Sunshine Coast Council and Centacare marked Domestic and Family Violence (DFV) Prevention Month (May) with a candle-lighting vigil and march on Wednesday 3 May.
This year’s theme is Empower Her Voice, which calls on the community to Stop, Listen and Act.
Sunshine Coast Council Mayor Mark Jamieson said the Sunshine Coast continued to stand-up and support victims of domestic and family violence.
“You are not alone,” Mayor Jamieson said.
“An estimated eight million Australians have experienced physical and/or sexual violence since the age of 15.“
Centacare Sunshine Coast Area Manager and event organiser Adam Beck said the annual march and vigil acted as a reminder that we can all play a part in addressing gender inequality and putting an end to domestic and family violence.
“Every person has the right to live a life free of violence and abuse – right now, home is not always a safe place for our local women and children.”
Community Portfolio Councillor David Law said there was no place for violence on the Sunshine Coast.
“Council is committed to addressing domestic violence as a key focus area and engaging in partnership, collaboration, advocacy and direct action within our community, as a part of the Sunshine Coast Community Strategy 2019-2041,” Cr Law said.
“This includes our partnership with Centacare to bring this vigil to the community as an opportunity to reflect and show support, as well as the DVSafe Phone Program, where residents can donate their old phones.“
Sunshine Coast Lightning DFV prevention Ambassador Tara Hinchliffe said she and her team were proud to be taking a stand against domestic and family violence.
“Sunshine Coast Lightning stands with the victims and against all forms of abuse,” Ms Hinchliffe said.
“Domestic and family violence is never okay and never tolerated. Join us and show your support this May.”
1. In an emergency, call the Ambulance or Police on 000.
2. All incidents of violence should be reported to the Police. If there is no immediate emergency, you can report DFV to the police by phoning Policelink on 13 14 44 or make a non-urgent report of DFV by submitting an online form.
3. If you or someone you know is experiencing violence, call 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800 RESPECT for advice and support. This service is open 24 hours and provides confidential advice via phone or webchat.
4. You can also call:
DVConnect Womensline 1800 811 811
DVConnect Mensline 1800 600 636
5. Visit the Queensland Government website for more information about what you can do about domestic and family violence and to search for support services on the Sunshine Coast or in your local area.
6. Centacare provides a range of specialist support services for women, children and families impacted by domestic and family violence. For more information, contact the Maroochydore office on 07 5430 9300.
7. Download the Be there App: A domestic violence bystander support app that gives you direct access to tools that empower, educate and support you to help someone who is experiencing domestic or family violence.
For more information about Domestic and Family Violence Prevention on the Sunshine Coast visit, sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/living-and-community/community-support/domestic-and-family-violence
