For frontline police most recently Domestic Violence has increasingly been their focus with police statistics now showing domestic violence as the main driver of a surge in reported crimes against the person. Domestic disputes increased by 30% in 2010-11 to 41,000 with the number of domestic violence referrals to support agencies doubling in the past three years. The upside is that perpetrators are facing justice and that victims are being assisted. The downside is that support services are being stretched to the limit as state government funding has only increased minimally over this same period of time. Victims of domestic violence often need legal advice, counselling and assistance to find new accommodation to address family violence. For support and advice call 1800 000 055 or go to www.victimsofcrime.com.au

About the author