More than 100 Queensland Police Service (QPS) Domestic and Family Violence (DFV) Specialists have come together in Brisbane this week to discuss the latest research and responses to DFV.
The conference marks a significant milestone with it being the first time all 15 QPS Districts have gathered following the progressive appointment of District Domestic, Family Violence and Vulnerable Persons Units (DFV&VP) across the state over the past 12 months.
The two-day QPS Domestic and Family Violence Conference featured DFV specialists from around Queensland, including academics, service providers and experts to discuss the complexities and latest response models to ensure better support for the Queensland community.
Assistant Commissioner Christopher Jory said the conference was an opportunity for DFV specialists to get exposure to contemporary practice, working in partnership with other government departments and the DFV service sector to deliver responses that keep victim-survivors safe and hold perpetrators to account.
"The ever-increasing incidents of Domestic and Family Violence (DFV) in our community warrants the continuous evolvement of preventative strategies, we must be progressive and adaptable in our approach," Assistant Commissioner Chris Jory said.
"The Queensland Police Service's Domestic and Family Prevention strategy recognises the victim survivor's perspective, prioritises their safety and reduces the onus on survivors to take action.
"We are dedicated to supporting this strategy to drive change across the community and take action to stop the behaviour and attitudes that allow DFV to continue.
"Contemporary research and projects, such as the Embedded Support Worker Program, provide innovative ways to work together. By sharing information with our sector partners, we are striving to achieve the best outcomes for those experiencing Domestic and Family Violence," Assistant Commissioner Jory said.
"During this conference, we have heard from experts who are delivering front line responses to Domestic and Family Violence, from policing, the social service sector and academia. " he said.
"As a Service, we are committed to continuous improvement in this space and this conference is just one of the ways we are developing the skills of our people to respond in this challenging environment.
"We are always reviewing processes and procedures to ensure our response protects victims and holds perpetrators to account."
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic and family violence, you should report it to police.
Support and counselling is available from the following agencies:
- DVConnect Womensline: 1800 811 811
- DVConnect Mensline: 1800 600 636
- 1800 RESPECT: 1800 737 732
- 13YARN: 13 92 76
More information is also available from the Queensland Government Domestic and Family Violence portal.
