Delivery of Recommendations Not Now, Not Ever: Putting an End to Domestic and Family Violence in

Queensland’s reform program to end domestic and family violence Contents

Message from the Premier and the Minister...... 1 Queensland’s response to the Not Now, Not Ever report...... 2 How we will continue to deliver action ...... 2 Delivery of Recommendations...... 3 Enabling actions...... 41

Copyright This publication is protected by the Copyright Act 1968. © State of Queensland, October 2019. Licence This work is licensed by the Department of the Premier and Cabinet under a Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY) 4.0 International licence. To view a copy of this licence, visit: https://creativecommons.org/ licenses/by/4.0/ You are free to copy, communicate and adapt this publication, as long as you attribute appropriately, including: • The name of the publication “Delivery of Recommendations | Not Now, Not Ever: Putting an End to Domestic and Family Violence in Queensland” • A link to the work if you have sourced it online • The copyright licence statement above • Indicate if you have made changes to the work. Message from the Premier and the Minister

Domestic and family violence is a complex social issue efforts of government, business and communities can that has a profound impact on the wellbeing of all create meaningful change. Queenslanders across our communities, regardless This report provides a snapshot of Queensland’s progress of age, gender, culture or circumstances. in delivering against each of the Not Now, Not Ever report With Queensland’s domestic and family violence recommendations. increasing and becoming more severe, it was clear We are proud of what has been achieved to date change was urgently needed. in Queensland – creating real and lasting change. In 2014, the established the We are challenging attitudes in our communities, bipartisan Special Taskforce on Domestic and Family integrating service responses and reforming our law Violence, led by Dame Quentin Bryce AD CVO, to set the and justice system. direction for reform. However, we know significant reform takes time and there The Taskforce travelled the length and breadth of is still much more to be done. Queensland, examining support systems and conducting The Third Action Plan 2019–20 to 2021–22 outlines how extensive community engagement. They heard stories we will build on the work of Queensland’s reform program of those who have suffered, and those who were working to date and continue delivering real action towards our to stop the violence. Through listening, sharing and vision of ending domestic and family violence. understanding these experiences, the Taskforce gathered Eliminating domestic and family violence is not insights to inform the development of the Not Now, an insurmountable challenge. We thank the many Not Ever: Putting an End to Domestic and Family Violence Queenslanders who have played an invaluable role in in Queensland report (the Not Now, Not Ever report). our reform journey so far. With government, business The Not Now, Not Ever report outlined recommendations and communities working together, we will continue for government and non-government organisations to to address domestic and family violence and keep all address domestic and family violence in Queensland. Queenslanders safe. In 2015, all of the 121 government-directed Looking to the next phase of Queensland’s domestic recommendations in the Not Now, Not Ever report were and family reform program, Queensland says: Not Now, accepted by the Queensland Government, and the Not Ever, Together. remaining 19 non-government directed recommendations were supported. The 10-year Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Strategy 2016–26 was then developed to guide the implementation of these recommendations, with Annastacia Palaszczuk MP a strong vision for a Queensland free from domestic Premier and Minister for Trade and family violence.

We committed a record investment of $328.9 million over six years to transform the recommendations of the Not Now, Not Ever report into action. Significant progress has been made to prevent and MP respond to domestic and family violence in our Minister for Child Safety, Youth and Women communities, and create a safer Queensland for and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic generations to come. This has shown how the combined and Family Violence

Delivery of Recommendations | Not Now, Not Ever: Putting an end to domestic and family violence in Queensland Report 1 • Domestic and family violence toolkit of resources Queensland’s response to the for the health workforce providing easily accessible Not Now, Not Ever report information for the health system. • Specialist police officers deliver education and training Four years into the 10-year reform program, we have taken to operational police and engage in problem solving significant steps towards achieving a Queensland free with other government and non-government agencies from domestic and family violence. to address domestic and family violence related issues. • Domestic and Family Violence Workplace Support Implementing the recommendations from the Not Now, Package to strengthen support for affected employees Not Ever report has delivered: and increases workplace capability to respond. • The 10-year Domestic and Family Violence Prevention • Queensland’s plan to respond to the impact of Strategy 2016–26 and three action plans to prioritise domestic and family violence on people with disability our efforts. to address the issue of domestic and family violence • Establishment of an independent oversight body in the committed against people with a disability, now and Domestic and Family Violence Implementation Council, into the future. previously chaired by Dame Quentin Bryce AD, CVO and • a renewed way of working with Aboriginal and Torres currently chaired by Kay McGrath OAM. Strait Islander people, families and communities • Respectful relationships education in schools that to address the causes, prevalence and impacts of seeks to remove the causes of violence and prevent risk domestic and family violence through Queensland’s factors by using a strength-based approach, to build Framework for Action – Reshaping our Approach to a culture of respect and gender equality. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Domestic and • Specialist Domestic and Family Violence Courts, Family Violence. ensuring support is provided for people participating • A new website providing improved access to in the court process. information on domestic and family violence • Amendments to Queensland laws to better protect and support services. Queenslanders and hold perpetrators to account. • Integrated service responses and high risk teams focused on how service systems can work together How we will continue in a timely, structured and collaborative way to provide integrated, culturally appropriate safety responses to deliver action to victims and their children who are at high risk of serious harm or lethality. The Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Strategy • Statewide communication and engagement campaigns 2016–26 (the Strategy) will continue to drive change to increase awareness and understanding of domestic across all sectors of the Queensland community. and family violence, including: The Third Action Plan 2019–20 to 2021–22 builds on the »» promoting help and support services for significant work of the reform program to date. It provides Queenslanders a blueprint for government and the community for the »» encouraging young Queenslanders to recognise next three years to continue to deliver our common goal the signs of domestic and family violence of keeping Queenslanders safe. »» addressing stigma around reporting and seeking The Fourth Action Plan 2022–23 to 2025–26 will continue help within Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, delivery of tangible results to prevent domestic and family Intersex and Queer (LGBTIQ+) communities violence, foster independence, and demonstrate the need »» raising awareness of how to safely and for ongoing change by the community beyond the life appropriately intervene. of the Strategy. • Additional shelters providing crisis accommodation Building a community free from domestic and family and immediate support for people affected by domestic violence is a multi-generational vision, and the Strategy and family violence across Queensland. will continue to be implemented to work toward this vision • White Ribbon Workplace Accreditation for all and achieve long-term cultural change. Queensland Government departments.

2 Delivery of Recommendations

This report provides a snapshot of activities undertaken by government and non-government organisations to implement each of the recommendations of the Not Now, Not Ever report as at 30 September 2019. This reflects a point in time when the recommendations were considered to be delivered. Additional work may have been completed since, and action will continue to be delivered to prevent and respond to domestic and family violence under Queensland’s 10-year Strategy.

REC RECOMMENDATION GOVERNMENT RESPONSE SUMMARY OF ACTIVITY NO. 1 The Queensland Government develops a The Queensland Government The Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Domestic and Family Violence Prevention will engage the community in Strategy 2016–26 has been developed in Strategy which: developing a Domestic and consultation with the Queensland community • Is developed through a robust community Family Violence Prevention through a statewide community collaboration, consultative process Strategy as a framework held over three months from 18 August until • Lays the foundations and creates the to drive Government and 16 November 2015. building blocks for a Queensland that is community action for change. The final Strategy andFirst Action Plan free from violence and abuse, and where 2015–2016 were released in February 2016. all Queenslanders act, as individuals In 2017, the Second Action Plan 2016–17 to and as a collective whole, to place social 2018–19 was released. The Third Action Plan equality and human rights at the centre 2019–20 to 2021–22 was released in 2019. of our relationships and interactions with each other • Includes a robust implementation plan • Includes a comprehensive evaluation framework. 2 The Queensland Government develops The Queensland Government The Domestic and Family Violence Prevention an implementation plan for the will outline how the Domestic Strategy 2016–26 is being implemented recommendations in this Report and the and Family Violence through a series of four action plans forthcoming Strategy, which includes robust, Prevention Strategy will each informed by the previous plan. transparent and accountable oversight, be actioned through an A comprehensive evaluation framework has effective evaluation, research and evidence implementation plan. been developed for the Strategy to determine gathering principles, and the flexibility the impact of the Strategy itself, as well as key to improve on actions and initiatives. initiatives of the reform program. 3 The Queensland Government establishes and The Queensland Government The Premier appointed members to the supports an advocacy and audit oversight agrees an oversight body Domestic and Family Violence Implementation body, comprising representatives drawn from will be critical to help Council on 1 December 2015. The Council has key sectors from the Queensland community drive change across the provided four progress reports that have been (including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Queensland community. tabled in the Queensland Parliament and are representation) and with an independent A Domestic and Family available online. chair. The oversight body should: Violence Prevention Council a. Be given the role to audit and undertake will be established to take advocacy for the implementation of the on this role. recommendations of this Report and the Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Strategy b. Be required to report to the Premier, initially six monthly, on implementation progress and the performance of the sectors taking action to eliminate domestic and family violence. The frequency of reporting should be reviewed after 12 months from finalisation of the Strategy.

Delivery of Recommendations | Not Now, Not Ever: Putting an end to domestic and family violence in Queensland Report 3 REC RECOMMENDATION GOVERNMENT RESPONSE SUMMARY OF ACTIVITY NO. 4 The Premier of Queensland tables the The Queensland Government The Domestic and Family Violence oversight body’s reports in the Queensland will ensure the timely tabling Implementation Council has provided four Parliament. of the new Domestic and progress reports that have been tabled in the Family Violence Prevention Queensland Parliament and are available Council’s reports in the online. Queensland Parliament. 5 The Queensland Government develops The Queensland Government The Institute for Social Science Research at a detailed evaluation framework to will develop an evaluation The was engaged evaluate implementation of the Taskforce’s framework as part of the to undertake this work in consultation with recommendations and as part of the Domestic Domestic and Family Violence relevant agencies and experts. The report, and Family Violence Prevention Strategy and Prevention Strategy in outlining an evaluation framework for the which allows for the assessment of: recognition of the importance Strategy, was released on 25 January 2018 • The impact of the reform overall in terms of evaluation. and is available online. of driving change • The specific impact of key initiatives to be progressed under the recommendations and the Strategy in terms of improving outcomes. 6 The Queensland Government immediately The Queensland Government All Domestic and Family Violence Death considers an appropriate resourcing model will increase staffing for the Review Unit staff have been recruited and for the Domestic and Family Violence Death Domestic and Family Violence have commenced duties. Review Unit in the Office of the State Coroner Death Review Unit. to ensure it can best perform its functions to enable policy makers to better understand and prevent domestic and family violence. 7 Protocols be developed with the Domestic The Queensland Government Research and data sharing protocols have and Family Violence Death Review Unit to will ensure government been developed and are publicly available ensure that government departments with departments can access the on the Domestic and Family Violence relevant policy development responsibilities research and resources of the Death Review Advisory Board’s website. have access to the research and resources Unit to better equip policy An evaluation in 2017 confirmed that the available from the Unit. makers to understand and research and data sharing protocols are prevent domestic and family effective and meet the needs of stakeholders. violence related deaths. Protocols will be developed to support improved information sharing. 8 In consultation with key domestic violence The Queensland Government Coroners (Domestic and Family Violence Death stakeholders, the Queensland Government will establish the Domestic Review and Advisory Board) Amendment Act immediately establishes an independent and Family Violence Death 2015 commenced on 4 December 2015. Domestic and Family Violence Death Review Review and Advisory Board On 20 July 2016, the then Attorney‑General Board, consisting of multi-disciplinary and determine the Board’s and Minister for Justice and Minister experts, to: membership and operating for Training and Skills announced the a. Identify common systemic failures, gaps arrangements in consultation 12 members of the Board. or issues and make recommendations with the State Coroner to improve systems, practices and and community and legal procedures stakeholders. b. Report to the oversight body every six months on these findings and recommendations c. Be supported by and draw upon the information and resources of the Domestic and Family Violence Death Review Unit.

4 REC RECOMMENDATION GOVERNMENT RESPONSE SUMMARY OF ACTIVITY NO. 9 The Queensland Government, in collaboration The Queensland Government The Queensland Government, in partnership with local communities, develops a place- will co-design, trial and with domestic and family violence specialist based, culturally appropriate integrated evaluate a place-based organisations, has developed a place-based response to domestic and family violence culturally appropriate model for responding to domestic and in discrete Indigenous communities which integrated service model family violence in Cherbourg, with referrals includes: in a discrete Indigenous commencing in August 2017. A trial of integrated service provision in community to inform future The Griffith Criminology Institute was one discrete Indigenous community (also responses in Indigenous appointed as the external evaluator and discussed in Chapter 7) utilising a locally- communities a summary of the evaluation report was based shelter as a hub for the provision of tabled in Parliament on 25 July 2019 and wraparound support services for women and is available online. children affected by domestic and family violence Considering an expanded role of Community Justice Groups in design and implementation of the co-located service response, ensuring that they are properly resourced and supported to undertake this role Increasing the funding for, and availability of community-driven and holistic responses to Indigenous male perpetrators. 10 The Queensland Government commissions The Queensland Government People with Disability Australia was a review to address the impact of domestic will commission a review contracted to undertake the review into the and family violence on people with to explore the specific impact of domestic and family violence on disabilities. challenges faced by people people with disability. Consultations were with a disability impacted by undertaken with people with disability, the domestic and family violence. government and non-government sectors, and specialised domestic and family violence services. The report has now been finalised and is available online. 11 The Queensland Government commissions The Queensland Government The Review into the Prevalence and a specific review into the prevalence will commission a review Characteristics of Elder Abuse in Queensland and characteristics of elder abuse in in recognition of the consisted of two components: Queensland to inform development of challenges faced by older • An examination of state government integrated responses (see Chapter 7) and people impacted by elder datasets undertaken by the Queensland a communications strategy for elderly abuse, to inform the Government Statistician’s Office (QGSO). victims of domestic and family violence development of integrated QGSO has submitted the final report that (see Chapter 6). service response models provides data where it is available and (see Recommendations of sufficient quality and also outlines 74 and 83) and the data limitations. communication strategy • A literature review and qualitative (see Recommendations 12 research. Curtin University was engaged and 18). to conduct the review into the prevalence and characteristics of elder abuse. Both reports are available online.

