LNP unveils domestic violence support plan, new Townsville hub

In response to the alarming rise in domestic violence calls, the LNP has unveiled a $31m plan to strengthen domestic and family violence support services, including a new Townsville-based hub for DVConnect.

LNP Leader David Crisafulli announces a $31.25 million plan to boost domestic violence support services in Townsville, including a new DVConnect hub aimed at doubling crisis support capacity.

Aiming to assist with the more than 450 daily calls for domestic violence help, the LNP has announced plans to boost services for domestic and family violence support.

A proposed new Townsville-based hub for DVConnect, a Queensland-based service that offers emergency assistance for people experiencing domestic violence, has been put forward as part of the party’s Safer Families, Safer Communities policy.

The $31.25 million package would aim to assist DVConnect over four years.

The funding would double the capacity of the Womensline and Mensline run by DVConnect and would work in conjunction with the existing hub in the state’s south-east.

The group has seen an increase in demand over the last 12 months with a 35 per cent increase to Womensline and an 11 per cent increase to Mensline.

Shadow Minister for Prevention of Domestic, Family and Sex Violence Amanda Camm.

Leader David Crisafulli said the LNP plans to restore safety with more support across the state.

“No Queenslander should be left without help to escape family violence, our plan equips DVConnect to help victims with the crisis support they need when they need it,” he said.

“These crisis counselling services can mean the difference between a victim escaping violence or not, and our commitment will boost capacity to meet the growing demand for help.”

Mr Crisafulli said the plan was about allowing DVConnect to provide resources such as emergency accommodation, emergency goods, transport and support.

Shadow Minister for Prevention of Domestic, Family and Sex Violence Amanda Camm said the plan would get more domestic violence support on the ground.

“The needs of victims and the services available differ at each end of our state; we want to ensure women in North Queensland have regionally based support, just as those in South-East Queensland, to flee domestic and family violence,” she said.

Originally published as LNP unveils domestic violence support plan, new Townsville hub