Domestic violence service opens on Sunshine Coast

Queenslanders affected by domestic and family violence on the Sunshine Coast will benefit from a Palaszczuk Government investment of more than $1 million to give them better access to a range of integrated services.

Minister for the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence Di Farmer said $1.18 million was being invested over five years for the Sunshine Coast Domestic and Family Violence Service System.

“We have a range of services available to people escaping family and domestic violence and we want to make sure they are able to get consistent, professional and co-ordinated responses from those services,” Ms Farmer said.

“Our top priority is to make sure that victims and their children are safe, which is why we are making this investment.

“We know that one agency alone may not have all the pieces of the puzzle that are needed to keep victims and their children safe.

“That’s why services like this one are vital - it means critical information is shared across agencies, helping to paint a more accurate picture of what is going on.”

“Ms Farmer said the service, delivered by IFYS Ltd, would ensure a collaborative response across government and non-government agencies already working in the field.

“IFYS have have a wealth of experience and knowledge in this area, and they will create ways that agencies can support clients more directly with referrals, as well as sharing information that help make sure victims are safe while holding perpetrators to account,” she said.

“This includes sharing information about any changes in risk to victim’s safety.”

Police Minister Mark Ryan said the new service would operate from the Mooloolaba Police Station.

“Queensland Police deal with domestic violence on the front line every single day, and this service will help them continue the great work they are doing to help victims and hold perpetrators accountable,” he said.

“It means organisations, including the police, courts, child protection and non-government organisations, will work together to deliver timely, coordinated and client-focussed responses to people affected by domestic and family violence.

“It also means services will be delivered in a way that enhances responses and improves the safety and wellbeing of victims and their children, particularly those in high risk situations.”

The Palaszczuk Government has invested $328.9 million over six years from 2015-16 for reforms from the  Not Now, Not Ever report.

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