Domestic violence Qld: Newsletter reported to watchdog for sexist joke

A regional Queensland newsletter that published a “blatantly sexist” joke making light of domestic violence has been referred to the media watchdog.

A regional Queensland newsletter that published a “blatantly sexist” joke column has been referred to the nation’s press watchdog by Attorney-General and Women Minister Shannon Fentiman.

Murgon Moments, a free monthly newsletter distributed in the South Burnett town, published a “Joke For The Month” in its August edition that made reference to violence against women.

The August Joke For the Month in Murgon Moments

It involved a woman being told by her doctor she could avoid becoming a victim of domestic violence by keeping her mouth shut.

Ms Fentiman said the content of the column was blatantly sexist and insulting to women and showed a complete disrespect for domestic violence survivors, their families and support workers.

She confirmed on Thursday a complaint had been made to the Australian Press Council — an industry-funded body that sets standards and responds to complaints about material published in newspapers and magazines.

Attorney-General and Minister for Women Shannon Fentiman

“As Minister for Women and the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence, it is deeply troubling that a Queensland community newspaper would publish such disgraceful content, and it must be reprimanded for disseminating this so called ‘joke’ to its readers,” she said.

“As a nation, we have come so far in our fight to end all forms of domestic and family violence, but it is these types of publications which belittle and undermine the very abuse we are trying to eliminate.

“I strongly urge the Australian Press Council to act swiftly on this complaint, to ensure all media outlets in every community are held to the highest standard.”

The APC has no legal or legislative powers to penalise the press.

Murgon Moments has been contacted for comment.