Funding to promote domestic and family violence prevention

Three Darling Downs organisations have received Queensland Government funding to help raise community awareness during Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month in May 2007.

Communities Minister Warren Pitt said a total of $65,000 had been allocated to 20 Queensland organisations to promote the importance of good relationships and to encourage greater public intolerance of domestic and family violence.

In Toowoomba, Relationships Australia has been allocated $1200 to host a lunch where guest speaker Wayne Bennett will talk about putting a stop to violence against women.

Warwick Shire Council has been granted $1100 to help stage a Mega Family Fund Day, promoting the theme of “Families Out Together”.

At Dalby, the Myall Youth and Community Network Centre will get $3000 to stage a performance entitled “The Act Behind the Violence”, educating people about legislation changes and encouraging non-threatening behaviour.

“Far too many people are affected by domestic and family violence, and we hope the upcoming awareness month and its local events will make a difference,” Mr Pitt said.

“Violence in all of its forms is simply not acceptable. Apart from the serious immediate consequences, its effects are long lasting and often carry across generations.

“Events such as these help us focus on what communities can achieve and also give hope to people affected by domestic and family violence by showing them that people do care and help is available.”

Mr Pitt said the funding announcement was also a reminder about the closing date on 16 March for nominations in the 2007 Queensland Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Awards.

Nominations are welcome for innovative projects, activities and events undertaken by individuals, groups, communities, schools, organisations and governments. The six award categories are: individual; partnership; community organisation; school-based prevention project; government; and Indigenous.

The annual Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Awards will be presented in Brisbane on 29 May 2007.

Media contact: Minister’s Office 3235 4280