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.

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.