Victoria Police says every bystander has a powerful role to play in deterring, preventing and reducing the harm caused by family violence.
“Bystanders are one of the most common groups to witness family violence — they can be neighbours, friends or colleagues,” Family Violence Command Assistant Commissioner Lauren Callaway said.
“Bystanders can see family violence happening in public places too, such as on the transport network or in shopping centres, bars or clubs.
“We need bystanders to please not ignore it, don’t look the other way and don’t make excuses for it.”
Crime Statistics Agency figures show there is one family violence incident every five minutes in Victoria.
Asst Commissioner Callaway said bystanders could intervene when witnessing family violence if it were safe to do so.
“By starting a conversation and asking the victim if they’re okay or by using an excuse to get the victim away from the situation safely,” she said.
“This will create separation between both parties and offers a safe space for victims to stay until police arrive.”
Asst Commissioner Callaway said any intervention by a bystander could make a huge difference in helping prevent an escalation of the violence and sent a message to perpetrators that their behaviour was unacceptable.
“If the situation is too dangerous, however, please call police immediately,” she said.
“We respond to family violence as a priority and will always play our part in keeping victim-survivors safe and holding perpetrators to account.”
The internationally recognised 16 Days of Activism campaign starts on November 25.
A series of events around the world will highlight issues surrounding gender-based violence.
Police urge people to believe others when they disclose they are victims of family violence and to encourage them to contact police or support services.
∎ For more information on what Victoria Police is doing to protect victim-survivors of family violence, visit police.vic.gov.au/family-violence
∎ Support is available 24 hours a day through Safe Steps by calling 1800 015 188 or emailing safesteps@safesteps.org.au
∎ In an emergency, call 000.
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