Delivery of Recommendations | Not Now, Not Ever: Putting an end to domestic and family violence in Queensland Report 5 REC RECOMMENDATION GOVERNMENT RESPONSE SUMMARY OF ACTIVITY NO. 12 The Queensland Government includes specific The Queensland The Domestic and Family Violence Prevention elements in the communication strategy (see Government will ensure the Engagement and Communication Strategy Recommendation 18) that target elder abuse, Communication Strategy (see 2016–2026 supports continuation of and where to go for support. Recommendation 18) targets activities to raise awareness of elder abuse. elder abuse and addresses information and support needs for those experiencing elder abuse. 13 The Queensland Government makes The Queensland Government TThe Queensland Government has received representations to the Commonwealth will make representations to advice and feedback from the Queensland Government to consider reforms to the the Australian Government Carers Advisory Council (QCAC) on the issues funding of carers that continue to support the informed through consultation raised in the recommendation. invaluable care that most carers provide but with carers and stakeholders, On behalf of the Queensland Government, remove capacity for the payments to be used the review into the prevalence the Department of Communities, as a tool for financial control and domestic and characteristics of elder Disability Services and Seniors has made and family violence of elderly people. abuse (Recommendation 11) representations to the Commonwealth and findings of the Minister for National Disability Insurance Parliamentary Committee Scheme and Commonwealth Minister inquiry into the adequacy of for Health regarding support for carers existing financial protections to improve their health and wellbeing. for Queensland’s seniors. The Commonwealth Government has responded advising of the implementation of the new Integrated Carer Support Service model. 14 The Queensland Government includes LGBTI The Queensland The Domestic and Family Violence Prevention specific elements in the communication Government will ensure the Engagement and Communication Strategy strategy (Recommendation 18) to raise Communication Strategy 2016–2026 includes a specific campaign awareness of domestic and family violence (see Recommendation 18) to raise awareness of domestic and in the LGBTI community, remove the stigmas addresses the needs and family violence within the Lesbian, Gay, around reporting and seeking help, and challenges of the LGBTI Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex and Queer providing LGBTI victims with advice on community. communities. The campaign aims to remove where to go for support. the stigmas around reporting and seeking help, and provide victims with advice on where to go for support. 15 The Queensland Government recognises the The Queensland Government The Domestic and Family Violence Prevention importance of community and government will develop a comprehensive Engagement and Communication Strategy prevention programs for long-term reduction Communication Strategy 2016–2026 (the communication strategy) of domestic and family violence and gives aimed at the long-term provides a 10-year framework for creating a clear commitment to resource and support prevention of domestic and cultural change regarding domestic and family comprehensive and coordinated prevention. family violence and address violence in Queensland. The communication In doing so, the Queensland Government resourcing of prevention and strategy represents a new approach to must ensure both education and prevention service delivery responses as domestic and family violence engagement initiatives and response programs receive part of the long-term funding and communication in Queensland and puts funding. and investment model in place elements to encourage new thinking (Recommendation 72). and innovation. A focus on preventative funding has been embedded in the funding and investment model, which is publicly available online.

6 REC RECOMMENDATION GOVERNMENT RESPONSE SUMMARY OF ACTIVITY NO. 16 The Queensland Government leads and The Queensland The communication strategy provides promotes sustained, inter-generational Government will develop a 10‑year framework for creating cultural communication in the community about the a Communication Strategy change regarding domestic and family seriousness of domestic and family violence, (see Recommendation 18) violence in Queensland. The communication the community’s intolerance of domestic and to achieve sustained strategy is an important step in the family violence, and the services available and inter-generational journey towards Queensland’s long-term to victims and perpetrators. communication with vision of ending domestic and family Queenslanders. violence. The communication strategy is available online. 17 The Queensland Government funds the The Queensland Government The Institute for Social Science Research at development of evaluation criteria and a will develop an evaluation The University of Queensland was engaged robust evaluation program for existing and framework as a component to work in consultation with relevant agencies future initiatives aimed at changing culture of the Domestic and Family and experts to develop a comprehensive and attitudes towards domestic and family Violence Prevention Strategy. evaluation framework. The evaluation violence. Evaluation of existing initiatives framework includes a set of indicators for should be commenced as soon as possible. evaluating initiatives aimed at changing culture and attitudes towards domestic and family violence. The evaluation framework is available online. 18 The Queensland Government develops a The Queensland Government The communication strategy provides consistent, comprehensive communication will develop a comprehensive a 10‑year framework for creating cultural strategy on domestic and family violence for Communication Strategy. change regarding domestic and family Queensland. violence in Queensland. The communication strategy addresses 11 recommendations of the Not Now, Not Ever report and includes a program of communication activities that are being implemented. The communication strategy is available online. 19 The Audit Oversight Body oversees The Queensland Government Domestic and Family Violence development and implementation will establish a Domestic Implementation Council members have of an innovative, multi-pronged and Family Violence been briefed throughout the development communication strategy. Prevention Council of the communication strategy and were (see Recommendation 3) invited to participate in the collaborative to oversee the development development process. Council members have of the Communication been briefed during implementation of the Strategy. campaigns. 20 As a minimum, the communication strategy The Queensland Government The communication strategy provides must comprise a sustained, long-term will develop a comprehensive a 10‑year framework for creating cultural advertising/ media campaign to run for Communication Strategy change regarding domestic and family an appropriate minimum period of time, (see Recommendation 18). violence in Queensland. The communication utilising print, television and social media strategy outlined a number of campaigns for to raise awareness: specific target audiences that were delivered • Of what constitutes domestic and across a range of mediums including print, family violence television and social media. Future campaigns will continue to be informed by the views • That it is unacceptable of the target audience to ensure successful • Where victims can go for help long‑term engagement. • How bystanders, neighbours, friends The communication strategy and family can safely intervene is available online. • Where perpetrators can go for help to change their behaviour.

Delivery of Recommendations | Not Now, Not Ever: Putting an end to domestic and family violence in Queensland Report 7 REC RECOMMENDATION GOVERNMENT RESPONSE SUMMARY OF ACTIVITY NO. 21 A group of experts, for example, in The Queensland Government A one-day design forum was held in behavioural psychology, behavioural will establish a Domestic May 2016 that engaged a broad range economics, marketing and advertising, and Family Violence of experts to provide advice on innovative media and technology, and domestic and Prevention Council (see ways to communicate with the Queensland family violence, be established to design the Recommendation 3) to community. Fifty attendees from a range of communication strategy. The group will report oversee the development of specialist backgrounds – from behavioural to the Audit Oversight Body and provide the Communication Strategy psychology to creative industries – and advice on innovative ways to communicate and will use a group of experts community sectors – from faith groups with the Queensland community. to inform the development of to private enterprise – came together to the Communication Strategy consider the scope and objective of the communication strategy and to generate ideas and approaches for maximum effectiveness. The results of the design forum have informed the Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Engagement and Communication Strategy 2016–2026 and will continue to inform its delivery. The communication strategy is available online. 22 The Queensland Government ensures that The Queensland Government The communication strategy will continue the communication strategy is implemented acknowledges frontline staff to be implemented through frontline services through all front line services including (but have an important role in in consultation with relevant agencies. not limited to) health and hospital services, encouraging cultural change The communication strategy education services and schools, Queensland in the community and will is available online. Ambulance Service, Queensland Police ensure staff understand the Service, Queensland Fire and Emergency key messages embedded in Services, housing services, Legal Aid the Communication Strategy Queensland, Director of Public Prosecutions (see Recommendation 18). and other legal services. 23 The Queensland Government continues to The Queensland Government The Queensland Government allocated fund and considers expanding the annual acknowledges the importance $153,000 to community organisations to hold Domestic and Family Violence Awareness of actively supporting awareness raising activities during Domestic Month Community Grants program to enable Queensland communities to and Family Violence Prevention Month community driven initiatives to complement undertake local prevention (May 2016). the communication strategy. campaigns and will continue This has increased from $70,000 in 2014 to fund the Domestic and as the number of funded organisations, Family Violence Prevention events and locations has increased from Month Community Grants. previous years. The Queensland Government continues to fund the Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month Grants program. 24 The Queensland Government leads and The Queensland Government The Queensland Government has developed facilitates the introduction of programs in will support programs in the Respectful Relationships Education state schools to embed through the school state schools that embed Program designed for students from Prep to life of all secondary and primary state schools a culture that upholds and Year 12. It is a primary prevention program a culture that emphasises: recognises the significance based on domestic and family violence • Developing and maintaining of appropriate and respectful research and best-practice educational respectful relationships relationships and gender approaches. It can be delivered as part of equality. This includes the curriculum or as a stand-alone pastoral • Respecting self students demonstrating care program and is available to all schools • Gender equality. respect for themselves and in Queensland — state and non-state. others and behaving in a manner that respects the rights of others.

8 REC RECOMMENDATION GOVERNMENT RESPONSE SUMMARY OF ACTIVITY NO. 25 The Queensland Government leads and The Queensland Government The Queensland Government developed the facilitates the introduction of programs recognises its responsibility Respectful Relationships Education Program to ensure that all secondary students can: to provide programs that designed for students from Prep to Year 12. • Recognise domestic and family violence focus on personal safety It is a primary prevention based on domestic and where to go for help and awareness, including and family violence research and best-practice identifying and responding educational approaches. It can be delivered • Safely intervene and provide support to abuse and violence, and to as part of the curriculum or as a stand-alone to victims. develop students’ knowledge pastoral care program and is available to all and skills to be able to schools in Queensland — state and non-state. recognise, react and report when they, or others, are unsafe. 26 The Queensland Government leads and The Queensland Government The Queensland Government developed the facilitates the introduction of programs recognises its responsibility Respectful Relationships Education Program to ensure that all primary students can: to provide programs that designed for students from Prep to Year 12. • Resolve conflict without violence focus on personal safety It is a primary prevention program based on and awareness, including domestic and family violence research and • Report fears and concerns safely. identifying and responding best-practice educational approaches. It can to abuse and violence, and to be delivered as part of the curriculum or as develop students’ knowledge a stand-alone pastoral care program and and skills to be able to resolve is available to all schools in Queensland — conflict without violence and state and non-state. recognise, react and report when they, or others, are unsafe. 27 The Queensland Minister for Education works The Queensland Government Classroom materials for the Australian with Queensland Catholic Education Council will share relevant material Curriculum: Health and Physical Education and Independent Schools Queensland to and advice in the area of continue to be shared between the support introduction of similar programs domestic and family violence Queensland Government and the non-state in private schools in Queensland. with the Queensland Catholic school sector. The Queensland Government’s Education Commission Respectful Relationships Education Program and Independent Schools was made available to the non-state school Queensland. sector via a web‑based platform in 2016. 28 Principals of non-government schools The Queensland Government The former Minister for Education and consider the Queensland Government supports the intent of this Minister for Tourism and Major Events wrote program and incorporate as appropriate recommendation. The to the Queensland Catholic Education into the school culture. Minister for Education and Commission (QCEC), Independent Schools Minister for Tourism, Major Queensland (ISQ) and Non-State Schools Events, Small Business and Accreditation Board advising them of the full the Commonwealth Games suite of education materials available via a will write to peak bodies web-based platform. Representatives of the the Queensland Catholic QCEC and ISQ have attended a meeting of the Education Commission, Domestic and Family Violence Implementation Independent Schools Council in February 2016 and discussed Queensland and the Non- their commitment to facilitating the use of State School Accreditation Respectful Relationships Education Program Board in order to convey this and addressing the issue of domestic and message to non-state school family violence for their students and the principals. broader school community. This commitment was re-affirmed at a subsequent meeting of the Domestic and Family Violence Implementation Council’s education work group on 5 February 2018.

Delivery of Recommendations | Not Now, Not Ever: Putting an end to domestic and family violence in Queensland Report 9 REC RECOMMENDATION GOVERNMENT RESPONSE SUMMARY OF ACTIVITY NO. 29 The Queensland Government includes The Queensland Government Information on the need to implement measures for implementing the programs recognises Principals and respectful relationships education programs into the performance agreements of Principals Deputy Principals play a vital has been included within key departmental and Deputy-Principals of state schools. role in the leadership of our and school planning and reporting documents schools and are crucial to the and systems. success of every student. The Queensland State Schools Annual Performance Review process for Principals and Deputy Principals is part of the commitment to developing a strong and sustainable leadership culture. The Queensland Government will communicate to Principals and Deputy Principals that it is a requirement to provide the programs that focus on appropriate, respectful and healthy relationships; and the Queensland Government will continue to provide information to Principals and Deputy Principals about such programs available to support schools and their students. Measures for implementing programs will be established to ensure effective implementation 30 In developing the communication strategy, The Queensland Government A number of initiatives under the the Queensland Government identifies high agrees that male leaders communication strategy have involved profile role models to raise awareness of can be effective ‘champions’ appropriate male role models. This includes domestic and family violence. Male role for violence prevention and a campaign targeted at Queensland young models should be drawn from the areas of will ensure this is addressed people aged 12–17 years old, which involved music, television, film, business, science and in the development of the a prominent Australian male musician known sport. Role models need to be selected from Communication Strategy as Illy as a role model/ champion. an accredited list or undertake appropriate (see Recommendation 18). Appropriate role models will continue training to be able to speak authoritatively to be involved in future reform initiatives. on domestic and family violence and contribute positively to the strategy.

