New data showing a rise in family violence over Easter has prompted a police warning to look out for loved ones experiencing or at risk of the crime.
The Easter period ranks as one of the most prevalent times for family violence after Christmas and New Year's.
Crime Statistics Agency figures show last year there were 1247 family violence incidents statewide between Good Friday and Easter Monday.
This was up 15 per cent on the previous year when 1080 incidents were recorded.
Easter Sunday alone had 317 family violence incidents.
The experience of police shows family violence tends to increase over holiday periods.
This is often because families, including those who don't see each other regularly, come into increased contact. This can increase stress and conflict.
Victoria Police stresses there is never an excuse for family violence. It can occur at any time and affect anyone.
Family Violence Command Acting Superintendent Dagmar Andersen said this Easter, it's important for the community to not ignore the signs of family violence and report the crime if they see it occur.
"Easter is a time for families to come together.
"But sadly, it's also a time when family violence incidents spike as perpetrators use this time to control and harm others.
"That's why police will be out working tirelessly to track down perpetrators and responding to family violence incidents as a priority right across Easter.
"Not only will we be conducting proactive patrols -we'll be carrying out checks to let perpetrators know they won't get way with their behaviour.
"That includes defying court-imposed orders to contact victims, be it in-person or using technology.
"Everyone has a right to go about their lives in safety.
"If you or if you know a loved one or friend is experiencing family violence please don't ignore it and contact police.
"Together we can make a difference and stop family violence."
Victoria Police is committed to responding to all forms of family violence, keeping victim-survivors safe and holding perpetrators to account.
If you or someone close to you discloses they are a victim of family violence, please believe them and encourage them to contact police or a specialist support service.
Police not only provide safety for victims who make a report, they also refer them to support services, so they get the assistance they need.
Victoria Police works closely with specialist family violence support services, including Safe Steps and No to Violence, and will continue to do so throughout the Easter period.
Support for those affected by family violence is available 24 hours a day through Safe Steps by phoning 1800 015 188 or emailing [email protected].
Safe Steps also has Web Chat available on weekdays from 9am - Midnight, which can be accessed by visiting safesteps.org.au/chat.
If you are concerned about your own or someone else's behaviour - No to Violence runs a Men's Referral Service which helps men who use violence to change their behaviour and can be contacted on 1300 766 491.
In an emergency phone Triple-0 (000). If you can't get to a phone, ask someone else to do it for you.
For more information on what Victoria Police is doing to protect victim-survivors of family violence go to police.vic.gov.au/family-violence.
