White Ribbon Day

White Ribbon Day, observed in Australia on 25 November 2025, is a vital moment to raise awareness about domestic and family violence and to stand together for safety, respect, and equality. It invites communities to reflect, learn, and advocate for change. At Q Psychology, we honour this day with compassion and a commitment to inclusive, trauma-informed care, recognising the strength and dignity of those affected. We stand with individuals, families, and communities in fostering understanding, healing, and hope.

White Ribbon Day began as part of a global movement encouraging communities to speak out against gender-based and family violence. Its purpose is to promote awareness, prevention, and meaningful community action to create safer, more respectful relationships. While the campaign has traditionally centred on addressing men’s violence against women, Q Psychology embraces a broader, inclusive perspective. We recognise that domestic and family violence can affect people of all gender identities, sexualities, and relationship types. Guided by trauma-informed and affirming care, Q Psychology believes in providing psychology support for the diversity of those impacted.

Domestic and family violence within queer/LGBTQIA+ communities is both significant and often under-recognised.

Research shows that in Australia around 49% of queer people have experienced sexual assault and rates of intimate partner, family, and sexual violence are comparable to or higher than those in the broader population, yet these experiences receive far less visibility¹. Approximately 61% of queer people report experiencing intimate partner violence, and around 65%have experienced family (non-partner) violence², most commonly verbal, emotional, and queer-related abuse. The impacts are even more pronounced for queer people with disabilities, with 81% reporting family violence³.

Many queer people face unique barriers when seeking help, including stigma, fear of being outed, previous discrimination, and a lack of culturally safe, affirming services. Misconceptions such as the belief that violence is less serious or less common in queer relationships further silence those affected. Inclusive awareness days help challenge these myths, amplify diverse experiences, and provide support that is grounded in understanding, respect, and genuine safety.

Domestic and family violence occurs across a broad spectrum and can affect people of all genders, sexualities, and abilities. While physical harm is often the most visible, many forms of abuse remain under-discussed, including emotional and psychological manipulation, financial control, coercive behaviours, and queer-specific abuse such as threats of outing or invalidating a person’s identity. These experiences can be deeply isolating, especially when they are minimised or misunderstood by others.

At Q Psychology, we recognise the complexity of these dynamics and respond with a safe, queer-affirming, trauma-informed, and neuro-affirming approach that honours each person’s lived experience. We strive to create a safe, inclusive space where individuals can explore their stories, rebuild a sense of safety and agency, and access compassionate psychology support tailored to their needs.