity to reflect, listen, and reinforce a shared commitment to safety and accountability.
"Standing alongside the community at the Brisbane vigil last night was a powerful reminder of the devastating impacts that domestic and family violence has on families," Deputy Commissioner Tims said.
Police respond to more than 500 DFV-related occurrences on average every day across Queensland, equating to about one every 3 minutes.
"Our officers work tirelessly to respond to and investigate incidents of domestic and family violence, each and every day," Deputy Commissioner Tims said.
"But we can't make a difference through enforcement alone. Everyone has a role to play in supporting those experiencing harm, by speaking up and reporting incidents when domestic violence behaviours occur."
QPS thanks all organisers, attendees, and service providers who contributed to creating safe, respectful, and inclusive spaces for remembrance at last night's vigils.
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 harm, help is available - there are pathways to safety, protection, and accountability.
Together, Queenslanders can prevent domestic and family violence.
More information can be found at www.qld.gov.au/dfvpmonth.
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.
