Family Violence Prevention

Whitehorse Family Violence Prevention Action Plan 2021-2025

Annual Actions 2024-2025

Family violence affects people from all backgrounds and walks of life. As a community we all pay the human, financial and social costs.

Every week, at least one woman is murdered in Australia by a current or past partner. Children are present as victims or witnesses in about a third of all incidents reported to police. In Whitehorse, on average 27 incidents of family violence were reported to police every week in 2021 and 2022. [Crime Statistics Agency, Victoria] With under reporting, this figure is likely to be much higher.

Men can be victims, but research shows that mostly men are the perpetrators of intimate partner violence and family violence. Violence against women is now accepted across the world as one of the most serious issues we face. Its impacts are damaging and far reaching.

While violence against women is serious and common, we can stop it from happening in the first place.
Experts talking about how to prevent family violence.

Local Government reaches people where they live, work and play. Councils play a central role in leading and promoting peaceful, helpful and safe environments for the community.

Whitehorse City Council is committed to prevention of violence against women and children. Council has an Action Plan ( PDF 1.6MB) to guide local initiatives to prevent family violence from happening in the first place. You can be part of preventing violence against women. 

If you are in immediate danger call 000

Information about different support services for your health and wellbeing, including family violence.

Start a conversation to end family violence.

Distressed woman with head in hands

Recognising Family Violence

Learn to recognise family violence. Read information from our specialist Family Violence Service FVREE (formerly EDVOS).

Hands reaching out to question marks

Family Violence and Gender Equality FAQs

Read answers to common questions about gender equality and family violence prevention initiatives in the community.

Group of people collaborating

Whitehorse Collaborative Action Network for the Prevention of Violence Against Women

A dedicated network of individuals and organisations who share information, ideas and collaborate on actions to promote equality and respect in Whitehorse.

If you are interested in joining or learning more, please contact CDEnquiries@whitehorse.vic.gov.au.

Young women looking at mobile phone

Be Active Online

Have you seen a post or a comment on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or another social media and thought “that’s just not right”, but haven’t been sure what to say?

Read up about how to be an online active bystander.

If you are concerned about yourself or anyone else, please contact:

"safe steps" Family Violence Response Centre 

24/7 crisis response 

1800 015 188

If you cannot safely call the 24/7 phone line

safesteps@safesteps.org.au

National Domestic Violence 24/7 Helpline 

24 hour counselling support

1800 RESPECT

1800 737 732

The Orange Door - Inner East

One-stop point for anyone affected by family violence.

No appointment or referral required.

30-32 Prospect Street, Box Hill, 3128

9am to 5pm Monday to Friday (closed public holidays)

1800 354 322

IEMA@orangedoor.vic.gov.au

Multicultural support services & information

1800 755 988 

10am-4pm Mon-Fri

https://intouch.org.au