Head of Queenland police union says no widespread cultural problem in domestic violence response

Ian Leavers' affidavit in response to inquiry says failings in responding to such incidents more likely caused by workload pressures or inadequate training'

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The head of Queensland's police union has said there is no widespread cultural problem" in how officers respond to domestic violence incidents, in a submission made to the state's commission of inquiry examining the issue.

Ian Leavers, president of the Queensland Police Union since 2009, said instances of individual failings and shortcomings" were more likely due to workload pressures or inadequate training" than cultural issues.

In Australia, the national family violence counselling service is on 1800 737 732. In the UK, call the national domestic abuse helpline on 0808 2000 247, or visit Women's Aid. In the US, the domestic violence hotline is 1-800-799-SAFE (7233). Other international helplines may be found via www.befrienders.org.