At Safe Connections Toowoomba, we provide inclusive, affirming and compassionate support for LGBTQA+ people, as well as specialist domestic and family violence (DFV) support for people whose experiences occur within the LGBTQA+ relationships, families and communities. 

We recognise that domestic and family violence can impact people in diverse ways. While many of the people we support identify as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Questioning and Asexual (LGBTQA+), we also acknowledge that some people seeking support may not personally identify as LGBTQA+, but their experience of violence is directly connected to a partner's, family member's or loved one's sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression.

Everyone deserves to feel safe, respected and understood. We know that finding support from practitioners who understand the unique experiences, barriers and strengths within LGBTQA+ communities can make a significant differences to recovery and wellbeing. 

Domestic and Family Violence can look different in LGBTQA+ relationships

Domestic and family violence is about patterns of power, control and coercion. 

While many forms of abuse are common across all relationships, people within LGBTQA+ communities may experience additional forms of abuse that are unique to their identity, relationships and community connections. 

This can include: 

• Threatening to "out" someone to family, friends, employers or the wider community.
• Using a person's sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression to shame, manipulate or control them.
• Restricting or interfering with access to gender-affirming healthcare, hormones, clothing or identity documents.
• Isolating someone from supportive friends, family or the LGBTQA+ community.
• Threatening custody of children because of a person's sexuality or gender identity.
• Exploiting experiences of discrimination, stigma or fear that services won't understand.
• Using technology or social media to monitor, intimidate or harass.
• Emotional, psychological, financial, sexual or physical abuse. 

Our team understands these unique dynamics and provides support that is safe, inclusive, affirming and free from judgement. 

Could this service be right for you? 

You may benefit from Safe Connections if: 

• You feel frightened, controlled or unsafe in your relationship.
• Your partner threatens to disclose your sexuality or gender identity without your consent.
• Your partner controls aspects of your identity, transition or expression.
• You feel isolated from your support networks or community.
• You are experiencing coercive control or other forms of domestic and family violence.
• Your are unsure whether what you're experiencing is abuse and would like to talk it through with someone.
• You are supporting someone experiencing domestic and family violence within an LGBTQA+ relationship or family. 

You do not have to be in immediate crisis to seek support. If something doesn't feel right, we are here to listen, support you and explore your options with you. 

How we can support you

Safe Connections Toowoomba provides access to specialist practitioners with experience supporting people affected by domestic and family violence with LGBTQA+ relationships and communities. 

We can provide: 

• Individual counselling and emotional support.
• Domestic and family violence risk assessment and safety planning.
• Information about your rights and available options.
• Advocacy and referrals to other specialist services.
• Support navigating legal, housing, financial and community services.
• Assistance for family members and support people, where appropriate. 

Our team also works alongside families, community organisations and service providers to build understanding, strengthen safety and promote respectful, inclusive communities across Toowoomba and the surrounding region. 

Accessing support

If you would like more information or wish to make an appointment, please call 1300 991 443. 

You can also submit a referral for yourself or someone you know.

Submit a Referral

We provide provide outreach services to Gatton, Helidon, Highfields and Crows Nest, helping to ensure specialist support is accessible beyond Toowoomba. 

Funded by the Australian Government Department of Social Services. 

Our Commitment to Intersex Communities

Safe Connections Toowoomba proudly affirms the Darlington Statement, supporting the rights, dignity and wellbeing of intersex people across Australia and Aotearoa/New Zealand. 

Additional support access South West Queensland 

Lifeline Darling Downs and South West Queensland also delivers the Safe Connections program across South West Queensland, providing specialist support for people affected by domestic and family violence within LGBTQA+ communities. 

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic and family violence, or if you would simply like to talk with someone who understands the unique experiences of LGBTQA+ communities, please reach out.

You are not alone. Safe, confidential and affirming support is available.