The numbers are alarming. Appalling. The human toll is shocking.
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Family violence is rife across the south-west, shattering lives. Warrnambool-based support agency Emma House this week revealed 1873 new cases were referred to it last financial year - an equivalent of 36 a week.
Even more concerning is that number is heading upward with a staggering 267 new referrals last month, 30 per cent more than June.
As a community we are more aware than ever of family violence, even though most of us don't see it or hear it because it happens behind closed doors through our suburbs and towns.
The example revealed today by Emma House's intake and risk team leader Sarah Brittain was sickening.
Support workers are special individuals, much like those who work in the mental health industry. But they are at risk of being stretched too far.
Emma House executive officer Ruth Isbel knows the situation better than anyone.
"Overall, our referral numbers are increasing. While this is very positive as it shows the rising awareness of domestic and family violence in the community and service system, staff workloads are increasing and if it continues at this rate, demand may exceed what we can respond to in a timely manner," she said.
The depth of family violence runs deeper than most think.
The numbers are only part of it. There's far too many who don't get help.
What we know is that there is plenty to do to curb family violence.
More funding is needed for support agencies.
Warrnambool police has established a specialised four-member unit to investigate family violence and it has had successes since it started last October.
More funding is needed in preventative measures, including awareness campaigns. We need to end casual sexism and continue pushing attitudinal change at all age groups. We need to unite as a community to support survivors but stamp out family violence. It's a matter of life and death.