Strangulation cases spike at Victorian crisis line, but counseling delayed
Strangulation reports to a Victorian crisis line jumped 64 per cent, then 28 per cent more. But survivors can't get counseling.
Between October 2023 and September 2024, reports of non-fatal strangulation rose 64 per cent at Victoria's Sexual Assault Crisis Line. From October 2025 to September this year, reports rose another 28 per cent.
The rise shows more awareness. Better screening helps too.
The service began asking directly about strangulation. Survivors must wait for medical clearance from a doctor at the hospital before they see a counselor.
This leaves a serious gap. Many leave hospital without seeing a doctor.
They don't get ongoing help from counselors. A counselor said people often don't tell about strangulation.
They don't recognize it as abuse. No one asks them about it.
Experts say a choice could help survivors. They could get counseling first and then a medical check if they need one.
- 64 percent rise in reports
- First increase
- 28 percent more reports
- Second increase
Why it mattersSupport services say the gap is already serious. It will grow as more survivors speak up.
AustraliaOne in five Australian women reports having experienced intimate partner violence. Early support through crisis lines is critical in Victoria and other states with similar bottlenecks.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 3 h ago
