Scenic Rim Regional Council strengthens commitment to ending domestic and family violence

On the eve of Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month, Scenic Rim Regional Council has formalised its membership of a strategic network in line with its commitment to creating a safer, more supportive community. 

At its Ordinary Meeting yesterday, Council moved to join the Local Government Domestic and Family Violence Champions Network, an important initiative of the Queensland Government’s DFV Prevention Council and will also nominate 'Champions' of the local community to engage in future network activities. 

Scenic Rim's Community Arts and Culture Portfolio Councillor Kerri Cryer said Council’s involvement reflects the shared responsibility of the entire community to take action against domestic and family violence. 

"Domestic and family violence impacts every tier of society and it is everyone's responsibility to stand against it,” she said.  

“By joining the Champions Network, Council is not only reaffirming our commitment but also actively contributing to the state-wide movement to end domestic and family violence. 

“We will continue working alongside community leaders, police, and support organisations to raise awareness, provide support where it’s needed, and drive meaningful change.” 

Council’s latest commitment builds on existing initiatives led by its Community Development team.  

These include ongoing collaboration with the Beaudesert Community Lead Action Group and the coordination of key events during Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month in May, such as a community awareness day at Jubilee Park and a candlelight vigil to honour victims of domestic and family violence. 

By joining the network, Council has further aligned its efforts with the Queensland Government’s 10-year Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Strategy 2016–2026, which aims to challenge and change the attitudes, values, and behaviours that enable violence to occur. 

Through its participation in the Champions Network, Council will remain connected to state-wide domestic and family violence prevention efforts and contribute valuable local insights and strategies.  

Cr Cryer and Division 4 Councillor Jennifer Sanders will both serve as members of the network. 

The nomination of local Champions will also ensure Scenic Rim residents are represented in strategic discussions that shape the future of domestic and family violence prevention in Queensland. 

Earlier this month, the Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Council delivered a presentation to Scenic Rim Councillors, outlining local statistics and providing an update on the state’s 2016–2026 Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Strategy. 

“Council applauds the important work of the Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Council," Cr Cryer said. 

"By working in partnership, we are helping to ensure that families in the Scenic Rim region are safer and supported and that we are also helping to change attitudes to domestic and family violence.”