Holiday Season Safety Guide: Domestic Violence Support for Queenslanders

The festive season, often portrayed as a time of joy and family togetherness, can be particularly challenging for those experiencing domestic violence. What should be a period of celebration can instead bring increased stress and risk. 

If you’re feeling isolated or worried about maintaining a façade of normalcy during family gatherings then we hope this article will help. Also, if you’re feeling concerned about your children’s safety during school holidays- know that you’re not alone. Your feelings are valid, and help is available during the Christmas and school holiday period.

This guide provides practical support and information about your legal rights and options in Queensland during the Christmas and New Year period. Whether you’re seeking information for yourself, or a loved one, remember that your safety is of the utmost importance, regardless of the season.

Understanding Holiday Season Pressures and Warning Signs

Unfortunately, the festive holiday period can exacerbate existing tensions in relationships affected by domestic violence. In Queensland, statistics show a concerning trend.

In 2022, domestic and family violence (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, rising from 4,346 calls to 5,724. The days of highest demand for police responses to DFV were New Year’s Day and Christmas Day, with 599 and 595 calls for service, respectively.

So why are calls skyrocketing during this time? 

Several factors contribute to the increased risk of domestic violence during Christmas, including:

• Extended amount of time spent together at home as many have time off work.
• Financial stress from holiday expenses such as buying gift, decorations, and festive food.
• Increased alcohol consumption at social and family events.
• Greater scrutiny of victims’ time, leading to jealousy.
• Family gathering dynamics are put under the spotlight due to everyone being all together. 

As such, victims need to stay vigilant. Be aware of escalating behaviours such as increased controlling actions or more frequent outbursts of anger. These could be warning signs of potential violence. 

Emergency Services Available 24/7

Even during public holidays, help is always available. Take note of the following emergency numbers and hotlines for help:

• Police: In an emergency, always call 000 for immediate help. 
• DVConnect Womensline: 1800 811 811 (24/7).
• 1800RESPECT: 1800 737 732 (24/7).
• DVConnect Mensline: 1800 600 636 (9am-midnight).

The above services operate throughout the holiday period, providing crisis support, safety planning, and emergency accommodation if needed.

Understanding AVOs During Holiday Period

Remember, Apprehended Violence Orders (AVOs) remain enforceable during the holiday season. If you need an urgent AVO during public holidays:

1. Contact the police immediately if you’re in danger.
2. Police can issue a Provisional AVO on the spot.
3. For non-urgent situations, you can apply at a Magistrates Court when they reopen.
   

    

Note: An AVO made in any state or territory of Australia can be registered for enforcement in any other state or territory if needed. This is very important to know if you are travelling during the festive period. 

Protecting Children During Holiday Season

As always, child safety is paramount during the holidays. If you have any concerns about the welfare of your child, consider taking the following steps:

• Review and adhere to existing parenting orders. 
• Communicate any safety concerns to schools or childcare providers.
• Consider applying for emergency changes to parenting orders if necessary.
• Be aware of your rights regarding interstate travel with children. 

If children are not returned as agreed, you may need to seek a recovery order through the court.

Legal Options When Courts Are Closed

While courts may be closed during public holidays, there are still options available, including:

• Police can issue Provisional AVOs in emergency situations.
• Some courts may have after-hours services for urgent matters.
• Document any incidents thoroughly for future legal proceedings.
• Seek advice from a private lawyer as soon as possible – Our Gold Coast based family lawyers are available for urgent support.

Practical Safety Measures

If you are experiencing domestic violence, it is important to try to stay organised. Take these steps to develop a holiday safety plan:

• Prepare an emergency bag with essential items for you and your children if needed. 
• Establish a safe word with trusted friends or family.
• Secure important documents, such as passports and other IDs, are kept in a safe place.
• Consider digital security measures to protect your privacy. Always keep your phone password protected and consider using incognito mode for your search history. This is especially important if you are searching for flights or other modes of transport to escape. 
• Plan safe exit strategies from holiday gatherings if needed and let trusted loved ones know of these plans if possible. 

Support Services Directory

For your convenience, here are some important numbers you might need to have readily available. 

24/7 Emergency Contacts

• Queensland Police: 000.
• DVConnect Womensline: 1800 811 811.
• 1800RESPECT: 1800 737 732.
• Child Safety After Hours: 1800 177 135.
• Lifeline: 13 11 14.

Holiday Period Services

Many services operate with reduced hours during the holiday period. However, crisis support is always available. Here are some specific services for the Gold Coast and Brisbane areas:

Gold Coast:

• Gold Coast Community Legal Centre: Closed from 23 December to 6 January.
  • Phone: 07 5532 9611
  • Address: 34 Railway Street, Southport (Put 36 Railway St in the GPS)
• Blair Athol Hostel: Provides emergency accommodation for those over 18 years old. Open Monday to Friday, 9 am – 4 pm, but call to check holiday hours.
  • Phone: 07 5536 2173
  • Address: 3493 Golden Four Drive, Bilinga, QLD
• Gold Coast Homelessness Hub: A single point of referral for all homelessness services on the Gold Coast. Based at Blair Athol, it’s primarily a phone-based service but can respond to walk-ins. Call to check holiday operating hours.
  • Phone: 07 5579 6060
  • Address: 3493 Golden Four Drive, Bilinga, QLD

Brisbane:

• Brisbane City Women’s Homelessness Services: Provides immediate temporary supported accommodation and professional case management services for women experiencing homelessness. Contact them to check holiday availability
  • Phone: 3173 6430
  • Address: 97 School Street SPRING HILL QLD 4000
• DVConnect Womensline: 1800 811 811 (24/7 service, including holidays)
• National Debt Helpline: 1800 007 007 (Open Monday to Friday, 9:30am to 4:30pm, check for holiday hours)

For both areas:

• Queensland Police: 000 (for emergencies, available 24/7)
• DV Connect: 1800 811 811 (24/7 domestic violence crisis support)
• Lifeline: 13 11 14 (24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention)

Remember, while many services have reduced hours, emergency support is always available. It’s best to call ahead or check websites for the most up-to-date information on holiday operating hours.

Planning for the New Year

As you look towards the new year, consider:

• Long-term safety planning if you know you want to leave in the New Year. 
• Gathering and organising documentation for potential legal proceedings in the future. 
• Researching support services that can assist you in the coming months and having these contacts at hand. 
• Understanding the timelines for any pending legal processes so you can plan accommodation etc accordingly. 

Technology Safety

In the digital age, technology safety is crucial:

• Use safe devices for communication that your abuser can’t access.
• Be cautious with location settings on social media and devices.
• Consider using a password manager for secure account access.
• Be aware of potential tracking devices such as Apple Airtags or apps on your phone or vehicle.

Remember, domestic violence can take many forms, including emotional, financial, and psychological abuse. It’s not always physical, but all forms are serious and unacceptable.

If you’re in the Gold Coast area or anywhere in Queensland, Kingsford Lawyers can provide confidential, around-the-clock advice on family law matters, including those related to domestic violence. Their experienced team understands the sensitivity and urgency of these situations and is committed to supporting you through this challenging time.

No one deserves to live in fear, especially during what should be a festive season. If you’re experiencing domestic violence, please reach out for help. Support is available, and you have options. Your safety and well-being are paramount, and there are people ready to help you take the first steps towards a safer future.

If you need to speak to a domestic violence lawyer, Kingsford Lawyers are experts in Family Law matters. Contact us on 07 3180 0144 for a confidential discussion about your situation. We’ll help you understand what steps you can take next.