Queenslanders are being reminded that we all have a role to play in preventing domestic and family violence in our community as Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month gets underway today (1 May).
Minister for the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence Shannon Fentiman said to achieve lasting and sustainable positive cultural change, all parts of the community need to be involved and committed to ending domestic and family violence.
"This Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month is a reminder to all Queenslanders to play your part in preventing domestic and family violence," Minister Fentiman said.
"And now more than ever it's so important that we continue to raise awareness and let victims know they are not alone, and that we support and help is on hand.
"Together we can send a clear message that domestic and family violence will not be tolerated, in our homes, workplaces or communities.
"Sadly, during COVID-19 we saw an increase in domestic and family violence incidences with almost one in 10 Australian women in a relationship experiencing and one-third of those saying it started or became worse.
"And with the recent tragedies on the Gold Coast we were reminded once again how violence against women doesn't just impact on the victim's family and friends, it affects the whole community."
The Minister said Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month would aim to promote partnerships and collaborations across the community to prevent and respond to domestic and family violence.
"To raise awareness, several events will be taking place across the state, including candlelight vigils held throughout the month to remember victims of domestic and family violence," she said.
"While the Cabinet is in Longreach we will also be holding a round table discussion which will bring together key stakeholders from the sector, service providers and community representatives to discuss how we can all work together to prevent violence.
"Rounding out the month-long activities will be LGBTQ Domestic Violence Awareness Day on May 28 which aims to help end violence and abuse within LGBTQ+ communities."
The Minister said now more than ever Queenslanders needed to stand up and say not now, not ever.
"Recent events remind us that domestic and family violence is a shameful mark on our society, not just here in Queensland, but across the nation," she said.
"That is why as a government we take our commitment to addressing it head on very seriously.
"The Women's Safety and Justice Taskforce is inviting public submissions from survivors, their families, support workers and the broader community.
"This is just one of the ways the Taskforce will hear from Queensland women and girls with lived experience to assist the Taskforce with its work in protecting victims and holding perpetrators to account."
