Thursday, 21 September 2017
· 971 sex crimes reported on the Darling Downs since 2015
· October is sexual violence awareness month across Queensland
· Labor silent of tackling sexual violence in the community
On the eve of sexual violence awareness month LNP Shadow Minister for Women Ros Bates said from Warwick more needed to be done to shine a light on this hidden scourge.
“October is sexual violence awareness month and we need to do more to shine a light on this insidious crime.
“Sexual violence is not just an urban phenomenon in Queensland.
“Over the last three years there have been some 971* reported sex crimes to police on the Darling Downs.
“Sadly this is one crime that goes under-reported or can take years to come to the attention of police.
“Worse still is the frightening fact that more often than not sexual violence is committed by an intimate partner or a loved one.
“Queensland clearly needs a coordinated strategy to tackle sexual violence in the same way the LNP launched the Not Now Not Ever review into domestic violence.
“Under Labor we have had two and half years of silence on tackling sexual violence in our communities.
“Here in Southern Downs and across Queensland we have a range of great services who are all doing their part to tackle sexual violence.
“What is missing is a coordinated approach and a cohesive plan to tackle sexual violence and wipe it out once and for all.
“This October every community should come together and take a stand saying sexual violence must end.
“We need to get the message out to anyone who has been a victim of sexual violence and maybe afraid to report it that they can speak up and we will support you.
“There are specialist police and support services right across Queensland who are there to ensure victims of sexual violence are protected and their attackers brought to justice.
“Only the LNP will deliver a better Queensland and safe and livable communities.
*https://mypolice.qld.gov.au/queensland-crime-statistics/