10 REC RECOMMENDATION GOVERNMENT RESPONSE SUMMARY OF ACTIVITY NO. 31 As the largest employer in Queensland, The Queensland Government A range of strategies, frameworks and the Queensland Government takes the lead values an inclusive and resources have been made publicly available in developing and modelling workplaces that diverse workplace culture to support government, business and foster equality, and educates employees on where employee health and non‑government organisations in their unacceptable behaviour in the home and the wellbeing is important. The approach to domestic and family violence workplace, with direct emphasis on domestic government accepts that as and gender equality. and family violence. the largest employer in the The Public Service Commission has supported state, it can lead by example opportunities for Queensland Government through raising awareness, agencies to strengthen relationships with supporting employees and workplace partners, such as Australia’s creating effective workplace CEO Challenge and White Ribbon Australia, policies. and access various capability development offerings regarding Domestic and Family Violence in the workplace. All Queensland Government departments are White Ribbon accredited workplaces. 32 The Queensland Government funds the The Government has Recognise, Respond, Refer: Domestic development of a training program for collaborated with CEO Violence and the Workplace e-learning employers and businesses on building Challenge to launch the program was developed in collaboration with workplaces supportive to victims of domestic Recognise, Respond, Refer: Australia’s CEO Challenge to address this and family violence that includes skills Domestic Violence and the recommendation. on identifying and responding to domestic Workplace online training The whole-of-government domestic and and family violence. program. All Queensland family violence directive, issued by the Public Government agencies will Service Commission, encourages Queensland be supported to build Government departments to make the the program into their Recognise, Respond, Refer e-learning training schedules, and the program available to employees. More than Government will support 50 Queensland Government agencies have Australia’s CEO Challenge accessed the program for implementation. to promote the program to Australia’s CEO Challenge is offering the business and non-government program to employers and businesses outside organisations. the Queensland Public Service as part of its ongoing workplace program. 33 The Queensland Government amends the The Queensland Government The Queensland Government introduced Industrial Relations Act to create a new will review its industrial new industrial relations legislation to the category of leave for the public sector for relations laws and this review Queensland Parliament on 1 September victims of domestic and family violence that will consider the need for 2016 that proposed an entitlement to leave may be taken for any purpose related to the a legislative amendment for victims of domestic and family violence. violence (such as for injury recovery, finding to create a new category The Industrial Relations Act 2016 came into accommodation, court preparation and court of leave. effect from 1 March 2017. appearance). 34 The Queensland Government ensures The Queensland Government The Queensland Government introduced the amendment provide for 10 days a will review its industrial new industrial relations legislation to the year of leave, non-accumulative, to be relations laws and this Queensland Parliament on 1 September 2016 taken in conjunction with other leave and recommendation will be that proposed an entitlement to 10 days incorporating sensitivity as to the proof considered as part of paid leave for victims of domestic and family requirements for approval of the leave. the review. violence, which is non-accumulative, can be taken in conjunction with other leave and incorporates sensitivity as to the proof requirements for approval of the leave. The Industrial Relations Act 2016 came into effect from 1 March 2017.

Delivery of Recommendations | Not Now, Not Ever: Putting an end to domestic and family violence in Queensland Report 11 REC RECOMMENDATION GOVERNMENT RESPONSE SUMMARY OF ACTIVITY NO. 35 The Queensland Government amends the The Queensland Government The Queensland Government introduced Industrial Relations Act to specify outcomes will review its industrial new industrial relations legislation to the of domestic and family violence (i.e. injury, relations laws and this Queensland Parliament on 1 September 2016 application for leave, taking of leave) are recommendation will be that prohibits an employer from taking not grounds for fair dismissal (similar considered as part of adverse action (which includes dismissal) to parental leave). the review. against an employee, or prospective employee, because someone has committed or is committing domestic violence against the person. The Industrial Relations Act 2016 came into effect from 1 March 2017. 36 The Queensland Government requests the The Queensland The Industrial Relations Act 2016 came into Commonwealth Government considers similar Government will request the effect from 1 March 2017. The Queensland leave and dismissal amendments to the Fair Commonwealth Government Premier has called on the Commonwealth Work Act to protect Queensland workers to amend the Fair Work Act Government to include domestic and family engaged under the Federal Act from unfair 2009 (Cth) informed by the violence leave in the National Employment dismissal and provide appropriate support outcomes of the review of Standards in the Fair Work Act 2009 and to workers experiencing domestic and Queensland’s industrial the Queensland Government will continue family violence. relations laws, current to advocate for changes to federal unfair leave and unfair dismissal dismissal protections in the Fair Work provisions. Act 2009. 37 The Queensland Public Service Commission The Queensland Government The Domestic and Family Violence Workforce Chief Executive develops Public Service agrees domestic and family Support Package was released and is Directives specifically for management violence is a workplace available online. The package includes of victims of domestic and family violence issue and will develop a whole-of-government domestic and in the workplace. directives, training and family violence directive, model policy information resources related template, workplace response guide, to supporting victims of template leadership commitment statement, domestic and family violence communication toolkit, and other supporting in the workplace. resources. All information has been made available online. Local government, business and non‑government organisations are encouraged to adopt and/or tailor these strategies to suit the needs of their workplace. 38 The Queensland Public Service Commission The Queensland Government The Domestic and Family Violence Workforce Chief Executive develops training for agrees domestic and family Support Package includes a whole-of- managers and supervisors on implementing violence is a workplace government domestic and family violence these directives and supporting victims issue and will develop directive, model policy template, workplace of domestic and family violence. directives, training and response guide, template leadership information resources related commitment statement, communication to supporting victims of toolkit, and other supporting resources. domestic and family violence All information has been made available in the workplace. publicly online. 39 Queensland Government departments The Queensland Government The Domestic and Family Violence Workforce develop and make available information agrees domestic and family Support Package includes a whole-of- resources for victims on where to seek violence is a workplace government domestic and family violence assistance (financial, accommodation, issue and will develop directive, model policy template, workplace personal safety, counselling) and for directives, training and response guide, template leadership perpetrators to seek help to change information resources related commitment statement, communication behaviour (voluntary perpetrator programs, to supporting victims of toolkit, and other supporting resources. counselling etc). domestic and family violence All information has been made available in the workplace and assisting publicly online. perpetrators to seek help to change their behaviour.

12 REC RECOMMENDATION GOVERNMENT RESPONSE SUMMARY OF ACTIVITY NO. 40 The Minister for Local Government works The Queensland Government The Domestic and Family Violence Workforce with the Local Government Association of supports the intent of this Support Package has been provided to the Queensland and individual local governments recommendation. The Local Government Association of Queensland to implement the changes in the Industrial Queensland Government (LGAQ). The Queensland Government will Relations Act and the provision of new leave. will work with the Local continue to work with the LGAQ to provide This includes providing (free of charge) all Government Association of assistance to individual local governments directives, human resource policies and Queensland to ensure any with any necessary amendments to their training programs established for state changes to the Industrial policies and procedures to implement public service employees. Relations Act and leave the domestic and family violence leave arrangements are reflected in arrangements. the policies and procedures of individual local governments. The Government will make all directives, human resource policies and training materials available, free of charge, for use, if appropriate, by local governments. 41 The Queensland Government supports The Queensland Government Local government, business and non- businesses and non-government will model supportive government organisations are encouraged organisations to develop and maintain workplace practices and to adopt and/or tailor the strategies within workplaces that support victims of domestic actively support business the Domestic and Family Violence Workforce and family violence. This includes providing and non-government Support Package to suit the needs of their all directives, human resources policies and organisations to follow workplace. training programs established for state public suit including making all service employees. directives, human resource policies and training materials publicly available online for use, if appropriate, by other sectors. 42 The Queensland Government amends The Queensland Government Taking the lead from the Interdepartmental the Queensland Procurement Policy and has established an Committee review findings into government Guidelines to expand upon Principle 4: Interdepartmental Committee procurement, a social procurement toolkit “We use our procurement to advance the to review government has been developed. This toolkit supports government’s economic, environmental procurement, which will procurement officers to use government and social objectives and support the include consideration of procurement to advance the government’s long-term wellbeing of our community”, government procurement social and economic policies. The toolkit to include consideration of workplace policies policy and how various social is available online. concerning domestic and family violence initiatives, such as workplace as part of the criteria for determining ‘ethical policies concerning domestic and socially responsible suppliers’. and family violence, can be best implemented within the procurement framework. 43 The Queensland Government makes funded The Queensland Government Requirements for funded organisations to services that work with victims of domestic will ensure funded specialist include initiatives to reduce vicarious trauma and family violence explain in their service domestic and family violence are captured within the Human Services agreements how they will foster a workplace services have processes in Quality Framework auditing process for culture that reduces work-induced trauma, place to reduce work-induced funded organisations. A new release of the outlining specific initiatives. trauma for their staff. standards and user guide was published in April 2019. A new Workforce Capacity Building service was established mid–2019, and will focus on developing capabilities across the workforce, including in reducing vicarious trauma.

Delivery of Recommendations | Not Now, Not Ever: Putting an end to domestic and family violence in Queensland Report 13 REC RECOMMENDATION GOVERNMENT RESPONSE SUMMARY OF ACTIVITY NO. 44 Queensland Government departments and All Queensland Government The Queensland Language Services Government-funded organisations brief departments, including non- Guidelines have now been revised to contain interpreters prior to any client communication government organisations information on how to work with interpreters to fully inform them of the nature of the likely funded to deliver services on and plan for multilingual resources. discussion and the opportunity to decline the their behalf, are responsible The Guidelines are available online. engagement. for implementing the Queensland Language Services Policy. Further advice to agencies on briefing interpreters will be incorporated in the next review of the Language Services Guidelines. 45 Businesses and non-government The Queensland Government Local government, business and non- organisations in Queensland recognise the supports the intent of this government organisations are encouraged significant economic and social impact of recommendation and will take to adopt and/or tailor the strategies within domestic and family violence on the national every opportunity to highlight the Domestic and Family Violence Workforce and state economies and on workforce the impacts of Domestic and Support Package to suit the needs of their productivity. Family Violence. workplace. Results from the 2019 Queensland Social Survey indicate there is an increased awareness within businesses and non‑government organisations, with several workplaces introducing initiatives to protect and support employees who are affected by domestic and family violence. 46 Businesses and non-government The Queensland Government Local government, business and non- organisations in Queensland implement supports the intent of this government organisations are encouraged human resource policies, leave arrangements recommendation and will to adopt and/or tailor the strategies within and other support programs to support encourage and support the Domestic and Family Violence Workforce victims of domestic and family violence. businesses and non- Support Package to suit the needs of their government organisations workplace. to adopt human resource Results from the 2019 Queensland Social policies, practices and Survey indicate there is an increased programs to support victims awareness within businesses and of Domestic and Family non‑government organisations, with several Violence. workplaces introducing initiatives to protect and support employees who are affected by domestic and family violence. 47 Businesses and non-government The Queensland Government Local government, business and non- organisations in Queensland incorporate supports the intent of this government organisations are encouraged information on domestic and family violence, recommendation and will to adopt and/or tailor the strategies within its unacceptability, and availability of support encourage businesses the Domestic and Family Violence Workforce and how to safely intervene in staff training. and non-government Support Package to suit the needs of their organisations to incorporate workplace. information on Domestic Results from the 2019 Queensland Social and Family Violence in staff Survey indicate there is an increased training. awareness within businesses and non‑government organisations, with several workplaces introducing initiatives to protect and support employees who are affected by domestic and family violence.

14 REC RECOMMENDATION GOVERNMENT RESPONSE SUMMARY OF ACTIVITY NO. 48 Business and non-government organisations The Queensland Government A number of businesses and non-government in Queensland sign up to the CEO Challenge supports the intent of this organisations are current partners to build relationships with domestic and recommendation and will of Australia’s CEO Challenge. family violence support services, and foster encourage businesses workplaces that do not tolerate violence and and non-government support victims. organisations to sign up to the CEO Challenge and foster workplaces that do not tolerate Domestic and Family Violence. 49 The Queensland Government funds the The Queensland Government A review of existing training programs for development, promotion and provision recognises the importance of frontline domestic and family violence service of a model training program for frontline skilling frontline professionals professionals has been completed. The professionals in service industries and to recognise domestic and Queensland Government conducted extensive government, to develop skills in recognising family violence and will review research identifying national and international when domestic and family violence is existing training programs to best-practice, leading to the development occurring and appropriate intervention. inform the development of of a set of training principles. This work has a model training program. informed the broader workforce capacity and capability project for delivery of quality and effective training and professional development of the domestic and family violence workforce. 50 The Taskforce supports the recommendation The Queensland Government The former Minister for Health and Minister of the Coroner in his report on the inquest supports the intent of for Ambulance Services wrote to the Royal into the death of Ms Beutel and recommends this recommendation. Australian College of General Practitioners that the Royal Australian College of General The Minister for Health (RACGP) regarding their ‘White Book’. RACGP Practitioners refines the RACGP ‘White will write to the Royal have confirmed that the ‘White Book’ will Book’—Abuse and Violence—Working with Australian College of General be updated in 2021. General Practitioners our patients in general practice to be more Practitioners in support have access to the Domestic and Family prescriptive and provide more definitive of this recommendation. Violence Toolkit of Resources developed advice and decision making pathways for by the Queensland Government in response general practitioners. to Recommendation 52. 51 Royal Australian College of General The Queensland Government The former Minister for Health and Minister Practitioners, CheckUp and Primary Health support the intent of this for Ambulance Services wrote to the Royal networks work together to ensure that all recommendation. The Australian College of General Practitioners General Practitioners across Queensland, Minister for Health will write (RACGP) regarding their ‘White Book’. RACGP have access to, are familiar with and are to a range of primary health have confirmed that the ‘White Book’ will utilising the ‘White Book’. organisations in support be updated in 2021. General Practitioners of this recommendation. have access to the Domestic and Family Violence Toolkit of Resources developed by the Queensland Government in response to Recommendation 52.

