Warwick police honoured for domestic violence prevention

Warwick police have scored a state-wide award for their effort in raising awareness of domestic and family violence in their community.
Community Services Minister Karen Struthers recognised the outstanding work of the local police at the Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Awards 2011, held on the Gold Coast on Friday.
“Today is White Ribbon Day—International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women—and it is timely we recognise the people who work to stand up against domestic and family violence and support those affected,” Ms Struthers said on Friday.
Ms Struthers presented the Government Award to Warwick police for their White Ribbon Domestic Violence Awareness Project.
This initiative was the result of collaboration between the Warwick Police District, Australia’s CEO Challenge and the Warwick Domestic and Family Violence Strategy Group.
“This project rallied local government agencies and businesses to display 450 white ribbon stickers on the windscreens of police, ambulance, fire and rescue service vehicles, council vehicles, interstate trucks and taxis,” Ms Struthers said.
“This is a great example of government, business and the community coming together to act against domestic and family violence,” she said.
At the ceremony, six awards and one highly commended certificate were presented, recognising both individuals and organisations that had developed successful prevention initiatives.
Ms Struthers said the Bligh Government has introduced new legislation to address the serious problem.
“The Domestic and Family Violence Protection Bill 2011 represents the first major overhaul of Queensland’s domestic and family violence legislation in 20 years,” she said.
“The proposed bill includes changes such as the introduction of police issued protection notices to help provide timely protection for victims of domestic and family violence and hold perpetrators immediately accountable for their actions.”
Ms Struthers urged anyone experiencing domestic or family violence to seek assistance.
“Women can phone the DV Connect helpline 24 hours a day on 1800 811 811, while men needing help can phone the DV Connect Mensline on 1800 600 636.”