Family violence experts say calls for help have plunged by up to 30 per cent despite an expected sharp increase in incidents while families are ordered to stay at home during the coronavirus crisis.

They believe the drop is due to victims finding it difficult to safely call for help while they are stuck at home with their abusers.

It comes as police prepare for a new wave of first-time victims to surface – many of them children – in what they say is likely to be a tragic consequence of Australia's social distancing measures.

If someone is experiencing or afraid of family violence, they can call Safe Steps 24 hours on 1800 015 188 or the national helpline on 1800 RESPECT. In case of emergency call 000. Credit:Shutterstock

Rita Butera, chief executive officer of Victoria’s family violence crisis centre Safe Steps, said evidence showed that family violence incidents increased during times of disaster, such as the bushfire crisis.