New figures released from Australian Bureau of Statistics have shown an increase in the number of reported instances of family and domestic violence in Western Australia.
The figures show domestic violence rates across WA have escalated to their highest level on record, along with a 10 per cent rise in general assaults.
Collie Senior Sergeant Heath Soutar said the issue of domestic violence was widespread, and Collie was not immune to cases of family and domestic violence incidents.
“Domestic violence incidents we have a particular police and procedure that we follow,” Senior Sergeant Soutar said.
“If there is evidence of any offence being committed there, people will be charged.”
Senior Sergeant Soutar said Collie police treat every case of family and domestic violence as serious.
“It’s an issue that is faced all over the state and Collie is certainly no different, if there is evidence of any domestic violence offences being committed, then people will be charged,” Senior Sergeant Soutar said.
South West Refuge CEO Anita Shortland said it’s difficult to determine if the rate of violence was increasing in the region.
“Obviously any level of violence against women and children in our region is unacceptable,” she said.
“We accommodate around 250 ladies and children each year in our refuge, there are about another 100 a year who need safe accommodation when we are full and we help them find it elsewhere. Most of our refuge clients come from throughout the South West.”
“So it’s difficult to say if rates of violence are increasing locally or not. There’s certainly an increased awareness of the issue, and services available.”
South West Police Family Protection coordinator Don McLean said the figures may be a sign of changing attitudes in the community.
“While we never want to see an increase in any crime, domestic violence is a traditionally unreported crime,” he said. “Police are more informed about what is going on behind closed doors as more people are feeling confident in reporting it.”
To report an incident of family and domestic violence (nonemergency) call the Police on 131 444.
This service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
The National domestic violence helpline is 1800 737 732 or 1800RESPECT.
