WHO WE ARE
Queensland Homicide Victims’ Support Group (QHVSG) is one of Australia’s most highly regarded and renowned community support service organizations that has been providing care, counselling, case management and court support to the loved ones of homicide victims for over 30 years. Our proud history of helping our members and providing support services has established a strong sense of community and has allowed us to walk alongside our members as they navigate the unparalleled journey of living in the aftermath of homicide.
Our organization’s firm foundations have been built on the values of compassion and care for our members, as well as commitment to the community we serve. These unwavering values have allowed our team to cultivate a high-quality and personalized support service to our members who have experienced first-hand the devastating impact of homicide.
Our Team Of Support Specialists
OUR Vision
To be the leading organisation, providing high-quality support, education and reform for victims’ of homicide.
OUR Mission
To provide support to victims’ of homicide through:
- Our unique peer network, providing a family environment of empathy, compassion and understanding.
- The education and awareness for members and the community.
- Advocacy for reform on behalf of our members.
OUR Values
Support
Building a sustainable peer support program specialising in victims supporting victims.
Innovation
Actively engaging with our members and stakeholders to bring new ideas to life.
Partnership
Building strong relationships with government and community to work together to support victims.
Accountability
Delivering on promises to our members and providing responsible stewardship of our resources.
Our History
QHVSG was founded on the 7th of February 1995 in Northern Queensland when five families united to address the desperate lack of assistance for families who have experienced the loss of a loved one through homicide. During this time before QHVSG was founded, there were no government services or community groups available to assist families or provide them with the essential support needed.
This absence of assistance available resulted in effected families being left isolated during an incredibly vulnerable and painful period of their lives, unable to meet with other families and share their experiences with each other. For over 30 years now, we have been providing both peer support through our member network, and professional case management through our qualified counsellors, who are skilled and experienced in social work, psychology and counselling.
1995
QHVSG is founded.
1995
QHVSG successfully advocates for change with the COVA (Criminal Offence Victims’ Act) Bill being put before Parliament.
1995
The first victim impact statement in history is given in a Queensland Court.
1997
The first QHVSG fundraising dinner occurs in Brisbane.
1998
QHVSG is registered as an official Charity.
1998
Solace House is officially opened by Attorney General Matt Foley and Shadow Minister for Families Denver Beanland.
2005
Parole Legislation changes allow homicide victims to provide submissions when a perpetrator is applying for release.
2007
QHVSG takes ownership of the violence prevention campaign ‘One Punch Can Kill’ and secures the trademark.
2008
QHVSG becomes a key stakeholder in the Queensland Government Victims of Crime Review.
2009
QHVSG CEO Jonty Bush is presented the ‘Young Australian of the Year’ award.
2015
QHVSG presents at the 15th Annual International World Symposium of Victimology.
2016
The ‘One Punch Can Kill’ campaign secures funding from Queensland Education to deliver information presentations to over 200 High Schools across Queensland.
2017
The ‘No Body, No Parole’ Legislation is passed, QHVSG had a significant input once the Bill came to light.
2018
QHVSG succeeds in having a victims’ advocate on the Parole Board for Queensland.
2018
QHVSG is formally recognized in Queensland Parliament for outstanding work in its field.
2019
QHVSG established a Memorandum of Understanding with the Royal Flying Doctor Service to support the Peer Support Program across rural and remote QLD locations.
2022
QHVSG attends the official opening of ‘Grace’s Place’, operated by the organisation’s NSW counterpart, Homicide Victims’ Support Group (HVSG) – Grace’s Place is the world’s first residential trauma recovery facility for children impacted by homicide.
2025
QHVSG hosts the first Queensland Grace’s Place workshop to initiate a collaborative approach to the project’s development.
2025
QHVSG celebrates its 30 Year Anniversary.
HOW OUr Services can help you
Our team offers 24/7 support, care, advocacy and education to all members of the community impacted by homicide in Queensland, regardless of their journey in life. Our team of employees and volunteers provide services in the avenues of family, peer and court support, as well as services in education, advocacy and campaign projects. QHVSG is not only a space for solace and support for those attempting to piece their lives back together after the tragic and senseless loss of a loved one; it is also a space for community and for commitment to victims’ rights in their journey.