Take a stand against domestic and family violence this May

The Palaszczuk Government, Queensland Police Service and the Gold Coast Suns have joined forces to launch Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month today at Metricon Stadium.

The Gold Coast Suns are dedicating their Round 7 game against Geelong on Saturday to domestic and family violence prevention month.

Minister for the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence Shannon Fentiman said it was great to see the Gold Coast Suns were committed to helping end violence in homes across Queensland, with $1 from every ticket sold for Saturday night's game (May 6) going to local domestic and family violence support organisations.

“As government, community and businesses, we all need to step up and challenge the attitudes that underpin domestic and family violence,” she said.

“So it is fantastic to see the Gold Coast Suns dedicating their game on Saturday to this issue.

“Footy is a powerful vehicle to help drive the ‘Not Now, Not Ever’ message home – particularly to the young men who idolize stars of the game.

“The influence of players showing respect for women and girls and speaking out against violence cannot be underestimated.”

Ms Fentiman said Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month was an opportunity for all Queenslanders to be a part of the Not Now, Not Ever campaign.

As part of the campaign, the Palaszczuk Government has provided more than $186,000 in funding to support 50 community events across the state designed to drive home the government’s Not Now, Not Ever message.

“From the Gold Coast to the Torres Strait, events will be held throughout the month to raise awareness and to bring people together in a show of strength and solidarity against domestic and family violence,” Ms Fentiman said.

“Right across the state, community groups are hosting family fun days, peace walks, community art projects, educational and developmental workshops and candle lighting ceremonies to raise awareness of domestic and family violence.  

“A postcard created and designed by young women from the local community to raise awareness about domestic and family violence will also be distributed across Brisbane.

“There will be a month-long campaign broadcast on 4EB in a collaboration between them and ACCESS Community Services, which will include a documentary on domestic and family violence.

“These are just some of the many wonderful examples of how community organisations across the state are coming together in support of this important cause.”

In 2017, the campaign will include a series of local campaigns featuring local people.

Regional campaign materials will showcase local community groups, schools, workplaces and sporting teams that have taken up the Not Now, Not Ever challenge.

“Stopping domestic and family violence in Queensland will take commitment from every corner of our state,” Ms Fentiman said.

“They are a chance to show everyday Queenslanders taking a stand within their communities and saying clearly that domestic and family violence is not acceptable — not now, not ever.

Visit www.qld.gov.au/notnownotever to find out what people are doing to help end domestic and family violence.

People can also engage with the campaign on social media through www.facebook.com/dfvpqld.

Media Contact:    0400 200 641