01 May, 2021

This Domestic & Family Violence Prevention Month, leading relationship experts Relationships Australia Qld (RAQ) call on Australians to have zero tolerance for abuse all year round.

CEO Dr Ian Law said that he had watched with great distress the senseless deaths of more women and children in the weeks leading up to this annual awareness raising event.

“On average, in Australia, one woman a week and one man a month are murdered by their current or former partner. Ten women have already died due to violence in Australia in 2021. This is unacceptable” he said.

“We recognise that while domestic and family violence can be experienced by all people, it is more commonly perpetrated by men, and women and children are more commonly the victims who are afraid of, and injured by, a male perpetrator.

“There is never an excuse for any kind of violence or abuse in relationships, and every one of us has the right to feel safe in our home” said Dr Law.

RAQ works with people who have experienced violence, and those who have used violence in their relationships.

Balancing the need to work with individuals, families and communities with the systems that perpetuate the power imbalance that privileges users of violence, research driven strategies are used to support victims and survivors, while holding perpetrators to account.

“We prioritise the safety and wellbeing of those experiencing violence and abuse, and work collaboratively with individuals, couples and families to develop safe, healthy and respectful relationships” explained Dr Law.

RAQ offers a comprehensive range of individual and group support services for people who have experienced violence, and those who have used violence in their relationships. For more information call 1300 364 277 or visit www.raq.org.au

Media contact:

Lauren Fisher – Communications Manager [email protected]

0436 470 301