Health and safety

Domestic and sexual violence

Women experience higher rates of domestic and sexual violence than men throughout their lives. The Queensland Government maintains that violence against women is unacceptable and unlawful. It is committed to building safer and more supportive communities where everyone is treated with dignity, respect and fairness. Several resources and publications are available on these topics.

Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month

Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month (DFVP Month) is held during May each year to raise community awareness of the social and personal impacts of domestic and family violence, and the support available to those affected.

For further information on violence prevention, please go to the Department of Communities, Child Safety and Disability Services website.

Sexual Violence Awareness Month

Sexual Violence Awareness Month is held every October to encourage Queenslanders to show their support for ending violence of this nature and to inform those affected about the help available.

For further information on Sexual Violence Awareness Month, please go to the Gold Coast Centre Against Sexual Violence Inc website. (Non-Queensland Government website)

Getting help for people experiencing violence

If you are in danger right now, call the police or ambulance service on 000.

Contact numbers for advice and assistance are available at our Find a service page.

White Ribbon Day

White Ribbon Day, 25 November, is the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. Show your support by wearing a white ribbon. To find out more, and to order resources, visit the White Ribbon Campaign website. (Non-Queensland Government website)

Women's health

Feeling healthy and well is a key to getting the most out of life. That's why improving women's health and well-being is integral to the Queensland Government's overall vision of making things better for Queensland women.

Queensland Health is the Government's lead health agency. Further information is available from the Queensland Health Women's Health website.

Regional domestic and family violence services

Regional domestic and family violence services provide information, referral, advice, counselling and support to women experiencing domestic and family violence. Many of these services also have information on counselling services available for people who use domestic and family violence in relationships.

To find your regional domestic and family violence service please go to the Department of Communities, Child Safety and Disability Services website.

Household preparedness for people with a disability, their families and carers

Emergency Management Queensland has joined with Australian Red Cross to produce a Queensland version of the Emergency REDiPlan booklet.

This resource provides information on four steps to prepare for emergencies and is tailored to meet the specific needs of people with a disability. There are worksheets for each step that contribute to an overall Emergency Plan. These include:

1. Be informed
2. Make a plan
3. Get an emergency kit
4. Know your neighbours.

Pease visit the Emergency Management Queensland website for downloadable copies of the booklet and associated worksheets (planning templates).