The Queensland government faces mounting criticism for allegedly concealing a report from a working group of domestic violence survivors. The document, which contains stark critiques of police responses and advocates for independent oversight, has not been made public despite promises to prioritise victims’ needs.
A Panel of Survivors
In early 2025, the Queensland government established a panel composed of individuals with firsthand experience of domestic, family, and sexual violence. This initiative was intended to identify shortcomings within the existing system and to inform meaningful reforms. Amanda Camm, the Minister for Domestic and Family Violence Prevention, stated that the previous Labour government had failed to implement necessary recommendations for improvement in this area.
The panel completed its work in December 2025, yet the government has not released a summary of the findings or recommendations. Requests for transparency from media outlets have been met with silence. An insider, who wished to remain anonymous, expressed frustration, suggesting that the government’s commitment to “putting victims first” seems disingenuous without accompanying action or visibility.
Criticism of Law Enforcement
The leaked report from the working group reveals serious concerns regarding police conduct. It asserts that police responses to domestic violence incidents are often inconsistent, influenced by individual officer attitudes rather than established protocols. Victims have reported delays in response times and inadequate follow-up actions, with some claiming that breaches of domestic violence orders are not taken seriously enough.
The document’s recommendations include the urgent need for a civilian review mechanism to address complaints regarding police inaction. Furthermore, it highlights the necessity for standardised risk assessment tools and improved victim-centred practices within the police force.
In recent years, the Queensland police have made significant changes, including dismantling a specialist domestic violence command and suggesting that managing such cases is not a core function of their duties. Critics argue that these shifts reflect a troubling trend away from prioritising victim protection.
Government’s Response
Despite the damning nature of the report, the government has refrained from making it public. When pressed for comment, Minister Camm cited “record investments” in domestic violence prevention services, claiming that the Crisafulli government has revitalised support systems that had deteriorated under Labour.
However, sceptics point out that while the government has taken a hardline stance on youth crime, the same urgency has not been applied to addressing gender-based violence. Funding cuts for domestic violence prevention services have raised concerns among community advocates, who argue that they are overburdened and under-resourced.
The Bigger Picture
The ongoing suppression of the working group’s findings underscores a troubling disconnect between governmental promises and actual support for victims of domestic violence. The reluctance to address criticisms of police conduct and implement reforms reflects a broader societal issue regarding the prioritisation of victim safety and justice.
Why it Matters
The implications of this situation extend far beyond the government’s handling of a single report. The failure to act on the recommendations of those directly affected by domestic violence not only perpetuates systemic flaws in the justice system but also undermines public trust in law enforcement. Ensuring that victims’ voices are heard and acted upon is crucial in creating a society that genuinely prioritises safety and justice for all. The continued neglect of these critical issues serves as a stark reminder of the work that remains to be done in the fight against domestic violence.