Delivery of Recommendations | Not Now, Not Ever: Putting an end to domestic and family violence in Queensland Report 15 REC RECOMMENDATION GOVERNMENT RESPONSE SUMMARY OF ACTIVITY NO. 52 The Queensland Government, in partnership The Queensland Government CheckUp and Primary with CheckUp and the RACGP, develops a recognises the importance of Health Network (PHN) representatives toolkit based on existing examples in Victoria skilling frontline professionals supported the development of the and New South Wales to complement the to recognise domestic Domestic and Family Violence Toolkit of ‘White Book’ and assist GPs to recognise and and family violence. The Resources. The Royal Australian College of respond to domestic and family violence. Queensland Government, General Practitioners (RACGP) and General through the Department of Practitioners themselves have been provided Health, will work with key with the resources. The Toolkit of Resources agencies to develop a toolkit is now available online. based on existing resources A train-the-trainer program for both public in other jurisdictions. A and private health services was completed statewide train-the-trainer in March 2017. program will be developed to support the implementation of the toolkit across public and private sector health services in Queensland 53 The Australian and New Zealand College of The Queensland Government The former Minister for Health and Minister Obstetricians and Gynaecologists continues supports the intent of this for Ambulance Services wrote to the Royal to expand the resources available to trainees recommendation. The Australian and New Zealand College and practitioners and develop a strategy to Minister for Health will of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists actively engage with Fellows to encourage write to the Royal Australian (RANZCOG) regarding this recommendation. ongoing use of the resources. and New Zealand College The Queensland Government, through of Obstetricians and Queensland Health, worked with RANZCOG Gynaecologists to provide to develop the Toolkit of Resources as per access to the Department Recommendation 52. The Toolkit of Resources of Health resources. is available online. 54 The Queensland Government evaluates the The Queensland Government The report has been completed and provided frequency and efficacy of ante-natal screening recognises the important role to the Domestic and Family Violence for domestic and family violence and reports of midwives in recognising Implementation Council, and internal to the Audit Oversight Body. domestic and family Domestic and Family Violence Executive violence. The Queensland Group. The Queensland Government Government, through the is implementing all recommendations Department of Health, will made in the report. lead the development of the evaluation of ante-natal screening for domestic and family violence and will provide a report to the Domestic and Family Violence Council.

16 REC RECOMMENDATION GOVERNMENT RESPONSE SUMMARY OF ACTIVITY NO. 55 The Queensland Government commissions The Queensland Government Training resources have been developed the Australian College of Midwives to develop agrees that training and the to support midwives as well as other health training for midwives on asking pregnant development of a tool kit practitioners providing antenatal care. women about exposure to domestic violence would be beneficial for all A representative of the Australian College during ante-natal appointments and how to health professionals. The of Midwives participated in the development deal with disclosure, and a tool kit to provide Queensland Government, of resources. A website has been launched practical guidance on implementing the through the Department that contains the toolkit of resources for national practice guidelines. of Health, will work with health professionals. key stakeholders including A train-the-trainer program for both public the Australian College of and private health services completed Midwives on the development in March 2017. of training for all health professionals who work with women including midwives, based on existing resources in other jurisdictions. A statewide train-the-trainer program will be developed to support the implementation of the toolkit across public and private sector health services in Queensland. (As per the response to Recommendation 52). 56 Hospital and Health Services ensure that all The Queensland Government Training resources have been developed midwives receive appropriate training and recognises the important role to support midwives as well as other health that all women attending ante-natal clinics of midwives in recognising practitioners providing antenatal care. are asked about their exposure to domestic domestic and family violence. A website has been launched that and family violence and appropriate referrals The Queensland Government, contains the toolkit of resources for health occur if domestic violence is disclosed. through the Department professionals. of Health, will work with A train-the-trainer program for both public key stakeholders including and private health services completed the Australian College of in March 2017. Midwives on the development of training for all health professionals who work with women, including midwives, based on existing resources in other jurisdictions. A training program will be delivered within each Hospital and Health Service.

Delivery of Recommendations | Not Now, Not Ever: Putting an end to domestic and family violence in Queensland Report 17 REC RECOMMENDATION GOVERNMENT RESPONSE SUMMARY OF ACTIVITY NO. 57 The Australian College of Midwives develops The Queensland Government The former Minister for Health and Minister for a continuing professional development supports the intent of this Ambulance Services wrote to the Australian program to educate midwives on asking recommendation. The College of Midwives (ACM) regarding this pregnant women about exposure to domestic Queensland Government, recommendation. violence during ante-natal appointments and through the Department Queensland Health is working with ACM how to deal with disclosure. of Health, will write to to review and update the content of ACM’s the Australian College of national professional development programs. Midwives (ACM) to ensure This will likely be completed by June 2020. they have access to the resources developed for Recommendations 55 and 56 to enable the ACM to build on these resources for the continuing professional development program. 58 The Queensland Chief Health Officer and The Queensland Government The toolkit of resources has been developed Queensland Chief Nurse work with private will work with the private in consultation with the Private Hospital hospitals to encourage similar admission health sector in developing Association of Queensland. procedures in private maternity hospitals, resources and will share these A website has been launched that and to make available for use any tools resources with the private contains the toolkit of resources for health or material produced for public midwives. health sector, including professionals. private maternity hospitals. A train-the-trainer program for both public and private health services was completed in March 2017. 59 The Queensland Government and DVConnect The Queensland Government, The Queensland Government has collaborated work in partnership to develop a model through the Department with DVConnect to develop a referral to to provide immediate access to specialist of Health, will work in specialist support services model that guides domestic and family support and referral partnership with DVConnect clinicians through the process of referring services within public and private maternity to develop a model to a client to specialist services, in cases where hospitals and emergency departments. provide immediate access to this becomes necessary. specialist support and referral services within public and private maternity hospitals and emergency departments. 60 The Minister for Health recommends to the The Minister for Health will Workforce issues have been raised through Australian Health Workforce Ministerial raise workforce issues with the Health Workforce Principle Committee. Council that the Health Practitioner Regulation other Australian Health In May 2016, the Health Workforce Principal Boards of Australia require specific skill sets Ministers. Committee agreed to undertake scoping work pertaining to recognition of and appropriate to identify how jurisdictions are responding intervention for domestic and family violence to issues of domestic and family violence and child harm be included in accreditation following the Victorian Royal Commission standards submitted by Accreditation into Family Violence and the Queensland Agencies under the National Law. Not Now, Not Ever report. The scoping work is being led by Victoria, to frame advice to the Australian Health Ministers’ Advisory Council and Health Ministers on a suitable response to recommendations with respect to the registered and unregistered health workforce.

18 REC RECOMMENDATION GOVERNMENT RESPONSE SUMMARY OF ACTIVITY NO. 61 The Minister for Health recommends to the The Minister for Health will Workforce issues have been raised through Australian Health Workforce Ministerial raise workforce issues with the Health Workforce Principle Committee. Council that Health Practitioner Regulation other Australian Health Boards of Australia work with appropriate Ministers. accreditation bodies and colleges to enable professional development on recognising and intervening appropriately in domestic and family violence to be considered suitable for Continuing Professional Development recognition. 62 The Minister for Health recommends to the The Minister for Health will Workforce issues have been raised through Australian Health Workforce Ministerial raise workforce issues with the Health Workforce Principle Committee. Council that consideration also be given other Australian Health to including skill sets and professional Ministers. development on recognising and responding to child harm into accreditation standards and professional development programs. 63 The Minister for Health recommends to the The Minister for Health will The National Code of Conduct for Health Standing Council on Health that a requirement provide a paper to the COAG Care Workers is being implemented by to be familiar with the indicators of domestic Health Council. each jurisdiction. The Code of Conduct and family violence and child harm and to in Queensland came into effect on appropriately intervene be included into the 1 October 2015. draft National Code of Conduct for Health Jurisdictions have identified appropriate Care Workers. and sufficient mechanisms currently in place to address matters identified in the recommendation. 64 The Queensland Minister for Education The Minister for Education The Minister for Education raised this recommends to the Education Council that will raise this matter with the recommendation with the Education the Australian Institute for Teaching and Education Council. Council. This matter was referred to the School Leadership includes in the Australian national Respectful Relationships Education Professional Standards for Teachers, specific Working Group for consideration and is now skill sets to recognise and respond to considered closed. incidents of domestic and family violence and child harm. 65 The Queensland Government works with The Queensland Government The Queensland Government worked with the universities to identify suitable ways to will work with universities Queensland College of Teachers, the non-state incorporate into professional undergraduate to explore how pre-service school sector and universities to include the courses, education and training on how to teachers can be better requirement for all Queensland Initial Teacher identify when domestic and family violence educated to recognise and Education Programs to include education and is occurring and how to appropriately appropriately respond to training on domestic and family violence as intervene. domestic and family violence. a mandatory component from January 2017.

Delivery of Recommendations | Not Now, Not Ever: Putting an end to domestic and family violence in Queensland Report 19 REC RECOMMENDATION GOVERNMENT RESPONSE SUMMARY OF ACTIVITY NO. 66 The Queensland Government works with the The Queensland Government The consultation process has commenced and Vocational Education and Training sector to will utilise approved industry will be ongoing with relevant industry advisory increase the delivery of existing approved consultation processes to organisations. units of competency related to domestic identify whether there is a Consultation has resulted in the nationally and family violence. need to provide a subsidy recognised Child Protection Skill Set being for either full qualifications included on the Prioritites Skill List. This in child youth and family skill set is available for people in frontline intervention or for specific services who need upskilling to assist them skill sets which would assist to recognise and refer people experiencing in the upskilling of other domestic and family violence. professionals who may need The Queensland Government has commenced additional skills in this area. a process to promote the uptake of the nationally recognised skill set. The Priority Skills List includes a subsidy for both the Certificate IV and Diploma in Child, Youth and Family Intervention that may provide a pathway to employment or further education that could be relevant for particular roles within the sector. 67 The Queensland Government considers The Queensland Government A review of the barriers to media reporting on legislative amendment to the Defamation will consider whether it is domestic and family violence was conducted, Act 2005 to provide a defence to defamation necessary to amend the including existing defamation laws in this against media for publishing domestic and Defamation Act 2005, taking context, in addition to consultation with key family violence support services information into account that the Act is legal and media stakeholders. The review in stories or publications where domestic and part of a national uniform took into account the responses provided family violence is alleged or intimated but not legislative scheme. throughout the consultation process. The yet proven. outcome of the review was that no change is required to existing legislative measures to protect the privacy and identity of certain parties to domestic violence proceedings; and the Defamation Act 2005 did not require amendment. 68 The Attorney‑General recommends to the The Queensland Government A review of the barriers to media reporting on Law, Crime and Community Safety Council will make recommendations domestic and family violence was conducted, that a similar defence be established in all to the Law, Crime and including existing defamation laws in this jurisdictions across Australia to provide Community Safety Council context, in addition to consultation with key surety to media when publishing nationally dependent on the outcome legal and media stakeholders. The review available content. of the Queensland took into account the responses provided Government’s consideration throughout the consultation process. The of Recommendation 67 as to outcome of the review was that no change whether the Defamation Act is required to existing legislative measures 2005 should be amended. to protect the privacy and identity of certain parties to domestic violence proceedings; and the Defamation Act 2005 did not require amendment.

20 REC RECOMMENDATION GOVERNMENT RESPONSE SUMMARY OF ACTIVITY NO. 69 The Queensland Government reviews current The Queensland Government A review of the barriers to media reporting on relevant civil and criminal legislation to will review civil and criminal domestic and family violence was conducted, identify and amend anything that may impede legislation to examine including existing defamation laws in this media from publishing information about whether there are legislative context, in addition to consultation with key domestic and family violence support services barriers that may prohibit legal and media stakeholders. The review when reporting on domestic and family the media from publishing took into account the responses provided violence incidents. information about domestic throughout the consultation process. The and family violence support outcome of the review was that no change services when reporting on is required to existing legislative measures domestic and family violence to protect the privacy and identity of certain incidents. parties to domestic violence proceedings; and the Defamation Act 2005 did not require amendment. 70 The Queensland Government develops a The Queensland Government The Domestic and Family Violence media guide to assist news and current affairs will develop a media guide Media Guide was publicly released on programs when reporting on domestic and as a component of the 27 October 2017 and is available online. family violence incidents in Queensland. Communication Strategy (see Recommendation 18). 71 The Queensland Government undertakes The Queensland Government KPMG was engaged to undertake the audit an immediate audit of services to ensure has commenced an audit of services and provided its final report adequate resources are available to meet of services to inform the to government. The report was considered demand for specialist domestic and family development of a long- by government in June 2016 and is violence services, including perpetrator term funding model (see available online. intervention initiatives and specialist shelters. Recommendation 72) to guide future investment in the domestic and family violence service system. 72 The Queensland Government develops a long- The Queensland Government Development of a long-term funding and term funding and investment model, informed will develop a funding and investment model has been completed by the audit on the best mix of specialist and investment model that will and is available online. generalist services, to be implemented, as a guide future investment in the minimum, over the five year forward estimates domestic and family violence commencing in 2016/2017, to meet needs service system. and address any gaps. 73 The Queensland Government explicitly The Queensland Government The funding and investment model outlines in the funding and investment model will develop a funding and incorporates guidance to address service how new investment in service delivery for investment model that will delivery issues in rural and remote rural and remote communities will: guide future investment in the communities and is available online. • Enhance collaboration and coordination domestic and family violence service system and address • Encourage innovation in service delivery specific service delivery • Improve service to Queensland’s rural and issues in rural and remote remote communities into the future communities. • Expand technology to support victims of domestic and family violence • Attract and retain highly skilled workers to support victims of domestic and family violence in rural and remote communities • Link rural and remote services into the broader network of domestic and family violence service providers.

Delivery of Recommendations | Not Now, Not Ever: Putting an end to domestic and family violence in Queensland Report 21 REC RECOMMENDATION GOVERNMENT RESPONSE SUMMARY OF ACTIVITY NO. 74 The Queensland Government immediately, The Queensland Government A trial of integrated service responses and in collaboration with the domestic and has commenced planning has been conducted in Logan/Beenleigh, family violence service sector, establishes for the three integrated Mount Isa and Cherbourg. Common tools pilots for an integrated response model, service response pilots with and information sharing guidelines were incorporating: stakeholder engagement, used by the three trial sites to assess and • One urban integrated response co-design activities, manage domestic and family violence. to domestic and family violence implementation and An evaluation of the pilot has been conducted evaluation to follow. Critical and a Summary of the Evaluation Report was • One regional city integrated response foundational work underway tabled in Parliament on 25 July 2019. to domestic and family violence, with includes development of a outreach programs to rural and remote common risk assessment communities framework and information • One discrete Indigenous community sharing guidelines to be integrated response (as discussed implemented as part of in section 5.2 of this Report). the pilots. 75 These trial sites need to be reviewed and The Queensland Government The Griffith Criminology Institute was evaluated, with a view to expanding the will evaluate the pilot sites to appointed as the external evaluator and the number of sites for integrated services over inform the integrated service evaluation is completed. a defined period of time to transition to response models. A Summary of the Evaluation Report tabled state‑wide integrated service responses. in Parliament on 25 July 2019. 76 The Queensland Government establishes In collaboration with key In collaboration with key stakeholders, a model for inter-agency response to stakeholders, the Queensland a high risk team model was developed, high-risk cases which works within, Government will develop, trialled and evaluated as part of the or complements integrated responses trial and evaluate a model integrated response pilots in Logan/ and which is progressively established for inter-agency responses Beenleigh, Mount Isa and Cherbourg. throughout the state. to high-risk cases as part High risk teams are also operational of the integrated service in Ipswich, and , Mackay response pilots in three sites and Caboolture. (see Recommendation 74). The Griffith Criminology Institute was appointed as the external evaluator and a Summary of the Evaluation Report tabled in Parliament on 25 July 2019. 77 The Queensland Government designs a best In collaboration with key The Domestic and Family Violence Common practice common risk assessment framework stakeholders, the Queensland Risk and Safety Framework was distributed to support service provision in an integrated Government will develop, trial in the three integrated service response response, and designed for use by generalist and evaluate a best practice trial locations for use. High risk teams, and specialist services (supported by common risk assessment operational in Ipswich, Cairns, Brisbane, relevant tools). framework as part of the Mackay and Caboolture also utilise the integrated service response Framework. The Framework was considered pilots in three sites (see as part of the evaluation conducted by the Recommendation 74). Griffith Criminology Institute and a Summary of the Evaluation Report tabled in Parliament on 25 July 2019.

