Vine Quick Reads: 4 April 2025

Welcome to our Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa.

New resource: Using AI Responsibly for Research on Violence Against Women

A new resource on using generative AI (GenAI) for research on violence against women has been jointly published by the Sexual Violence Research Institute (SVRI) and The MERL Tech Initiative (MTI): Using AI Responsibly for Research on Violence Against Women (2025). This guide was written in response to questions raised about the ethical implications, risks, and real-world applications of GenAI. The guide aims to strengthen AI literacy and offer practical advice to help violence researchers engage critically and safely with GenAI. Two of the guide’s authors have also penned a blog post about the new resource.

New research on the removal of aboriginal children from their families in Western Australia

Human Rights Watch (HRW) have published: “All I Know Is I Want Them Home”: Disproportionate Removal of Aboriginal Children from Families in Western Australia (2025). HRW draws on data from the Department of Communities and interview data from Aboriginal families impacted by child removals to examine the circumstances surrounding the removal of Aboriginal children by the state in Western Australia. They found the mother’s experience of family violence and homelessness were often implicated in the state’s decision to remove a child. This was the case often in the absence of an adequate response to the mother’s experience of violence and homelessness.

New research on ‘Officer-involved domestic violence’ in Australia

A new open access article has been published on ‘Officer-involved domestic violence’: “The Fact That He Was a Police Officer Was Probably My Number 1 Challenge”: Victim-Survivor Experiences of Officer-Involved Domestic Violence in Australia (2025). The authors have also provided a summary of their research for The Conversation. Relatedly, the Powerful Perpetrators project in the United Kingdom release a research brief last year on a similar subject: The police and sexual misconduct: a summary of the literature (2024).

Vine Quick Reads: 28 March 2025

Welcome to our Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. See all past Vine Quick Reads.

Family Violence Risk and Safety Practice Framework released.

Te Puna Aonui’s Family Violence Risk and Safety Practice Framework (2025) has been released. This framework supports the implementation of the Family Violence Act 2018 and benchmarks the organisational and workforce capabilities needed to provide a consistent and integrated response to risk.

Call for experts to aid development of family violence skill standards and micro-credentials

Toitū Te Waiora | Workforce Development Council are calling for submissions from family violence and sexual violence subject matter experts to contribute to the development of new family violence skill standards. The skill standards will provide the foundation for a structured qualification pathway, starting with a micro-credential based on the Family Violence Risk and Safety Practice Framework. This work is supported by Te Puna Aonui. See the recent pānui from Toitū Te Waiora for further information. Submissions are due before 13 April 2025.

New report: Understanding re-victimisation through an intersectional lens (2024)

Te Puna Haumaru | New Zealand Institute for Security and Crime Science have released a new report: Understanding re-victimisation through an intersectional lens (2024). The report examines the socio-demographic characteristics (e.g., gender, age, ethnicity, disability status, sexual identity) of people who have been re-victimised to identify where co-occurrences of characteristics intensify risk of re-victimisation. This report drew from data collected over 5 rounds of the New Zealand Crime and Victims Survey. Associate Professor Lisa Tompson, a member of Te Puna Haumaru, presented on this research.

2025 He Pounga Waihoe Nā ō Mātua Symposium

Te Atawhai o Te Ao | Independent Māori Institute for Environment and Health are calling for abstracts for their 2025 He Pounga Waihoe Nā ō Mātua Symposium. The symposium will explore Māori experiences of intergenerational trauma, recovery and healing. Te Atawhai o Te Ao welcome abstracts from current Master’s and doctoral Māori students, those who have completed their studies, community researchers, whānau, hapū, iwi, service providers and others interested in the theme. Information on the submission process is available online. Submissions are currently open, and presenters will be confirmed 5 May 2025.

Updated official statistics released by Ministry of Justice

Tāhū o Te Ture | Ministry of Justice have released their most recent official statistics on criminal convictions and sentencing for the calendar year ending 31 December 2024. The Ministry’s data tables webpage summarises key trends about people with finalised charges, including children and young people inside and outside of Youth Court. It offers downloadable data tables, including specific tables for sexual offences, family violence offences, and for protection order applications. These data tables contain statistics for the last 10 years. For more on statistics, see our He tatauranga/He Tauanga | Violence Statistics page.

New research from Women’s Refuge on Traumatic Brain Injury and Intimate Partner Violence

The National Collective of Independent Women’s Refuges have published a new report: Traumatic brain injury and intimate partner violence in Aotearoa (2025). This report examines the impacts of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) on victims and their experiences of help seeking. It offers insight into how intimate partner violence can result in undiagnosed TBIs and complicate victims’ recoveries, and highlights the need to address intimate partner violence and TBIs jointly. See more from the Safer When, Safer How? project, as well as their work on risk and safety.

Indigenous statistics - new open access book and related article

An open access second edition of Indigenous statistics: from data deficits to data sovereignty (2025) has been released. This edition builds on the first and has expanded theoretically, methodologically, and empirically in response to the significant changes to the global data landscape. Relatedly, University of Waikato’s Te Kotahi Research has published a new research brief: The Māori Data Privacy Framework: How useful is it for hapū? (2025) as part of the Tikanga in Technology project.

NZFVC Quick Reads: 14 March 2025

Welcome to our Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

Submissions open for Aotearoa New Zealand Social Work (ANZSW) Journal

The ANZSW journal is calling for submissions on Pacific social work and critical perspectives on technology. Submissions are now open for their Tu Mau edition, which focuses on diverse theoretical, practice, and research contributions to Pacific social work. ANZSW is also calling for submissions with a focus on critical perspectives on technology and social work, including critical perspectives on the application of technology in social work settings such as predictive or generative AI in practice, research, or education. Submissions for both editions are due by 31 May 2025.

Aroturuki Tamariki releases Experiences of Care in Aotearoa 2023/2024

Aroturuki Tamariki | Independent Children’s Monitor has released their annual Experiences of Care in Aotearoa report (2024), which details whether agencies with child custody and care responsibilities are complying with the National Care Standards Regulations. In their media release, Oranga Tamariki have accepted the report’s findings that they are still not meeting the minimum standards of care demanded by law, including that the number of children and young people abused in care is increasing. Mana Mokopuna | Children and Young People’s Commission have also responded.

New research from Australia on the financial impact of domestic violence

The University of Technology Sydney have published a new report, The cost of domestic violence to women’s employment and education (2025), which quantifies the financial impact of domestic violence on Australian women. It also outlines how domestic violence continues to have significant ongoing negative impacts on women’s ability to participate in the workplace.

Cycle 7 resources and results from the New Zealand Crime and Victims (NZCVS) released

Te Tāhū o te Ture | Ministry of Justice has released the latest key results for Cycle 7 of the NZCVS (2025). The report uses data gathered from the NZCVS between October 2023 and October 2024 to examine trends in experiences of crime for key demographic groups and offence types. The Ministry of Justice offers an overview of their findings in their media release. The report has also been covered by RNZ: Violent crime victimisation rates steady, not dropping, data shows.

Insights from the 2023 Stats NZ Household Disability Survey

Tatauranga Aotearoa | Stats NZ have released their summary findings from the Household Disability Survey 2023 (2025 ). The 2023 disability statistics provides a picture of disability in Aotearoa, including updated prevalence estimates and the outcomes, experiences, and needs of disabled people. Whaikaha | Ministry if Disabled People have released their response to the new data.

NZFVC Quick Reads: 28 February 2025

Welcome to our Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

Citizens Advice Bureau release new website helping people find their care records

Citizens Advice Bureau - Te Pou Whakawhirinaki o Aotearoa, together with those with lived experience, created Kōnae: My Records Guide. The website is a guide to help people find and access records created about them (or their family or whānau) by government agencies, faith-based organisations, or other organisations involved in decisions about their guardianship or care. Kōnae contains information and resources to help with finding where records might be held (including a map of care facilities), on what support is available, what one’s rights are, and information on the claims and redress system and process. 

Expressions of interest open for working groups developing new New Zealand Disability Strategy

Whaikaha | Ministry of Disabled People are calling for expressions of interest to join 1 of 5 Working Groups being established to develop the outcome areas and actions for the new New Zealand Disability Strategy. Whaikaha are looking for people from the disability community to join these working groups, which may include disabled people, Deaf, tāngata whaikaha Māori, whānau hauā, Turi Māori, Pacific people, and families. The working groups will cover 5 outcome areas:

• Health
• Education
• Employment
• Housing
• Justice

Working Group appointments will be compensated for their time. Applications are due by 6 March 2025 (note, this has been extended from the original date of 3 March 2025).

New research report released explores the relationship between legal consciousness and sexual violence against sex workers

A new research report was released, Voicing consent: sex workers, sexual violations and legal consciousness in cross-national contexts (2025). The international research project provides a comparative, intersectional examination of sexual violence against sex workers. The authors explore how the interactions between legal consciousness, legal norms, and legal practices affects the experiences and impacts of sexual violence against sex workers. The report compares 2023 survey and interview data collected across four different legal environments including legalisation (Nevada, USA), criminalisation (Northern Ireland), decriminalisation (New Zealand) and partial criminalisation (UK).

New violence related reports out of Australia

Two new Australian National Survey reports have been released: National Survey of LGBTIQA+SB Experiences of Sexual Violence – Report 1. Prevalence, attitudes and lifetime experiences (2024); and Report 2. Impact, help-seeking and bystander intervention (2024). The reports were produced by the Gendered Violence Research Network at University of New South Wales. The reports cover prevalence, social norms, attitudes, beliefs, bystander actions and help-seeking behaviours and aim to inform LGBTIQA+ people and Sistergirls and Brotherboys (LGBTIQA+SB) sexual violence prevention and service delivery. Specific measures were taken to encourage the participation of First Nations LGBTIQA+SB, particularly those living in rural and remote communities.

Salvation Army 2025 State of the Nation report

The Salvation Army Social Policy and Parliamentary Unit have published their Sate of the nation 2025: kai, kāinga, whānau | the basics - food, a home, family (2025). The report takes a national level view of the wellbeing of Aotearoa and how they are trending by looking at indicative measures from publicly available data sources in several areas: children and youth, work and incomes, housing, crime and punishment (including family violence), and social hazards.

NZFVC Quick Reads: 7 February 2025

Welcome to our Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

Archives New Zealand’s consultation on disposal rules for care records.

Te Rua Mahara o te Kawanatanga | Archives New Zealand (Archives NZ) is seeking feedback from people who have experienced care as part of their review of the disposal rules for care records. Disposal rules dictate how long care records should be kept and what should happen to them afterwards. Archives NZ is looking for guidance on 2 questions:

1. What types of information should be kept? How long should it be kept, and what should happen to it afterwards?
2. Are there some types of information that should not be kept after a certain length of time? What are they, and for how long should they be kept? How should we manage the risk of not keeping them?

Disposal rules will apply to both the records of individuals who have been in care and of care organisations. More information on the consultation is available on the consultation page. Submissions close 15 February 2025.

Workforce Futures Fund applications opening

Tahua Rāngaimahi Anamata | Workforce Futures Fund will be open for applications from 10 February to 16 March 2025. The fund has $15 million to distribute over 3 years across eight sectors with the aim of benefiting the workforces within these sectors. The eligible sectors include social services, youth work, mental health and addiction support, disability support, and aged support. Information on what will and will not be funded is available alongside details on the questions likely to be asked of applicants. Organisations can discuss their proposals prior to submitting by emailing: admin@workforcefuturesfund.nz.

Research and webinar on domestic violence disclosure schemes

Te Puna Haumaru | New Zealand Institute for Security and Crime Science has released the recording of their webinar with Dr Katerina Hadjimatheou from the University of Essex. In this webinar, Dr Katerina Hadjimatheou discusses their ongoing research into international domestic violence disclosure schemes (DVDS), sharing her findings from the United Kingdom and South Australia, as well as her emerging findings on the Family Violence Information Disclosure Scheme in Aotearoa, analysis of which is currently underway. Dr Hadjimatheou has previously published an open-access article on the DVDS, An international review and normative examination of the collateral consequences of criminal record disclosures for domestic abuse (2023).

Recent research from Australia on workplace sexual harassment.

Our Watch, an Australian organisation for the primary prevention of violence against women, has reported on findings from their recent survey which included questions related to sexual harassment in the workplace. Our Watch’s news story covered men and women’s attitudes towards sexual harassment and how it factors into their employment choices. It also shares figures on workplace leaders’ understandings of workplace sexual harassment and their obligations to address it. In a recent related piece of research, ANROWS have published their report, #SpeakingOut@Work: Sexual harassment of LGBTQ young people in the workplace and workplace training (2024).

