May marked Domestic and Family Violence (DFV) Prevention Month, and our dedicated Specialist Health Workforce team has been working tirelessly to raise awareness and strengthen support systems across Wide Bay.
The team includes Advanced Social Worker Rachel , Senior Social Worker Felise, and Allied Health Assistant Tanya.
Together, they provide expert guidance, resources, and support to ensure that victim-survivors and families impacted by domestic and family violence receive consistent, safe, and appropriate care.
Rachel said domestic and family violence is not just a community issue, it’s a health issue.
“Our team is here to support clinicians and staff across Wide Bay to feel confident in recognising the signs and responding effectively," she said.
This month, the Queensland Health Domestic and Family Violence Capability Framework was launched.
The framework helps ensure that all healthcare staff understand the dynamics and impacts of DFV and are equipped to respond appropriately.
“The new framework and its supporting toolkit are practical, evidence-based resources that give health workers confidence and clarity,” Rachel said.
“Even a small conversation or intervention can be life-changing for someone experiencing domestic and family violence.”
A major milestone for the team is the launch of the Wide Bay Hospital and Health Service DFV QHEPS Intranet Page.
The new page is a one-stop resource for Wide Bay Hospital and Health Service staff to access domestic and family violence safety planning tools, local referral options, training opportunities, case consultation bookings, and more.
It also offers direct connection with the team for support and debriefing.
“We encourage all Wide Bay staff to visit the QHEPS page,” Rachel said.
“It’s not just for social workers—nurses, doctors, administration staff—anyone can play a role in creating a safe and supportive space for patients and colleagues impacted by domestic and family volence.”
The team also spent time engaging with community to mark Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month including:
- Candlelight Vigil - held on DFV Remembrance Day 7 May to honour the women and children who lost their lives in the past year to DFV homicide.
- Walk to remember – This year there were several walks arranged around Wide Bay including Bundaberg, Gayndah, Mundubbera
- Posters and ribbons have been available at many hospital and health precincts around Wide Bay to raise awareness of DFV Prevention Month
“Every step we take—whether it’s a walk, a conversation, or a case review sends a message that safety and dignity are everyone’s right,” Rachel said.
As the Specialist Health Workforce team continues to build capability and raise awareness, they remain open to collaboration with staff across all disciplines.
“Don’t hesitate to reach out,” she added.
“We’re here to support you so you can support others.”