Sunbury and Macedon Ranges residents are being urged to keep working with police and community services in changing attitudes about domestic violence.
Speaking ahead of White Ribbon Day (November 25), Hume crime prevention officer Jacqui Newman said the number of people subjected to violence in their own homes remained too high.
Latest data from the Crime Statistics Agency shows Hume recorded a 3.7 per cent increase in family incidents in the year to July 30, from 2906 to 3014.
Macedon Ranges recorded a 6.9 per cent reduction in offences, continuing a recent trend.
‘‘We are certainly working very hard with organisations like Sunbury Community Health and there is a great support system in place,’’ Senior Constable Newman said.
‘‘The way we deal with it, for both the victim and alleged perpetrator, has certainly changed for the better in the past four or five years.’’
Cobaw Community Health staff will hit the streets of the Macedon Ranges on Wednesday, distributing posters and urging business owners and shoppers to take an oath to ‘‘stand up, speak out and act’’ to prevent violence against women.
People can also decorate a canvas in front of Macedon Ranges Health Centre in Neal Street, Gisborne.
The artwork will signify people putting their hands together to say no to family violence.
Tables and individual seats for a White Ribbon charity fundraiser are still available. The event, including a two-course meal and performance by comedian Jean Kittson, will be held at Sunbury Bowling Club from 6.30pm on Friday. Tickets: $55. Details: 0419 101 906
