This page should be used by Australian legal practitioners in Queensland working with those at risk of Domestic and Family Violence, this could be any practitioner but they might also include organisations such as:
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Legal Service (ATSILS)
- Legal Aid Queensland
- Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions
- Women's Domestic Violence Services and many more.
The aim is to identify and provide domestic and family violence training and support for legal practitioners.
If you are at risk of domestic and family violence, or if you are in immediate danger, call 000 for Police and Ambulance assistance.
Legal updates
Hannah's Law
On 26 May 2025 Queensland’s “Hannah’s Law” came into effect, criminalising coercive control, with the offence carrying a maximum penalty of 14 years imprisonment. Coercive control is defined as a pattern of abusive behaviour aimed at dominating or isolating a partner or family member. The law, named after Hannah Clarke—tragically killed with her children in 2020- marks an increase in accountability for offenders and legal safeguards for victims.
In this video, Rachel Tierney, Accredited Specialist – Criminal Law and Senior Associate, Gilshenan & Luton Legal Practice, provides a more in depth understanding of these new changes and the key elements of this new offence.
Continuing Professional Development
Symposium 2025
This year's conference features two opening plenary sessions and six tracks of substantive law sessions covering Family, Succession, Criminal, Property, Personal Injuries, and Commercial Law PLUS a new 'Extension' track.
Find out more
Family and Criminal Law Conference 2024 – Domestic Family Violence track
Specialty conference sessions for Domestic Family Violence practitioners in Queensland looking at the intersection between family and criminal law, and how to implement protections for practitioners and victim survivors within this developing area of practice.
QLS Shop
Family and Criminal Law Conference 2024 – Family Law track
Hear the latest in Family practice updates for 2024.
QLS Shop
Family and Criminal Law Conference 2024 – Criminal Law
You will hear the latest in criminal practice updates for 2024.
QLS ShopExternal Resources
We encourage all solicitors to increase their knowledge and understanding of Domestic and Family Violence. If you would like to know more or seek specific training, consider:
Support
LawCare
LawCare is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. QLS members can use this service to access confidential support to help navigate issues in both their personal and professional lives.
A specialised Domestic and Family Violence Helpline is available on 1300 338 465.
Find out morePractice Advisory Service
If you find yourself in need of support, our Members are able to access the Practice Advisory Service at the Queensland law society. This resource provides solicitors guidance on all types of complex situations that arise in everyday practice.
Find out moreSenior Counsellors
If you would prefer to discuss matters with a senior solicitor, we have QLS Senior Counsellors available to support you. They are able to speak to you on a confidential basis about a variety of issues that might arise when supporting victims of domestic and family violence.
Find out moreWould you like to know more about bespoke offerings or more information?