Domestic and family violence around holidays

For some people, the Christmas and New Year period is a cause for celebration, but for others, it is a time marked by fear and intimidation as the risk of domestic and family violence (DFV) increases.

For those in unsafe and controlling relationships, the idea of being ‘home for the holidays’ can be a stressful experience, with the additional time at home amplifying anxiety at the prospect of increased alcohol and drug consumption and violence.

Last year, DFV calls to the Queensland Police Service (QPS) over the Christmas and New Year period increased by 32 per cent compared to the previous year (up from 4,346 calls to 5,724). The days of highest demand for police resources to DFV over this period in 2022 were Christmas and New Year’s Day, with 595 and 599 calls for service, respectively.

Everyone has the right to feel safe at home, and DFV is never okay.

It is important we continue to prioritise victim-centric trauma informed practices that support a victim-survivor to speak of events in a manner that is appropriate to and recognises their personal circumstances and trauma.

Perpetrators must be held to account for their actions, and victim survivors including children able to live a life free of fear, control and violence.

Key messages:

Check in with your friends, family and loved ones over the Christmas and summer break.

We all deserve to feel safe at home and in public.

Addressing domestic and family violence is everyone’s responsibility. While police are important in the response, we can all play a role in helping create safer home environments.

It is not only physical abuse, and can include behaviours that are threatening, intimidating, controlling and coercive.

There is never an acceptable excuse for domestic and family violence – including factors within the holiday season.

If you suspect someone you know is experiencing domestic and family violence, reach out. Your initiation of a conversation and offer of support can make a difference.

Support is available for all Queenslanders experiencing domestic and family violence – services continue to operate throughout the Christmas and New Year period to support those in need.

Support and reporting options:

If you or someone you know, is experiencing DFV, support is available.

There are a number of ways you can access support from police, including:

· If the incident is happening now or someone is in immediate danger, call Triple Zero (000).

· Reporting via Policelink 131 444.

· Accessing our domestic violence portal online.

We also recommend several other supports that can be accessed, including:

· iPhone users can access the Be There app, a bystander empowerment tool which provides information and resources.

· DVConnect Womensline on 1800 811 811.

· DVConnect Mensline on 1800 600 636.

· 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732.