Recent statistics reveal a concerning rise in family violence over the Easter period, prompting police to urge the community to look out for one another during this holiday time. Easter is now identified as one of the peak periods for family violence, only surpassed by Christmas and New Year.
In Victoria, the Crime Statistics Agency recorded 1,247 incidents of family violence from Good Friday to Easter Monday last year, marking a 15 per cent increase from the 1,080 reported incidents in 2021. Notably, Easter Sunday alone saw 317 such incidents.
Family gatherings during holidays often bring together relatives who may not frequently see each other, which can lead to heightened stress and conflict. Acting Superintendent Dagmar Andersen from Victoria Police’s Family Violence Command emphasised that there is no justification for family violence. She highlighted the importance of community vigilance and encouraged individuals to report any incidents of violence they witness.
Andersen stated, “Easter is a time for families to come together, but unfortunately, it is also when family violence incidents tend to rise, as perpetrators may exploit this time to exert control and cause harm.”
To combat this, police will prioritise responding to family violence incidents through proactive patrols and checks aimed at ensuring perpetrators face consequences for their actions. This includes monitoring any breaches of court orders, with an emphasis on the obligation to avoid contacting victims.
Everyone deserves to live safely, and the police are committed to addressing these issues. If you or someone you know is facing family violence, it’s crucial not to remain silent; instead, contact the authorities. Community awareness and intervention can help combat this troubling issue.
Support for those impacted by family violence is accessible around the clock via the national hotline 1800RESPECT. In case of an emergency, individuals are advised to call Triple-0. Together, we can work towards ending family violence.