More than $30 million will be invested in expanding Queensland’s DVConnect service, with a review into the delivery of 24/7 support for people experiencing domestic violence.
State Domestic and Family Violence Minister Amanda Camm said DVConnect fielded 450 calls a day on average, connecting many callers with services on the ground across the state.
Minister Camm said demand for help had increased by one-third in the past 12 months.
She said this demand was expected to surge even higher over the Christmas period, historically a more acutely pressured time in family households.
“If you are in imminent danger, seek help from the police by calling 000.”
Minister Camm said the $31.25 million expansion of DVConnect included creating a new North Queensland hub and an analysis of the current service focused on the areas of accountability and transparency, demand in the system and future model.
She said this included assessment of demand and data across the system and a review of options in delivering 24/7 crisis support.
“There’s opportunity to better understand demand, but also ensure the systems we currently have designed are fit for purpose.”
Minister Camm said help was on hand at Christmas for any Queenslander experiencing domestic, family or sexual violence.
“The holiday season can present extra pressures for families who are at risk of violence and this can result in increased incidents over the Christmas and new year period,” Minister Camm said.
“DVConnect is a critical service operating 24/7.
“Over the holidays help is just one phone call away for anyone who needs it.”
Minister Camm said the expansion of DVConnect would not only help double the capacity of the Womensline and Mensline helplines but also provide better regionalised support across Queensland.
She said a tender process for the North Queensland hub would commence in the new year, and was expected to be completed by June 2025.
