Policing domestic violence in Queensland: Meeting the Challenges

Since domestic violence legislation was introduced in Queensland in 1989, the number of domestic violence matters that are dealt with by police and the courts has substantially increased. In 2003, the categories of relationship encompassed by domestic violence legislation were broadened to include family, intimate personal and informal care relationships, as well as traditional spousal-type relationships. The increasing numbers and types of domestic violence incidents may affect the ability of police to provide an effective and efficient response.

The significance of this social problem and the opportunity to contribute to a process of reform prompted the Crime and Misconduct Commission to undertake a comprehensive study of the police response to domestic violence in Queensland. The project examined the challenges that confront police and identified potential strategies to improve their effectiveness and efficiency.