Local Member for Whitsunday and Minister for Domestic and Family Violence Amanda Camm has announced a comprehensive plan to strengthen DVConnect, marking a significant milestone in Queensland’s domestic violence support services.
DVConnect, which fields an average of 450 calls daily, connects thousands of Queenslanders to vital on-the-ground services. Over the past year, demand for help has risen by one-third, with even greater pressures anticipated during the new year—a time often marked by increased family tensions.
If you are in imminent danger, contact the police by calling 000.
As part of the State Government’s 100 Day Plan, the initiative will also establish a working group dedicated to addressing the needs of victims of domestic, family, and sexual violence.
The scope of the DVConnect analysis will focus on three key areas:
• Accountability and transparency
• Demand across the system
• Future service delivery models
This includes a review of demand and data as well as exploring options to enhance 24/7 crisis support.
Ms. Camm noted that the last major assessment of DVConnect was conducted in 2017, underscoring the urgency of revisiting and improving the system.
“Under the former Labor Government, the number of victims of family and domestic violence continued to rise while funding allocations failed to create meaningful impact,” Ms. Camm said.
“As the local MP for Whitsunday, I am deeply committed to ensuring our community and all Queenslanders have access to services that meet their needs. There’s a vital opportunity to better understand demand and ensure that the systems we design are truly fit for purpose.”
Highlighting the immediate need for support during the festive season, Ms. Camm emphasised the importance of DVConnect’s 24/7 availability.
“The holiday season often adds extra pressures to families already at risk, leading to an increase in violence during this period,” she said.
“Help is always just one phone call away through DVConnect. Our aim is to ensure Queenslanders experiencing domestic or family violence feel supported not just during the holidays, but every day of the year.”
The initiative forms part of the Crisafulli Government’s $31.25 million expansion of DVConnect, which includes a new North Queensland hub.
“This expansion will double the capacity of both the Womensline and Mensline helplines and enhance regionalised support throughout Queensland,” Ms. Camm said.
“As the Member for Whitsunday, I am proud to champion a review that will elevate services and ensure that specialised organisations, including police and community services, can work together to keep families safe.”
The tender process for these initiatives will commence early next year, with completion expected by June 2025.
IN BRIEF
New analysis of DVConnect to better support critical service
Coincides with 100 Day Plan to establish working group with victims of domestic, family, and sexual violence
Enhances $31.25 million expansion of DVConnect with new North Queensland hub
MP Amanda Camm at Government House