Victoria Police is urging bystanders to not ignore the signs of family violence and call out the unacceptable behaviours and attitudes that contribute to the crime.
Every bystander has a powerful role to play in deterring, preventing and reducing the harm caused by family violence.
Whether it’s seeing behaviour that’s violent, noticing signs of abuse or witnessing a heated argument – bystanders have critical information, which can help police to prevent further family violence harm.
Bystanders are vital in influencing the outcome of the situation by making a report to police or intervening only if it’s safe to do so.
Crime Statistics Agency figures show police responded to almost 99,000 family violence incidents in the last year. That works out to one family violence incident every five minutes in Victoria.
Family Violence Command Assistant Commissioner Lauren Callaway said it’s never too late for bystanders to act and come forward to police.
More information about the Walk Against Family Violence can be found online: Walk Against Family Violence 2024 | Respect Victoria
If you or someone close to you discloses they are a victim of family violence, please believe them and encourage them to contact police or a support service.
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 Triple Zero (000). If you can’t get to a phone, ask someone else to do it for you.
For more information on what Victoria Police is doing to protect victim-survivors of family violence visit police.vic.gov.au/family-violence.
