Specialist Practitioners Embedded in Police Stations to Combat Domestic Violence

Domestic and Family Violence (DFV) specialist practitioners have been strategically placed in various police stations across the Sunshine Coast and Wide Bay regions in Queensland. This initiative aims to strengthen the response to domestic violence incidents and provide crucial support to victim-survivors.

Under the collaboration between the Queensland Police Service, Department of Families, Seniors, Disability Services, Child Safety, and Centacare, four specialist DFV practitioners from Centacare have been stationed at police stations in Caloundra, Maroochydore, Hervey Bay, and Maryborough. These practitioners offer a range of services including information, advocacy, safety planning, and psychosocial support to those affected by domestic violence.

According to North Coast Region Assistant Commissioner Glenn Morris, the embedded practitioners have already made a significant impact since commencing their roles in March. Their presence has improved the handling of DFV cases, ensuring victim-survivors receive the necessary support and assistance during investigations.

The program’s focus is on providing a comprehensive and trauma-informed approach to each case, with victim-survivors having access to specialized support services. Centacare General Manager Teena Ingram highlighted the importance of integrating social work practices into local police stations to deliver a more nuanced response to domestic violence incidents.

Victim-survivors of domestic and family violence are encouraged to seek help by reporting incidents to the police. Support and counseling services are available through DVConnect Womensline, DVConnect Mensline, 1800 RESPECT, and 13YARN. The Queensland Government’s Domestic and Family Violence portal also offers additional information and resources for those in need.