Queensland Government
Department of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and Multicultural Affairs
A family walking down the pier.

All people have the right to live in safety, particularly in their own homes and communities. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are more likely to be victims and perpetrators of crime. They are more likely to be the subject of child protection intervention and to be incarcerated as adults and juveniles.

The Queensland Government's priorities for creating safe Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities include:

  • addressing the problem of violence in Indigenous families and communities
  • reducing the harms caused by alcohol and other substance use
  • preventing and dealing with criminal and other anti-social behaviours
  • protecting children from neglect and abuse
  • supporting volunteering by Indigenous people

Targets and progress measures

There is no Council of Australian Governments (COAG) target that directly addresses this strategic action area.

However, improvements in community safety and support may have long-term impacts on a number of the COAG targets. For example:

  • personal stressors, such as violent abuse and crime, may lead to long-term health conditions
  • high levels of alcohol consumption are a significant risk factor for a number of serious health conditions, such as liver disease, pancreatitis and diabetes
  • family violence may have a damaging effect on children's emotional, behavioural and cognitive development
  • pregnant women are more vulnerable to abuse and violence, which may lead to adverse health outcomes for babies

Progress measures

  • children subject to child protection notifications
  • children subject to substantiated child protection notifications
  • children subject to child protection orders
  • children in out-of-home care
  • domestic violence orders issued
  • reported offences against the person
  • youth justice orders (including charges)

More information

Download detailed information about the Queensland Government's actions to create safe communities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people:

Other sites