New plan to tackle DV

A QUEENSLAND-first domestic violence action plan has been unveiled by the Gold Coast City Council in a bid to combat the scourge that has claimed the lives of several local women.

A council-funded domestic violence shelter for women and children and a campaign to highlight DV support services for victims and perpetrators are part of the plan launched yesterday.

Mayor Tom Tate said his council was the first in the state to adopt such a scheme.

He said the council had a plan to manage natural disasters but until now, no plan to combat domestic violence.

“People (survivors) will be able to know where to get help,” he said. “Those people (perpetrators) who are frustrated and tend to be violent, they too will know how to get help.”

Cr Tate said private employers would be encouraged to follow the council’s lead by promoting awareness about domestic violence services and programs to staff.