Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has received a report outlining recommended actions to tackle domestic and family violence in Queensland.
The Honourable Quentin Bryce AD CVO, chair of the Special Taskforce on Domestic and Family Violence, delivered 140 recommendations in the report ‘Not now, Not ever: Putting an End to Domestic and Family Violence.
The Premier said her government has made a commitment to consider all the recommendations made by the Taskforce.
“Domestic and family violence is a violation of basic human rights and there is no excuse for not acting to eliminate it,” Ms Palaszczuk said.
“From Opposition, Labor introduced a Private Member’s Bill which sought to boost the task of tackling domestic violence in Queensland.
“We will now examine the Taskforce recommendations to determine how improved support can be provided to families and individuals experiencing violence.
“The number of domestic violence incidents in Queensland is one of our state’s great shames.
“Women, men, children and families should not have to live under a cloud of fear about violence in their homes. If you use violence you will be held to account.”
In 2013-14, more than 66,000 incidents were reported to Queensland Police—equating to more than 180 incidents reported every day across the state.
In 2012-13, 17 homicides relating to domestic and family violence occurred in Queensland.
Ms Palaszczuk said she was extremely concerned about the continued increase in reported incidents of domestic violence and the number of deaths in Queensland related to this violence.
“I want this government to take the lead on addressing domestic violence, but we cannot do it alone. As a community, we all have a responsibility to look after one another,” she said.
Ms Palaszczuk commended the Taskforce and its members who completed the report within a six month timeframe.
“It is obvious they have worked tirelessly, delving into the complex nature of domestic violence, to produce a detailed report and a framework for change,” Ms Palaszczuk said.
“I’d like to thank Dame Quentin and her Taskforce for the work they have done.”
Read the full report.
