By NATALIE GALLENTI
MELTON police are encouraging victims of family violence to speak out and stop living in fear.
It’s hoped the launch of a dedicated family violence unit will instil confidence in the public to come forward and report incidents of abuse.
The latest Victoria Police statistics revealed family violence reports in Melton had more than tripled between July 2011 and June 2012, with 491 assaults recorded compared to 143 from July 2010 to June 2011.
Between July this year to the end of August, Melton PSA had already received reports of 223 incidents.
Acting Sergeant and Family Violence Unit Leader Chris Hughes said the unit would target recidivist offenders in a bid to reduce the ongoing cycle of family violence.
Sgt Hughes said police would work with Melton City Council, Women’s Health West and the Department of Human Services to foster trust within the community so victims would come forward.
He said an increase in statistics meant more reports were being made which was a positive sign.
“The big message is: we’re here for the public to speak to, whether it’s physical, verbal or economic abuse,” Sgt Hughes said.
“But if people decide they still don’t want to speak to the police, they need to know there are welfare agencies to speak to.”
Prosecution is not always the answer, working towards changing behaviour within the community was the key, Sgt Hughes said.
Inspector Mario Fiorentino said family violence still remained significantly under-reported and it was important one-off incidents were reported immediately to prevent further abuse.
“We want every incidence of family violence to be reported and we want the public to come forward with confidence.”
