Queensland Government tackles domestic and family violence in LGBTIQ communities

The Queensland Government’s efforts to tackle domestic and family violence across all sectors of society were bolstered today with the launch of a new campaign targeting the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and queer LGBTIQ community.

Minister for the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence Di Farmer said the campaign would help raise awareness of domestic and family violence within the LGBTIQ community and deliver advice and information on where to go for support.

“We know that domestic and family violence doesn’t discriminate; it can happen to anyone,” she said.

“There’s never been a better time to broaden the conversation and with this campaign we take another step forward in the fight against domestic and family violence.

“Research shows that LGBTIQ people suffer domestic and family violence at the same rates, or perhaps even higher, than the broader community.

“Research also shows they can experience unique forms of abuse and may be reluctant to seek help.”

The campaign, which meets recommendation 14 of the Not Now, Not Ever: Putting an end to domestic and family violence in Queensland report, will deliver information and advice on the types of abuse that are unique to the LGBTIQ community, and dispel some of the common misconceptions about support options.

Member for McConnel Grace Grace said the Palaszczuk Government has been working relentlessly to deliver on a wide range of Not Now, Not Ever reform initiatives this latest campaign builds build on our track record of progress towards a Queensland free from domestic and family violence.

“We know the insidious nature of domestic and family violence affects far too many LGBTIQ Queenslanders,” she said.

“LGBTIQ families are not immune to the danger of domestic and family violence which is why it is so important to raise awareness of the issue and encourage people impacted by this terrible form of violence to seek support,” she said.  

“This government is no by-stander to domestic and family violence, wherever it may occur.”

Executive Director of Queensland AIDS Council Rebecca Reynolds said awareness of intimate partner violence in LGBTIQ relationships was crucial because all individuals and couples needed to know what Domestic and Family Violence was and what services were available throughout Queensland to support them.  

“This campaign will speak to a diversity of bodies, genders and relationships to ensure that all people feel visible and feel like they can access the support that they need, at the time when they need it,” she said.

“We commend the Queensland Government’s work on this important issue and look forward to being part of the conversation and working alongside members of our communities as allies and supporters.”

For more information about the LGBTIQ campaign visit www.qld.gov.au/LGBTIQendDFV

For more information about Queensland Government progress to end domestic and family violence visitwww.csyw.qld.gov.au/gateway/end-domestic-family-violence/our-progress

ENDS

Media contact: Cat Milton 0447 117 132