17 September 2021
Published 20 July 2020
When it comes to domestic violence, Moreton Bay Regional Mayor Peter Flannery says even one case is too many.
Today he met with co-chairs of the Domestic Violence and Family Prevention Council, Kay McGrath OAM and former Queensland Police Commissioner Bob Atkinson OA APM, ahead of their engagements in the region on Wednesday 22 and Thursday 23 this week.
“Last year there were 2050 domestic violence protection order breaches reported in the Moreton Bay Region,” Mayor Flannery said.
“That’s a horrific statistic when you consider how many more incidents must go unreported and the fact that domestic violence has spiked through the COVID-19 pandemic, with many victims being forced to isolate at home with perpetrators.
“We have to start doing things differently if we’re to achieve different and better outcomes and after meeting with Kay and Bob today, I’m heartened by the belief that they are the right people to lead this important taskforce.
“Their visit will be an opportunity for the Prevention Council and representatives from state government departments to get a better understanding of the issues here in Moreton Bay, promote partnerships across the community and to highlight some of the excellent initiatives that are being led across the region to address domestic violence.”
The Prevention Council is tasked with building on the momentum of the domestic and family violence reform work by encouraging everyone to play their part in addressing the issue.
Bob Atkinson was enthusiastic about collaborating with local organisations in Moreton Bay and inspiring more grassroots community-led action in the fight against domestic and family violence.
“We all have an important role to play in continuing to bring about positive societal and cultural change,” he said.
“Together we can challenge behaviours and attitudes in our workplaces, neighbourhoods, local clubs and sporting teams.
“When the opportunity is there, speak up. If you know of someone suffering, do something. If you are a victim, reach out and seek help. Help is available.”
Mayor Flannery said Council started an important conversation about domestic violence last year.
“In partnership with the Red Rose Foundation, we installed red benches right around the region to provoke conversation and make it clear that we take a zero-tolerance approach,” he said.
“What we need now are new courses of action, so I look forward to reading the Prevention Council’s report and recommendations on what more we can do.
“We can’t shy away from this challenge, because I refuse to accept that anyone should ever have to live with physical or emotional or sexual violence in their lives. Not now, not ever.”
For more information about domestic violence and support services available, visit https://www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au/Services/Community-Support/Domestic-and-Family-Violence