Women's Legal Service Queensland presents a free legal workshop for community service providers in the Emerald region.

Workshop Content: Companion Animals: Family Law Amendments and Intersections with DFV

Gain essential insights into the complex and often overlooked role of companion animals in the context of domestic and family violence (DFV) and recent legal reforms.

Topics Covered:

The intersection of DFV and companion animals: risks, barriers, and emotional impacts
Recent amendments to the Family Law Act – court powers to make orders about companion animals
Relevant provisions under the Domestic and Family Violence Protection Act (DFVPA)
Considerations when separating with companion animals:
- Safety and Exit Planning
- Financial Assistance Options

Designed for service providers, community workers, and anyone supporting people navigating domestic and family violence and family separation. This workshop equips attendees with the knowledge and tools needed to confidently assist clients through this complex and often challenging period.

Event Details:

Date: Tuesday 16th September

Time: 9:30am - 12:00pm

Location: Emerald Medical Group

Catering will be provided. Please provide any dietary requirements in your registration.
If you only wish to attend a part day of the workshop please contact RRR Program Coordinator - Holly - rrr@wlsq.org.au

Who should attend:

This session is tailored for service providers across a range of sectors, including social services, healthcare, and community support. It’s suitable for practitioners, support workers, coordinators, and anyone working directly with individuals who are affected by or experiencing domestic and family violence.

The workshop aims to deepen participants’ understanding of the legal landscape surrounding companion animals in the context of domestic and family violence and offers practical tools and insights to strengthen professional practice, learning and support outcomes for the community.

WLSQ is a specialist community legal centre providing free legal and related services to Queensland women. For more information about WLSQ please visit www.wlsq.org.au.

If you have any questions, please contact rrr@wlsq.org.au