Harper Sercombe
Family violence incidences are at a five year low in Hume and Whittlesea, according to new data from the Crime Statistics Agency released on Thursday.
However, this may not be good new with police saying it is still occurring just not being reported on.
Whittlesea recorded a staggering drop of 11.1 per cent in family violence incidences, now sitting well below the Victorian average.
Whittlesea Inspector Chris Allen said he knows the impact family violence has on the community.
“We work really hard with our stakeholders to ensure services to those impacted by family violence are accessible in times of need and those committing family violence are held to account,” he said.
“Whilst we know family violence can go unreported we encourage anyone experiencing family violence to reach out to police and support for assistance.”
Hume Inspector Dean Clinton reinforced this message. Hume’s family incidences were down three per cent on the previous 12 months.
“Family violence is probably not down,” Inspector Clinton said. “Maybe reporting is down.”
He said that Hume police are doing a lot to tackle the issue including establishing child-friendly rooms for victim-survivors to talk to police about family violence concerns.
Inspector Clinton also said he and his team are working with faith leaders to ensure victims are feeling comfortable talking to police as well as faith leaders.
Overall offences in Hume slightly increased in the year to March 2023, with 102 more offences recorded or an increase of 0.6 per cent.
In Whittlesea, recorded offences rose by 3.5 per cent.
Inspector Allen said although there is a rise in crime, there has still been a drop over the last few years.
“When compared with pre-covid levels, overall crime in Whittlesea has decreased by 22 per cent,” he said.
In both municipalities large areas such as shopping centres are a hotspot for crimes including theft.
“We work hard with our community partners to ensure our presence at these locations is prioritised so we are visible and able to respond,” Inspector Allen said.
“Foot patrols of key community locations is something we are focusing on as we know this type of visibility and engagement with community works not only on deterrence of crime but reassurance to the community.”
In Hume, theft from cars and homes still looms as a large issue. Inspector Clinton said people need to be vigilant.
“Our message to people is locking your car and taking valuables out of your car. Also locking your house, including your back doors,” he said.