NZFVC Quick Reads: 31 January 2025

Welcome to our Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

Government responded to final report of Law Commission review of evidence law

The Government has responded to Te Arotake Tuatoru I te Evidence Act 2006 | The Third Review of the Evidence Act 2006, a report published by Te Aka Matua o te Ture | Law Commission. The report touched on several issues relevant to the family violence and sexual violence sectors. An overview of theses issue can be seen in our news story on the public consultation for the report. In their response, the Government acknowledged the report but made no commitments to address the substantive recommendations made therein. They cited the need for more policy work on this complex area of law and the need to balance the resourcing of such work against the Government’s other priorities. 

Evidence briefs on sexual violence perpetrated by high status/high public trust professionals

The Powerful Perpetrators project has published 7 evidence briefs on sexual violence committed by high status/high public trust professionals. Each evidence brief addresses a particular profession, including doctors, legal professionals, the military, police, politicians, religious leaders and general professionals. The project is based at the University of Bristol in the United Kingdom. It examines sexual misconduct and abuse perpetrated by these professionals and the regulatory and administrative justice mechanisms used to investigate and sanction their behaviour.

New NETSAFE report: AI and Online Safety - Emerging Risks and Opportunities

Netsafe have published their report, AI and Online Safety – Emerging Risks and Opportunities (2024). It aims to analyse and provide insights into the implications of artificial intelligence (AI) on online safety in several areas, including child sexual exploitation and abuse (CSAM), extremism, hate and discrimination, and cyberbullying and harassment, acknowledging that women, children and minority groups were found to have been disproportionately impacted by AI-facilitated harm. The report also seeks to identify key trends challenges, and strategies for addressing online harms, including AI-facilitated issues such as deepfakes.

Maranga Mai release response to Treaty Principles Bill, Tuku Kōrero mō te Pire Takahi Tiriti

Maranga Mai, the working group towards a People’s Action Plan Against Racism in Aotearoa, has released their response to the Treaty Principles Bill, Tuku Kōrero mō te Pire Takahi Tiriti (2025). Maranga Mai were appointed by the National Iwi Chairs’ Forum. In their response they provide a definition of racism and outline the racial dimensions of the Treaty Principles Bill as well as setting several expectations for the Government’s response to this Bill.

NZFVC Quick Reads: 24 January 2025

Welcome to our Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

New resource for positive online interventions to combat online extremism in Aotearoa

The Institute for Strategic Dialogue has released Positive Online Interventions Playbook: Innovating Responses to a Shifting Online Extremist Landscape in New Zealand (2024). This playbook was developed in consultation with civil society organisation and communities in Aotearoa. The playbook provides a framework intended to be adapted to the local context within which interventions are being delivered. The playbook features an overview of the key trends in the contemporary threat environment and discusses their implication for designing interventions before looking at current and emergent interventions and ends by outlining the practical considerations for communities and organisations pursuing this work.

New report on ‘cold violence’ in Aotearoa’s Chinese community

Te Herenga Waka | Victoria University have launched a new report, Cultural understandings of abuse of older people: Perspectives from the Chinese community (2024). The report explores a form of elder abuse known as ‘cold violence’ within the Chinese community in Aotearoa, which is a form of emotional abuse that occurs within care relationships. The report explores how the withdrawal of emotional closeness is profoundly destabilising for older Chinese people in the Aotearoa context. It also offers practical recommendations to support the development of culturally responsible service provision and prevention for the abuse of older people. 

MSD launch Te Hao Rangahau, a new online research database

Te Manatū Whakahiato Ora | Ministry of Social Development (MSD) have launched Te Hao Rangahau, a public online database developed to support the research needs of people working on Waitangi Tribunal Kaupapa Inquiries. It is a searchable database of relevant documents written or commissioned by MSD (or previous departments, eg, Social Policy, WINZ, DSW). More information on using the database is available.

VOYCE – Whakarongo Mai podcast series

VOYCE – Whakarongo Mai has launched Whakarongo, a six-episode podcast series, spotlighting care-experienced rangatahi and young people and their stories to raise awareness about the 6 promises made to children in care under the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. The podcast also features insights from experts explaining why the system functions as it does. More information on the podcast can be found in VOYCE – Whakarongo Mai’s media release. The podcast’s host, Sydney-Anne Martin, who experienced faith-based care, spoke about the podcast with Waatea News.

New report - Ethnic Evidence: Increasing the visibility and value of New Zealand's diversity

Te Tari Mātāwaka | Ministry for Ethnic Communities has released Ethnic evidence: increasing the visibility and value of New Zealand's diversity (2024). The Ethnic Evidence report brings together in one place evidence on how Ethnic Communities are doing in New Zealand. The report includes a section on the experience of family violence and sexual violence within ethnic communities alongside data on other socio-economic indicators. 

NZFVC Quick Reads: 17 January 2025

Welcome to our Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

Consultation on Arms Act rewrite

Te Tāhū o te Ture | Ministry of Justice is inviting public submission to assist in their systematic rewrite of the Arms Act which, once complete, will be presented to parliament as a bill for consideration. The rewrite is one component of the government's wider work on firearms reform. The Ministry has provided a discussion document, alongside a summary version in multiple languages, which divides the Act up into 7 themes and provides guiding questions for each of these. Submissions can be made by online survey, by email, or by post and will remain open until 28 February 2025.

Launch of Te Aorerekura Second Action Plan 2025 - 2030

Te Puna Aonui (TPA) has published the second action plan for Te Aorerekura, Action Plan 2025 - 2030. Breaking the cycle (2024). The new action plan sets out 7 priorities for the government. Three of these priorities have been highlighted as the focus of the first 2 years for TPA agencies:

• “Investing and commissioning well”, adopting a social investment approach;
• “Keeping people safe”, with a focus on improving multi-agency responses for those at the greatest risk of serious injury or death; and
• “Stopping violence”, with a stronger focus on the people using violence.

A summary text of the Second Action Plan is also available on the Action Plan’s webpage. You can also read the Te Aorerekura: Closing report for Action Plan 1.0 (2024).

New report on current state of Multi-Agency Responses to violence

Te Puna Aonui (TPA) has published Understanding the current state of family violence: multi-agency responses (2024). The report gathered information from multi-agency response sites across Aotearoa with the purpose of establishing a baseline picture of the current state of operations; it is not a research project, evaluation or review. The decision was made to limit data collection to SAM (Safety Assessment Meeting) tables housed within the NZ Police, or their equivalents. SAM tables do not respond to cases of sexual assault or child abuse. The report highlights 4 key insight areas:

• Sites have developed locally with little national support
• National consistency and local innovation
• Working with Māori
• Value in and outside of meetings

The report also highlights several areas where further work on national consistency is needed, as well as areas of local innovation. TPA have also released a dashboard for data contained in the report.

Te Aorerekura: Outcomes and Measurement Framework - Baseline Report

Te Puna Aonui (TPA) has published Te Aorerekura Outcomes and Measurement Framework : insights summary of family violence and sexual violence over time in Aotearoa, Baseline report, Data tables (2024). This is the first Outcomes and Measurement Framework report for Te Aorerekura and provides a baseline against which future progress can be assessed. The Baseline Report also contains an insights summary of sexual violence and family violence over time in Aotearoa and includes full data tables.

New resource on visa support for migrant victims from Women’s Refuge

Women’s Refuge has published a new resource, Safety and Family Violence: Visa support for migrant victims (2024). The resource focuses on how Refuge can best support migrant victims of family violence who are temporary visa holders. It includes information on what is needed to effectively support migrant women seeking safety alongside information on what abuse towards migrant women on temporary visas might look like. This resource was released as part of Refuge’s Family Violence Risk and Safety Series. For more insights about these issues watch our 2 webinars on the rights and meeds of migrant victim-survivors, part 1 and part 2.

ERO releases research on relationships and sexuality education

The Education Review Office (ERO) has published Let’s talk about it: Review of relationships and sexuality education (2024). A summary report is also available. In their media release, ERO shared that they found "too much inconsistency in relationships and sexuality education[RSE].” Sexual Wellbeing Aotearoa responded to the report, welcoming its findings and recommendations. The Government has welcomed the ERO report and have announced that Te Tāhuhu o te Mātauranga | Ministry of Education will be developing a new RSE curriculum, with a draft available in the beginning of 2025 and a consultation opening later in the year.

Keeping safe, feeling safe: Easy read reporting form from People First

People First NZ have created an Easy Read incident reporting form to support people with intellectual disabilities to report complaints or abuse. The reporting form allows people with intellectual disabilities to report things that they have been victim to and things they have witnessed. This forms part of People First's Easy Read resource library, which provides a wide range of documents to support people with intellectual disabilities. People First NZ is a Disabled People’s Organisation run by and for people with learning disabilities.

NZFVC Quick Reads: 18 December 2024

Welcome to our Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

Consultation open on stalking legislation bill

The Justice Committee is calling for public submissions on the Crimes Legislation (Stalking and Harassment) Amendment Bill. The Bill proposes to:

• create a stalking and harassment offence in the Crimes Act 1961
• introduce new aggravating factors that recognise the unique circumstances associated with stalking and breaching a restraining order in the Sentencing Act 2002
• expand the definition of psychological abuse to include stalking in the Family Violence Act 2018
• prevent self-represented defendants charged with the new offence from being able to personally cross-examine alleged victims.

Some have criticised the anti-Stalking law as weak and lacking resources. Submissions close 13 February 2025.

ACC launches new Sensitive Claims Service

ACC have launched their Sensitive Claims Service, making several changes to the way they process and respond to sensitive claims. The new service was an outcome of ACC’s review of their Integrated Services for Sensitive Claims (ISSC) which began in late 2021. The Sensitive Claims Service replaces the ISSC and differs from it in several important ways. These key differences are:

• A new streamlined assessment process to access care with 2 assessment pathways based on need
• A movement away from a one-size-fits-all approach to a more holistic model to the creation of recovery plans
• An increase in support available to people who have completed their recovery goals
• More effective tools to measure progress and outcomes.

These changes came into effect 1 December 2024. Training materials for suppliers and providers of the new Sensitive Claims Service contract are available online. 

Government announces new Child Protection Investigation Unit independent of OT

The Government has announced the establishment of the Child Protection Investigation Unit. This Unit will be independent of Oranga Tamariki (OT) and will respond to serious concerns and complaints made about the state’s provision of care to a child. The Unit’s objectives are to:

• Conduct rigorous and transparent investigations into cases where the care provided to a child by the state has caused harm
• Identify systemic failures to reform to the systems and practices of OT
• Provide a voice for survivors by working with the Crown Response Office – ensuring the experiences of survivors inform ongoing improvements in care standards
• Promote accountability at all levels of the care system

The Unit is intended to be operational at the beginning of 2025. Mana MokoPuna | Children and Young People’s Commission alongside the other OT oversight agencies have welcomed the establishment of the new Unit.

Criminal Jury Trials Bench Book for Aotearoa published by Institute of Judicial Studies

Te Kura Kaiwhakawā | The Institute of Judicial Studies have published the Criminal Jury Trials Bench Book. This Bench Book provides guidance and tools for criminal trial judges in their preparation for and conduct of criminal jury trials. The Bench Book contains sections relevant to violent and sexual offences. It also contains information on evidence-informed direction judges can give to jurors to counter myths and misconceptions about the behaviour and responses of victims and offenders in sexual violence cases.

NZFVC Quick Reads: 11 December 2024

Welcome to our Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

Inspectorate report on young people in prison

Te Tari Tirohia | Office of Inspectorate has released Young people and young adults in Corrections’ custody: thematic report (2024). The report examines how the Department of Corrections | Ara Poutama manages people aged under 25 in prison and how they can be helped to stop offending and safely return home. The report makes 26 recommendations which have all been accepted in principle by Corrections. The first and overarching recommendation is that Corrections “develop a Plan for under 25-year-olds, that responds to and appropriately resources the unique needs, challenges and opportunities for young people and young adults in prison.”

Ombudsman’s opinion on the Ministry of Social Development’s processes for considering claims of abuse in care

The Chief Ombudsman, Peter Boshier, has released his final opinion on Te Manatū Whakahiato Ora | Ministry of Social Development’s processes for considering claims of abuse in care. The Ombudsman started investigating this issue after they received a complaint made against the Ministry of Social Development by law firm Cooper Legal, which represents more than 1,000 claimants. The Ombudsman’s media release provides an overview of the final opinion and shares the finding that, “the rates of compensation are arbitrary and unreasonable.” The Ombudsman acknowledged that Government is working on a new redress system in light of recommendations made by the Abuse in Care Royal Commission of Inquiry but believes improvements could still be made to the existing system in the interim.

New report on femicide published by the UN

UN Women and the UN Office on Drugs and Crime have jointly published Femicides in 2023: Global estimates of intimate partner/family member femicide (2024). The report found that in 2023, approximately 51,100 women and girls were killed by an intimate partner or a family member, amounting to 60% of global femicides. UN Women’s media release provides an overview of the report’s findings.

