A new community-led initiative aimed at preventing and ending domestic and family violence across the Scenic Rim has officially been launched.
The campaign, Not In My Community, led by YFS, was formally introduced at a breakfast event in Beaudesert on June 10 attended by representatives from community organisations, support services, local clubs and businesses.
YFS Client Service Manager Sarah Vuzem said the movement was focused on preventing violence before it occurs by addressing the attitudes and behaviours that contribute to it.
“Domestic and family violence affects individuals and families across the entire country, in every community,” Ms Vuzem said.
“Everyone knows someone who has been impacted. The Scenic Rim is no exception.”
She said domestic and family violence did not begin with a single incident, but often developed in environments where disrespect, inequality and harmful gender stereotypes were allowed to flourish.
“Preventing domestic and family violence means changing the attitudes, systems and structures that excuse disrespect and inequality before harm escalates,” she said.
The initiative grew from discussions between local organisations in late 2024 and the formation of the Beaudesert Domestic Violence Action Group Committee in early 2025. Through collaboration between community groups, service organisations, police and YFS, the Not In My Community campaign was developed.
Ms Vuzem described the initiative as more than a slogan.
“Not In My Community is more than a message. It is a promise we make to one another that we will not look away, we will not stay silent and we will not accept violence as normal,” she said.
The campaign will include awareness activities, community events, educational resources and training opportunities.
Posters carrying the campaign message will also be distributed to businesses, sporting clubs, schools and workplaces across the region.
YFS CEO Christopher John said a united community response was essential.
“Behind every statistic is a person whose life has been affected by violence, alongside those in our community who have carried its ripple effect – our neighbours, our colleagues and our friends,” Mr John said.
In 2024-25, YFS supported more than 1,200 women and children responding to domestic and family violence and engaged 300 men in behaviour change programs across its service areas.
The organisation is encouraging community members and organisations to become involved and help create a safer and more supportive Scenic Rim.
