EMPOWER 2026 – Ending Domestic Violence Begins Here
EMPOWER 2026 is the first domestic and family violence conference of its kind to be held in Rockhampton. Hosted by CQ Healthy Families during Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month, it brings high-profile speakers and national conversations on DFV directly to Central Queensland.
The two-day program is designed to build regional capability, strengthen collaboration across sectors and make sure regional voices are part of the prevention response. DFV in our region is a serious and growing issue — recent court data shows a 46% rise in DFV-related convictions at Rockhampton Magistrates Court between 2023–24 and 2024–25.
Confirmed speakers:
- Jenna Roberts - Commonwealth DFSV Assistant Commissioner
- Lisa McAdams - Founder Safe Space Work Place
- Mitra Khakbaz - CEO Immigrant Support Service
- Tess Fuller - Teach Us Consent
- LGBTI Legal Service; Inspector Jacinta Pannowitz - Qld Police Service
- Ben Vasiliou - CEO The Man Cave
- Jess Stone - Vice Chair NAPCAN Youth Speak Out
- Tania Wissemann & Tiffany Blake - CQ University Safer Communities Unit
- Kirrily Dear - Cofounder Run Against Violence & ZERO DFV
- Rockhampton's own High Risk Team (HRT) - Mock Panel.
When: Thursday 14 – Friday 15 May 2026, 9am – 5pm
Where: The Frenchville Sports Club, 105 Clifton St, Berserker QLD
Hosted by: CQ Healthy Families
