MINISTER LAUNCHES DOMESTIC VIOLENCE PILOT PROJECT ON SUNSHINE COAST

Police Minister Judy Spence has launched a new pilot project today which is focusing on reducing domestic violence on the NorthCoast.

Ms Spence said the “Integrated Response to Domestic Violence” project – a joint initiative between police and the Caboolture Regional Domestic Violence Service – was designed to better meet the needs of people at risk of domestic violence in the local community.

“The project aims to encourage police to direct people to the specialist help that this service can provide when the situation does not need an immediate police response,” Ms Spence said.

“In the first fortnight of the pilot project, the Caboolture Regional Domestic Violence Referral Service advised police had referred to them 67% of domestic violence incidents that they had attended.

“It is hoped that this approach will reduce domestic violence and reduce the number of repeat calls for service to police to domestic violence situations, by increasing people’s awareness of the services and assistance that is available in the local area.

“Any initiative that can help to reduce domestic violence is a priority issue for the Queensland Police Service.

“The Beattie Government is committed to enhancing the community’s sense of safety, as well as their confidence in police.”

Ms Spence said police had come up with the project because they had been looking at ways to provide the best possible responses to domestic-related incidents.

“I’m told that in the first month this project has seen a much closer relationship and level of communication develop between police domestic violence liaison officers and the Caboolture Regional Domestic Violence Service,” Ms Spence said.

“I look forward to hearing about the results when this pilot project is due to finish in December, as it appears to have great potential.”

Media contact: Alison Smith 3239 6218 / 0439 673 287