Kawana MP Jarrod Bleijie has welcomed the announcement of a special taskforce to examine the issue of domestic violence in Queensland – and find ways to better protect vulnerable women and children.

The Premier has appointed the former Governor-General, the Honourable Dame Quentin Bryce AD CVO, to chair the Special Taskforce on Domestic and Family Violence.

Membership of the Taskforce, to be finalised shortly, will include Members of Parliament and community representatives.

“Domestic violence is an insidious and private form of violence,” Mr Bleijie said.

“In 2013 there were 64,246 reported incidents of domestic violence in Queensland and 12,828 breaches of domestic violence orders.

“Last year, 18 of 49 homicides recorded in Queensland were related to domestic violence.

“Despite our efforts, rates of domestic violence continue to rise. More needs to be done to protect and support victims of domestic abuse.

“The State Government is committed to making Queensland a safer place to live.”

Mr Bleijie said the announcement of the Taskforce complements the Government’s stance against violence in the community.

As a first step, the community is encouraged to give their views through an online survey, available on the website of the Department of the Premier and Cabinet at www.qld.gov.au/dfvtaskforce.

The Taskforce’s report, due by the end of February 2015, will provide recommendations to inform the development of a domestic and family violence strategy for Queensland aimed at reducing domestic violence and better supporting those who suffer from it.

Further information about the work of the Taskforce can be found at www.qld.gov.au/dfvtaskforce.