individual uses power and control over another resulting in abuse.

Some believe that if DFV is not physical then it is not abuse.

This however is not the case as there are several types of related abuse such as financial, verbal, sexual and life lies ignored.

DFV does not have to be physical for it to be abuse.

Violence has three phases from the tension building to the actual explosion and the cycle then repeats itself again where the perpetrator is apologetic and thus the cycle then repeats itself again.

The Mackay Magistrates Court website states that initiating DV applications for 2019–2020 amounted to 8234. However, this figure does not consider other DV-related matters that occurred for that period.

There is no easy solution to eliminating this life-changing problem which continues to occur across all social and cultural backgrounds.

The person receiving the abuse must understand DFV is a positive way our community may assist.

Many of our local service providers have on offer important information that is available to seek to assist with obtaining knowledge on DFV literacy.

Another focus is educating our youth on DFV in our schools, so they too have appropriate literacy knowledge with the matter.

All people have a fundamental right to feel safe in their homes and community.

The Mackay Regional Council website states that in 2014 a Domestic and Family Violence Policy was adopted that provided a respectful working environment and ongoing support for all employees that experienced DFV.

The council’s initiative was further developed in 2017 targeting a broader awareness program for staff and the region’s community.

Council has established a clear and precise message that violence of any type is not tolerated.

May is where Domestic Awareness month occurs in May each year which raises awareness around the types of DFV, even though every day of the year is domestic awareness and education.

A widely accepted learning method used globally is repetition.

To promote DFV awareness incorporating cognitive repetition where the survivor could prove beneficial.

There are support groups within the Mackay Region that aid with assistance. The Mackay Women’s Centre is one where like-minded health themed topics are based around growth, share stories and form friendships in a safe and supportive place.

This type of space encourages individuals to explore self-expression.

One way that is used to assist individuals is journal writing, poetry, this is where it helps to increase self-actualisation and poetry has been known as the therapeutic way of releasing emotional built-up.

The Mackay Region has a diverse source of organisations that offer programs to assist people in managing their DFV situation as well as those experiencing challenges within their lives. Below are contact of relevant organisations that offer this support.

There are many other organisations available within our region that can offer support for those that require it.

If you see someone you know is experiencing DFV reach out for support.

If you or someone you know is experiencing DFV reach out for support.

It starts with our community working together to reduce the stigma and promote awareness that is the known content of Domestic and Family Violence.

Don’t let abuse be the legacy – fight to live a life without fear of being harmed or losing time.

Domestic Violence Resource Service can offer a range of free counselling and support services for women and children in Mackay and surrounding regions.

Phone: 07 4953 1788 (Mon–Fri 8.30am–4.30pm)

DVConnect Mensline: 1800 600 636 (7 days, 9am to midnight)

Mackay Women’s Centre: 07 49 531788

In an emergency, call Triple Zero (000) and ask for Police.