Visit: www.walksafe.org for report form

REPORT THE VIOLENCE - HIT THEM WHERE IT HURTS 

In the past the AVC have been reluctant to encourage our community members to report incidents of violence to the police for fear of the reaction that they may receive, a fact recently acknowledged by the Queensland Police Service.  However the two parties are now working on a relationship that transcends prejudice on both sides.  In recognition of the launch of the GLBT Police Liaison Officers in Townsville and Thuringowa, and of the Police and GLBT Community Consultative Committee, the AVC made a successful application to the Mardi Gras Community Development Fund to finance a 'Report  the Violence' campaign. This campaign, consisting of wallet cards and postcards, urging our community members to not accept violence. Three main options are outlined - make a formal report to the police, provide incident details to Crimestoppers and/or to discuss options with Lifeline telephone counsellors. 

We urge people to act on behalf of themselves and the community.  Violence won't stop unless we do something about it. 

REPORTING  VIOLENCE TO THE POLICE

When reporting to the police you will need to provide the following information or as much as possible. 

• Date
• Time
• Location
• Physical Description of person
• What they said to you and what you said back to them
• Records of injuries
• Photos
• Details of witnesses

If it is an emergency dial 000 or locate the number of the local police and keep it in a handy place

REPORTING VIOLENCE TO CRIMESTOPPERS

When contacting Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000  the following prompts may be helpful to keep in mind. 

• What is the Offence?
• Who is the suspect?
• Where do they live?
• Do they own a motor vehicle?
• What is the registration?
• What age are they approximately?
• How would they be described?
• Are they likely to be dangerous?
• How do I know this?
• Who do they live with?

LIFELINE AND HOW THEY CAN HELP

Lifeline telephone counsellors are available 24 hours/day on 
13 1114 to discuss any concerns you have about whether or not to report an offence.

SAFETY - IT'S UP TO YOU 

It is important that we look out for ourselves and other people in our community. The following tips may help. 

Stay alert	Watch your mouth
Trust your instincts	Attract attention
Project Confidence	Make eye contact
Walk with others	Run away
Keep in the clear	Use your judgement
Be aware	Intervene Safely
Have money with you	Scare off attackers
Have your keys ready	Report all attacks
Introduce new trade	Take note
Mention you have a flatmate	Tell the Police
Buy a whistle	Report it to the AVC

For more information on safety issues click here.  

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS WHEN DEALING WITH POLICE 

You should know your rights.  The following may help. 

• Give name, address and date of birth.  If asked, you may be required to give your occupation under certain circumstances.
• You are not required to give your employer's name.
• You may also be requested to "move on" under certain circumstances.
• Do not resist arrest or swear. 
• Be polite & courteous (and expect the same in return).
• If the enquiry is drug related you may be searched.
• Ask the police officers for their names, numbers and the station they are from.
• If you are being arrested - ask under what charge.
• You may be taken to the station if you are suspected of possessing drugs or of  being under the influence of drugs or alcohol while driving.
• You have the right to remain silent.
• The arresting officer should be wearing a name badge and should show you an identity badge.  Ask to see it, in a polite manner, to ensure that the person arresting you is actually a police officer.
• Try to remain calm, loosing your temper or screaming will not help your situation.
  

AT THE STATION

• Do not resist searching/fingerprinting.
• Do not answer any question or sign any statements - simply state 'I do not wish to make a statement until I see a lawyer'
• You may consult a lawyer at any time during a police investigation.
• Police should, but do not have to, allow you to make a telephone call.
• If you are under 18 the Police may contact your parent or guardian.
• Ignore threats or deals. Ask for bail.