$56m boost to Queensland’s fight to stamp out domestic violence

Queensland’s push to stamp out domestic violence is set to receive a $56m boost, with the first steps taken toward creating a new peak body to fight the scourge.

Queensland’s push to stamp out domestic violence is set to receive a $56m boost, with the state government revealing a suite of initiatives including the first steps toward creating a new peak body.

The initiatives to be funded are recommendations from the landmark Hear Her Voice report and includes $34.6m for statewide training for frontline organisations involved in domestic and family violence prevention in light of new coercive control laws.

Queensland Council of Social Service has also been put in charge of helping build a new domestic violence sector peak body over the next five years.

Queensland Council of Social Service CEO Aimee McVeigh. Picture: Richard Walker

QCOSS will get $5.35m to represent and advocate for the domestic and family violence sector with the organisation to ultimately develop those expertise into a stand-alone peak body.

QCOSS chief executive Aimee McVeigh said the establishment of a peak body would “enhance the sector’s capacity to address domestic violence, support prevention efforts, and respond effectively to those affected”.

“After more than 65 years serving as the peak body for the community services sector, QCOSS is well-equipped to support the development of a specialised peak for domestic and family violence services,” she said.

“During the interim, QCOSS will provide advocacy for DFV services and foster their participation in policy and legislative processes.”

Queensland’s Attorney-General Yvette D'Ath. Picture: Photo Steve Pohlner

Attorney-General Yvette D’Ath said part of the new $56m funding package would also go toward the rollout of a new five-year violence prevention plan.

“This five-year plan prioritises actions that address the drivers of violence against women and supports a safer Queensland that upholds the values of equality and respect for the entire community,” she said.

“Everybody has a role to play in shifting attitudes and behaviours that underpin violence against women, as we all deserve to feel safe from the threat or experience of domestic, family and sexual violence.”