22 REC RECOMMENDATION GOVERNMENT RESPONSE SUMMARY OF ACTIVITY NO. 78 The Queensland Government introduces The Queensland Government The review of the Domestic and enabling legislation to allow information understands the importance Family Violence Protection Act 2012 sharing between agencies (government and of robust information sharing (Recommendation 140) included non-government) within integrated responses, mechanisms and will actively consideration of a legislative framework with appropriate safeguards. This would explore current barriers to to enable information sharing. Relevant include legislative protection for the sharing information sharing across provisions of the Domestic and Family of information without consent if a risk agencies and address barriers Violence Protection and Other Legislation assessment indicates it is for the purpose through a legislative response Amendment Act 2016 commenced on of protecting the safety of the victim and as needed. 30 May 2017. It introduced a legislative their immediate family. framework to facilitate information sharing between key government and non-government entities for the purposes of enabling risk assessment and responding to serious domestic violence threats. 79 The Queensland Government develops and The Queensland Government The information sharing guidelines shares with all relevant service providers, recognises that clear (to support the implementation of legislative clear guidelines to facilitate information information sharing amendments) were made available online sharing within an integrated response, guidelines are a critical from 30 May 2017. The Guidelines were with a continued focus on obtaining consent component of a best practice considered as part of the evaluation unless a high risk threshold has been met. integrated service response to conducted by the Griffith Criminology Institute domestic and family violence. and a Summary of the Evaluation Report In collaboration with key tabled in Parliament on 25 July 2019. stakeholders, information sharing guidelines will be developed, trialled and evaluated as part of the integrated service response pilots in three sites (see Recommendation 74). 80 The Queensland Government increases access The Queensland Government The Queensland Government has rolled to domestic and family violence perpetrator will increase access to out funding of $10.3 million over four years intervention initiatives, prioritising perpetrator intervention allocated in the 2016–17 Budget to provide those areas identified for the immediate initiatives and will consider coverage for perpetrator interventions across rollout of integrated responses (see funding requirements in the state, particularly targeting high-need Recommendation 74) with a view to ensuring the long-term funding and populations. statewide coverage within three years. investment model (see Recommendation 72). 81 The Queensland Government changes The Queensland Government The Queensland Government has revised eligibility criteria so offenders in custody for will increase accessibility the eligibility criteria to allow prisoners less than 12 months for domestic and family for offenders in custody less to participate in therapeutic programs violence related offences are able to access than 12 months to quality regardless of sentence length, providing they a range of therapeutic intervention programs. perpetrator programs and have enough time in custody to complete interventions as part of the the program. integrated service response models.

Delivery of Recommendations | Not Now, Not Ever: Putting an end to domestic and family violence in Queensland Report 23 REC RECOMMENDATION GOVERNMENT RESPONSE SUMMARY OF ACTIVITY NO. 82 The Queensland Government: The Queensland Government Following extensive consultation and a. Reviews and updates the Professional recognises that quality research, a set of contemporary, evidence- Practice Standards: Working with men who perpetrator interventions based practice standards have been perpetrate domestic and family violence are a key component of a developed. A quality framework for and the accompanying principles to ensure best practice integrated perpetrator interventions has also been they reflect the most recent developments service response model to developed in conjunction with the practice and knowledge in the field and include domestic and family violence, standards. models of practice and standards to providing a mechanism for ensure safe and appropriate practice for assessing and managing individual (as well as group) intervention risk, promoting perpetrator sessions accountability and behaviour change, and prioritising victim b. Ensures that practice standards require safety. Practice standards, that initiatives for perpetrators of domestic monitoring and compliance and family violence are to be delivered in frameworks will be reviewed conjunction with an integrated response and updated as part of the in order to establish adequate safety and integrated service response accountability protocols pilots in three sites (see c. Establishes a clear and rigorous process Recommendation 74). for evaluating and approving initiatives and providing ongoing monitoring of compliance with the Practice Standards to ensure that issues of non-compliance and service system development requirements are identified d. Considers establishing a formal accreditation process for practitioners, including minimum qualification requirements for practitioners, be implemented gradually so as to not adversely impact on service availability.

24 REC RECOMMENDATION GOVERNMENT RESPONSE SUMMARY OF ACTIVITY NO. 83 The Queensland Government: In collaboration with The Domestic and Family Violence Common a. Works with the service sector, using a key stakeholders, the Risk and Safety Framework has been co-design approach, to develop a suite of Queensland Government will distributed in the three integrated service statewide tools to support the integration develop, trial and evaluate response locations for use. It is also being of responses, including an information a suite of tools as part implemented in the additional high risk team sharing protocol (Recommendation 78 of the integrated service locations. and 79), a common risk assessment response pilots designed to Services for perpetrators of domestic and framework (Recommendation 77) and build on existing initiatives family violence are available in all trial a process for managing high risk cases and networks in three sites locations and are a part of each location’s (Recommendation 76) (see Recommendation 74). integrated service response model. The requirements for b. Provides sufficient flexibility in the The Griffith Criminology Institute was perpetrator interventions and structure of the integrated response for appointed as the external evaluator and professional development local service providers to build on existing a Summary of the Evaluation Report tabled for staff will be considered in networks and initiatives to ensure the in Parliament on 25 July 2019. the pilots and in the long- model is tailored to the specific needs of term funding and investment the local community and service landscape model (Recommendations 72 c. Ensures that, while primarily involving the and 73). central role of specialist domestic and family violence services, the integrated responses incorporate generalist service providers to ensure early identification of people affected by domestic and family violence and support appropriate referral pathways d. Ensures that the integrated response includes adequate provision of services for perpetrators of domestic and family violence e. Provides appropriate funding to agencies participating in integrated responses to enable ongoing professional development opportunities to staff. 84 The Queensland Government immediately The Queensland Government Two supported accommodation services funds two 72-hour crisis shelters in Brisbane acknowledges the importance in Brisbane and Townsville commenced and Townsville respectively for women and of crisis accommodation operation on 18 December 2015 children escaping violence so that immediate to support those escaping safety and support can be met while awaiting domestic and family violence a refuge placement. and has committed to establishing two supported accommodation services in Brisbane and Townsville. 85 The Queensland Government: The state of Queensland The transfer of responsibility was approved a. Transfers responsibility and funding for will continue to maintain by Governor in Council on 21 July 2016 and domestic and family violence shelters back dedicated funding for effective from 1 July 2016. The Queensland to a single portfolio, i.e. the portfolio that domestic and family violence Government has negotiated new service is responsible for the broader domestic shelters. Responsibility for agreements with all existing providers and and family violence service response. funding administration of funding homelessness services enabling domestic and family violence delivery of accommodation and support for b. Commits to maintaining dedicated shelters will be transferred women and children escaping domestic and funding for specialist domestic and family to the Department of family violence. violence accommodation, including Communities, Child Safety refuges (non-competitive with generic and Disability Services. crisis accommodation providers such as homelessness service providers).

Delivery of Recommendations | Not Now, Not Ever: Putting an end to domestic and family violence in Queensland Report 25 REC RECOMMENDATION GOVERNMENT RESPONSE SUMMARY OF ACTIVITY NO. 86 The Queensland Government: The Queensland Government Additional funding was allocated for safety a. Provides flexibility to service providers to recognises the need for safe upgrades services in April 2015 and January offer the necessary crisis accommodation and flexible responses, and and February 2016 increasing the number of required for the situation, whether that will ensure the objectives locations across the state where brokerage be access to a domestic and family of this recommendation are funding is provided from seven to 28. Further violence refuge or brokerage funding considered in the long-term investment was rolled out in Beaudesert for the perpetrator to stay in short term funding and investment and Ripley/Somerset in October 2016. accommodation model (Recommendation 72). Future investment will be considered in the context of the funding and investment model b. Ensures the Queensland Police Service’s (Recommendation 72). current operational procedures strongly support women and children staying in Commonwealth funding was secured from the home, where safe, in line with the 2016 to 2019 to trial new technologies as principles of the Act part of the Commonwealth Safe at Home c. Expands safety upgrades programs to Program, building on Queensland’s growing give more victims the option to stay safely investment in safety upgrades. Four trial in their own homes. sites – Cairns, , Moreton Bay and Ipswich – are testing new technologies to increase safety. Delivery of part B of this recommendation has been incorporated into Recommendation 134. 87 The Queensland Government pilots a refuge The Queensland Government Providers for the new shelters in Brisbane that caters for families with companion acknowledges the importance and Townsville (Recommendation 84) are animals with a view to rollout more flexible of crisis accommodation trialling the accommodation of companion refuges into the future to meet the needs to support those escaping animals. The Brisbane service has already of victims. domestic and family violence accommodated a number of cats and dogs. and will pilot a refuge for Design and commissioning of new shelters victims who have companion in Roma and Charters Towers will consider the animals. specific needs of women living in rural areas, including options for women with animals. 88 The Queensland Government expands the The Queensland Government The Queensland Government has improved range of responses to alleviate housing stress is committed to alleviating service delivery systems and the tools to and homelessness for women and children housing stress and better identify people experiencing domestic escaping domestic and family violence homelessness for women and family violence. including reducing the eligibility criteria and their children escaping The Queensland Government has automated on programs such as Rental Grants and violence. The Government will bond loan approvals for customers Bond Loans. be implementing processes to experiencing domestic and family violence streamline access to products who have verified their circumstances. such as Bond loans and Housing Service Centres reviewed social Rental Grants which will to housing applications that identified domestic reduce barriers to women and and family violence. This review reassessed children affected by domestic the current circumstances of these customers and family violence accessing and explored options for providing assistance, private rental tenancies. providing supportive responses and achieving housing outcomes.

26 REC RECOMMENDATION GOVERNMENT RESPONSE SUMMARY OF ACTIVITY NO. 89 The Queensland Government: The Queensland Government The procurement of new Women’s Health and a. Provides flexible brokerage funding to is committed to supporting Wellbeing Support services has commenced alleviate immediate financial hardship that victims of domestic and with new services established in the Sunshine is experienced when escaping violence family violence to achieve Coast, Moreton Bay, Toowoomba, Ipswich, financial and other forms Logan, Redlands and the Gold Coast in 2018 b. Provides non-residential support programs of independence, including and the Whitsundays and Townsville in to assist victims to live independently access to subsidised training 2019. These services focus on meeting the and not be compelled to return to violent/ and skilling and will consider longer term needs of victims and children, controlling relationships the objectives of this including access to employment and training c. Provides access to subsidised training and recommendation in the long- opportunities and to assist women and skilling incentives for those experiencing term funding and investment children to recover from domestic, family domestic and family violence. model (Recommendation 72). and sexual violence. Vocational education and training (VET) investment in 2019–20 will continue to provide an avenue for disadvantaged Queenslanders including those experiencing domestic and family violence to access subsidised training opportunities through programs such as Skilling Queenslanders for Work (SQW), Certificate 3 Guarantee and Higher Level Skills. SQW now includes ‘women re-entering the workforce’ as a key target group from the first funding round in 2016–17. 90 The Queensland Government continues The Queensland Government The National Domestic Violence Order its commitment to the development and is committed to, and Scheme commenced in Queensland on the implementation of a National Domestic actively participating in, 25 November 2017, on the same date as Violence Order Scheme to achieve automatic the development and in other Australian states and territories. mutual recognition and enforcement of implementation of a National domestic and family violence related orders Domestic Violence Order across jurisdictions. Scheme. 91 The Queensland Government prioritises the The Queensland Government An electronic Domestic Violence interface eDV project and the Single Person Identifier will continue to prioritise (eDV) has been implemented to replace project for completion as soon as practically the eDV project and Single manual processes between the police and possible within a defined time limit. Person Identifier project to Courts to streamline application processes ensure information is shared and support timely enforcement of between police and courts protection orders. in a timely manner. The QPS Single Person Identifier is included for the aggrieved and respondent for all Domestic and Family Violence applications. This ensures results can be tracked more easily and details are linked within the QPS database.

