Content note: This episode may cover topics you find uncomfortable or triggering. Support is available: QLife provides Australia-wide, anonymous LGBTIQ+ peer support. QLife services are free and available over the phone or on webchat: Call 1800 184 527 or visit qlife.org.au, every day between 3pm and midnight.
The Latest in LGBTIQ+ Health and Policy is a podcast that brings you the health and well-being hot topic discussions that matter to LGBTIQ+ people.
On this episode, we chat to Kai Noonan, Director of Sexual, Domestic and Family Violence Prevention at LGBTIQ+ Health Australia. We also chat with Ben Bjarnesen, an out gay former Queensland police officer who in 2020 founded the LGBTQ Domestic Violence Awareness Foundation.
In this episode, we discuss domestic violence in LGBTQ communities. We’re using the term domestic violence to refer to violence in intimate relationships or between partners or ex-partners. Domestic violence can include any behaviour that is threatening or controlling where one person tries to exert power and control over another.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic or family violence or sexual assault, you can call the Rainbow Sexual Domestic and Family Violence Helpline on 1800 487 212 or 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732. Say It Out Loud is another amazing resource, encouraging LGBTQ+ communities to get help for their unhealthy relationships. You can visit the Say It Out Loud website to learn more and seek support.
For information about financial abuse, including resources and support that’s available, visit ComBank Next Chapter. If you’re worried about your finances because of intimate partner or family violence or coercive control, you can contact ComBank’s Next Chapter team on 1800 222 387. Even if you’re not with ComBank, this service is available to everyone who needs it no matter who you bank with.
This podcast was produced by JOY Media – Australia’s Rainbow Community Media Organisation. For more information about JOY’s services, visit joy.org.au/services