Wodonga family violence detective urges victims to seek support

The woman had been too frightened to tell her family about what her partner was doing and hid the abuse, which also included being punched and receiving threats to kill.

Wodonga family violence Detective Senior Sergeant Damien Peppler said the woman attended the police station earlier this year.

"The offender was quickly arrested, remanded in custody and subsequently imprisoned for three months," he said.

"As a result, he received treatment and ongoing support for drug and alcohol addiction and now has a better understanding of the impact of his violence upon his ex-partner.

"With the proper supports in place the victim has reconnected with her children and family and has a brand new future to look forward to."

Detective Senior Sergeant Peppler shared the story to encourage others to reach out.

"Over the last 18 months our state has faced some of the toughest lockdown restrictions in the word, and there is no doubt this has led to heightened tensions in many Victorian homes," he said.

"Data indicates daily violence issues can be exacerbated by people spending a long time together confined in their homes.

"We've had a little bit of an increase in reporting and I take great comfort in the fact that people are more inclined to report.

"It demonstrates they'll get great support in the community, from police and support agencies.

"I want to make it clear that nobody should feel unsafe in their home."

The detective said some victims didn't want to report directly to police, and urged those people to seek help from support agencies.

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Friends and family members can also make reports on behalf of victims.

Police actively monitor high-risk family violence offenders and check in on victims.

Detective Senior Sergeant Peppler said the measures allowed people to raise any concerns they had with police.

"I want to make it clear that if you feel at risk of being involved in family violence or believe someone you know is, you can seek help from police or support services," he said.

Victoria has 24-hour family violence support services available on 1800 015 188 and 1800-RESPECT (1800 737 732).

Support, including crisis accommodation, is also available through the Safe Steps, website.

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