Concerns have been expressed over a rise in reported family violence offences.
The most recent Crime Statistics Agency data indicates that breach of a family violence order was the second-highest reported offence in the Mitchell Shire within a 12-month period ending in March of this year.
In comparison to the data collected last year, there has also been a rise in reports of this offence, from 317 to 435.
Compared to the Victorian rate of 1497.1, the family incident rate per 100,000 population for Mitchell was 2390.6, with the total family incidents up by 13.5 per cent compared to the year previous.
State Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland said these figures were a result of the Victorian Government ignoring regional communities.
“These numbers are showing that our regions remain in the midst of a family violence crisis,” Ms Cleeland said.
“Despite these heartbreaking statistics, towns like Seymour and Benalla do not have dedicated points of contact for those experiencing family violence.
“These are towns where family violence incidents outnumber all other criminal offences combines and make up such a large percentage of the local police’s workload.
“Sadly, these same things were said last year, and the data shows the issue has only gotten worse.”
Neighbouring shires have also seen an increase in total family incidents, with a 21.3 per cent rise in Strathbogie Shire since the previous year, and one of 14.3 per cent in Murrindindi Shire.
While the organisation doesn’t have a physical presence in town, Seymour residents faced with family violence can access the Orange Door Goulburn network by phoning 1800 634 245, or visiting the centre on Corio St, opposite the Kmart/Coles complex, in Shepparton.
A spokesperson said the Victorian Government was reinforcing its response to incidents of family violence.
“When women are still dying at the hands of men, we must do more — that’s why we are changing laws, changing culture and delivering additional support for victim-survivors of family violence,” the Victorian Government spokesperson said.
“Following Victoria’s Royal Commission into Family Violence, there has been a greater awareness of family violence and increased access to support — contributing to the rise in family violence reporting.
“The Victorian Government has strengthened the way it responds to family violence, so victim survivors can access the support they need and perpetrators are held to account.”
To access 24/7 family and domestic violence support for non-emergencies, Safe Steps can be contacted on 1800 015 188 or safesteps@safesteps.org.au