Factsheet on statistics of non-fatal strangulation and suffocation in Aotearoa released by the Ministry of Justice

Tāhū o te Ture | Ministry of Justice have released Non-fatal strangulation/suffocation in New Zealand. This factsheet brings together existing evidence on the scale of non-fatal strangulation/suffocation (NFSS) in Aotearoa. It supplements this data with recent population-based surveys in Australia which included standalone questions about NFSS, a feature not present in the recent population-level surveys undertaken in Aotearoa. 

New research report on women’s experience of homelessness

The Coalition to End Women’s Homelessness partnered with Ihi Research and Taylor Fry to produce Ngā Ara ki te Kāinga: Understanding barriers and solutions to women’s homelessness in Aotearoa (2024). This research included interviews with women impacted by homelessness and with kaimahi who work with women experiencing homelessness. The research also included analysis of Census data from 2018 and 2023. The Coalition provide a summary in their media release. Newsroom covered the report in Housing regime makes homeless women invisible.

NZFVC Quick Reads: 5 December 2024

Welcome to our Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

Consultation on amendment papers related to Victims of Sexual Violence legislation

Public submissions are now being sought for Amendment Papers 215 and 216 on the Victims of Sexual Violence (Strengthening Legal Protections) Legislation Bill. These amendment papers relate to the issuing of name suppression orders for victims and convicted perpetrators of sexual violence by the Courts. The Beehive media release provides a summary of the proposed changes set out in the 2 amendment papers. Submissions close Thursday 19 December 2024.

Ministry for Women consulting on 2025 Long-term Insights Briefing

Manatū Wāhine | Ministry for Women are consulting on their 2025 Long-term Insights Briefing. Their proposed topic is “Free to lead: tackling the effects of online harm on the pipeline of future women leaders”. The Ministry will consider the effect online harm might have on women’s participation in public-facing leadership roles across a 15-year timespan alongside the drivers of the recent growth in online harm directed at women and girls. A consultation document and a list of further reading has been made available on the consultation page. Submissions can be made online and close Friday 20 December 2024.

Ministry for Women invite NGO applications for delegation to the 69th session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69).

Manatū Wāhine | Ministry for Women are inviting applications to join the New Zealand Government Delegation to CSW69 as the NGO delegate. Applications can be made by individuals, academics, and/or representatives of NGOs. The NGO delegate’s duties include advising the Delegation from an NGO perspective and acting as a liaison between Aotearoa based NGOs and the Delegation. Applications close Friday 13 December 2024.

Shama initiative invites South Asian youth in Tāmaki Makaurau to help prevent violence

Shama Ethnic Women’s Trust have announced an opportunity for South Asian youth in Tāmaki Makaurau | Auckland. Shama are looking for South Asian youth aged 14-17 to co-design a programme to address challenges faced by these youth in their communities. To take part, complete the online signup form.

West Auckland Together report on social service sector funding cuts

West Auckland Together have published their Funding Cuts Survey Results (2024). The report, which surveyed 27 community organisations in west Auckland, found a combined total of $3.2 million of funding cuts among those surveyed with an average of $134,525.50 per organisation. The Post covered the report in Kids in prison, families at risk: The impact of deep social service cuts.

New video series explores family violence as a critical health issue

A new 5-part video series exploring family violence as a critical health issue has been released. The series includes an introductory discussion on why family violence should be considered a health issue, followed by interviews on the topic with Professor Janet Fanslow, Professor Denise Wilson, Honorary Associate Professor Patrick Kelly, and Professor Ashley Bloomfield.

NZFVC Quick Reads: 3 December 2024

Welcome to our Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

Three new research briefs on risk published by Women’s Refuge

Women’s Refuge have published 3 new briefs from their Safer When, Safer How research exploring family violence risk and safety:

• Part 1: Refuge and ‘Risk’ (2024);
• Part 2: Asking about risk (2024); and
• Part 3: Acting on risk information (2024).

These build on their previous 2 briefs, Family violence and technology (2024) and Family violence and suicide (2024), and their analysis on What Refuge risk data tells us about the spread of family violence in clients’ live (2024).

New report from Gender Minorities Aotearoa, As If I Were a Human Being (2024)

Gender Minorities Aotearoa (GMA), a national transgender organisation, has published a new report: As If I Were a Human Being: Sexual violence, family violence and transgender people: a literature review/meta-analysis (2024). GMA reviewed 45 resources from Aotearoa and 57 international resources looking at their relevance to transgender people.

New online family violence training from ANZASW 

Aotearoa New Zealand Association of Social Workers | Te Rōpū Tauwhiro i Aotearoa (ANZASW) have been added to our list of training providers. They offer free online family violence training to anyone working with family or whānau impacted by violence. Applications are not restricted to ANZASW members. The training consists of 2 self-directed e-learning courses: Dynamics of family violence and Risk awareness and response. The training includes modules on Te Tiriti o Waitangi and the impacts of colonisation and racism. The training was developed by ANZASW with funding from Te Puna Aonui and support from an expert advisory rōpū.

New report from Mana Mokopuna, “A place to talk peacefully” (2024)

Mana Mokpuna | Children and Young People’s Commission have published a new report: “A place to talk peacefully”: Mokopuna voices on healing from family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa (2024). The report shares the voices of children and young people on what helped and hindered them when accessing support after experiencing family violence and sexual violence. Mana Mokopuna have also published a report on what children and young people said they needed to live a good life: “You need to get in early, as soon as you see people struggling”: Understanding the life-course journey (2024).

New Child and Youth Strategy 2024-2027

The Government has released The Child and Youth Strategy 2024-2027 (2024). The Strategy provides a picture of what the Government is currently doing to improve the wellbeing of children and young people, what new actions they plan to undertake, and the measures they will use to track progress. The Strategy also outlines the Social Investment approach the Government plans to take.

NZFVC Quick Reads: 26 November 2024

Welcome to our Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

Submissions open for Oranga Tamariki (Responding to Serious Youth Offending) Amendment Bill

The Chairperson of the Social Services and Community Committee is calling for submissions on the Oranga Tamariki (Responding to Serious Youth Offending) Amendment Bill. The Bill would establish a young serious offender (YSO) declaration and a new military-style academy order in the Oranga Tamariki Act 1989. The YSO declaration would unlock additional powers for Police and the Youth Court. The military-style academy order would provide a new sentencing response for Youth Courts for YSOs. These orders would detain eligible young people within youth justice residences, would order them to participate in a military-style academy programme, and would include a delegable detention authority for the use of reasonable physical force by the chief executive of Oranga Tamariki. The Bill can be read online. Submissions are due 9 January 2024.

ECPAT Youth Engagement Programme

ECPAT Child Alert are piloting a youth engagement programme with groups of young people who have experienced, or are at risk of experiencing, trafficking or sexual exploitation. It provides an opportunity for them to learn, grow and share; to access support they might need; and to engage in youth-led campaigning and future advocacy around child sexual exploitation. ECPAT’s November 2024 newsletter contains more information on the programme. Those working with young people who would like their organisation to join the wait list for this programme can contact EPCAT at engagement.facilitator@ecpat.org.nz. 

New report, Effective practice in violence prevention education with boys and young men (2024)

A new report has been published by Queensland University of Technology: Effective practice in violence prevention education with boys and young men (2024). This report was authored by Michael Flood and examines violence prevention education with boys and young men. Exploring how best to work with boys and young men in classrooms and other face-to-face settings, it identifies six standards for best practice in this work. 

New data summary, Experience of family violence among people who suicided, Victoria 2009-2016 (2024)

A new data summary from Australia has been released: Experience of family violence among people who suicided, Victoria 2009-2016 (2024). The data summary was released by the Coroner’s Court of Victoria and provides an account of the experiences of family violence among people who have died by suicide. For an overview of the data summary, see The Conversation’s article, New data reveals rates of family violence among those who died by suicide.

New report on childhood sexual violence

Together for Girls published a new report, Break the Record: Facts, figures, and solutions to break the world’s record of inaction against childhood sexual violence (2024). This report provides global estimates on the prevalence of sexual violence against children. It also contains information on abuse occurring in schools and in online spaces, information on the health effects of abuse, and information on potential actions to address sexual violence against children. 

NZFVC Quick Reads: 22 November 2024

Welcome to our Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. See all past NZFVC Quick reads. 

Submissions open on Responding to Abuse in Care Legislation Amendment Bill

The Social Services and Community Committee are calling for submissions on the Responding to Abuse in Care Legislation Amendment Bill. The Bill aims to improve safety and wellbeing for children, young people, and adults in care. Amendments would be made to the Oranga Tamariki Act 1989, the Children’s Act 2014, the Crimes Act 1961, and Public Records Act 2005. The Bill is available to be read online. Submissions are due Wednesday 11 December 2024.

International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and 16 Days of Activism and White Ribbon Day 2024

Monday 25 November 2024 marks the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and the start of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence. The United Nations have announced this year’s theme as, “Every 10 Minutes, a woman is killed. #NoExcuse. UNiTE to End Violence against Women”. This day also marks White Ribbon Day 2024 in Aotearoa, a day dedicated to ending men’s violence against women. A list of participating events has been compiled by the White Ribbon organisation. ACC have also organised a webinar to mark the day, Primary prevention in action with Dear Em - HELP Auckland.

New reports on abuse of older people

Te Manatū Whakahiato Ora | Ministry of Social Development commissioned 2 reports on the abuse of older people (AOP) which have now been released: Abuse of older people in Aotearoa New Zealand: An examination of potential data sources (2023) and Review of screening and assessment tools for abuse of older people (2024). The New Zealand Family Violence Clearinghouse held a symposium on AOP in September 2024.  Recordings of the presentations, copies of slideshows, and links to related resources can be found on the symposium’s webpage.

Rangatahi Well 

Rangatahi Well is a website designed to support the wellbeing of young people by sharing health and wellbeing information with them as well as with those working alongside them. Rangitahi Well have compiled searchable lists of informational resources and services for young people covering a wide range of topics from general worries to specific challenges. Users can also curate a syllabus of resources of by adding them to their Rangatahi Wellbeing Kete.

Pay Gap Calculator toolkit launched

Manatū Wāhine | Ministry for Women have launched the Gender Pay Gap toolkit. In a media release, the Minister for Women announced that the voluntary toolkit aims to encourage employers to take action against the 8.2% gender pay gap that exists in Aotearoa. The toolkit includes:

• A pay gap calculator.
• A downloadable action plan, tailored to individual organisations.
• Guidance material to support employers throughout the process.

The Pay Gap Calculator uses a common methodology developed in consultation with organisations and business leaders.

NZFVC Quick Reads: 14 November 2024

Welcome to our Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

Come join our team! NZFVC seeks new Policy Lead

The New Zealand Family Violence Clearinghouse is seeking a new Policy lead. This is an opportunity to make a significant contribution towards eliminating sexual violence and family violence in Aotearoa New Zealand. Further information and the job description are available on Seek. The closing date for applications is Sunday 24 November 2024. Note we may interview prior to the close date.

The Waitangi Tribunal has released Part 2 of their interim report on the Treaty Principles Bill

The Waitangi Tribunal has released Ngā Mātāpono/The Principles: Part II of the Interim Report of the Tomokia Ngā Tatau o Matangireia – The Constitutional Kaupapa Inquiry Panel on The Crown’s Treaty Principles Bill and Treaty Clause Review Policies in pre-publication format (2024). Since then, the Treaty Principles Bill has been introduced to Parliament. The Principles of the Treaty of Waitangi Bill is now available to be read in its entirety. In response to the Bill’s introduction, and in advance of Parliament’s call for submissions, Te Kāhui Tika Tangata Human Rights Commission has released its submission against the Treaty Principles Bill. 

Research using NZCVS data examines violence against LGTBQ+

The New Zealand Policy Research Institute has published New Zealand Crime and Victims Research: The burden of crime victimisation among the LGBTQ+ population in Aotearoa (2024). The researchers summarise their findings in New data on violence against LGBTQ+ people makes ‘grim reading’ – and undermines NZ’s inclusive reputation. See also our previous coverage of New research and reports about violence affecting LGBTTQIA+ people, which included a factsheet on the experience of crime by sexual orientation using 2018-2019 data from the NZCVS.

Submissions open on Evidence (Giving Evidence of Family Violence) Amendment Bill

The Justice Committee is calling for public submissions on the Evidence (Giving Evidence of Family Violence) Amendment Bill. This Bill aims to extend the range of protections for parties and witnesses giving evidence of sexual assaults or family harm in the Family Court to mirror those available in criminal proceedings. This Bill would make it so that those giving evidence of sexual violence or Family violence in Family Court can do so in one or more of the following ways:

• by a video record made before the hearing
• while in the courtroom but unable to see one or more other parties or witnesses about whom the evidence relates
• from an appropriate place outside the courtroom

Submissions close Thursday 19 December 2024.

