Queensland Government delivers 24/7 crisis support service in North Queensland and new foster care reforms

The Queensland Government is delivering nation-leading reforms to tackle domestic and family violence that will help more victims sooner by establishing a 24/7 crisis support service, while also introducing new foster care reforms.

The 1800NQSAFE phoneline is now providing immediate support to domestic and family violence survivors in North Queensland.

This is part of the Queensland Government’s $21 million commitment to expand support over two years through the establishment of the new North Queensland DFV Networked Hub.

The Hub will help more victims sooner from Townsville and Burdekin to Hinchinbrook and Palm Island with the assistance of police, hospitals, housing services and specialised DFV providers.

UnitingCare's General Manager, Targeted Support, Family and Disability Services, Joanne Trentin said 1800NQSAFE was making support easier and quicker to find.

“Domestic and family violence can escalate at any hour, and when someone is ready to reach out for help, it's critical that support is there,” she said.

“Having support available 24 hours a day, seven days a week means people can reach someone when they need to; someone who can listen, help them understand their options, support safety planning and connect them with the services they need.”

The 1800NQSAFE phoneline is providing immediate support for those in North Queensland.

The Queensland Government is also strengthening its commitment to family-based care through reforms to support existing foster and kinship carers, attract new carers and improve outcomes for high needs children in care.

A new Foster Care Advisory Group will see carers and permanent guardians help shape Queensland's child safety system, marking the first step towards implementing recommendation 24 of the Commission of Inquiry.

The Professional Foster Care pilot program’s expansion will also be fast-tracked in Mackay to provide stable care for children with complex needs.

Life Without Barriers' Queensland Executive Director of Child Youth and Family Services Ben Hannifin said every child deserved to feel safe, valued and connected to loved ones.

"Dedicated carers play a vital role in making this possible, particularly for children and young people experiencing difficult circumstances," he said.

"For decades, Life Without Barriers has worked alongside carers, and we know that investing in and supporting them is vital to helping children thrive.”

To learn more about becoming a foster carer, visit www.qld.gov.au/fostercare or call 1300 550 877.

For more information about the Professional Foster Care pilot, visit www.qld.gov.au/professionalfostercare.

Last updated:

3 September 2026