TODAY, I want to talk about the 63 Australian women who have lost their lives through domestic, family or other violence in 2015; 75% of these women knew her alleged killer.

If we, as a nation, had lost 63 people in shark attacks to September 2015, there would be calls for shark culls and a feeding frenzy of media coverage.

But what is the Southern Downs community doing to reduce the rates of domestic violence in our own backyard?

Dame Quentin Bryce, whose recent report into domestic violence Not Now, Not Ever speaks very plainly about the issue, "For all of us, we must be asking ourselves about our culture, our attitude, and asking 'What can we do as neighbours, family and friends?'

"What can each one of us do about this appalling scourge in our society."

The report came up with 140 recommendations with Dame Quentin pointing out that "we don't want to confront these things. We want to turn away and say 'That's not my business', but it certainly is everybody's business."

In June this year, the CNoW committee made it "our business" and invited members of our community to attend a Building Respectful Communities: Local Solutions to Violence event.

We encouraged participants to talk about local solutions, not just local problems.

Funding through Domestic Violence Action Centre had resulted in two skilled counsellors becoming available for both face to face and telephone support in our community.

DVAC provides services that are accountable, person-centred and confidential, stating that the safety of women and children is their aim.

Tamara offers face-to-face support to women in the Warwick area, and Maxine provides support in Stanthorpe.

Tamara and I were invited to speak with a group of general practitioners at the Condamine Medical Centre last week, providing information to the practitioners regarding practical support that could be given to patients who identity domestic violence as an issue in their home.

The message is clear - domestic and family violence is never okay.

If you are experiencing abuse in your relationship, there are supports in our community to help keep you and your family safe.

Reach out and take the first step.