The number of reports from women who were victims of violent crimes – including homicide, assault, and sexual offences – in Victoria has doubled over the past decade.
New data from Victoria’s Crime Statistics Agency (CSA) shows 8,660 sexual offences were reported by female victims in the year to March 2024, up nearly 80% from 2015.
Here’s the latest.
New data
CSA data for the year to March shows the number of reported crimes in Victoria increased by over 10% compared to the previous year.
Family violence also increased by more than 3%, with around 96,000 incidents recorded across Victoria — about one family violence incident every six minutes.
Family violence
Acting Deputy Police Commissioner Brett Curran said ensuring alleged domestic violence offenders comply with court orders, including bail conditions, is a top priority.
“The scourge of family violence has been felt across the nation this year, with a number of high-profile homicides involving partners and ex-partners who were predominantly men,” he said.
Limiting sexual offences against women in Victoria
Last month, Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan announced a four-year program that will focus on education, prevention, and social media strategies in Ballarat, following the alleged murders of three women in the town.
Allan said the awareness campaign will encourage changes in men’s attitudes towards women.
“Violence against women and girls has its origins in a lack of respect,” Allan told TDA.
