Regional and Aboriginal women now more likely to report domestic violence, Police Commissioner Col Blanch says

Women in regional towns and remote Aboriginal communities are feeling more comfortable coming forward to report domestic violence, according to WA’s top cop. According to the latest crime statistics, more than 3300 domestic violence-related assaults were reported in regional WA between July and September — with almost half of those in the Kimberley and Pilbara. Police Commissioner Col Blanch on Tuesday said: “I think in regional WA, particularly in the Aboriginal communities, we are seeing more and more victims willing to come forward to police.” “Which traditionally, was not done,” he said. “I think in a lot of ways, whilst it’s a terrible outcome that the incidences are so high in our community, it’s pleasing to see people are now willing to come forward to hopefully have that violence stop.” Centre for Women’s Safety and Wellbeing chief executive Alison Evans said women in regional WA often face barriers to seeking safety and support. “There may be no family and domestic violence service available in town at all, or women fear not being able to access the services confidentially in a small community,” she said. “Family and domestic violence services in regional WA have long-reported feeling overwhelmed and under-supported to meet the increasing demands. “These services are often the trusted local supports that victim-survivors turn to in times of crisis, and for support to heal and thrive. “There is also incredible strength and knowledge within Aboriginal communities on how best to support victim-survivors and make long term change. All these local efforts must be met with the support equal to the task.” In the Kimberley policing district — which according to police has a population of 38,932 — 1107 domestic violence assaults were reported in the first three months of this financial year. That amounts to 12 assaults a day. There were 358 cases of threatening behavior reported — 93 of which involved weapons. And police investigated 223 breaches of family violence restraining orders. Meanwhile, in the Pilbara — which has a population of 62,273 — 448 assaults were reported, 102 incidents of threatening behaviour and 119 breaches of family violence restraining orders. 1800 RESPECT