Domestic violence victim's plea for help
A victim of domestic violence has caught on camera a frightening knife attack by her partner.
The victim, known only known as Jane, has told Fairfax Radio she was forced into hiding after suffering months of abuse at the hands of her former partner.
She has taken her son out of school and is currently living in refuge centres because she fears her former partner will kill her if she is found, according to reports.
Jane says the judicial system is failing women who are in danger and need protection.
"The whole thing's crap," she told Fairfax Radio. "Adjourning, adjourning, adjourning. Why not make him accountable for his actions?
"He's as guilty as sin. I've got him on film."
In one violent incident, Jane filmed her former partner wielding a knife and menacing her.
He was allowed to walk free and slapped with 120 hours of community work for the attack, according to reports.
Domestic Violence Victoria said Jane's cry for help is a familiar one, and agrees the current system set up to deal with violent men is not up to scratch.
Fiona McCormack, a spokeswoman for Domestic Violence Victoria, said: "There's a gaping hole in our system, in that we are not monitoring men who are a risk to others, not in any systematic way."
A study of 175 victims has found more than half of the women have had to change their jobs, while some 58 per cent have been forced to move home.
Around 87 per cent have developed mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression and fear.
"If women speak up like I have, hopefully my story will come to light and someone out there will help us," Jane said.
Help for victims of domestic violence:
Contact the 24-hour Sexual Assault Crisis Line on 1800 806 292
For further details about domestic violence research and to participate in a national online survey click here
