The Hidden Cost of Family Violence in Victoria

Rajvir Singh

Introduction

Context

Family violence remains one of the most persistent and harmful social problems in Victoria.

It affects: - Individual health and safety - Family and community wellbeing - Police, courts, and health systems

Recorded Incidents Over Time

Interpretation

  • Incidents have increased since end of 2023.

Who Is Most Affected?

Key Findings

  • Women are affected at substantially higher rates then men.
  • Highest rates occur among those aged 25–39.
  • This life stage involves financial pressure, parenting obligations, and household stress which could be potential reasons why.

Who Is Offending?

Interpretation

  • Men account for the majority of recorded offendings.
  • Peak offending ages (25–49) correspond to peak victim ages.

Geographic Risk Patterns

Key Pattern

  • Higher family violence rates are concentrated in disadvantaged communities.
  • This reflects links between inequality and interpersonal harm.

Conclusion

  • Family violence in Victoria is increasing.
  • Women aged 25–39 are most affected while men 25–49 are most commonly the offenders.
  • Legal responses mostly use short-term protective measures.
  • Risk is geographically patterned and linked to socioeconomic inequality.