Thank you to everyone who took part in the State Government’s on-line survey and my Facebook forum to share their views on this important issue.
There is a community-wide resolve to stop the violence and I believe support for tougher laws for offenders as well as a need for a culture change about the abuse of alcohol and drugs in our society.
In my statement in Parliament I expressed my condolences to the families of Wayne Dover and Bruce Steensen, whose tragic deaths have shocked and angered our normally peaceful Sunshine Coast community.
The Premier has sought community feedback on this issue prior to releasing a comprehensive package of reforms to address the issue of alcohol-fuelled violence in Queensland.
More than 12,000 Queenslanders participated in the Government’s survey with more than 1000 Sunshine Coast residents responding.
In addition, more than 8000 people viewed a live on-line forum I hosted on my Facebook page (www.facebook.com/FionaSimpsonMP), attracting more than 100 comments.
The responses included a call for tougher penalties for offenders, ID scanning at licensed venues and banning entry for those with a history of violence and better policing of Responsible Service of Alcohol in licenced venues.
It is encouraging to see a grass roots response to this issue with groups already working in schools and the community to spread this anti-violence message. I am keen to work together as we share the leadership on this complex problem and find comprehensive solutions
It’s time to challenge the culture that tolerates binge drinking and losing control and to take a stand against behaviour that disrespects others and threatens their safety.
