Taking Care of Yourself at the Conference

We recognise that the themes and discussions at this conference can be confronting or emotionally heavy. Your wellbeing is important to us, which is why we have created a dedicated sensory space – a quiet, calming environment where you can take time out if you need a break.

In addition, our roving counsellors will be available throughout the event. If you’d like to talk or need extra support, please don’t hesitate to reach out to them or any of our staff.

Your safety and comfort matter – please take the time you need.

Photography at the Conference

A professional photographer will be present throughout the conference to capture moments from the event. If you prefer not to be photographed, that is completely okay — please let one of our staff members know, and we will ensure your wishes are respected.

All photos will be carefully reviewed before being shared publicly. If you appear in a photo but later decide you’d rather it not be published, simply let us know and we will manage this for you.

Your comfort and consent are our priority.

Day 1 has been co-designed with victim-survivors and places their voices, creativity, and leadership at the centre of the conversation.

Throughout the day, you’ll hear directly from victim-survivors as they share their experiences navigating support systems, and their vision for change, through spoken word, storytelling, and powerful creative works. Their contributions will challenge, uplift and inspire, highlighting the hope, courage and resilience that drives systemic transformation.

Alongside these lived experience insights, the program will explore bold ideas and community-led innovation through keynote presentations, panel discussions, and interactive workshops.

We’ll examine barriers to access, gaps in current approaches, and new ways forward, grounded in real-world experience and collaborative practice.

Day 2 is dedicated to the Gold Coast DVIR — a model of partnership and collaboration that continues to set the benchmark for integrated responses to domestic and family violence.

You’ll hear from the leaders who built and sustain the GCDVIR, explore how this coordinated model came to life, and discover how its legacy of impact continues to grow locally and beyond.

What to expect:

• A keynote panel unpacking three decades of integrated service delivery
• Practical insights into the commitment to coordination that drives real outcomes for victim-survivors
• Tools and strategies you can apply to strengthen partnerships in your own region
• A rare opportunity to learn directly from an award-winning, trauma-informed DFV whole of community response.

Who is the GCDVIR?

The Gold Coast Domestic Violence Integrated Response (GCDVIR) is a nationally recognised, community-based, multi-agency response to domestic and family violence.

Formed in 1996 in response to high rates of domestic violence and domestic homicides on the Gold Coast, the GCDVIR brings together police, courts, corrective services, child safety, health, social services, and community organisations to deliver coordinated, consistent, and survivor-centred responses.

The GCDVIR has played a pivotal role in DFV justice reform in Queensland, including establishing the state’s first Specialist Domestic Violence Court — a model that has since been adopted statewide. Its integrated approach draws on international best practice and continues to evolve through strong cross-sector collaboration.