Submission open on Oversight of Oranga Tamariki System Legislation Amendment Bill

The Social Services and Community Committee is calling for public submissions on the Oversight of Oranga Tamariki System Legislation Amendment Bill after it passed its first reading in Parliament. This Bill would make structural changes to the Independent Children’s Monitor and the Children and Young People’s Commission, including to:

• make the Independent Children’s Monitor an independent Crown entity
• disestablish the board model of the Children and Young People’s Commission and revert it to an independent Crown entity with a single Children’s Commissioner
• provide for consequential and transitional arrangements for the Monitor and Commission to enable a transition of functions.

The Terms of reference for Oversight of Oranga Tamariki System have also been released setting out how the Ombudsman, the Aroturuki Tamariki, and Mana Mokopuna will work together. Submissions on the Bill close Sunday 8 December 2024.

Social Worker Registration Board Employer Survey 2024

The Social Workers Registration Board (SWRB) are conducting a survey for employers of social workers. The SWRB are seeking input from employers to help them understand the challenges and opportunities in the social worker workforce. The survey will remain open until Friday 15 November 2024.

Submissions open on Policing (Police Vetting) Amendment Bill

The Justice Committee is calling for public submissions on the Policing (Police Vetting) Amendment Bill. This Bill aims to provide legal direction and a clear and consistent policy framework for Police and users of the Police vetting service. The Bill aims to do this by establishing a statutory framework that would: 

• set out who can request a Police vet
• require a Police vet to be made with the consent of the individual who is the subject of the request
• set out the information that may be disclosed in a Police vet.

The Bill also aims to extend the current Police vetting service by enabling Police to provide updates on a Police vet if certain conditions are met, which include obtaining the consent of the vetted person. Submissions close Thursday 19 December 2024.

NZFVC Quick Reads: 11 November 2024

Welcome to our Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

New report published on Chinese cultural understandings of abuse of older people

A new report has been published, Cultural understandings of abuse of older people: Perspectives from the Chinese community (2024). This research was funded by the Ageing Well National Science Challenge and involved 34 individual and group interviews conducted with older Chinese adults, family carers, and practitioners.

Survey on future disability support services

The Disability Support Services Taskforce has released a survey asking how support services should best be provided in the future. There are three main question areas:  

• overall disability support services 
• needs assessments and the allocation of support 
• flexible funding and eligibility and what funding can be used for.

The survey can be completed online. Alternative formats are available. The survey will remain open until Friday 22 November 2024.

Understanding Policing Delivery phase two research published

The Understanding Policing Delivery (UPD) Independent Panel and the Police have released Kia Tika Ai, Kia Tōkeke Ai: Make Fair and Just Decisions (2024), the report from the second phase of the UPD research. This report employed a qualitative approach and provided insights into how the inequities highlighted by Phase 1 are experienced by different communities and Police, including their impacts and what would make a difference. As part of this research, UPD researchers engaged with: 

• tāngata whaikaha;
• D/deaf and disabled people;
• wāhine Māori who experience family harm;
• people who have experienced significant mental distress;
• Takatāpui and members of the rainbow community;
• gang whānau; and
• some Police sites of innovation. 

The UPD research team stated that they deliberately focused on gathering voices not typically heard. Police issued a media release summarising the report’s findings and recommendations. 

Paper on stalking from Family Violence Subject Matter Experts for the National Mortality Review Committee

The Family Violence Subject Matter Experts (FV SMEs) for the National Mortality Review Committee have released Findings from Family Violence Death Review data relating to stalking: January 2020 - June 2024 (2024). The paper was prepared to assist in the development of new legislation to make stalking a criminal offence. Te Puna Aonui held a webinar to share the paper's findings which is available online. The Government has also recently announced that stalking is to become illegal and a jailable offence. RNZ has recently covered the issue, A push to make stalking illegal in New Zealand.

This is Aotearoa – Sharing stories of Aotearoa to promote wellbeing relaunch

This is Aotearoa has relaunched their campaign with a new website, following on from its predecessor, Aotearoa Humanity Project. This is Aotearoa is a communications initiative dedicated to promoting and enhancing wellbeing through storytelling. These stories are designed to highlight evidence-based protective factors known to promote wellbeing. The searchable website contains over 1000 videos on topics such as family, community, loneliness, stress, and alcohol and drugs. Each month new stories are added. An introductory video is available on YouTube. This is Aotearoa was funded by ACC’s Violence Prevention programme.

NZFVC Quick Reads: 7 November 2024

Welcome to our Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

Public apology to survivors of abuse in care to be livestreamed 

On Tuesday 12 November 2024, Prime Minister Cristopher Luxon will make a formal public apology to survivors of abuse in care from Parliament. The deadline for survivors to register to watch the apology at one of the Government organised venues has closed but a link to the livestream of the apology has been made available. We have also collated a list of community organised viewing events. Survivors have criticised the government’s approach to the apology including concerns about capacity limits.

Tender out for delivery of Court Support services for young sexual violence victim-survivors

Oranga Tamariki are requesting proposals for the delivery of Court Support services for young sexual violence victim-survivors. This service is designed to support the emotional, mental, cultural, spiritual and social needs of young victim-survivors in criminal justice process. The service will also support the family or whānau of the victim-survivor where possible to further support the young person as they navigate the criminal justice process. The tender closes Monday 18 November 2024.

Consultation opens for Oranga Tamariki Long-Term Insights Briefing 2025

Oranga Tamariki are consulting on their Long-Term Insights Briefings for 2025. This is the first phase of a two-phase public consultation approach to develop their briefing. These briefings require agencies to identify and explore issues for the future wellbeing of Aotearoa. For their briefing, Oranga Tamariki have proposed the topic, “How can we improve the early identification of, and support for, children and young people at risk of maltreatment between now and 2040?”. A discussion document has been provided containing further information on the proposed topic. Feedback can be given online and is required by Friday 29 November 2024. 

Feedback sought on review of Courts (Remote Participation) Act 2010

Te Tāhū o te Ture | Ministry of Justice, as part of its Review of the Courts (Remote Participation) Act 2010, is seeking public feedback on proposed changes to the Act in 3 areas:

• what a remote participation Act should apply to;
• how decisions about participating remotely should be made; and
• when remote participation should be used.

The discussion document provided for this consultation highlights that an earlier peice of legislation, The Courts (Remote Participation) Amendment Act 2024, enacted the presumption that victims may, where appropriate, participate remotely in criminal trials and sentencing, which is set to come into force March 2025. However, one of the issues for which feedback is being sought here is to “clarify that the Act covers remote observers, including victims, the media, and public”. Feedback can be given online or by email and is due Friday 6 December 2024.

Submissions open for Child Protection (Child Sex Offender Government Agency Registration) Amendment Bill

The chairperson of the Justice Committee is calling for public submissions on the Child Protection (Child Sex Offender Government Agency Registration) Amendment Bill. The Bill proposes to amend the Act in 3 ways:

• requiring registrable offenders to report that a child is going to be residing at the same address as them 48 hours in advance rather than 72 hours after;
• clarifying that if there is a successful appeal against registration, that information must be removed from the Register; and 
• making changes to assist registrable offenders to more easily comply with the Act and its requirements.

The Bill would also add 7 qualifying offences. The related Section 7 report is available online. Also see the related Regulatory Impact Statement and Cabinet Papers. Submissions close Friday 6 December 2024.

Submissions open on Mental Health Bill

The Chairperson of the Health Committee is now inviting submissions on the Mental Health Bill. This Bill would repeal and replace the Mental Health (Compulsory Assessment and Treatment) Act 1992. In the Legislative Statement for the Bill it sets out the Bill’s purpose to:

• promote decision-making capacity;
• improve equity in mental health outcomes among New Zealand’s population groups;
• protect the rights of tāngata whaiora; and,
• protect the safety and wellbeing of tāngata whaiora and all other New Zealanders.

The entire Mental Health Bill can be read online. Submissions close Friday 20 December 2024.

NZFVC Quick Reads: 24 October 2024

Welcome to our Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

Mana Wāhine Kaupapa Inquiry (WAI 2700) research outputs

The Waitangi Tribunal has published the last of 7 research projects commissioned as part of the Mana Wāhine Kaupapa Inquiry (WAI 2700). These research projects provide accounts of:

• the historical overview, particularly of wāhine Māori roles, status, and knowledge, 1840-1950;
• equity and disparity in wellbeing, 1950-2000;
• access to leadership and representation, 1990-2020;
• contemporary justice issues, 1990-2020;
• contemporary education and employment issues, 1990-2020;
• contemporary economic issues, 1990-2020; and
• the diverse experiences of mana wāhine, Takapou Whāriki.

All 7 published reports can be found in our database.

Article and reports on technology and violence

An article and 2 reports have been released which explore the intersection of technology and violence.

• UN Women published Technology-facilitated gender-based violence: developing a shared research agenda (2024).
• The United Nations published the Report of the Special Rapporteur on the sale, sexual exploitation and sexual abuse of children (2024).
• The article Sextortion: a scoping review (2024) was published in the journal, Trauma, Violence and Abuse. 

Updates on the review of Oranga Tamariki monitoring system

A cabinet paper has been released outlining the approach to drafting an omnibus Bill for changes to the Oranga Tamariki monitoring system alongside the Terms of Reference for an independent review of the Oversight of Oranga Tamariki System Act 2022 and Children and Young People's Commission Act 2022. A media release from Te Manatū Whakahiato Ora | Ministry of Social Development announced MartinJenkins as the independent reviewer alongside a link to the review’s terms of reference. The media release went on to say that the review will provide an opportunity to provide feedback on the Oranga Tamariki monitoring system.

Government response to recommendations from the fourth United Nations Universal Periodic Review

The Government has responded to the 259 recommendations made in the United Nation’s fourth Universal Periodic Review (UPR) of New Zealand’s human rights record. Recommendations from this UPR included concerns about family violence and sexual violence, particularly against women, and concerns about the Government’s backdown from UNDRIP and the lack of constitutional protections for Te Tiriti o Waitangi. The Government announced their support for 168 of the recommendations and their partial support for a further 12. The acting Chief Commissioner of Te Kāhui Tika Tangata Human Rights Commission, Saunoamaali’i Karanina Sumeo, commented on the Government’s response. The Commissioner’s response also includes links to the list of recommendations and the Government’s response to each of them.

Reports from Te Manatū Whakahiato Taiohi | Ministry of Youth Development

Te Manatū Whakahiato Taiohi | The Ministry of Youth Development has released Youth Voice & Leadership Engagement Report: Findings from the 2023 engagements with young people on the refresh of the Youth Plan: Voice Leadership Action (2024). The Ministry also released a report from their Ministerial Youth Advisory Group, Insights and findings from engagements: strengthening youth leadership and advisory groups (2024). 

He Ara Waiora handbook published by Te Tai Ōhanga | The Treasury

Te Tai Ōhanga | The Treasury has published the He Ara Waiora handbook (2024). The handbook was a collaborative development between the Treasury and Ngā Pūkenga aimed at helping policymakers implement He Ara Waiora into their work. He Ara Waiora is a framework that helps the Treasury to understand waiora and it's implications for lifting living standards in Aotearoa.

NZFVC Quick Reads: 18 October 2024

Welcome to our Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

Videos from Abuse of Older People Research Symposium

The New Zealand Family Violence Clearinghouse and the Ministry of Social Development | Te Manatū Whakahiato Ora co-hosted the one-day symposium, Abuse of older people research symposium – Exploring current state of knowledge and critical gaps. It featured speaker panels and workshops that explored: Understanding and measuring abuse of older people; Inequities and intersectional identities; Reflections from practice on barriers and challenges; and Aspirations for wellbeing and Hauora. Videos and slides from the panels are available.

VOYCE – Whakarongo Mai evaluation survey

VOYCE – Whakarongo Mai are currently evaluating their services. They are inviting young people with care experience; carers, caregivers or whānau; and people who work with children and young people to complete an online survey. VOYCE – Whakarongo Mai want to hear from people whether they have interacted with VOYCE or not. 

Stats NZ 2023 Census: first ever LGBTIQ+ census data and Māori data stored on Iwi-designed platform

Stats NZ have released the Census 2023 data. The 2023 Census is the first census to collect data from New Zealanders about their gender, sexual identity, and whether they have a variation of sex characteristics. It is also the first census where Māori data is stored and shared on an Iwi-designed platform. Data on individuals and dwellings by Māori descent and iwi affiliation is available on Te Whata. Learn more about about Te Whata.

Community Networks Aotearoa release 6th State of the Sector report

Community Networks Aotearoa has released the 2024 State of the Sector Report. The report shares findings from a regular survey of the community and volunteer sector. In their media release, Community Networks Aotearoa said “This latest research reveals that many community organisations continue to struggle despite their resilience and dedication to serving their communities. The findings highlight significant challenges such as shrinking funding, stagnant or declining contracts, and increased difficulty in delivering high-quality services due to rising demands.”

