22 August 2024
Southern Downs Regional Council has taken a proactive and significant step in addressing domestic and family violence by officially joining the Local Government DFV Prevention Champions Network and signing the Not Now, Not Ever Domestic Violence Pledge.
Council's commitment to join the network and sign the pledge reinforces its dedication to creating a safer community and aligns with the Queensland Government's initiative to challenge and change the values, beliefs, attitudes and behaviours that perpetuate DFV.
Mayor Melissa Hamilton, Councillor Russell Wantling and Councillor Sarah Deane have been appointed as the Council's representatives to the network.
Mayor Hamilton said: "Joining the network was one of the first initiatives of the new Council, and I am proud that we took this important first step. Raising awareness of the impacts of domestic and family violence on our community is an important role for Council as community leaders."
Councillor Wantling said: "Our involvement in this network is a testament to our dedication to ending domestic and family violence. We will work tirelessly to support and educate our community on this critical issue."
Councillor Deane said: "By joining the Local Government DFV Prevention Champions Network and signing the Not Now, Not Ever pledge, we are taking a stand against domestic and family violence. We are committed to setting the bench mark at Council of how we expect women to be treated as we foster a safe and supportive environment for our employees and for all residents."
The Queensland Government established the Prevention Council to enhance community understanding of DFV and to challenge the societal norms that excuse or perpetuate this abuse.
The Prevention Council works at the primary prevention level, partnering with government, business and community stakeholders to champion local, community-led action and leadership in creating social change.
For more information, please visit
Not Now, Not Ever.
Last edited date 22 Aug 2024