Yesterday, 28 May, was LGBTQ+ Domestic Violence Awareness Day, a national day to shed light on abuse in LGBTQ+ relationships and call for greater visibility, understanding, and support for LGBTQ+ victim-survivors.
At FGD, this day is deeply personal. One of our partners, Daniel Magnussen, serves as the ACT Coordinator for the LGBTQ Domestic Violence Awareness Foundation, the national body behind this critical initiative. Daniel has worked closely with the Foundation’s board over the past year, driving awareness and advocacy efforts locally. In recognition of today’s importance, Daniel coordinated to have Canberra’s National Carillon lit up in purple which is a powerful symbol of solidarity for the LGBTQ+ community and a reminder that domestic and family violence doesn’t discriminate based on sexuality or gender identity.
Why This Day Matters
Research shows that more than 60% of LGBTQ+ people have experienced domestic or family violence. Despite this, LGBTQ+ victim-survivors are often left feeling invisible, unsupported, and unable to safely access help. In regional and rural communities, this can be even more pronounced, with isolation and stigma compounding the harm.
As Ben Bjarnesen, the Foundation’s Founder, shared:
“When I was experiencing abuse in my own relationship, I couldn’t find a single service that would support me. I felt invisible. That’s why I started this campaign, because too many LGBTQ+ people are being left behind.”
This year also marks the expansion of the Foundation’s See Hear Believe training program which is a first-of-its-kind initiative equipping workplaces, communities, and individuals with the tools to identify, understand, and respond to domestic and family violence in LGBTQ+ relationships. It promotes three simple but powerful commitments: “I see you. I hear you. I believe you.” FGD will be completing this training once it’s rolled out.
FGD’s Ongoing Commitment
At FGD, we believe visibility matters, not just on Awareness Day, but every day. We are proud to be one of the only private national law firms in Australia that operates a dedicated LGBTIQ Legal Service. Launched three years ago by Daniel Magnussen and Kasey Fox, this service offers a safe, affirming space for LGBTQ+ clients to access legal support on issues including family law, adoption, surrogacy, transgender rights, and domestic and family violence.
For many of our clients, speaking to a lawyer is the first time they feel safe enough to share their experiences of violence. Having a lawyer who is LGBTQ+ themselves, or a committed ally, can be a lifeline. It reassures our clients that they are seen, heard, and believed and that they can trust us to support them without judgment.
We have proudly supported dozens of LGBTQ+ individuals through complex and sensitive legal matters and continue to advocate for recognition and respect for diverse family structures in the courts and beyond.
Join Us in Taking a Stand
We encourage our community and colleagues across the legal profession to learn more about LGBTQ Domestic Violence Awareness Day and explore the See Hear Believe training program. Awareness saves lives and change begins with each of us.
To learn more, visit dvafoundation.org or reach out to our team about the work we do through the FGD LGBTIQ Legal Service.
Sydney
Phone
Melbourne
Phone
Canberra
Phone
Coffs Harbour
Phone
Article By: Daniel Magnussen
Family Lawyer
Daniel is a specialist family lawyer and has experience across a broad range of areas within this field including issues unique to LGBTIQ clients. He is a strong advocate and recognises the importance of creating a legal industry that reflects the diversity of the clients it advocates for and represents.