Submissions open on Sentencing (Reform) Amendment Bill

The Justice Committee is inviting submissions on the Sentencing (Reform) Bill. Submissions are due 29 October 2024. The Bill seeks to introduce legislative changes to sentencing which would limit the use of sentence reductions to 40 percent; introduce new aggravating factors; amend sentencing principles to account for information provided by victims; prevent repeat use of sentence reductions for youth and for remorse; and encourage the use of cumulative sentencing. For an overview of the reforms and their potentials effects, see AUT Law Professor Kris Gledhill’s article for the Conversation, Dogma or data? Why sentencing reforms in NZ will annoy judges and clog the courts.

NZFVC Quick Reads: 27 September 2024

Welcome to our Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

For our Mokopuna (2024), report from EAG for Children and Young People

Te Puna Aonui  have released a report from the Expert Advisory Group for Children and Young People, For Our Mokopuna (2024). The report sets out 7 recommendations aimed at promoting and sustaining children and young people’s active participation and engagement in the work of Te Puna Aonui.  

ACC announces prevention partners for its new community-led prevention initiative

ACC have announced the first 5 prevention partners for their new community-led prevention initiative, Hikitia! For Our Future. This new network of prevention partners is tasked with working alongside community and local leaders to support wellbeing, protect against violence, and prevent harm. The new prevention partners are Te Rūnanga o Whaingaroa in Te Tai Tokerau, Tauawhi Charitable Trust in Tairawhiti, Tautoko Mai Sexual Harm Support Services in Te Arawa, Rise! Living Safe in Te Tau Ihu, and Te Hou Ora Whānau Services in Otago.

Ministry of Justice consultation on jury trials 

Te Tāhū o te Ture | Ministry of Justice announced they are seeking public feedback on two options to related to jury trials: increasing the jury trial threshold; and enabling flexibility in the timing of jury election. These proposals and options for change are set out in more detail in the Improving Jury Trial Timeliness: Discussion document (2024). The Interim Regulatory Impact Statement for the proposed changes is also available online. Feedback can be given via online survey or written submission. The consultation period closes 31 October 2024. 

Ministry of Social Development disability awareness training

Te Manatū Whakahiato Ora | Ministry of Social Development is accepting registrations of interest for a disability awareness training programme set to commence in early 2025. The training is open to MSD-funded sexual violence and family violence service providers wanting to know more about how to make their services accessible for disabled people. For more information on the training and how to register, see the Accessibility Fund webpage.

Article on substance use and domestic violence

Researchers from The University of Melbourne have written an article for The Conversation, How perpetrators of domestic violence use drugs and alcohol to control their victims. The article provides an overview and summary of the authors’ research into at the role alcohol and other drugs play in perpetrators’ tactics of violence and abuse. The research covered in the article come from KODY: Researching an all-of-family program in family violence and substance misuse. 

Ministry of Justice release latest statistics 

Te Tāhū o te Ture | Ministry of Justice have released their justice data for the financial year ending 30 June 2024. The Ministry’s Data tables webpage contains a summary of key trends about people with finalised charges, including children and young people and the Youth Court. The webpage also offers downloadable data tables, including specific tables for sexual offences and family violence offences, and for protection order applications. These data tables contain statistics for the last 10 years. For more on statistics, see our violence statistics page.

NZFVC Quick Reads: 19 September 2024

Welcome to our Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

New research on family violence disclosure schemes, how to access disclosure scheme in Aotearoa

A new report from Monash University in Australia has been published, Informed and safe, or blamed and at risk? Examining the merits and limits of domestic violence disclosure schemes in Australian and New Zealand (2024). The report’s authors also discussed their research in an article for The Conversation. In Aotearoa, the Family Violence Information Disclosure Scheme allows Police to disclose the family violence history of an individual when they cause concern for oneself, a family member or a friend. More information on the scheme and how to access it can be found at Family Violence Information Disclosure Scheme (FVIDS).

Resources from Children’s Rights Symposium 2024

The Children’s Rights Symposium 2024 was held on 1 August 2024 and was convened by Mana Mokopuna – Children and Young People’s Commission. The Symposium held 4 mokopuna-led workshops: Mokopuna Māori and Non-discrimination; Mokopuna living away from their whānau, including a care-experienced led panel; Issues for disabled children, including impact of child poverty; Climate action and participation. Recordings of the workshops alongside other symposium resources can be accessed at Resources from the Children’s Rights Symposium 2024.

Child Safeguarding Week 2024 digital safety resources  

As part of Child Safeguarding Week 2024, Safeguarding Children has compiled a wide range of resources including webinars, podcasts and free e-learning courses, to help parents keep their kids safe online. Organisations and individuals featured in the resources include Nikki Denholm, Netsafe, Dr Emma Barker-Clarke, and Tim Houston (Manager of the Digital Child Exploitation Team at the Department of Internal Affairs).

Education Review Office publishes report on counselling in schools

Te Tari Arotake Mātauranga | Education Review Office has published a new findings report, Someone to talk to: Evaluation of Counselling in Schools (2024). A brief summary of the report’s findings can be found in the Education Review Office’s media release, More primary school students are struggling with their mental health, but a promising initiative can make a big difference and in RNZ’s coverage, School scheme dramatically reduces bad behaviour, say teachers.

Consultation open on Strategy to Prevent and Minimise Gambling Harm 2025/26 to 2027/28 

Manatū Hauora | Ministry of Health are seeking feedback on their Draft Strategy to Prevent and Minimise Gambling Harm 2025/26 to 2027/28. Feedback can be given online. For instructions, please see the Ministry of Health’s consultation page. The consultation period closes 6 October 2024. For information related to problem gambling and violence, see our library’s problem gambling quick topic search.

Consultation open on Draft Suicide Prevention Action Plan for 2025 – 2029

Manatū Hauora | Ministry of Health is seeking feedback on the Draft Suicide Prevention Action Plan for 2025-2029. Feedback can be given by online survey, email, or by attending a consultation meeting. The Ministry of Health is also holding 2 virtual information sessions on 20 and 24 September 2024 about the consultation process. Information about these sessions and the consultation process can be found at Suicide Prevention Action Plan 2025 - 2029 Consultation. The consultation period closes 1 November 2024. For resources and research related to suicide data and prevention, see our library’s suicide quick search topic.

BSA report on free speech and harms to Māori, Pacific, Asian and Muslim people

Te Mana Whanonga Kaipāho | Broadcasting Standards Authority (BSA) have released a new report, Freedom of Expression and Harms Impacting Diverse Communities (2024). The BSA discuss their findings in their media release, Half of diverse audiences avoid broadcasts due to experience with harmful content. The media release highlighted that social media was the most cited platform for encountering offensive material, prompting researchers to raise the need for a regulatory regime which can effectively address social media.

NZFVC Quick Reads: 13 September 2024

Welcome to our Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

NZFVC report on local violence networks 

We were commissioned by Te Puna Aonui to look at how local and regional family violence and sexual violence networks could be strengthened. Findings from the project have been published in the report, Strengthening Local and Regional Networks (2024). This work was identified by the Systems Working Group as part of Te Aorerekura Action 5.

Registrations open for TOAH-NNEST conference

Registration is open for the Te Ohaakii a Hine – National Network Ending Sexual Violence Together (TOAH-NNEST) Sexual Violence Conference 2024. The theme of the National Sexual Violence Conference 2024 is “Te Tāmata Tipu” and is about restoring growth and vitality.

Survey for young people about sexuality education

Sexual Wellbeing Aotearoa (formerly Family Planning) is running a survey to find out what young people think about relationships and sexuality education in Aotearoa. Sexual Wellbeing Aotearoa wants to hear from young people to help ensure their voice is included in the review expected by government of the Relationships and Sexual Education (RSE) in New Zealand. The survey is online.

Report on responding to child to parent violence and abuse Aotearoa

A new report has been published by VisAble, Child to Parent Violence and Abuse: New Zealand’s Invisible Family Violence (2024). The report explores the research on child to parent violence. It also looks at international programmes and resources for responding to child to parent violence and abuse, and explores whether these would be a good fit for families living with neurodiversity.

Report to UN highlights issues relating to detention and youth justice residences

The 2022/23 Monitoring places of detention: Annual report of activities under the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture (OPCAT) (2024) report has been tabled in parliament. Five statutory agencies contribute to the report include Mana Mokopuna Children and Young People’s Commission. The Mana Mokopuna Children and Young People’s Commission section of the report highlights the harm mokopuna are experiencing in the youth justice system, the need to address over-representation of Māori across all detention settings, and the need to improve the accessibility and independence of complaint processes for young people in detention.

MSD launch website as part of Love Better campaign

Launched in 2023, Love Better is the Ministry of Social Development’s (MSD) primary prevention campaign for young people. It is aimed at fostering safe, positive, and equal relationships. See the campaign website www.lovebetter.org.nz. Learn more about the campaign in MSD’s August Family Violence and Sexual Violence e-update.

NZFVC Quick Reads: 6 September 2024

Welcome to our Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

Press Pause - new website for adults supporting young people in Aotearoa

Press Pause is a new website designed to help adults understand, recognise, and respond to concerning sexual behaviour in young people. The website is aimed at adults in positions of responsibility for young people, including professionals, concerned parents and family members. The website contains 6 modules aimed at equipping adults to respond effectively to concerning sexual behaviour in young people. The 6 modules are: boundaries, online behaviour, pornography, sexualised images, sexualised language, and unwanted sexual touch. Press Pause was developed by Stop in Ōtautahi and was funded by the Ministry of Social Development. 

Australia research on what makes men’s behaviour change programmes work

Monash University in Melbourne, Australia have released, Engaging in Change: A Victorian study of perpetrator program attrition and participant engagement in men’s behaviour change programs (2024). Researchers interviewed men who had engaged in behaviour change programmes, their family members, and practitioners who deliver these programmes. The report’s authors wrote an article for the Conversation summarising their findings in which they state that men’s behaviour change is a nuanced process influenced by readiness, motivation, referral pathways, and support systems. 

Changes to Whaikaha and funding for disabled people’s services

Following the Independent Review of Disability Support Services (2024) the government has made a series of decisions affecting the future of Whaikaha Ministry of Disabled People and funding for disabled people’s services. The review made 7 recommendations which the government has committed to implementing. A number of the recommendations related to the funding and monitoring of Needs Assessment and Service Coordination organisations, Enabling Good Lives sites, residential care, and providers. Alongside this commitment, the government announced their plans to transfer Disability Support Services to a new business unit within the Ministry of Social Development, and to create a standalone government department for the rest of the Ministry of Disabled People. This entity will provide leadership and stewardship for disabled people across government.

Infographics from Backbone Collective

The Backbone collective has released 4 infographics highlighting the reality of unhelpful and unsafe systems, and system responses faced by many victim-survivors in their efforts to seek help to become safe. The infographics and their explainers can be viewed and downloaded for free from The Backbone Collective’s website.

NZFVC Quick Reads: 30 August 2024

Welcome to our Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

Public consultation for the review of the End of Life Choice Act 2019

Manatū Hauora | The Ministry of Health is currently undertaking a review of the End of Life Choice Act 2019 (the Act). This review will cover each aspect of the legal framework set out by the Act, including eligibility criteria, processes, safeguards to protect patients and practitioners, and the establishment of administrative bodies to oversee and monitor the provision of assisted dying. The consultation is open to all, but the Ministry has highlighted their particular interested in engaging directly with those who have sought or supported someone seeking assisted dying services in Aotearoa. Information on how to make a submission can be found online. The consultation period closes 26 September 2024.

NGO participation in UN CEDAW meeting 

The United Nations has provided information on how NGOs can participate in the upcoming Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women’s (CEDAW) review of several countries’ reports on their implementation of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women.  Aotearoa is included amongst those nations being reviewed, with the examination set to take place on 10 October 2024. The deadline for submissions from NGOs wishing to participate is 9 September 2024. Manatū Wāhine | Ministry of Women can provide further information and advice at: caucus@women.govt.nz.

Human Rights Commissioners appointed

Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith has announced 3 appointments to Te Kāhui Tika Tangata | Human Rights Commission. Dr Stephen Rainbow has been appointed as the Chief Human Rights Commissioner, Dr Melissa Derby (Ngāti Ranginui) as Race Relations Commissioner, and Dr Gail Pacheco as Equal Employment Opportunities Commissioner. The incoming commissioners will join Disability Rights Commissioner, Prudence Walker, and Rongomau Taketake indigenous rights governance leader, Dayle Takitimu (Te Whānau-ā-Apanui, Ngāti Porou).

