The lawyer for a New Zealand man accused of a horrific domestic violence murder in Australia, said his client needs access to psychiatric care.

Lionel Patea faced Southport Magistrates Court via video-link charged with the murder of Tara Brown.

He is accused of running Ms Brown off the road and then using a cast iron fire hydrant cover to bash her as she lay trapped in her upturned car.

Patea's lawyer, Campbell MacCallum, told the court he was seeking assurances his client would receive access to a psychiatrist.

Magistrate Colin Strofield said the access would likely be granted.

The case has been adjourned until November 11.

Domestic violence helpline DV Connect CEO Di Mangan said calls have doubled to more than 400 a day since 24-year-old Tara Brown was bashed to death and 49-year-old Karina Lock was shot dead.

Ms Mangan said some callers have reported their partners threatening them with similar violence.

The deaths have prompted the Queensland government to fast-track a number of measures designed to combat domestic violence.