As New South Wales enters the festive season, the Minns Labor Government is asking the community to help them in their ongoing work to create a safer New South Wales by looking out for one another and standing together against domestic, family and sexual violence.
Data released today by the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR) is a sobering reminder that while for many this is a period of joy where loved ones come together to celebrate the holiday season, there will be some who do not feel safe in their own homes; who are victims of domestic and family violence.
The data highlights the heightened risk of assault during public holidays in New South Wales, with a significant spike in domestic and family violence expected over the Christmas and New Years period.
Sadly, Christmas Day and Boxing Day have historically seen 78% more domestic violence related assaults than on the average day.
New Years Day sees a projected increase of 118% for domestic violence related assaults, and a 166% increase in non-domestic violence related assaults.
This increase is uniformly seen across public holidays in the state, with a 62% increase of domestic violence related assaults on Australia Day and ANZAC Day. For non-domestic violence related assaults, there is an increase of 89% and 78% respectively on these days.
As the community joins together in celebrations over the holiday period, where many will be consuming alcohol, the NSW Government is asking that everyone plays a part in ensuring that all members of the community are safe and respected.
If you witness unacceptable behaviour, call it out.
