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Women

Women's perception of crime in Victoria

Crime and Violence Prevention has conducted extensive research into women's experience of crime and safety, analysed comprehensive statistical information on crime relating to women, and explored women's perceptions of crime.

While crime has a significant impact on society as a whole, men and women have different experiences and perceptions of crime and violence. Women are at a considerably higher risk than men of suffering family violence, sexual assault, sexual harassment and stalking. Research shows that one-third of Australian women have experienced violence or serious threats of violence in their adult lives, and women are more likely to be subjected to workplace harassment.

Women are also more frightened of violence, with perception surveys revealing that women's fear of crime is consistently higher than men's. These findings are disturbing, but they are compounded by the fact that an estimated 80 percent of violence against women is not reported to the police.

The effects of crime and violence on women are cause for concern. Women's differential experiences and perceptions of crime significantly affect their sense of wellbeing and their confidence about their safety at home, at work and in the community. This hampers our ability to ensure that we make our community safe, productive and secure for everyone.

Contact Crime and Violence Prevention for more information on the 'Women's Experience of Crime and Safety in Victoria' research. They can also tell you about ways the Victorian community is reducing crime and violence against women.