Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett has urged the Bundaberg and Burnett community to remember one important message this Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month; love does not equal control.
This year’s theme is ‘it’s in our control to end coercive control’ and Mr Bennett said it’s up to everyone to challenge the values, beliefs, attitudes, and behaviours that excuse or perpetuate abuse.
“It’s about becoming more aware that domestic and family violence is not just physical,” he said.
“It’s understanding that abuse can manifest itself in many ways. Understanding that it’s not always about conflict, it’s about power and control.
“Manipulation, gradual isolation from friends and family, rules, humiliation, constant degrading putdowns; these are some of the horrific tactics used by abusers to exploit and control.
“We can stand up against this abuse by discussing it more openly and supporting our community.
“That’s why I’m spreading the Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Council’s message this month; love does not equal control.”
Hearts of Purple CEO Michelle Beattie said it’s time to step up and say No More.
“Domestic violence doesn’t have to be physical, it can be financial, spiritual, mental and controlling,” she said.
“We all need to step up and stop turning a blind eye to criminal behaviour.
“Staying out of it, doing nothing, or not doing what needs to be done, permits perpetrators to continue abusing and places the victim in greater danger.
“Collusion emboldens perpetrators because there is impunity for their criminal actions.
“This exponentially increases the risk of harm for the victim/survivor.
“It doesn’t matter if it is unintentional, inadvertent, implicit, or unconscious – collusion is collusion!”
For free, confidential crisis support:
DVConnect Womensline (24/7): 1800 811 811
DVConnect Mensline (9am to midnight, 7 days): 1800 600 636
Kids Helpline (24/7): 1800 551 800
03/05/2023
ENDS.