Latest Sexual Violence attrition report and new fact sheet on abuse reported as adults

Te Tāhū o te Ture | Ministry of Justice has released, Progression of reported sexual assaults through the criminal justice system: Sexual assaults reported to Police April 2017-March 2023 (2024). This report uses data from Police and the Courts and highlights the pathways of victims rather than those of perpetrators. The Ministry have also published a factsheet Adults reporting sexual assaults to Police that they experienced as children (2024), which highlights how adult reports of child sexual assault differ from reports made by children. 

NZFVC Quick Reads: 22 August 2024

Welcome to our Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

Revised legislation on surrogacy open for submission

The Health Committee is seeking feedback on their recently released report, Improving Arrangements for Surrogacy Bill: Third interim report (2024). The report includes the redrafted bill, after extensive changes as a result of the Law Commission’s 2022 report, Te Kōpū Whāngai: He Arotake, Review of Surrogacy. The report also includes 15 questions that the Committee is seeking feedback on. Submissions are due 18 September 2024 and can be made at Improving Arrangements for Surrogacy Bill. For further information, see our news story  coverage of the 2022 call for submissions.

Consultation on vocational education and training reform

The Government is calling for feedback on the proposed vocational education reforms intended to replace Te Pūkenga. The details of the proposed changes can be found in Redesign of the vocational education and training system: proposals for public consultation. Of note is option B of Proposal 2 which calls for the disestablishment of Workforce Development Councils (WDC) and their potential replacement by a smaller number of more focused, industry-specific standard-setting bodies. This could mean the disestablishment of Toitū te Waiora, the WDC responsible for improving the community, health, education, and social services workforces. The Tertiary Education Commission and the Ministry of Education are holding a series of in-person meetings and webinars to discuss the proposals. Submissions close 12 September 2024 and can be made online and by email, more details can be found online.

New report on victim blaming from Manaaki Tāngata | Victim support

Manaaki Tāngata | Victim Support has released Experiences of Victim Blaming and its Impact on Help-Seeking, Crime Reporting and Recovery: Key findings report (2024). Researchers interviewed 31 victims of crime, including victims of sexual violence, family violence, assault, theft, fraud, and several other offences. See Victim Support’s media release for information on the study. This research forms part of Victim Support campaign, Change the Script: End victim blaming.

Mana Mokopuna published a child-friendly resource on the Rights of the Child

Mana Mokopuna Children and Young People’s Commission have published, Doing what’s right for mokopuna: recommendations from the United Nations to improve mokopuna rights in Aotearoa New Zealand (2024). This child-friendly resource sets out rights under the Children's Convention and explains the UN Committee's Concluding Observations on Aotearoa. This resource was developed alongside a diverse range of children and young people and is available in English and te reo Māori.

Community Research’s Te Tiriti 2024 and Beyond podcasts

Community Research has produced a 6 episode podcast series, Te Tiriti 2024 and Beyond. The podcast is hosted by Kaye-Maree Dunn and features discussion with tangata whenua and tangata Tiriti on He Whakaputanga o te Rangatiratanga o Nu Tireni and Te Tiriti o Waitangi. The series guests include Professor Makere (Margaret) Mutu and Dr Luke Fitzmaurice-Brown, among others.

NZFVC Quick Reads: 8 August 2024

Welcome to our Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

Report from Te Whāriki Manawāhine O Hauraki on mahi tūkino and housing poverty

Te Whāriki Manawāhine O Hauraki have published He Whare, He Taonga Report – Connecting Mahi Tūkino and Housing Poverty in Hauraki: Wāhine give voice to compassionate solutions (2024). In this report, Te Whāriki Manawāhine Research explored the relationship between mahi tūkino (family violence and sexual violence) and housing poverty, and how it impacts on the provision of secure housing for Wāhine Māori and their whānau in Hauraki. Read an article reflecting on the mahi by researcher Paora Moyle.

Police publish Homicide Victims Report 2022

The New Zealand Police have published the Homicide Victims Report 2022 (2024). The report is a summary of statistics about victims of murder, manslaughter, and infanticide using police data. For more comprehensive information see our statistics resources including statistics related to Family violence deaths.

New web resource on the court process for young people who have experienced sexual violence 

The Ministry of Justice has launched new webpages, Information for young people: helping you through the court process. The information is intended for children, young people, and their caregivers. It contains information for when children and young people are involved in sexual violence proceedings and aims to help them make informed decisions about the actions they take after experiencing sexual violence. 

Updated resource, Responding to misconceptions about sexual offending 

Te Kura Kaiwhakawā | Institute of Judicial Studies has published an updated version of Responding to misconceptions about sexual offending: Example directions for judges and lawyers (2024). The document is intended as a resource for judges and lawyers. The misconceptions materials were first published in August 2023. Following a consultation process with the legal profession, a revised version was published on 30 July 2024. Ngā Kōti o Aotearoa | Courts of New Zealand website has more details about what has been updated.

Office for Seniors, Age Friendly Fund 2024 open for applications 

Te Tari Kaumātua | Office for Seniors is now accepting grant applications for the 2024 round of the Age Friendly Fund. The Age Friendly Fund provides one-off grants of $5,000-$15,000 to initiatives promoting the inclusion and contribution of older people in all aspects of community life. Applications close 30 September 2024.

Applications open for government’s new mental health fund 

The Minister for Mental Health has announced a new $10 million Mental Health and Addiction Community Sector Innovation Fund. The purpose of the fund is to support innovative time-limited projects and initiatives aimed at improving mental health outcomes in New Zealand. Applications are currently open, closing 29 August 2024.

NZFVC Quick Reads: 31 July 2024

Welcome to our Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

Law Commission seeking feedback on preferred approach to preventive detention and post-sentence orders

Te Aka Matua o te Ture | Law Commission is calling for submissions on Here ora? Preventive measures for community safety, rehabilitation and reintegration: Preferred Approach Paper (2024). The paper presents the Law Commission’s preferred proposals for the reform of the law governing preventive detention, extended supervision orders, and public protection orders. Submissions can be made via email, pdr@lawcom.govt.nz, or by post. The postal address and a submission form template can be found on the review’s webpage. Submissions close Friday 20 September 2024. For more information, see our story, Law Commission consulting on laws related to serious sexual and violent offenders.

Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism Fund now open

The next round of the Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism Fund is open and accepting grant applications and closes 28 August 2024. The fund is looking for applications from civil society and non-government organisations seeking to deliver initiatives that counter and build resilience to violent extremism and radicalisation. More information on the application process and funding criteria can be found on the fund’s webpage. Applications can be made online via the Grants Management System.

International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples

The United Nation’s International Day of World’s Indigenous Peoples takes place on 9 August 2024, marking the first meeting of the UN Working Group on Indigenous Populations. This year’s theme is ‘Protecting the Rights of Indigenous Peoples in Voluntary Isolation and Initial Contact’. To celebrate the day, the Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for the Elimination of Violence Against Women are hosting a panel of indigenous academics, including some from Aotearoa, for their event, Indigenous Joy: Our Survivance in a Colonial World.

Resources and information on the impacts of mandatory reporting on survivors

VAWnet, a US based information hub for violence against women, has compiled information and resources on mandatory reporting in She Trusted Me and I reported Her: What do Advocates Need to Know about the Impact of Mandatory Reporting on Survivors?. The webpage includes discussions of mandatory reporting and hyper-incarceration and the conflation of child maltreatment and intimate partner violence. It provides links to related resources, including several webinar recordings. 

NZFVC Quick Reads: 17 July 2024

Welcome to our Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

Survivor feedback invited on Ministry of Education sensitive claims process

The Ministry of Education (MoE) is setting out to improve its sensitive claims process for abuse in a New Zealand state school. Tūhono Collective has been contracted by the Ministry to help design the process. They are seeking feedback on the draft design from: survivors and advocates, Māori and Pacific peoples, and people with experience of the Ministry’s sensitive claims process. If you are interested in giving feedback you can complete an online form or email zeb.tupai@laidlaw.co.nz by 19 July 2024. This work is separate to the Crown Response Unit’s work on a wider redress system.

MOJ stocktake report on child participation in family court

The Ministry of Justice (MOJ) has released the Review of Children’s Participation in the Family Justice System of Aotearoa New Zealand (2022). MOJ commissioned the report to assist with the implementation of the Family Court (Supporting Children in Court) Legislation Act 2021 which includes a provision that children must be given reasonable opportunities to participate in any decision affecting them.

Pūmahara Ia Te Wā Queer History Month Aotearoa

This July marks the first Pūmahara Ia Te Wā Queer History Month in Aotearoa, an initiative of Kawe Mahara Queer Archives Aotearoa and the National Library. The whakataukī for this year’s Queer History Month is,

“He kitenga kanohi, he hokinga mahara.
He kawenga mahara, he hāpori kitea.
A familiar face stirs one’s memories.
A collection of memories is a community seen.”

Kawe Mahara Queer Archives Aotearoa, formerly Lesbian and Gay Archives of New Zealand (LAGANZ), collects, preserves, and make available for research the records and personal papers of queer and takatapui people and organisations in Aotearoa New Zealand. For those who would like to contribute to the work of Kawe Mahara Queer Archives Aotearoa, they hold virtual drop-in sessions for anyone wanting to volunteer their time.

New research on sexual violence prevalence in Australia. 

A study by the Australian Institute of Criminology examined the sexual violence prevalence rates among adult Australians, Perpetration of sexual violence in a community sample of adult Australians (2024). The study surveyed 5,076 adult Australians about their use of sexual violence. It defined sexual violence broadly to include sexual harassment and coercion, sexual assault, and image-based sexual abuse. The study’s findings were summarised in an article for The Conversation, New research shows 1 in 5 Australians have perpetrated sexual violence in their adult lives. The true rate might even be worse.

NZFVC Quick Reads: 11 July 2024

Welcome to our Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

Abuse in care inquiry report submitted and survivor service to remain open

The final report from the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Historical Abuse in State and Faith-Based Care has been submitted to the Governor-General. The latest pānui from the Crown Response to the Abuse in Care Inquiry stated that the report will be made public when presented to Parliament on 24 July 2024. Though the Royal Commission has closed, the Survivor Experiences Service will remain open until the introduction of a new, independent redress system. This service provides a space for survivors of abuse in care, and the family and whānau of survivors, to have their experiences heard, validated, and acknowledged.

Exhibition to open displaying work from survivors of abuse in care

He Kura Toiora an exhibition of healing for survivors of abuse in care. It was created by Te Roopū Toiora, the national roopū for survivors of abuse in faith and state-based care. It features art, sculpture, poetry, music, dance, documentaries, and Tā moko, all by survivor artists. The exhibition will be open at Te Auaha Gallery, Wellington 2-4 August 2024.

New Australian research on use of strangulation during sex

The open-access article, Prevalence of Sexual Strangulation/Choking Among Australian 18–35 Year-Olds (2024), reports findings from a survey of more than 4000 18–35 years about their use or experience of strangulation, including issues of safety and consent. See a summary by the researchers The Conversation article More than half of Australian young people are using strangulation during sex: new research. In related news, Medical Sexual Assault Clinicians Aotearoa (MEDSAC) are organising the ‘Rough Sex’/'Choking'/Strangulation: A national, cross-sector symposium, taking place 29 November 2024 in Te Whanganui-a-Tara | Wellington.

New documentary on Aotearoa pet refuge

The documentary, Refuge: A Duty to Care, explores the work of Pet Refuge, a refuge which offers shelter to the pets of family violence victims when seeking safety. The documentary is available to be streamed until the 31 July 2024 as part of the Doc Edge Festival 2024. For more information on the documentary, see the University of Auckland news article Shelter for pets escaping family violence: new doco. Learn more about Pet Refuge services on their website.

Cabinet paper on changes to Child Youth and Wellbeing Strategy

The Ministry of Social Development has released a Cabinet Social Outcomes Committee (SOU) Minute of Decision on the Child Youth and Wellbeing Strategy. It states “…that the Minister for Child Poverty Reduction (the Minister) intends to undertake targeted consultation on specific elements of an updated Child and Youth Wellbeing Strategy in June and July 2024, and report-back to SOU in August 2024 to seek agreement to the updated strategy.”

NZFVC Quick Reads: 5 July 2024

Welcome to our Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

E Tū Whānau song competition announces winners

The winners of the 2024 E Tū Whānau Song Competition have been announced. Each entry reflected this year’s theme, “My whānau, my future”, with some choosing to express the equality and mutual respect between wāhine and tāne. The award-winning songs, alongside a link to all the entries, can be found on the Competition’s webpage.

MSD Accessibility Fund open for grant applications

The Accessible Family and Sexual Violence Services for Disabled People Fund (the Accessibility Fund) is now accepting grant applications. Grant applications are open to support MSD-funded family violence and sexual violence providers to enhance their physical, digital, and information-based accessibility for disabled people/tāngata whaikaha Māori. Information about the fund’s focus areas and the application process can be found on the Accessibility Fund’s webpage. Applications due by 12 August 2024.

