In December last year, the Crime Statistics Agency recorded 8668 family violence incidents across Victoria, an average of 279 incidents per day.
The average increased by 33 per cent on Christmas Day, with 372 incidents recorded, including 91 perpetrators breaching orders offences, and 79 assault offences.
Family violence command assistant commissioner Lauren Callaway said, for some people, Christmas was sadly not a time for celebration.
“Perpetrators use the time together to control or harm family members,” Ms Callaway said.
It was important for the community to look out for those experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, family violence by reporting it to police, she said.
Police not only provided safety for victims who made a report, she said, they also referred them to support services for further assistance.
“Whether it’s perpetrators breaching orders by either attending the victim’s home, using technology to make contact or committing assault, the behaviour is unacceptable and will not be tolerated,” Ms Callaway said.
“This festive season, we will also continue to conduct proactive patrols and checks to let perpetrators know they won’t get away with it.”
On average, Victoria Police arrests one family violence perpetrator every 18 minutes across the state, Ms Callaway said.
Those concerned their own behaviour is putting the safety of their family at risk can contact services for help, including No to Violence’s men’s referral service line by calling 1300 766 491.
“Maybe making that call is the best gift you can give your family this Christmas,” Ms Callaway said.
For those needing help, local service contacts include:
The Orange Door in Loddon, 1800 512 359, loddon@orangedoor.vic.gov.au
Centre for Non-Violence, 1800 884 292, open 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday, cnv.org.au/we-are-here-to-help
For 24-hour crisis response:
Safe Steps, 1800 015 188, safesteps.org.au
Sexual Assault Crisis Line, 1800 806 292.
In an emergency, call 000.
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