Sports stars sign up as domestic and family violence prevention ambassadors

Sports stars from across the codes have partnered with the Queensland Government as ambassadors for the Make the Call campaign, as part of 2104 Domestic and Family Violence Prevention month.

Communities Minister Tracy Davis today announced Brisbane Roar defender Shane Stefanutto, Queensland Reds players Anthony and Saia Faingaa, North Queensland Cowboy Matt Scott, Gold Coast Sun Tom Lynch, and Queensland Firebirds coach Roselee Jencke as Make the Call ambassadors.

“Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month is held each May to raise awareness of this heinous crime and inform the community about how to get support through events and promotions across the state,” Ms Davis said.

“The awareness-raising month aligns with the Queensland Government’s election promise to revitalise frontline services, with this year’s campaign message being: ‘Don’t let concern become regret — make the call to DVConnect’.

“This is a powerful message and it’s fantastic that these high-profile sports stars have come on board as ambassadors to help spread the word that domestic and family violence will not be tolerated.

“Each of our ambassadors has recorded a short video about the signs of domestic and family violence, urging people to contact DVConnect for confidential advice and support.”

The videos will appear on the Make the Call website www.qld.gov.au/makethecall and Facebook page, and will be played at team games.

Brisbane Roar Managing Director Sean Dobson said the team was committed to using its reach across the football community in Queensland, and throughout Australia to raise awareness of, and help to eliminate domestic and family violence.

“Shane Stefanutto is the Brisbane Roar’s Make the Call ambassador and we are proud he has chosen to support such an important program,” Mr Dobson said.

“The Brisbane Roar is a large family and as a large family we will continue to raise awareness of the importance of domestic and family violence prevention.

“The Queensland Government and DVConnect will have our continued support to raise awareness of this important program.”

Chief Executive Officer of DVConnect Di Mangan said it was important people acted early before non-physical abuse became physical.

“Our team of DVConnect counsellors can provide crisis intervention, support, information, counselling, referrals and access to emergency refuge and shelter placements across Queensland,” Ms Mangan said.

“Our Mensline service assists men who are victims of domestic and family violence or who want to address their own violent behaviour.”

The Make the Call campaign is proudly supported by Brisbane Roar, North Queensland Cowboys, Netball Queensland and Queensland Firebirds, Queensland Reds, Gold Coast SUNS, Clubs Queensland, Brisbane Lions, Queensland Rail, Queensland Police Service, Southern Cross Austereo, The Radio Sales Network, Heritage Bank and Bunnings Warehouse.

To get help for yourself or someone you know, make the call to DVConnect Womensline on 1800 811 811 or Mensline on 1800 600 636. For more information, visit www.qld.gov.au/makethecall.

Audio available: (2014 Domestic and Family Violence Month) https://soundcloud.com/tracy-davis-mp/2014-domestic-and-family-violence-prevention-month

[ENDS] 27 April 2014

Media Contact Katherine Fraser 0417 172 480