Violence Prevention

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Domestic and family violence is common in Australia and Queensland, cutting across socioeconomic groups, and with serious social, economic and health consequences for sufferers, their families, and communities as a whole. Whilst both men and women are victims of domestic violence, it is far more common for the victim to be a woman and the offender to be a man. Research has found that 71% of domestic assault incidents reported to the police involved a female victim, and that 80% of offenders are male¹.

Violence poses a significant risk to health and well-being.  Women who have been exposed to violence have a greater risk of developing a range of health problems, including stress, anxiety, depression, pain syndromes, phobias and somatic and medical symptoms. They are more likely to report poorer physical health overall and to engage in practices that are harmful to their health.  Family violence is a factor in many child protection cases and children are present in many cases of family violence.  Exposure to violence in the family increases children’s risk of mental health, behavioural and learning difficulties in the short term.

There are several organisations throughout Queensland providing support to those experiencing domestic violence.  Please refer to the links below for more information.

_{1 People J. Trends and patterns in domestic violence assaults. Crime and Justice Bulletin, No 89, October 2005.}

Links to more information

dvconnect provides free help for women, men, children and pets affected by domestic and family violence across Queensland. Their 24 hour telephone service provides information, telephone counselling and referral to refuges for women and their children who are in danger.

Phone: 1800 811 811
Website: www.dvconnect.org

Brisbane Domestic Violence Advocacy Service (BDVAS) is a community based organisation that provides a free and confidential advocacy and support service for women, children, family members and individuals affected by domestic and family violence in the Brisbane Metropolitan area.

Phone: 07 3217 2544
Website: www.dvrc.org.au

Qld Centre for Domestic & Family Research
Website: www.noviolence.com.au

Domestic & Family Violence Clearing House
Website: www.adfvc.unsw.edu.au