Delivery of Recommendations | Not Now, Not Ever: Putting an end to domestic and family violence in Queensland Report 27 REC RECOMMENDATION GOVERNMENT RESPONSE SUMMARY OF ACTIVITY NO. 92 The Queensland Government works with The Queensland Government The Domestic and Family Violence Community discrete Indigenous communities to develop will work with discrete Justice Group (CJG) Enhancement Project and support an effective local authority Indigenous communities to has been delivered in discrete Aboriginal model to respond to crime and violence in develop and support effective and Torres Strait Islander communities to those communities, with a priority focus on local authority structures develop and support effective local authority addressing domestic and family violence. such as community justice structures with a focus on addressing As a part of this work, consideration should groups and other local justice and responding to domestic and family be given to resourcing and expanding the role initiatives as part of the violence. The Queensland Government has of community justice groups, JP Magistrate’s integrated service response worked with 11 discrete communities to courts, and related local justice initiatives as pilot (see Recommendations 9 co-design a model that is a unique, culturally appropriate, as well as examining the specific and 74). appropriate domestic and family violence role that community justice groups could response for their community. Learnings and play in conferencing, mediation, and criminal tools developed will be used to continue justice system support. to work with discrete communities to develop, support and build capacity of communities, to respond to domestic and family violence. 93 The Queensland Government amends The Queensland Government The Family Responsibilities Commission the Family Responsibilities Commission notes that the requirement Amendment Act 2015 gave effect to Act to require a court to notify the Family for a court to notify the Family Recommendation 93 and came into effect Responsibilities Commission when a Responsibilities Commission on 17 December 2015. protection order under the Domestic and when a protection order is Family Violence Protection Act is made made in this context supports naming a welfare reform community the objects of the Family resident as the respondent. Responsibilities Commission (FRC) Act and will amend the FRC Act to achieve this outcome. 94 The Queensland Government reviews the The Queensland In 2017, the Queensland Government resourcing impact of the new domestic Government will review developed the Report on the Impact of the and family violence trigger and ensures Family Responsibilities Domestic and Family Violence Trigger on sufficient funding is available to manage Commission data at quarterly the Family Responsibilities Commission. the anticipated increase in referrals to the intervals from the date The Report identifies that the impact of the Family Responsibilities Commission. of implementation of the trigger on the Commission within the first proposed trigger to assess 12 months was minimal, and no additional any resourcing impact. funding was required. 95 The Queensland Government continues the The Queensland Government In response to the recommendations of the review of the Victims of Crime Assistance Act will continue the statutory legislative review of the Victims of Crime to ensure appropriate financial compensation review of the Victims of Crime Assistance Act 2009 (VOCAA), the new for victims of domestic and family violence. Assistance Act 2009 and amendments commenced on 1 July 2017. will table a report about the In 2013, the Department of Justice and outcomes of the review in Attorney-General commenced a statutory Parliament at the end of 2015. review of the VOCAA. The review aimed The review is considering to ensure that Queenslanders are provided options to ensure all victims with the best support and services to get of domestic and family their lives back on track following an act violence are able to seek of violence. These resulting legislative financial assistance. changes to VOCAA ensure that government and non‑government agencies provide an increasingly effective response to victims of violent crime in Queensland.

28 REC RECOMMENDATION GOVERNMENT RESPONSE SUMMARY OF ACTIVITY NO. 96 The Queensland Government establishes As a first step, the The Southport Specialist Domestic and Family specialist domestic violence courts in Queensland Government will Violence Court has been established as a legislation with jurisdiction to deal with fund a trial of a specialist permanent court, and a three year staged all related domestic and family violence domestic and family violence rollout commenced in 2017–18 in Beenleigh, and criminal/breach proceedings. court in Southport for six Townsville, Mount Isa and Palm Island. months. An evaluation of this Specialist domestic and family violence trial will inform any future Magistrates have been sitting in these rollout across Queensland, additional locations since November 2017. as appropriate. 97 Specialist courts should include specialist The evaluation of the The Queensland Government established divisions or programs and utilise specialist court trial will five specialist Domestic and Family Violence specialist Magistrates with specialised inform the any future Courts (Recommendation 96). Appointments expertise in domestic, family and intimate rollout across Queensland, of specialist domestic and family violence partner sexual violence to improve the as appropriate (see Magistrates for these courts are in the process efficacy of responses to domestic and Recommendation 96). of being finalised. family violence. This recommendation The key features of the Specialist Domestic is to be considered in combination and Family Violence Court model include with the other recommendations streamlined access to interpreters (this in this Report and in particular process has now been implemented Recommendations 116 (interpreters), statewide – see Recommendation 115), 124 (court support workers), wraparound services including Domestic 126 (duty‑lawyers) and 80 (perpetrator and Family Violence Court support workers, interventions). domestic and family violence duty lawyers who provide both advice and representation in court in civil and criminal matters, and availability of perpetrator programs. 98 The Queensland Government considers The Queensland Government Family Law matters – A statewide pilot providing for related family law children’s will seek to improve pathways protocol between Magistrates Courts and the matters (by consent) and child protection between the Magistrates Family Court and Federal Circuit Court registry proceedings to be dealt with by the Court (for domestic violence is in place for requests for copies of family law same court. matters), the Childrens Court orders (where these have not been supplied (for child protection matters) with applications for protection orders). and the Family Court and Child Protection matters – the Southport the Federal Circuit Court (for Specialist Domestic and Family Violence family law matters) to ensure Court regularly makes requests for child that the justice response safety information for consideration when is better co-ordinated. making or varying Domestic Violence Orders. Findings arising out of the final report of the Family Law Council (released on 19 October 2016) and ongoing work of the Council of Attorneys‑General Family Violence Working Group will continue to inform relevant work. 99 The Domestic and Family Violence Protection The Queensland Government Legislative changes regarding cross Act be amended so that the court must will strengthen the Domestic applications were included in the Domestic consider a family law order when making and Family Violence Protection and Family Violence Protection and Another a Domestic Violence Order. An amendment Act 2012 so that courts must Act Amendment Act 2015, which commenced also be made to the Domestic and Family consider dealing with cross on 29 January 2016. Consideration of family Violence Protection Act so that the court applications at the same time, law orders was examined as part of the review must consider concurrent cross applications as part of the recommended of the Act (Recommendation 140). Relevant at the same time and a later application review of the Act (see provisions of the Domestic and Family and related cross application or order. Recommendation 140). Violence Protection and Other Legislation Amendment Act 2016 commenced on 30 May 2017.

Delivery of Recommendations | Not Now, Not Ever: Putting an end to domestic and family violence in Queensland Report 29 REC RECOMMENDATION GOVERNMENT RESPONSE SUMMARY OF ACTIVITY NO. 100 The Queensland Government utilises trained The Queensland Government A trained, specialist domestic and family and specialist circuit Magistrates, in areas will consult with the Chief violence circuit Magistrate is in place in where a specialist court is not feasible Magistrate on the best way Townsville, with circuit to Palm Island. (e.g. rural and remote areas), with a good of ensuring Magistrates who A second specialist domestic and family knowledge of the relevant legislation and circuit rural and remote areas violence Magistrate has been appointed knowledge and understanding of domestic have a good knowledge of to manage the integrated civil and criminal and family violence and its impact on victims the relevant legislation and domestic and family violence list in Mount Isa. of the violence, including children who understanding of domestic Learnings from the circuit work, as well as the witness the violence. and family violence and its culturally appropriate model for Aboriginal impact on victims of the and Torres Strait Islander people, will inform violence, including children future policy development. who witness the violence. 101 The Chief Magistrate completes the The Queensland Government The Domestic and Family Violence Protection domestic and family violence ‘Bench Book’ supports the intent of this Act 2012 Bench Book has been finalised in consultation with relevant stakeholders recommendation. The and is publicly available on the Queensland (Women’s Legal Service, North Queensland Attorney‑General and Minister Courts website. Women’s Legal Service, Queensland Domestic for Justice will write to the Violence Services Network, Queensland Chief Magistrate in support Association of Independent Legal Services, of this recommendation. Queensland Indigenous Family Violence Legal Service and Legal Aid Queensland). 102 The Chief Magistrate completes the Domestic The Queensland Government The Domestic and Family Violence Protection Violence Best Practice project and publish supports the intent of this Act 2012 Best Practice Report has been the results. recommendation. The finalised and is publicly available on the Attorney‑General and Minister Queensland Courts website. for Justice will write to the Chief Magistrate in support of this recommendation. 103 The Chief Magistrate commissions The Queensland Government Funding was allocated in 2016–17 for development of a professional development supports the intent of this a professional development package for the package, informed by evidence of best recommendation. The induction of newly appointed Magistrates. practice in judicial education currently Attorney‑General and Minister The package includes development of being developed by Australia’s National for Justice will write to the modules and materials for inclusion in the Research Organisation for Women’s Chief Magistrate in support ongoing program of professional development Safety, for induction of newly appointed of this recommendation. of Magistrates on domestic and family Magistrates on managing domestic and violence. A dedicated legal officer will be family violence cases. appointed to develop and maintain these materials. 104 The Chief Magistrate develops modules The Queensland Government Funding was allocated in 2016–17 for specifically on domestic and family violence supports the intent of this a professional development package for the for inclusion in professional development recommendation. The induction of newly appointed Magistrates. programs for Queensland Magistrates. Attorney‑General and Minister The package includes development of for Justice will write to the modules and materials for inclusion in the Chief Magistrate in support ongoing program of professional development of this recommendation. of Magistrates on domestic and family violence. A dedicated legal officer will be appointed to develop and maintain these materials.

30 REC RECOMMENDATION GOVERNMENT RESPONSE SUMMARY OF ACTIVITY NO. 105 The Chief Magistrate ensures that Magistrates The Queensland Government Magistrates receive annual professional receive intensive and regular professional supports the intent of this development dedicated to domestic development on domestic and family violence recommendation. The and family violence. In April–May 2016, issues, including its impact on adult victims Attorney‑General and Minister Magistrates received a full day of professional and children, from domestic and family for Justice will write to the development dedicated entirely to domestic violence practitioners who have expertise Chief Magistrate in support and family violence. Two days of the Annual working with adult victims, children and of this recommendation. Conference for 2017 were dedicated perpetrators. exclusively to domestic and family violence. 106 The Queensland Government ensures that The Queensland Government Training has been rolled out to court and court and registry staff receive compulsory agrees that court and registry registry staff and training will be delivered training in responding to the needs of staff should receive training. on an ongoing basis for staff who move into domestic and family violence clients. The Queensland Courts relevant positions. This training now forms Service has commenced part of the mandatory training requirements a statewide rollout of for court and registry staff. compulsory domestic and family violence training for frontline staff and this training will be repeated on a regular basis. 107 The Queensland Law Society develops best The Queensland Government The Domestic and Family Violence Best practice guidelines for lawyers working with supports the intent of this Practice Guidelines have been developed people who have experienced domestic and recommendation. The to assist practitioners in dealing with legal family violence in accordance with Legal Attorney‑General and Minister matters that are impacted by domestic and Aid Queensland model guidelines, and for Justice will write to the family violence. The guidelines are available in consultation with Legal Aid Queensland, President of the Queensland on the Queensland Law Society’s website. Women’s Legal Service and Queensland Law Society in support of this Association of Independent Legal Services recommendation. and other relevant stakeholders. 108 The implementation of the best practice The Queensland Government The Domestic and Family Violence Best guidelines be led by the Queensland supports the intent of Practice Guidelines were developed and Law Society. this recommendation. implemented by the Queensland Law Society. The Attorney‑General and Minister for Justice will write to the President of the Queensland Law Society in support of this recommendation. 109 Queensland Law Society ensures that The Queensland Government After commencing in 2016–17, Queensland suitable continuing professional development supports the intent of this Law Society’s Domestic Violence Continuing programs in respecting diversity and ethical recommendation. The Professional Development Program has conduct for managing the intersection of Attorney‑General and Minister continued throughout 2018–19. domestic and family violence and family law for Justice will write to the are available. President of the Queensland Law Society in support of this recommendation.

Delivery of Recommendations | Not Now, Not Ever: Putting an end to domestic and family violence in Queensland Report 31 REC RECOMMENDATION GOVERNMENT RESPONSE SUMMARY OF ACTIVITY NO. 110 Queensland Law Society encourages lawyers The Queensland Government After commencing in 2016–17, Queensland engaged in domestic and family violence supports the intent of this Law Society’s Domestic Violence Continuing law (whether representing perpetrators or recommendation. The Professional Development Program has victims) and family law undertake continuing Attorney‑General and Minister continued throughout 2018–19. professional development in diversity and for Justice will write to the ethical conduct for managing intersection of President of the Queensland domestic and family violence and family law. Law Society in support of this recommendation. 111 The Attorney‑General: The Attorney‑General will write The intent of the government response has a. Recommends to the Law Council of to the Law Council of Australia been delivered to the extent possible at Australia that amendment be made to the about this issue. If a national this time. The Attorney-General wrote to the Australian Solicitors Conduct Rules 2011 approach is not supported, Law Council of Australia and the Australian to ensure safeguards currently applied relevant Queensland bodies Bar Association about the issue. The to victims of sexual assault are extended will be asked to consider Australian Bar Association did not support to include victims where allegations of this reform. the recommendation. The Law Council has domestic and family violence are part been considering the issue as part of its of proceedings. review of the Australian Solicitors Conduct Rules. When the Law Council of Australia’s b. Recommends the Queensland Legal review of the Solicitors Conduct Rules is Practice Committee consider the released, it will become clear whether a application of safeguards for victims of national approach is supported, and what domestic and family violence as they apply that approach is. The Attorney-General to Queensland solicitors and barristers, has recently written to the Law Council of should a national approach not be Australia seeking an update on the review. supported. Given the Australian Bar Association does not support the recommendation and the Law Council of Australia’s review is yet to be completed the Attorney-General has written to the Queensland Law Society and the Bar Association of Queensland asking that they consider the recommendations, subject to developments with the Law Council of Australia’s review. 112 The Queensland Government: The Queensland Government The Australian Criminal Intelligence a. Supports the work of CrimTrac in is actively supporting the work Commission (ACIC) has implemented an developing a National Domestic Violence of CrimTrac in developing information sharing tool for court staff that Order Information Sharing System and testing a prototype provides information on all Domestic Violence National Domestic Violence Orders in existence across Australia. Court b. In the interim (acknowledging that Order Information Sharing staff access to this information has been a national scheme may take some time System. In the interim, the facilitated through an agreement between to be negotiated and implemented) Queensland Government justice agencies, police commissioners progress bilateral agreements with other will explore options for and the ACIC. jurisdictions (in particular bordering progressing bilateral jurisdictions such as New South Wales) agreements with New South where possible to facilitate increased Wales and Northern Territory information sharing for the protection to facilitate information of victims of domestic and family violence. sharing for the protection of victims of domestic and family violence.