3 strikes legislation open for submissions

The Justice Select Committee is now accepting submissions on the Sentencing (Reinstating Three Strikes) Amendment Bill. The bill would apply to 42 qualifying serious violent and sexual offences. It would require second strike sentences to be served without parole and third strike sentences to carry the maximum penalty for the offence to be served without parole. Submissions are due by 23 July 2024.

Guide to rights for transgender and non-binary people

Te Kāhui Tika Tangata | Human Rights Commission has released the resource, Trans Rights are Human Rights: A guide to your rights and protections as a transgender person. The resource is available in accessible formats. It outlines protections under human rights law in Aotearoa for transgender and non-binary people. It has information about what to do if your human rights are breached. If you think you have experienced discrimination because of your gender or experienced conversion practices, you can contact the Human Rights Commission for information, support, or to make a complaint.

Call for submissions on Law Commission Ia Tangata issues paper

Te Aka Matua o te Ture | Law Commission is accepting submission on their issues paper for Ia Tangata – A review of the protections in the Human Rights Act 1993 for people who are transgender, people who are non-binary and people who have an innate variation of sex characteristics. The issues paper provides some background and context to the review, identifies and explores potential options for reform, and poses 80 questions on which they are seeking feedback. Submissions can be made online and are due 5 September 2024.

UN Working group report finds escalating backlash against gender equality

The United Nations Working Group on Discrimination against Women and Girls recently published their report, Escalating backlash against gender equality and urgency of reaffirming substantive equality and the human rights of women and girls (2024). The official media release offers a high-level summary of the report’s findings on the current state of gender equality and what a framework for substantive, transformative equality would look like and require of States.

NZFVC Quick Reads: 2 July 2024

Welcome to our Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

NZCVS  evaluation report and latest findings

Tāhū o te Ture | Ministry of Justice released a summary report from the Evaluation of the New Zealand Crime and Victims Survey (2024). The report was commissioned to assess the New Zealand Crime Victims Survey (NZCVS) and provide recommendations for improvement. The recommendations include reviewing questions related to family violence and sexual violence, hosting a symposium to discuss the results, using a booster for more young participants (age 15 to 19), and a new Māori booster to more effectively increase Māori participation. The Ministry of Justice also released the most recent findings from the NZCVS. 

Research on peer support for male survivors of sexual abuse 

Tautoko Tāne Male Survivors Aotearoa published part two of a research project on support services for male survivors of sexual violence Thriving, just not just surviving: The experiences of male survivors of historical sexual abuse in Aotearoa / New Zealand – Part 2: Peer support as a pathway forward (2024). This report looked at what does and doesn’t work well in peer support, and how peer support could be improved. 

BSA report on survey of community attitudes about gender diversity   

The Broadcasting Standards Authority | Te Mana Whanonga Kaipāho (BSA) released the report, 2024 Litmus test of BSA decisions – Public attitudes towards gender identity issues on TV/Radio (2024). The research explores community attitudes towards gender identity issues and whether the BSA’s decisions reflect these attitudes and are understood by the public. The survey found New Zealanders see significant public interest in airing diverse views on gender identity but are concerned about the potential for community harm. The BSA shared a summary of the report’s findings in the media release.

New resources for trans and gender diverse people, their partners and practitioners

Zoe Belle Gender Collective, an Australian based trans and gender diverse led advocacy organisation, has created new resources. Gender euphoria and sex (2023) is a resource for trans and gender diverse people exploring gender, sex and consent. Gender diversity, sex and consent (2024) is a resource for people who want to learn more about healthy sexual relationships with trans and gender diverse people. Responding to the objectification, fetishisation and sexual exploitation of trans women and trans feminine people by cisgender men: A Transfemme practice guide (2024) is for health and community practitioners who want to better understand how to identify and address objectification, fetishisation and sexual exploitation of transgender women by cisgender men. These resources build on their web resource, Transfemme, a project focused on preventing cis men’s violence against trans women and trans feminine people.

Australian research on police response to suicide threats in family violence

Researcher Jessica Woolley published research Policing perpetrator suicide threats in family violence cases: competing priorities and contemporary challenges (2023). This article draws on the perspectives of ten specialist family violence officers from Victoria Police to provide insight into the policing of suicide threats in the context of coercive control. The author also wrote an article discussing the research for The Conversation. 

NZFVC Quick Reads: 13 June 2024

Welcome to our Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission report on addiction and mental health workforce

Te Hiringa Mahara Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission published their 2024 monitoring report, Kua Tīmata Te Haerenga | The Journey has Begun (2024). This report focuses on access to mental health and addiction services and options available over the five years from July 2018 to June 2023. This is the third annual monitoring report since 2022, the previous reports can be accessed online. For more on this, see Waatea news’ coverage, Mental health services short of workers and Gap growing in mental health workforce.

MSD report on family violence and sexual violence service gaps

The Ministry of Social Development (MSD) published A report outlining family violence and sexual violence service gaps in Aotearoa (2024) on the Te Puna Aonui website. The report outlines gaps in family violence and sexual violence services and identifies gaps in 5 broad areas. The report also outlines a potential approach to addressing these gaps split into two-phases, the first focussing on existing services and the second focused on expanding and developing tailored services. This work is part of addressing Actions 29 and 30 of Te Aorerekura Action Plan and involved public consultation.

Registrations open for 15th Triennial Conference of Pacific Women

The 15th Triennial Conference of Pacific Women is taking place on 22-24 July 2024 in Majuro, Republic of the Marshall Islands. This conference is the primary mechanism for monitoring the progress outlined in the Pacific Platform for Action for Gender Equality and Women’s Human Rights 2018 – 2030. This year’s conference will gather Pacific leaders, representatives from non-governmental organisations, and development partners to discuss 3 priority areas: health of women and girls; prevention of gender-based violence; and gender-responsive climate justice. The conference is now accepting registrations for in-person by 28 June and online attendance by 11 July. A call for proposals for parallel sessions is open until 17 June. A limited number of travel grants are available for civil society or non-government organisations. See the conference website for further details.

NZFVC Quick Reads: 10 June 2024

Welcome to our Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

Recording available for A Litany of Sound Revisited webinar

The recording from our webinar, Kōrero and reflections about Violence within Whānau and Mahi Tūkino — A Litany of Sound Revisited, is now available. This webinar brought together 4 speakers to continue the kōrero from Violence within Whānau and Mahi Tūkino – A Litany of Sound Revisited (2024), reflecting on research and real-life expertise. The speakers include the author of the book, Denise Wilson, along with Poata Watene, Ngarongo Eaton and Te Whetu Mairangi (Whetu Horo) Balzer-Horo.

Ministry of Justice reports on crime and victimisation, and youth justice

The Ministry of Justice has released 2 reports. 5 years of insights on crime and victimisation in Aotearoa (2024), which includes insights on family violence, uses data from the last 5 years of the NZ Crime and Victims Survey to provide a fuller picture of crime and victimisation in Aotearoa. Youth Justice Indicators Summary Report (2024) uses data from New Zealand Police and Oranga Tamariki and includes information about: when children and young people that offend enter the system, how they interact with the system, and if they reoffend.

Guide on anti-transgender extremism

Gender Minorities Aotearoa has published Anti-transgender Extremism: Identifying, preventing, and countering anti-transgender extremism (2024). This guide provides practical advice on recognising, preventing, and countering anti-transgender extremism, with a focus on keeping community events safe from anti-transgender violence. For information on reporting anti-transgender violence to the Police, see their Hate-motivated crime webpage.

Report explores the experiences of family violence specialists in Australia

A report from the Australian-based Paul Ramsey Foundation has been released, Passionate, relentless, grassroots problem-solving: Insights from the Field of Domestic and Family Violence Specialist Support (2024). This report, produced by Innovation Unit, draws on conversations with 31 non-First Nations-led organisations and explores professional experiences of working with specialist cohorts and communities around domestic and family violence support and prevention, as well as the wider shifts in support and conditions needed in Australia. A second report from ResearchCrowd who is working with First Nations-led organisations is forthcoming.

Global statistics on online child sexual exploitation

Childlight, a global data institute, has released findings from their research into the estimated prevalence of online child sexual exploitation victims and offenders, and the scale and nature of child sexual abuse material online. The Into the Light Index report draws on data from national surveys, research and practice, and intends to track and update this data over time. Deborah Fry, professor of international child protection research and Childlight’s director of data, summarised findings in her Conversation article. Based on 125 representative studies published between 2011 and 2023, they estimate one in eight children – 302 million young people – have experienced online sexual abuse and exploitation in a one year period.

UN Committee seeking input on children’s access to justice

The United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child is drafting general comment No. 27 on children’s rights to access justice and effective remedies. The Committee is seeking feedback to clarify terms, approaches and actions States should take in order to implement the right of all children to access justice and effective remedies. The concept note contains more information on the issue but notes that children and young people’s access to justice applies to more than the criminal justice system. Submissions are due by 23 August 2024. 

NZFVC Quick Reads: 23 May 2024

Welcome to our Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

Te Puna Aonui and ACC survey of violence sector now live

Te Puna Aonui and ACC’s Agents of Change Survey is for family violence and sexual violence workforces and primary prevention system. It closes 17 June 2024. The survey is intended for anyone working to prevent and respond to family violence and sexual violence. The survey results will be used to measure the sector’s progress against Te Aorerekura and will also inform how Te Puna Aonui and ACC can better support the violence sector moving forward. More information, including frequently asked questions, can be found on the survey’s information page.

Cabinet paper released on proposed changes to Oranga Tamariki oversight 

A cabinet paper on the proposed changes to the oversight of the Oranga Tamariki system has been proactively released. The paper includes proposed changes to the Independent Children’s Monitor and the Children and Young People’s Commission. The paper also includes plans to commence the statutory reviews of the Children and Young People's Commission Act 2022 and Oversight of Oranga Tamariki System Act 2022 this year. The Minister for Social Development and Employment, Hon Louise Upston has also issued a media release on the proposed changes.

Experience of pregnant māmā Māori shared in new documentary

It Takes a Kāinga (2024), a short documentary directed by Taylor Hohepa, explores wāhine Māori experiences of being māmā hāpū in Aotearoa. It highlights the challenges faced by Māori in a health system rooted in settler-colonial myths about wāhine Māori, myths which contribute to them being twice as likely to die and 3.35 times more likely to commit suicide during pregnancy. This documentary also shares insights on Māori-led healthcare solutions which empower māmā hapū to preserve their whakapapa through traditional birthing practices.

TOAH-NNEST National Sexual Violence Conference 2024 calling for abstracts

Te Ohaakii a Hine – National Network Ending Sexual Violence Together (TOAH-NNEST) is calling for workshop proposals for the Sexual Violence Conference 2024 on 19-20 November 2024. Proposals are due 4 June 2024 (deadline extended) 27 May 2024. For more information, contact TOAH-NNEST at svconference2024@toah-nnest.org.nz.

Videos on privacy related topics

For Privacy Week the Privacy Commissioner hosted a range of events on topics related to privacy. They have shared the videos and slides of these presentations at Privacy Week 2024. Topics include Māori data sovereignty, safeguarding children, AI, and privacy for not-for-profits. 

E Tū Whānau song competition open

The 2024 E Tū Whana Song Competition is open for submissions. Entries must be in by Friday 14 June 2024. Submitted songs should be original compositions and be inspired by this year’s theme, “my whanau my future.” See the Song Competition’s webpage for more information on the submission requirements and how to enter.

NZFVC Quick Reads: 16 May 2024

Welcome to our Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

A reminder that our NZFVC 2024 survey is still open but will be closing Friday 17 May 2024. We would like to know what is working well and how we could improve. Please take a few minutes to share your feedback with us.

NZQA accreditation awarded to Nga Vaka o Kāiga Tapu

The Nga Vaka o Kāiga Tapu programme has been approved by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA). The training programme is a partnership between Pasefika Proud and The Cause Collective. Nga Vaka o Kāiga Tapu provides capability training programmes for frontline workers, practitioners and Pacific communities who work with Pacific families affected by family violence on applying Pacific cultural values and practices in their work. See our event listing for upcoming sessions for this annual training.

New report and webinar recording on conversion practices in Aotearoa

A new research report has been published, Conversion practices in Aotearoa New Zealand: Developing a holistic response to spiritual abuse (2024). Te Kāhui Tika Tangata NZ Human Rights Commission, which funded the research, also held a webinar where a panel discussed the report’s findings. The panel included Dr Michael Roguski (Te Āti Awa; Ngāti Tūwharetoa), who co-authored the report with Dr Nicola Atwool. The Human Rights Commission’s Conversion practices webpage contains a number of resources and links to service providers for people working with survivors of conversion practices.

