Get involved in Domestic and Family Violence Prevention month

Say no to domestic and family violence this May by getting involved in one of dozens of events happening across the state to encourage Queenslanders to take a stand.

Minister for Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence Di Farmer said raising awareness of domestic and family violence would provide an opportunity for everyone to say not now, not ever to violence in our communities.

“We are committed to ending domestic and family violence and we’re working hard to do that,” Ms Farmer said.

“We want everyone in every community in Queensland to help spread the message of zero tolerance and to let people know violence of this kind is not okay, ever.

“Domestic and family violence impacts far too many lives and too many people have been lost as a result.

“But when we come together as a community we not only show victims we support them, we also make a stand towards ridding our communities of violence.”

Ms Farmer encouraged Queenslanders to find a local event and get involved.

“We need your help to spread the message that violence of any sort is not okay,” she said.

“There’s plenty happening right across the state, so please make a commitment today to get involved.”

As part of the campaign, held each May to raise awareness in the community of the impacts of domestic and family violence and the support available, the Queensland Government has provided almost $160,000 in grants to support 35 events and projects across the state.

Funded events include family fun days and candlelight remembrance ceremonies to honour those who have lost their lives because of domestic and family violence.

Other organisations are also taking the initiative to organise events, such as an overnight run.

The Queensland Government has allocated $323.1 million over six years to implement recommendations from the landmark Not Now, Not Ever Report into domestic and family violence in Queensland.

“Work continues to address the causes and the harm, but it cannot be done alone,” Ms Farmer said.

“Everyone in Queensland has a role to play in putting an end to domestic and family violence.”

On Sunday Ms Farmer launched the #dosomething campaign, urging bystanders to speak up about domestic and family violence. Visit qld.gov.au/dosomething to find out more.

For more information on where events are being held and how to get involved visit www.qld.gov.au/dfvpmonth.

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Media Contact:                      Ron Goodman                        0427 781 920