App has right answers for domestic violence clients

A new application (app) developed by the Queensland Centre for Domestic and Family Violence Research will give domestic and family violence workers quick and easy access to information to support their clients.

Communities Minister Tracy Davis said the innovative tool would allow staff to quickly cross-reference specific sections of the Domestic and Family Violence Protection Act 2012.

“The app, which is available on smartphones, tablets and desktop computers, will also put terminology explanations and frequently asked questions at the user’s fingertips,” Ms Davis said.

“This means court support workers will now be able to easily find the information they need to make Queensland’s new domestic and family violence legislation work for their clients.

“The Newman Government helped to fund the development of the app, which is further proof of our commitment to revitalise frontline services.”

Ms Davis said the app was created by the Queensland Centre for Domestic and Family Violence Research (CDFVR), which is based at Central Queensland University.

“This is another example of CDFVR’s excellent work to help domestic and family violence workers support their clients,” she said.

“CDFVR is already widely recognised for providing accredited training within the sector, delivering professional seminars and developing valuable resources such as the www.noviolence.com.au website.

“The Centre’s director Heather Nancarrow is also a significant contributor to the international research community having recently visited Canada and the US to present papers on domestic and family violence-related issues.”

Ms Davis said she was very pleased to see Government funds being used to provide valuable resources to frontline workers so they could provide the support and advice needed by those affected by domestic and family violence.

Details on how to download the app will be available on CDFVR’s website www.noviolence.com.au from tomorrow.

[ENDS] 22 November 2012

Media Contact: Minister’s Office 3235 4280           CDFVR– Heather Nancarrow 0408 158 952  

Launch details:

The Chief Magistrate His Honour Judge Brendan Butler will launch the app from 10am to 11am on Friday 23 November at Central Queensland University’s Brisbane campus, 160 Ann Street, Brisbane, and via video-link to Central Queensland University campuses, see www.noviolence.com.au/public/phoneapplaunch.pdf for details.