Recently released data has revealed that family violence remains a significant problem across the Gippsland South electorate.
According to data released by the Crime Statistics Agency for the 2024 calendar year, family violence related crime has significantly increased in the three local government areas that form Gippsland South over the past 12 months.
Latrobe saw an increase of 14.7 per cent while Wellington and South Gippsland saw increases of 14.2 percent and 11.9 per cent respectively.
Family violence related crimes accounted for 32.46 per cent of all criminal incidents reported in Latrobe, 37.27 per cent in South Gippsland and a whopping 40.41 in Wellington.
The Nationals Member for Gippsland, Danny O’Brien said it was extremely disappointing to see such figures across the electorate.
“These numbers are incredibly shameful. There is no number of family violence incidents that would be acceptable, and we all have a role to play in ensuring this trend does not continue.
“We need to be having the tough conversations and speaking up to ensure we send a clear message that family violence is never acceptable.
“There is no excuse for family violence. It is as simple as that.”
Mr O’Brien said the figures painted a horrific picture of what is going on behind closed doors in Gippsland South and it is clear immediate action is needed.
“Victoria is in the midst of a crime wave with weakened bail laws leaving criminals thinking they can suffer no consequences for their actions.
“Breaching of violence orders was the leading reported criminal incident in all three local governments.
“Survivors of family violence deserve to feel safe and it is clear from these numbers that that is not being achieved.”