Respond to domestic and family violence

Domestic and family violence is when one person in a relationship uses violence or abuse to control the other person. Domestic and family violence is usually an ongoing pattern of behaviour aimed at controlling a partner through fear.

Every Queenslander has the right to feel safe and be safe, especially in their home. Domestic and family violence is a violation of this basic human right.

As a Queensland public servant, if you have contact with a client who is experiencing domestic and family violence, it is important to offer them appropriate support.

If a client discloses they are experiencing domestic and family violence here are some steps you should follow:

• If the person is in immediate danger, phone the police on Triple Zero (000).
• If there is no immediate emergency, the client can report domestic and family violence to the police by phoning Policelink on 131 444 or obtain support by phoning DVConnect, a 24-hour domestic violence helpline, on 1800 811 811. If preferred, the client or a support person can also request contact with a police officer via the Queensland Police online reporting form.

On the Domestic and Family Violence Portal you will also find useful information about:

• domestic and family violence helplines
• local Queensland Government funded support services
• what is domestic and family violence
• how someone can stay safe
• where someone can find help
• how you can help someone
• legal help
• help for specific situations
• how to report domestic and family violence.

If you need advice to support a fellow Queensland Government employee who is experiencing domestic and family violence, please refer to the Public Sector Commission's support for employees section on this website.

Further information about Queensland Government violence prevention policies can be found on the Department of Justice and Attorney-General website. This includes information about:

• the Domestic and Family Violence Protection Act 2012
• the Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Strategy 2016–26
• the Violence Against Women Prevention Plan 2016–22
• domestic and family violence reform
• domestic violence self-funded refuges
• sexual violence prevention
• the Not now, not ever. Together. community campaign.

You can also visit the End Domestic and Family Violence reform website to find out what the Queensland Government is doing to prevent domestic and family violence.