Queensland women and families affected by domestic violence will have better access to specialist advice and support over the phone.
Communities Minister Tracy Davis said the Newman Government was continuing to revitalise frontline services and keep Queenslanders safe by providing an additional $100,000 to DVConnect to extend domestic violence support and counselling through its Womensline phone service.
“We know that women and children escaping domestic violence need prompt and professional assistance,” Ms Davis said.
“DVConnect is one of the organisations that often takes the first call from women affected by domestic and family violence in Queensland. Their 24-hour Womensline helps thousands of women discuss their options and needs and helps them to find safe accommodation if necessary.
“Since the Premier’s Special Taskforce on Domestic and Family Violence was announced and community awareness of this heinous crime has increased, more and more women have gained the confidence to make the call to DVConnect.
“The additional funds will be used to help DVConnect respond to the increasing number of calls, so that women reaching out for help are kept safe and provided with assistance and support.
“We are making Queensland safer for women and children affected by domestic violence but there is more work that we need to do.”
Recent figures show an increase in calls to DVConnect’s Womensline, the funding boost is on top of the $2.6million in annual funding the Queensland Government already provides to DVConnect.
Ms Davis said it was fitting to announce the extra funding today on International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and White Ribbon Day.
“Our government is committed to looking at how we can better respond to and prevent domestic and family violence, particularly through the Premier’s Special Taskforce on Domestic and Family Violence,” she said.
To get help for yourself or someone you know, make the call to DVConnect Womensline on 1800 811 811 or Mensline on 1800 600 636. For more information, visit www.qld.gov.au/makethecall
