Summary
The inaugural South West Domestic and Family Violence (DFV) Forum, held on 25–26 November at the Charleville Racecourse, brought together community leaders, service providers, and health professionals in a powerful show of collaboration and commitment to ending DFV across the region.
The inaugural South West Domestic and Family Violence (DFV) Forum, held on 25–26 November at the Charleville Racecourse, brought together community leaders, service providers, and health professionals in a powerful show of collaboration and commitment to ending DFV across the region.
With more than 150 participants across two days, the forum created a safe and inclusive space for dialogue, learning, and shared action.
Supported through funding sponsorships from WorkUP Qld, FRRR Grants, Aboriginal Family Legal Services Queensland (AFLSQ), Cunnamulla Aboriginal Corporation for Health (CACH), and South West Hospital and Health Service (SWHHS), alongside in-kind support from Murweh Shire Council, the event was a true community effort.
South West HHS Executive Director Allied Health Helen Wassman said the forum demonstrated the power of collective action.
“The forum opened with a Smoking Ceremony and Welcome to Country by Keelen Mailman, setting a respectful and culturally grounded tone,” Helen said.
“Delegates were invited to contribute to a collaborative artwork led by Bidjara artist Alara Geebung, symbolising unity and shared responsibility in addressing DFV.”
Helen said the keynote speaker Kathleen Wincen, CEO of Aboriginal Family Legal Services Queensland (AFLSQ), delivered a powerful address on culturally safe legal services and the importance of community-led solutions.
“Guest speaker Cheryl Ellery of Cunnamulla Aboriginal Corporation for Health (CACH) shared her lived experience and decades of frontline work supporting families in Cunnamulla, reminding delegates of the strength and resilience within local communities.
“Workshops across both days explored critical themes including workforce development, collaborative safety planning, access to DFV services, and integrated service responses.
“Presentations from Queensland Police Service, Corrections, and community organisations highlighted innovative approaches already making a difference in rural and remote areas.”
Helen said the forum was about bringing people together - health, legal, community, and government - to share knowledge and strengthen our response to domestic and family violence.
“The level of engagement, the honesty of discussions, and the willingness to collaborate show that we are moving forward together,” she said.
“The smoking ceremony, artworks, the yarning circles, and the workshops all reflected the spirit of unity.
“It was inspiring to see delegates contribute their voices and ideas, knowing that every fingerprint on that collaborative artwork symbolises our shared commitment to change.”
The forum concluded with a DFV Memorial Service led by Father Jim Cosgrove, honouring lives lost and reinforcing the importance of ongoing action.
Helen said delegates left with renewed energy, strengthened networks, and a shared vision for safer communities.
“Post-forum surveys confirmed overwhelmingly positive feedback, with participants commending the open discussions, quality of presentations, and opportunities for networking,” she said.
“Suggestions for future forums included more interactive sessions and additional time for community dialogue - reflecting the appetite for continued collaboration.”
The inaugural South West DFV Forum has set a strong foundation for future gatherings, ensuring that voices from across the region are heard, respected, and acted upon.