Lethality risks for family violence victims rise more than 50% across Central Victoria

According to CNV’s 2024-25 Annual Report, the organisation completed comprehensive risk assessments (MARAM Assessments) for 2,443 victim survivors, against 15 lethality indicators. Over the past 12 months, the proportion of victim survivors with 10 or more lethality risks rose from 27% to 42%: a more than 50% increase.

Victim Survivors with multiple risk indicators are considered at imminent risk of lethality or serious harm. The data highlights the growing risks faced by people experiencing family violence, particularly in regional areas.

The highest risk factor identified is coercive control. This includes perpetrator tactics such as stalking, jealousy, technology abuse, misuse of alcohol and other drugs, threats of harm and breaches to intervention orders.

Victim Survivors with five or more risk indicators are considered at imminent risk of lethality or serious harm. When someone has 10 or more risk indicators, the risk increases significantly. The data highlights the growing risks faced by people experiencing family violence, particularly in rural and regional areas.

November 25 is the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and the start of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence. This annual, global campaign, is led by UN Women, and brings people together to prevent and end gender-based violence. Each year, people rally to raise awareness of gender-based violence and how it can be prevented in this international campaign.

There is a long way to go to end family violence and ensure safety for women around the world.  The new data confirms that the issue is continuing to intensify across the region. The campaign raises awareness of the problem and what we as communities and individuals can do to create change.

“The Broken Trust investigation by Guardian Australia is testament that family violence is not being taken as seriously as it needs to be. The 16 Days campaign is a time to come together to create change,” says Margaret Augerinos, CEO of CNV.

“Our community was devastated by a family violence murder, in 2023. The last thing we want to see is another death. This is a community problem, that we need to tackle as a community. We need to work together to prevent violence against women, and that starts with respect,” she says.

If you, or someone you know is experiencing family violence, or you are concerned about your behaviour towards your family, help is available.

In any emergency call: 000

• Centre for Non-Violence (Monday- Friday, Business Hours): 1800 884 292
• The Orange Door (Monday-Friday, Business Hours): 1800 512 359
• Safe Steps (24/7 statewide crisis response service): 1800 015 188
• Djirra (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Specialist FV Service): 1800 105 303
• Rainbow Door (LGBTQIA+ Specialist FV Service, 10am-5pm/7 days a week): 1800 729 367

—- ENDS—

For all media enquiries, contact Rachel Dale, Media and Communications Lead at CNV via [email protected] or 0488 991 978.