A NSW domestic and family violence peak body says under-reporting has been rampant during the coronavirus pandemic as new police statistics show an increase in abuse.
NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research data has revealed a 4.1 per cent rise in domestic violence over a two-year period.
Domestic Violence NSW interim chief executive Delia Donovan says "the data is alarming but not unexpected", as research shows major events such as health pandemics, natural disasters and recessions often result in increased family violence.
"The difference for COVID-19 is the social isolation and stay-at home measures that were in place have significantly reduced victims' options and ability to seek help, which in turn could lead to an under-reporting in police figures," Ms Donovan said in a statement on Thursday.
The voices of domestic violence support bodies and workers on the frontline were essential in developing strategy, she added.
"Service provisions such as counselling and safety planning have experienced significant increases in demand over the March to May period," Ms Donovan said.
"Disturbingly, they are also seeing an increase in the complexity and severity of cases."
The data shows domestic violence-related assault is among three major offence categories to trend upwards over the past 24 months - along with sexual assault and robbery with a non-firearm weapon.
The local government areas of Baulkham Hills and Hawkesbury in Sydney's northwest recorded a 38.7 per cent increase in reports of domestic assault, followed by Sutherland Shire in Sydney's south which was up 31 per cent.
Flowers at a domestic violence vigil Source: AAP
BOCSAR executive director Jackie Fitzgerald said the figures reflected pre-COVID-19 trends, having been collated from NSW Police Force crime reports between April 2018 and March 2020.
"We know that the social distancing measures which commenced in response to the COVID-19 pandemic have had a significant impact on the NSW criminal justice system," Ms Fitzgerald said in a statement.
If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault, family or domestic violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit . In an emergency, call 000.
