Domestic and family violence can occur at any time of year, but research and frontline services in Queensland consistently report an increase in incidents during the holiday season particularly around Christmas and New Year.
This time of year, while meant to bring joy and connection, can also heighten emotional stress and tension in households, leading to a concerning rise in domestic violence cases across the state.
Holiday Period Spikes
Statistics show the highest reports of domestic and non-domestic assaults are:
New Year’s Eve & Day (1 January): Significant spike in assaults leading into midnight, highest days of the year for both domestic and non-domestic assaults
Christmas & Boxing Day: Domestic violence assaults surge over the Christmas period, peaking on Christmas and Boxing Day, the second and third highest days of the year.
Australia Day: Shows an increase in DV assaults but at a lower level, it’s elevated compared to an average day, yet below Christmas Day and Boxing Day in DV volume
Why Domestic Violence Often Spikes Over Christmas in QLD
While each situation is unique, several common factors contribute to the increase in domestic violence during the holiday period:
1. Heightened Stress
Financial strain, family obligations, and expectations to create a “perfect” holiday can overwhelm many individuals. When stress builds without healthy coping mechanisms, it can lead to anger and conflict within relationships.
2. Increase in Alcohol Consumption
Alcohol use typically rises over Christmas and New Year celebrations.
Excessive drinking can impair judgment, lower inhibitions, and intensify aggressive behaviour, often escalating existing tensions.
3. More Time Spent Together
During holidays, partners and families spend extended time at home, sometimes in confined or emotionally charged environments. This can magnify underlying issues in relationships and create opportunities for controlling or abusive behaviour to surface.
4. Reduced Support Services
Many community services, counselling agencies, and courts operate on limited hours during the holidays. Victims may find it harder to access immediate help or safe accommodation, increasing their vulnerability.
Queensland Court Christmas Closure Dates
Here are the key dates for the holiday closure period for Queensland Courts:
1. Magistrates Court of Queensland:
Each day from Thursday 25 December 2025 through to Friday 2 January 2026 inclusive is a court holiday. This means, public access to the Court is limited on these days. Filing private applications for Protection Orders may be difficult or not given a court date until the new year.
2. District Court of Queensland:
Each day from Monday 29 December 2025 through to Friday 2 January 2026 inclusive is a court holiday.
Signs of Abuse & Controlling Behaviour to Watch For
Abuse isn’t always physical. It can include emotional, psychological,
financial, or verbal control.
Warning signs include:
- Isolation from friends or family
- Monitoring of phone or online activity
- Controlling finances or access to money
- Insults, humiliation, or constant criticism
- Threats of self-harm or violence
- Physical intimidation or property damage
If you recognise these behaviours in your relationship or someone else’s it’s important to seek support early.
Your Rights: Protection Orders and Legal Options in Queensland
Under the Domestic and Family Violence Protection Act 2012 (QLD), anyone experiencing abuse can apply for a Protection Order or make a complaint to police. A Protection Order aims to keep the aggrieved person safe by restricting the respondent’s behaviour, contact, or proximity.
An experienced family and domestic violence lawyer can help you:
- Apply for a temporary or final Protection Order
- Respond to an order made against you
- Prepare evidence for court
- Understand your rights and obligations under Queensland law
Where to Turn for Help: DVConnect, Police, Legal Aid in QLD
If you or someone you know is in danger, call 000 immediately.
For confidential support, contact:
- DVConnect Womensline – 1800 811 811 (24/7)
- DVConnect Mensline – 1800 600 636
- Legal Aid Queensland – 1300 65 11 88
- Queensland Police Service – attend your local station or call Police Link for non-urgent matters
- Elysian Law – free and confidential initial conference to understand your rights.
These organisations provide crisis support, legal guidance, and referrals to safe accommodation.
Safety Planning During the Holidays
If you are concerned for your safety during the festive season:
- Identify a trusted friend or family member you can contact quickly
- Keep your phone always charged and accessible
- Store emergency numbers in your contacts under a discreet name
- Pack an emergency bag with essential documents and medications
- Plan safe exit routes from your home if needed
You are not alone – help is available, even during the holidays.
Elysian Law: Supporting Queenslanders Affected by Domestic Violence
At Elysian Law, we understand how complex and emotional domestic violence situations can be, especially during the festive period. Our team is dedicated to protecting your rights and helping you feel safe again.
For more information the types of domestic violence mentioned in this article, see our additional resources:
At Elysian Law, we understand the serious impact these matters can have on your personal and professional life. Our team is here to support you with expert legal representation tailored to your circumstances.
Author: Nichale Bool
