A new campaign to promote the awareness of domestic and family violence in the Queensland community has been launched by the Minister for the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence, Shannon Fentiman.
Ms Fentiman said that while Christmas and the summer holidays were a time for family, joy and celebration, it was also a time of higher risk for Queenslanders impacted by domestic and family violence.
“We know domestic and family violence can escalate this time of year,” Ms Fentiman said.
“COVID-19 has already brought on additional stress factors that may be exacerbated at Christmas time.”
She said stressful situations from financial pressures, substance abuse or increased time at home and at family gatherings were key factors known to increase the likelihood of domestic and family violence.
“That’s why we have launched this Statewide help and awareness campaign – to ensure Queenslanders know where and how to seek support if they are experiencing abuse, or how to provide support safely as a bystander if they suspect someone they know is experiencing domestic and family violence,” she said.
Ms Fentiman said the message was clear – domestic and family violence is everyone’s responsibility.
“If you suspect a friend, family member or someone close to you, like a neighbour, is experiencing abuse, start a conversation,” she said.
“Your support can and does make a difference.”
The Minister said that more than $100,000 had been allocated to deliver the campaign from mid-December 2020 to the end of February 2021, across digital and social media channels, targeting young, adult and elderly Queenslanders who may be experiencing domestic and family violence.
She urged anyone who knew someone to be experiencing or at risk of domestic and family violence to contact Triple Zero (000) and ask for Police if it was an emergency; DVConnect on 1800 811 811 (24/7) for crisis counselling and support; or Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800 for young people.
More information is available from the Department of Child Safety, Youth and Women at this PS News link.