32 REC RECOMMENDATION GOVERNMENT RESPONSE SUMMARY OF ACTIVITY NO. 113 The Queensland Police Service strengthens The Queensland Government To support the practical application of policy and guideline documents to ensure will review police policy and the new Language Services Guidelines the use of interpreters for victims of domestic guidelines to ensure, as far to domestic and family violence situations, and family violence and their families, as practicable, the assistance the Queensland Police Service (QPS) where required. of interpreters is provided for developed a guideline entitled Use of victims of domestic and family Interpreters in Domestic and Family violence and their families. Violence Incidents. 114 The Queensland Police Service and the The Queensland Government The Queensland Police Service reviewed Department of Justice and Attorney‑General recognises the importance of systems and procedures and explored ensure that applicants, including police and interpreters and will improve technological solutions to ensure interpreter private, for a protection order or a variation current processes to ensure election is completed in applications for of a protection order, have indicated either the need for an interpreter protection orders. “yes” or “no” to interpreter requirements is identified at the time an The Department of Justice and on each application filed. application is made. Attorney‑General has implemented training of registry staff to ensure that counter staff follow procedures to check any interpreter requirements, including ensuring that applicants have indicated either “yes” or “no” to interpreter requirements on each application filed. 115 The Chief Magistrate issues a practice The Queensland Government As part of the Southport Specialist Domestic direction to require the court to engage supports the intent of this and Family Violence Court trial, a new court an interpreter, where a party has difficulty recommendation. The procedure, supported by the Chief Magistrate, communicating in English, at the first mention Attorney‑General and Minister requires registry staff to engage interpreters for all domestic and family violence civil for Justice will write to the for parties if required at first appearance proceedings before the Magistrates Court. Chief Magistrate in support in court proceedings. This new process will of this recommendation. be monitored with a view for wider rollout, if considered workable and of benefit to parties. 116 The Department of Justice and The Queensland Government The Whole of Government Interpreter Attorney‑General identifies opportunities will identify best practice for Working Group have: to streamline systems for engagement interpreter services for civil • developed service maps depicting a of interpreters for civil domestic and family domestic and family violence victim’s journey in accessing an interpreter violence court proceedings to ensure court proceedings and in the criminal and civil justice systems, best practice. then work with responsible including the identification of ‘pain points’ agencies to implement that that identify vulnerabilities in the process. practice. • trialled streamlining of the Domestic Violence Order application process with registrars. • amended the Queensland Police Service witness statement template to include a check box to indicate when information has been obtained with the assistance of an interpreter. • developed a glossary of common court, tribunal and legal terms for interpreters to inform training of interpreters at the National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters.

Delivery of Recommendations | Not Now, Not Ever: Putting an end to domestic and family violence in Queensland Report 33 REC RECOMMENDATION GOVERNMENT RESPONSE SUMMARY OF ACTIVITY NO. 117 The Queensland Government amends the The Queensland Government Legislative changes to implement this Domestic and Family Violence Protection Act will amend the Domestic recommendation were included in the to require a court when making a Domestic and Family Violence Domestic and Family Violence Protection Violence Order to consider whether an order Protection Act 2012 and Another Act Amendment Act 2015, excluding the perpetrator from the home (see Recommendation 140). which commenced on 29 January 2016. should be made, having regard to the wishes of the victim. 118 The Queensland Government introduces The Queensland Government The Criminal Law (Domestic Violence) a circumstance of aggravation of domestic supports the need to hold Amendment Act 2016 contains amendments and family violence to be applied to perpetrators of domestic and to make provision for domestic and family all criminal offences. family violence to account violence to be an aggravating factor on and to reinforce the nature sentence, commenced on 5 May 2016. and seriousness of this type of offending. Consultation will occur with relevant legal and community stakeholders to explore the best means to achieve the objective of this recommendation. 119 The Queensland Government makes provision The Queensland Government The Criminal Law (Domestic Violence) in legislation for domestic and family recognises that to enhance Amendment Act 2015 enabled notations violence related convictions to be recorded, the safety of victims the to be made against charges and convictions consistent with the approach adopted in sentencing court needs to for criminal offences to indicate that New South Wales. know if there is an ongoing they occurred in a domestic and family pattern of domestic and violence context, and commenced on family violence by the 1 December 2015. perpetrator. Consultation will occur with relevant legal and community stakeholders to explore the best means of ensuring patterns of domestic and family violence are identifiable through the perpetrator’s criminal history so as to inform future law enforcement authorities and criminal justice agencies. 120 The Queensland Government considers the The Queensland Government The Criminal Law (Domestic Violence) creation of a specific offence of strangulation. recognises that non-lethal Amendment Act 2016 contains amendments strangulation is a high risk to create an offence of choking, suffocation indicator of future domestic or strangulation in a domestic setting, and family violence related commenced on 5 May 2016. homicides. Consultation will occur with relevant legal and community stakeholders to consider ways to improve the legal response to this serious criminal conduct.

34 REC RECOMMENDATION GOVERNMENT RESPONSE SUMMARY OF ACTIVITY NO. 121 The Queensland Government considers the The Queensland Government The Criminal Law (Domestic Violence) sufficiency of penalties to hold perpetrators is committed to ensuring Amendment Act 2015 increased maximum to account for repeat contraventions of perpetrators are held to penalties for breaches of Domestic Violence Domestic Violence Orders. account and will review Orders. This amendment commenced penalties. on 22 October 2015.

122 The Queensland Government identifies The Queensland Government The government has implemented a variety and implements strategies to increase is committed to implementing of initiatives to increase perpetrators’ perpetrators’ participation in interventions, strategies to increase participation in intervention programs, including a pilot on mandatory attendance, perpetrators’ participation including: with the evaluation of the pilot to inform in intervention programs. • legislative amendments future decisions about broader use of • increasing availability of perpetrator mandatory perpetrator interventions programs • review and update of Professional Practice Standards: Working with men who use domestic and family violence • development of a quality compliance framework • engaging boys in preventing violence against women and girls through the Re‑New program. 123 The Queensland Government trials the use The Queensland Government The Queensland Government engaged of GPS monitoring for high risk perpetrators will explore options to Australia’s National Research Organisation of domestic and family violence. monitor high risk perpetrators for Women’s Safety (ANROWS) to explore of domestic and family GPS monitoring of domestic and family violence, taking into account perpetrators. The ANROWS report found that the full range of potential GPS monitoring cannot be used in isolation, technological solutions and must be used as part of a broader including the use of Global safety plan. This report is available online. Positioning System (GPS) Legislative changes now enable GPS monitoring, and then trial monitoring to be used in the bail and parole the most promising model contexts, including for perpetrators of to improve victim safety. domestic and family violence as considered appropriate. The Queensland Government is also exploring other technological initiatives to keep victims safe, including the Keeping Women Safe in their Homes initiative and the issuing of personal safety devices and home security safety upgrades as part of a comprehensive risk assessment and safety plan.

Delivery of Recommendations | Not Now, Not Ever: Putting an end to domestic and family violence in Queensland Report 35 REC RECOMMENDATION GOVERNMENT RESPONSE SUMMARY OF ACTIVITY NO. 124 The Queensland Government employs court The Queensland Government Additional funding for court support services support workers for all Magistrates Courts for will continue to fund non- provided by non-government organisations domestic and family violence matters for all government organisations was allocated in April 2015 and February applicants and information/liaison officers to provide court-based and October 2016 and further investment for all respondents. assistance and support. will be rolled out in 2017–18. New funds have been allocated through the 2016–17 Budget to enhance the number of court support programs across the state, including court assistance for respondents subject to domestic and family violence matters. Funding for court support has also been provided at specialist domestic violence court locations. 125 The Queensland Government develops a The Queensland Government A good practice resource for domestic and formal position description and guidelines will work closely with family violence court support workers has for court support workers and information/ community and legal been developed that incorporates a position liaison officers to provide uniformity in stakeholders to develop description and guidelines. The resource has support to people through domestic and a position description and been distributed to the domestic and family family violence proceedings, and that the guidelines for court support violence service sector and is available online. Chief Magistrate looks at the consistency workers. across all Magistrates Courts on the role of court support workers. 126 The Queensland Government establishes The Queensland Government The rollout of the domestic violence duty a statewide duty-lawyer service for domestic will provide additional lawyer service across 14 locations is complete and family violence matters in Magistrates funding for the expansion (including in the trial specialist domestic Courts for both applicants and respondents. of the domestic violence and family violence Magistrates Court duty lawyer service to a at Southport). total of 14 locations across Funding has been allocated for the the state through Legal Aid continuation of the domestic violence duty Queensland. lawyer services in the current 14 locations from 2016–17, including enhancing the model so representation is provided in court for all applicants and respondents in six court locations that deal with high numbers of domestic and family violence matters. 127 The Queensland Government develops The Queensland Government Guidelines (case management standards) a position description and guidelines for will work with Legal Aid have been developed. The case management the duty-lawyer service to ensure: Queensland to develop standards include the expectations of the • Provision of legal advice before and after position descriptions and duty lawyers delivering the service. court appearances guidelines to ensure duty Preferred suppliers of Legal Aid Queensland lawyer services are of a high • Limited assistance with drafting court and community legal centres are required quality and that appropriate related documents to adhere to these guidelines as a referrals are made to other • Provision of advice and referral on related requirement of their service agreements. legal and support services. issues (such as family law, child support, child protection matter) • Legal representation during court appearances.

36 REC RECOMMENDATION GOVERNMENT RESPONSE SUMMARY OF ACTIVITY NO. 128 The Queensland Government ensures duty- The Queensland Government Guidelines (case management standards) lawyer service lawyers are: will work with Legal Aid have been developed. Preferred suppliers • Experienced in the dynamics and Queensland to ensure are required to adhere to these guidelines challenges of domestic and family violence that duty lawyer services as a requirement of their service agreements. are of a high quality • Able to give family law, child support and and underpinned by an child protection advice appropriate knowledge • Operate within a wider integrated service and skills base. response network, working to prioritise the safety of adult victims and children. 129 The Queensland Government amends the The Queensland Government The Domestic and Family Violence Protection Domestic and Family Violence Protection is committed to ensuring and Another Act Amendment Act 2015 Act to provide for victim impact statements victims voices are heard in implemented the Government response to be introduced and for mandatory all domestic violence-related to this recommendation. It introduced a consideration by the court in applications legal processes and ways principle that, to the extent it is appropriate for protection orders. to achieve the objective and practicable, the views and wishes of of the recommendation people who fear or experience domestic will be considered as and family violence should be sought before part of the recommended a decision affecting them is made under the review of the Act (see Domestic and Family Violence Protection Recommendation 140). Act 2012. This amendment commenced on 29 January 2016. 130 The Queensland Government introduces a The Queensland Government Victims of sexual assault now receive greater sexual assault counselling privilege based will legislate to provide for a protection following the commencement of on the New South Wales legislative model, sexual assault counselling the sexual assault counselling privilege on i.e. an absolute privilege in preliminary privilege to apply to criminal 1 December 2017. The privilege limits the proceedings and a qualified privilege proceedings and limited civil disclosure and use of protected counselling in other proceedings. proceedings on the same communications made between a victim of facts (e.g. domestic violence a sexual assault offence and a counsellor matters). during a criminal proceeding, related civil The Queensland Government proceeding or proceedings related to a acknowledges the benefits domestic violence order under the Domestic of the New South Wales and Family Violence Protection Act 2012. legislative model as it seeks The Queensland Government allocated to ensure the appropriate $1.588 million over 2017–20 to Legal Aid balance in each case between Queensland to establish Counselling Notes the right to a fair trial and the Protect a statewide sexual assault counselling public interest in preserving privilege legal assistance service. The service the confidentiality of is currently being evaluated with a report due counselling communications. in early 2020. The Queensland Government will consult with legal and community stakeholders prior to introducing legislation to provide for this privilege. 131 The Queensland Police Service develops and The Queensland Government The Queensland Police Service continues implements a strategy for increasing criminal will enhance investigative to progress activities to enhance investigative prosecution of perpetrators of domestic and evidence gathering and evidence-gathering methodologies to and family violence through enhanced methodologies to increase increase criminal prosecution of perpetrators investigative and evidence-gathering criminal prosecution of as part of normal business practices. methodologies. perpetrators.

Delivery of Recommendations | Not Now, Not Ever: Putting an end to domestic and family violence in Queensland Report 37 REC RECOMMENDATION GOVERNMENT RESPONSE SUMMARY OF ACTIVITY NO. 132 In responding to recommendations related The Queensland Government, Victim Assist Queensland is leading a project to enhancing integration, responsible through Victim Assist to promote and implement incremental and agencies in Government should make Queensland, will lead continuous improvement of justice supports provision for the inclusion of coordinating the co-ordination of for victims of domestic and family violence appropriate justice supports for victims improved justice supports engaged in criminal proceedings. The project of domestic and family violence exposed for victims of domestic includes three stages and milestones for the to criminal proceedings. and family violence in first two stages have now been completed. criminal proceedings While the project is focused on the three through incremental and integrated service response pilot areas, continuous improvement the delivery of this recommendation will as part of the integrated have positive impacts for victims of domestic service response pilots and family violence, engaged in criminal (see Recommendation 74). proceedings, across the state. 133 The Attorney‑General, in consultation with the The Queensland Government On 22 October 2015, the Evidence Act 1977 Chief Magistrate and Chief Judge, implements will work closely with leaders definition of ‘special witness’ was amended alternative evidence procedures for victims of the judiciary and legal to include within that definition a person who of domestic and family violence providing stakeholders to develop is a victim of domestic violence and who also evidence in related criminal matters to reduce options for improved evidence is to give evidence about the commission the trauma of this experience, including procedures, including of an offence committed by the person who legislative amendment and/or procedural considering amending the committed the domestic violence. changes. Consideration should be given Evidence Act 1977 to include In addition, amendments were made in 2015 to allowing for admissibility of any video a presumption that victims of to the Police Powers and Responsibilities recordings made at the time of initial police domestic and family violence Act 2000 to establish the lawfulness of intervention. be regarded as special the use of body-worn cameras to record witnesses. Consideration images or sounds by police officers acting will be given to allowing for in performance of their duties. admissibility of any video The Attorney-General has consulted key recordings made at the legal stakeholders on the use of evidence time of the initial police obtained via police worn body camera device intervention. admissible as a complainant’s evidence-in- chief in domestic violence proceedings. 134 The Queensland Police Service adopts The Queensland Government The Queensland Police Service continues a pro-active investigation and protection will implement a pro-active to progress activities to implement proactive policy which requires consideration of investigation and protection investigation and protection policies that safety of the victim as paramount when policy to prioritise the prioritise the safety of victims and hold deciding the course of action to be taken safety of victims and hold perpetrators to account. against the perpetrator and prioritises arrest perpetrators to account where risk assessment indicates this action for their actions. is appropriate. 135 Recognising the valuable contribution The Queensland Government The capacity of the Queensland Police Service of District Domestic and Family Violence will undertake a reassessment Domestic and Family Violence Coordinator Coordinators to the experiences of victims of the Queensland Police network will continue to be enhanced through of domestic and family violence, the Service District Domestic and rollout of additional Coordinator positions Queensland Police Service increases staffing Family Violence Coordinator to meet current and projected future demand numbers based on rigorous assessment network to inform staffing and in reporting of domestic and family violence of demand and appropriate allocation and resource allocation decisions. across the state. resourcing of these positions across the state.

