Local police are cracking down on the domestic violence rates that bring shame to the Western Region, where a few communities have racked up some of the state’s highest domestic violence statistics.  

Across the coming weeks police are conducting Operation Fair Play 2021, tasked with compliance checks on Apprehended Domestic Violence Orders (ADVOs) and serving outstanding warrants on all domestic violence offenders.  

Each year towns across the Western Plains such as Bourke, Brewarrina, Coonamble and Walgett consistently reach the top spots for domestic violence per head of population.  

Western Region Sponsor for Domestic Violence, Superintendent Steve Laksa, said there is no excuse for abuse and the special operation will put a spotlight on offenders. 

“Police will be out and about with a focus on ADVO compliance checks and enforcement to maximise victim safety,” said Superintendent Laska. 

In Bourke, 135 domestic violence incidents were reported in 2021, up 12.3 per cent in five years. Similarly, Coonamble saw 86 reported incidents of domestic violence last year, an 18.9 per cent increase over a five-year period, despite this year’s figures showing a drop of 38 reported incidents from last year.    

More astoundingly, Walgett has hovered in the vicinity of 150 reported cases of domestic violence for the past four years, with 144 incidents reported this year.  

Across NSW, police respond to more than 140,000 incidents of domestic and family violence.  

The effects of stay-at-home orders and forced time behind closed doors are difficult to gauge as increased exposure to an abusive family member only decreases opportunity to report the violence.  

“The community can assist to reduce the harm caused to families by contacting police if they see or hear domestic violence or abuse,” said Superintendent Laska.  

Incidents can be reported to Crimestoppers at 1800 333 000.