CANDLES were lit at Raby Bay Harbour Park on Wednesday to remember people who have died as a result of domestic and family violence.
The vigil was one of many held at the same time across the country.
Mayor Karen Williams said there was a long way to go to eliminate domestic and family violence and provide the services needed by those affected.
She recognised the efforts of Redlanders who had raised nearly $260,000, particularly through the Diner en Rouge event.
She said the fundraising was no doubt a catalyst for the state government committing to build new domestic violence shelters and fund a child support worker for Maybanke Accommodation and Crisis Support Services.
"The money raised so far will pay for furnishings and a playground for children staying in the promised units," Cr Williams said.
"It has taken a while but it has shown us that no matter how despairing it may sometimes seem, together we can make a difference.
"We can lead social change and use our collective voices to advocate for better services to those who need it most."
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The vigils signal the start of Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month.
Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said earlier on Wednesday that domestic and family violence claimed on average two Australian lives every week.
"This is a time to remember those lost to us and a time to stand with those left behind," she said.
"It's a time to continue to promote a clear message that violence of any kind is not tolerated and to ensure those experiencing abuse know that help is available and how they can access it.
"It's also a time we recognise the hard work of those working to support people affected by violence."
Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence Minister Di Farmer said significant progress had been made but more needed to be done.
"No one should ever have to live with violence in their home or in their relationships," Ms Farmer said.
"We have made new laws and strengthened penalties for offenders, and we've also established programs to help offenders take responsibility for their behaviour and stop using violence against their families.
"We've introduced respectful relationships programs in primary schools, intervening early to teach young people what normal and respectful relationships and behaviours are.
"We have also committed to publishing domestic and family violence statistics online, in a bid to further bring the crime out of the shadows."
Ms Farmer said funding to services that supported women, children and men affected by domestic and family violence had been increased.
"These services do incredible work in stressful and sometimes risky situations, and I can't thank them enough for all they do," she said.
Ms Farmer said as part of the awareness-raising initiative key structures and buildings in Brisbane would be lit up in purple or orange.
This included the Victoria Bridge, Story Bridge, Kurilpa Bridge, Suncorp Stadium, City Hall, King George Square, QPAC, QUT Gardens Point and Parliament House.
"When you see one of these community icons lit up purple or orange, it's a message sent loud and clear to everyone: domestic and family violence has no place in any Queensland community," Ms Farmer said.