38 REC RECOMMENDATION GOVERNMENT RESPONSE SUMMARY OF ACTIVITY NO. 136 The Queensland Police Service reinstates The Queensland Government The Queensland Police Service has reinstated the Domestic and Family Violence State will reintroduced the role of a State Domestic and Family Violence Coordinator role at a level of suitable State Domestic and Family Coordinator to work with district coordinators influence to effectively support District Violence Coordinator at a rank to drive direction and policy. Domestic and Family Violence Coordinators, of at least Inspector of Police. address the disconnect between policy and practice to engender a consistent approach to the policing response, monitor performance and drive the future direction of policing domestic and family violence with a view to improving practice. 137 The Queensland Police Service appoints The Queensland Government The Queensland Police Service has appointed the Deputy Commissioner (Regional immediately appointed the Deputy Commissioner (Regional Operations) to champion best practice the Deputy Commissioner Operations) as the Champion of Best Practice domestic and family violence prevention and (Regional Operations) to in prevention and first response. first responder practice in the Queensland champion police domestic Police Service. The Deputy Commissioner and family violence best would be responsible, among other things, practice and cultural change. for increasing officers’ awareness and understanding of domestic and family violence and its impact on involved parties, police and the community, with a view to creating positive cultural change within the Queensland Police Service. 138 The Queensland Police Service facilitates The Queensland Government The Queensland Police Service continues an external independent audit and review acknowledges the to review its domestic and family violence- of training packages currently available complexities of domestic related training packages to ensure they are to officers, with a view to assessing the and family violence and will contemporary and reflective of emerging appropriateness and frequency of compulsory review training packages trends to support persons affected professional development opportunities available to police. by domestic and family violence. relevant to domestic and family violence. Components for enhancement of officers’ conceptual understanding of dynamics of domestic and family violence, communication skills, as well as cultural awareness and sensitivities should be assessed. 139 The Queensland Government duly notes the The Queensland Government At a national level, work is progressing advice to be received from the Family Law will note the advice through the Council of Attorneys-General Council (due December 2015) in relation from the Family Law Family Violence Working Group on measures to the terms of reference issued by the Council and consider the to improve interactions between the federal Commonwealth Attorney‑General, in October recommendations once family law system and state child protection 2014 in relation to the needs of parents the Council has reported. and domestic and family violence systems. resolving parenting disputes. However, the Under its current Terms Queensland Government must not wait for of Reference, the Council the Family Law Council report to proceed is to provide its final report with recommendations in this report. Some to the Commonwealth reforms implemented following this Taskforce Attorney‑General by may need to be reviewed to reflect/coordinate 30 June 2016. with any Commonwealth reforms made longer term following the Family Law Council report.

Delivery of Recommendations | Not Now, Not Ever: Putting an end to domestic and family violence in Queensland Report 39 REC RECOMMENDATION GOVERNMENT RESPONSE SUMMARY OF ACTIVITY NO. 140 The Queensland Government undertakes a The Queensland Government The Queensland Government led a review of the Domestic and Family Violence has commenced a review collaborative review of the Domestic and Protection Act 2012 by 31 December 2015, of the Domestic and Family Family Violence Protection Act 2012 (the Act) to ensure a cohesive legislative framework Violence Protection Act to ensure it provides an effective and efficient for domestic and family violence in 2012 to ensure a cohesive legislative framework that supports the Queensland that incorporates major reforms legislative framework for broader systemic reforms being implemented recommended in this Report. Resulting domestic and family violence as part of the government’s response legislative amendments to be made as in Queensland. Final timing to the Taskforce report. soon as possible, but not later than by of legislative amendments The review found that while the Act 30 June 2016. will be subject to the introduced beneficial reforms and remains outcomes of the review and a robust, contemporary legislative framework, parliamentary processes. there were opportunities to make further amendments to support implementation of the government response. The Domestic and Family Violence Protection and Other Legislation Amendment Act 2016 incorporates amendments identified by the review of the Act and the majority of provisions commenced on 30 May 2017.

40 Enabling actions

The table below details the enabling actions of the First and Second Action Plans and the activities taken by government to implement each action.

ACTION DESCRIPTION ACTIVITY UNDERTAKEN NO. 1 Become a member of Our Watch to extend Queensland- Queensland became a member of Our Watch in January 2016. based primary prevention activities. Our Watch is a national organisation established to implement strategies to stop violence against women before it occurs. 2 Work in partnership with the culturally and linguistically The Queensland Government has engaged culturally and diverse (CALD) community and the domestic and family linguistically diverse communities throughout the life of the violence service system to develop culturally appropriate First Action Plan 2015–16 to discuss strategies to deliver services and supports. services and supports that are culturally appropriate. 3 Expand the network of specialist domestic and family Three new perpetrator intervention programs are located violence prevention and support services by establishing in Gladstone, Bundaberg and Maryborough/Hervey Bay and new services across the Central Queensland and Far North capacity for one existing program in Rockhampton has been Queensland regions. enhanced. Brokerage funding for safety upgrades was made available for nine new domestic violence counselling services in Tablelands, Innisfail, Rockhampton, Emerald, Longreach, Gladstone, Bundaberg, Maryborough/Hervey Bay and South Burnett. Six new services for court-based support have been established, covering 10 new court locations – Innisfail, Tully, Longreach, Emerald, Blackwater, Hervey Bay, Kingaroy, Nanango, Cherbourg and Murgon. 4 Consult on and co-design a Queensland Women’s Strategy. The Queensland Women’s Strategy 2016–21 was launched Gender inequality is a key reason why violence against on 9 March 2016. The Women’s Strategy is focused on four women exists. Through its focus on gender equality and priority areas: Leadership and Participation; Economic opportunities for women, the strategy will be an important Security; Safety; and Health and Wellbeing. The Women’s violence prevention foundational initiative. Strategy is available online. 5 Consult on and co-design a Prevention of Violence Against The Queensland Violence against Women Prevention Plan Women Plan for Queensland. By taking a broader approach 2016–22 was publicly released on 2 November 2016. to preventing violence against women, the government It incorporates actions to address all forms of violence against is committed to making Queensland a safer place for women, and complements Queensland’s efforts to address women and girls. This plan will support and strengthen domestic and family violence. The Plan and related Progress the Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Strategy. Report are available online. The Prevent. Support. Believe. Queensland’s Framework to address Sexual Violence was publicly released on 15 October 2019, following extensive community consultation, and is also available online. A comprehensive action plan to respond to all forms of sexual violence is being developed for release in 2020. The Queensland Women’s Strategy Community Implementation Plan will remain Queensland’s key plan for addressing gender inequality including violence against women.

Delivery of Recommendations | Not Now, Not Ever: Putting an end to domestic and family violence in Queensland Report 41 6 Negotiate new three year service agreements for existing New service agreements have been negotiated with all specialist homelessness services for women and children existing providers and funding for homelessness services escaping domestic and family violence. specialising in delivering accommodation and support for women and children escaping domestic and family violence effective until 30 June 2018. 7 Support the Chief Magistrate and the Queensland Law A part-time officer is now employed to ensure the Society in developing useful practice resources as well development and delivery of resources for Magistrates, as professional development training for magistrates i.e. general Magistrates as well specialist domestic and and legal professionals, and continue training initiatives family violence Magistrates. for front-line court and registry staff. 8 Make available to local government, business and A Domestic and Family Violence Workforce Support Package non-government organisations a consolidated suite was publicly released on 25 November 2015. The package of information, training and support resources developed includes a whole-of-government domestic and family violence for Queensland Government employees. directive, model policy template, template leadership commitment statement, communication toolkit, and other supporting resources. Local government, business and non-government organisations are encouraged to adopt and/or tailor these strategies to suit the needs of their workplace. 9 Affirm the Queensland Police Service as a reform leader The Queensland Police Service will continue to progress in the criminal justice sector and as a domestic and family activities to achieve a policing approach that is contemporary violence service delivery agency through embedding and reflective of emerging trends to the support persons sustainable, long-term best practice policing prevention affected by domestic and family violence, and affirm the and response services to improve victim safety and hold Queensland Police Service as a reform leader in the criminal perpetrators to account. justice sector and as a domestic and family violence service delivery agency. 10 Influence cultural and attitudinal change within the The Queensland Police Service will continue to progress community by upholding the Queensland Police Service a significant body of work to effect cultural and attitudinal as a role model to reinforce positive behaviours. change related to domestic and family violence within the Queensland Police Service. 11 Continue to contribute to national discussions on the The Respectful Relationships Education Working Group possible inclusion of a specific skill set to recognise considered Recommendation 64 within their broader domestic and family violence and child harm into the examination of respectful relationships education in Australian Professional Standards for Teachers through Australia. It was determined the existing Australian the newly developed Schools Policy Group Respectful Professional Standards for Teachers articulate the Relationships Education Working Group. requirement to maintain student safety, through appropriate school, curriculum and legislative responsibilities. 12 Continue to maintain and promote the Respectful The Queensland Government’s Respectful Relationships Relationships education program website and conduct an Education Program is reviewed annually to ensure operability, annual review of the program to ensure best practice and best practice and currency of content. current research is reflected in the program. 13 Continue to work in partnership with the culturally and The Queensland Government will continue to engage linguistically diverse (CALD) community and the domestic culturally and linguistically diverse communities throughout and family violence service system to develop culturally the life of the Strategy to discuss strategies to deliver services appropriate services and supports. and supports that are culturally appropriate. 14 Continue to promote a whole-of-school approach Professional development to support the implementation to developing respectful relationships that utilises of respectful relationships education through the Australian curriculum materials and resources, school pastoral Health and Physical Education (HPE) Curriculum continues care opportunities and specialised evidence informed to be delivered to staff. The Queensland Government’s programs by non‑government organisations. Respectful Relationships Education Program continues to be promoted as a resource to support the delivery of respectful relationships education, as part of a broader whole‑school approach.

42 15 Implementation of the ‘Support for Young Children Affected The 18 funded non-government organisations delivered by Domestic and Family Violence’ project — 12-month initiatives during the 2016–17 financial year to support grants (2016–17) to 18 non-government organisations young children affected by domestic and family violence. across Queensland to implement initiatives that respond to the learning and development needs of children aged from birth to eight years affected by domestic and family violence. 16 Deliver a new mobile support service for women escaping Funds totalling $1,141,000 (excl. GST) were allocated to domestic and family violence on the Gold Coast, Centacare. The new service commenced on 1 March 2017. in collaboration with community stakeholders. 17 Work closely with partner agencies to ensure domestic The Queensland Government is continuing to develop and family violence responses and services developed appropriate and culturally sensitive responses that cater and implemented meet the needs of Aboriginal and to the needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Torres Strait Islander Queenslanders. Six Senior Project Officers work alongside the high risk teams in Cairns, Ipswich and Brisbane North, Logan/Beenleigh, Cherbourg and Mount Isa. 18 Finalise and implement a violence against women Queensland Violence against Women Prevention Plan prevention plan for Queensland. 2016–22 was publicly released on 2 November 2016. It incorporates actions to address all forms of violence against women and sits alongside Queensland’s efforts to address domestic and family violence. Implementation is progressing. The plan is available online. 19 Implement relevant actions under the National The National Plan to Reduce Violence Against Women and Plan to Reduce Violence Against Women and Their Children 2010-2022 is being implemented through Their Children 2010–22. a series of three-year action plans. The Third Action Plan outlines 36 practical actions under the following six priority areas: 1. prevention and early intervention 2. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women and their children 3. greater support and choice 4. sexual violence 5. responding to children living with violence 6. keeping perpetrators accountable across all systems. The Queensland Government is implementing relevant actions under the Third Action Plan via the Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Strategy 2016–2026, the Queensland Violence against Women Prevention Plan 2016–2026 and the Queensland Women’s Strategy 2016–2021. 20 The Domestic and Family Violence Death Review The Domestic and Family Violence Death Review and Advisory Board to report to the Domestic and Family Board has embedded this discretionary reporting process Violence Implementation Council on any findings to the Domestic and Family Violence Implementation Council, or recommendations. into its business as usual activities. 21 Use the Queensland Police Service State Domestic and The Queensland Police Service, through the State Domestic Family Violence Coordinator role to affect and shape and Family Violence Coordinator, continues to forge the future direction of the Queensland Police Service collaborative partnerships with government, non‑government in Queensland in line with the Strategy. and the community to create a platform where diverse experiences can be shared and used to shape new thinking and new ideas to improve the collective response to domestic and family violence.

Delivery of Recommendations | Not Now, Not Ever: Putting an end to domestic and family violence in Queensland Report 43 22 Use the Queensland Police Service State Domestic and The Queensland Police Service continues to develop Family Violence Coordinator role as an advocate for the the Domestic and Family Violence Coordinator role into Domestic and Family Violence Coordinator Network by a ‘specialist practitioner’ by offering access to professional providing leadership and guidance, and facilitating development opportunities such as the Queensland opportunities where the network is able to contribute University of Technology Graduate Certificate in Domestic to shaping the future direction of domestic and family Violence. violence policing. 23 Implement the National Outcome Standards New Practice Standards and Quality Framework for for Perpetrator Interventions. perpetrator interventions and the outcomes of the data mapping project will support the implementation of the National Outcome Standards for Perpetrators Interventions.

44 Delivery of Recommendations | Not Now, Not Ever: Putting an end to domestic and family violence in Queensland Report 45 DPC6981