Research shows men more likely to be the victims of violent attacks by strangers

But according to research issued this month by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare men are more likely to be attacked by random strangers than women.

Newcastle City crime manager Detective Inspector Scott Parker said the rate of females being randomly attacked in public was low. 

“But even one incident, is one too many,” said Inspector Parker.

Read more: 11 Hunter females report assault every day

The research found more than one in three assaults on males which resulted in hospitalisation in 2014-15, where the attacker was specified, were perpetrated by strangers. This compared to about one in 14 for females.

For most women following police safety advice that typically follows high-profile random attacks does not mean changing their behaviour.

Being vigilant and aware of surroundings, particularly at night, is something most women already do.

According to Inspector Parker, if out alone females should always carry a charged mobile phone, but he warned some social media platforms allowed tracking of users’ movements.

Read more: “Help, he’s killing me” – a Hunter abuse survivor shares her story

“Be aware of your security settings on social media and who you permit to know your movements,” he said.

“Ensure people you trust and friends know your planned movements, where relevant.”

Always look out for friends, particularly if they have been drinking, and travel in groups where possible using busy transport hubs with CCTV and good lighting.