2024 Symposium on Māori experiences of intergenerational trauma, recovery, and healing.

Registrations are now open for 2024 He Pounga waihoe nā ō mātua symposium: Symposium of Māori experiences of intergenerational trauma, recovery and healing. This free, in-person event is on 13 June 2024 in Whanganui and is being organised by Te Atawhai o Te Ao: Independent Māori Institute for Environment and Health. Keynote speakers include Dr Cherryl Waerea-i-te-rangi Smith (Ngā Wairiki/Ngāti Apa, Ngai Tumapuhiarangi, Te Aitanga a Hauiti, Ngai Tahu) and Prof. Linda Tuhiwai Smith (Ngāti Awa, Ngāti Porou).

Pasifika families share their stories in new video series to challenge stigma around mental health

The Unspoken Series explores the stories of 5 Pasifika families living with mental health issues, sharing both their struggles and their triumphs. The 5 videos were produced by AIGAMUA, a Pacific mental health promotion organisation, with support from Pasefika Proud, with the purpose of breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health in Pacific communities.

NZFVC Quick Reads: 9 May 2024

Welcome to our Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

A reminder that our NZFVC 2024 survey is still open but will be closing Friday 17 May 2024. We would like to know what is working well and how we could improve. Please take a few minutes to share your feedback with us. 

Upcoming NZFVC webinar on Violence within Whānau and Mahi Tūkino – A Litany of Sound Revisited

On Wednesday 22 May 2024, we will be hosting a webinar, Kōrero and reflections about Violence within Whānau and Mahi Tūkino — A Litany of Sound Revisited. Authored by Denise Wilson (Tainui, Ngāti Porou ki Harataunga, Whakatōhea, Ngāti Oneone, Ngāti Tūwharetoa) and published by Te Pūkotahitanga – the Tangata Whenua Ministerial Advisory Group, Violence within Whānau and Mahi Tūkino — A Litany of Sound Revisited (2023) is an in-depth literature review that brings together contemporary mātauranga from Māori researchers in one book. This webinar is a wayfinder, to continue the kōrero from this report. Speakers will reflect on research and real-life expertise. The speakers include Denise Wilson, along with Poata Watene (Waikato Tainui, Ngāi Te Rangi), Ngarongo Eaton (Ngā Ariki Kaiputahi, Whakatōhea, Tūhoe) and Te Whetu Mairangi (Whetu Horo) Balzer-Horo (Ngāpuhi, Te Arawa, Taranaki, Ngāti Porou). 

Opportunity for ethnic community groups to work with Shama on sexual violence prevention

Shama Ethnic Women’s Trust is looking for ethnic community groups who are interested in creating projects to prevent sexual violence in their communities. Shama will support community groups to develop skills and create resources to prevent sexual violence. See Shama’s Prevention Initiatives for further details and examples of past projects. For questions or to get involved contact Shama at crisis2@shama.org.nz.

Waitangi Tribunal interim report on urgent inquiry into repeal of section 7aa

The Waitangi Tribunal has issued an interim report, The Oranga Tamariki (Section 7AA) Urgent Inquiry Report (2024), in pre-publication form. The report is related to claims submitted to the Tribunal under urgency regarding the Crown’s policy to repeal section 7AA of the Oranga Tamariki Act 1989. 

New report explores Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander healing programs 

Australia-based ANROWS have recently published What works? A qualitative exploration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander healing programs that respond to family violence (2024). The research for this report was led  by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders and guided by Indigenous-centred research methodologies. It is the second report from a research project exploring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander healing programs responding to domestic and family violence and sexual assault. For the full report and a 2-page brief, see the report webpage.

New Australian research on workplace technology-facilitated sexual harassment

ANROWS have also published Workplace technology-facilitated sexual harassment: Perpetration, responses and prevention (2024) alongside an accompanying factsheet. For a summary of the report see the report author’s Conversation article Tech-based sexual harassment at work is common, male-dominated and often intended to cause harm. In related news, Our Watch, an Australian organisation working in the primary prevention of violence against women and their children, has released a set of resources for preventing sexual harassment in the workplace.

Te reo Māori resources for ākonga related to online cyber-security

Tātai Aho Rau Core Education, a provider of learning-related products and services in Aotearoa, worked with Grok Academy, an Australian based digital technologies provider, to adapt and translate an online cyber-security course in te reo Māori. Cyber Skills Aotearoa is free for ākonga in Aotearoa between years 6-13 and focuses on protecting their privacy and supporting them to identify scams on the internet. 

Submissions open on review of health and disability Act and Code

Te Toihau Hauora, Hauātanga | Health and Disability Commissioner (HDC) is reviewing the Code of Health and Disability Service Consumers’ Rights and the Health and Disability Commissioner Act. Submissions due 31 July 2024. Feedback can be submitted via survey or email. 

NZFVC Quick Reads: 2 May 2024

Welcome to our Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

A reminder that our NZFVC 2024 survey is still open. We would like to know what is working well and how we could improve. Please take a few minutes to share your feedback with us.

Applications open for ethnic communities violence prevention research funding

The Ministry of Social Development is inviting Expression of Interest (EOI) for Ethnic Communities Violence Prevention Research Projects. EOI are due by 10 May 2024. There are 2 research objectives for the EOI: 1) to investigate the experiences of family violence and sexual violence in South Asian communities and 2) to look at the social, political, and economic costs and benefits of various prevention and response frameworks from a public policy perspective, particularly within ethnically diverse communities. For more information and to apply, see the Expression of Interest: Ethnic Communities Violence Prevention Research Projects (ID: 29284790) on the Government Electronic Tenders Service (GETS).

Article on judicial understanding of mental health impacts of intimate partner violence

The recently published article, Judicial Actors’ Understanding of the Mental Health Impacts of Intimate Partner Violence: A Scoping Review (2024), is a global review of published studies. It includes studies from Australia, the United States, New Zealand, Iran, Canada, Spain, and the United Kingdom. Aotearoa researcher and advocate Debbie Hager is one of the co-authors.

White paper on Rethinking Primary Prevention

Australian academic Michael Salter and Australian journalist Jess Hill have published a white paper on Rethinking Primary Prevention (2024). The paper critiques the intersection between prevention agencies and government, and how prevention work is conceptualised, resourced and funded. The authors identify 4 key aspects for a systematic and comprehensive approach to prevention. Jess Hill wrote a summary of the white paper in the Guardian article We won’t stop violence against women with conversations about respect. This is not working. We need to get real and spoke about the paper in the Guardian Jess Hill on what it will take to stop men killing women podcast.

Theme from submissions on Safer Online Services and Media Platforms consultation

Te Tari Taiwhenua | Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) have published the report, Summary of Submissions: Safer Online Services and Media Platforms (2024). The report summarises the key themes from submissions to the Safer Online Services and Media Platforms consultation. See our previous news story for more information on the consultation.

MSD websites with information for people impacted by family violence

The Ministry of Social Development (MSD) has updated 2 websites that provide information for people impacted by family violence. The Are You Ok website (www.areyouok.org.nz) has information for victim | survivors and people who may be supporting them. The In Your Hands website (www.inyourhands.org.nz) is for people who are worried about their behaviour or people using violence who are looking to change their behaviour, and the people supporting them. The MSD April Family Violence and Sexual Violence Update notes that "The Are You Ok website has a new look and feel with improved safety features, and added support for Māori, Pacific people, ethnic communities, Takatāpui and Rainbow communities, and disabled people" and "We have also improved the In Your Hands website to make it easier to find stories from real men who have made change and to access help through our phone and web chat support."

NZFVC Quick Reads: 24 April 2024

Welcome to our Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

Changemaker fund open for applications

The Changemakers Fund, launched by the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) last year, has opened for a 2nd round of applications. The deadline for submissions is 1 May 2024. Funding is available for initiatives that promote positive forms of masculinity, challenge harmful gender and social norms, and engage men in healing. 

Submissions open on 2nd Law Commission issues paper on adult decision making capacity

Te Aka Matua o te Ture | Law Commission is seeking feedback on their Second Issues Paper from their review of the law relating to adult decision-making. Information on how to submit, alongside plain language explainers of the 4 key topics raised in the Second Issues Paper, can be found at Ngā Huarahi Whakatau Review of Adult Decision-Making Capacity Law. Submissions close 21 June 2024. For more information see our previous news story on the first round of submissions.  

New documentary examines the Grace Millane case and use of ‘rough-sex’ defence 

The Lie, a new documentary from British director, Helena Coan, produced with permission from the Millane family, explores Grace Millane’s murder, the investigation and trial, and examines the ‘rough-sex’ defence. Rape Prevention Education Whakatau Mauri Trust (RPE) have arranged a screening at Rialto Cinemas in Newmarket on Monday 29 April 2024 at 6:30pm. The film will be followed by a question and answer segment with lead investigator on the Grace Milland case, Detective Inspector Scott Beard and moderated by RPE. See RNZ’s story for more on the documentary. HELP Auckland is also planning a screening with a Q&A panel - watch our calendar of events for details.

Research on harassment and gendered abuse towards politicians in Aotearoa

New research has highlighted the increasing levels of abuse faced by parlimentarians since the beginning of COVID 19. The article Stalking, harassment, gendered abuse, and violence towards politicians in the COVID-19 pandemic and recovery era (2024) shares findings from a survey of MPs in Aotearoa about their experiences of harassment and abuse. The authors report an increase in all forms of harrassment, with women being at higher risk for gendered abuse including misogyny and threats of violence. For more on this, listen to one of the authors in an interview on Waatea news. In related news, human rights legal academic Cassandra Mudgway is giving a talk at University of Canterbury, Tolerate Online Abuse or Resign: How the Law Fails Women MPs, on 24 April 2024.

Privacy Commissioner report from the Children and Young People’s Privacy project

Te Mana Mātāpono Matatapu | Privacy Commissioner has released the report Safeguarding children and young people’s privacy in New Zealand (2024). One of the report’s key findings highlighted in the Privacy Commissioner’s media release was that “Social media is a major concern, and a combination of guidance and regulatory changes are needed to manage this risk to children’s privacy.”

Prevention resources from the Australian PreventX 2024 conference 

Australia based Safe+Equal has released all the resources shared at PreventX 2024, the Australian national conference on prevention of gender-based violence. The resources aim to support community organisations and are cover the following topics: managing resistance and backlash; ethical storytelling with victim survivors; and working with communities in primary prevention. 

NZFVC Quick Reads: 18 April 2024

Welcome to our Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

Women’s Refuge resources on suicide and technology research and practice

Women’s Refuge have released 2 resources as part of their Family Violence Risk and Safety Series. The documents share key findings from research about the experiences  of victims who sought help from Women’s Refuge. The Family Violence and Suicide: Responding Well to Risk (2024) resource sets out good practice guidelines for responding well to suicide risk. Family Violence and Technology (2024) sets out steps to support victims experiencing digital abuse – this includes risks related to phones and other forms of digital technology. 

District Court Annual report published

The District court of New Zealand | Te Kōti-ā-Rohe o Aotearoa has published their Annual Report 2023 (2024). The report included updates related to Family Court and Te Ao Mārama. The report highlights a 17% increase in active family violence applications compared to the previous financial year, taking their total to 3,796; this was the largest increase experienced by any case type. New work (new cases and applications flowing into the courts) was also reported to increase by 3,750 (+7%), driven by a 12% increase in new family violence applications and a 9% increase in new Care of Children Act applications.

Evidence brief on non-fatal strangulation and acquired brain injury related to sexual violence

Australia-based Women’s Health NSW published Non-fatal strangulation and acquired brain injury in the context of sexual violence: An evidence brief (2024). The brief looks at Australian and international research. It is designed for people developing policies and practices to respond to and prevent non-fatal strangulation and acquired brain injury in the context of sexual violence and sexual choking. Women’s Health NSW has also created It Left No Marks, an online learning hub about non-fatal strangulation and acquired brain injury. For Aotearoa data see the article Intimate partner violence reporting and assessment of traumatic brain injuries and strangulation by a New Zealand hospital health service (2023).

Call for input to UN report on child sexual exploitation in digital environment

The United Nation’s Special Rapporteur on the sale and sexual exploitation of children has issued a call for input to inform a report on the existing and emerging threats that digital technologies pose to children, including artificial intelligence. The Special Rapporteur is also seeking input on the role of technology in responding to these sexual exploitation and sexual abuse of children online. The submissions will aid in the production of the Special rapporteur’s next thematic report to the UN General Assembly. It builds upon the previous report: A/HRC/28/56: Information and Communication Technologies and the sale and sexual exploitation of children (2014). Details on how to make a submission, along with 9 questions, can be found on the Call for input webpage. Submissions due 15 May 2024.

The 2024 State of the Sector Survey is open for feedback

The 2024 State of the Sector Survey is open for not-for-profit organisations to give feedback. The survey is run by Community Networks Te Hapori Tuhononga o Aotearoa. The survey is open to all not-for-profit groups including kaupapa Māori organisations, social service agencies, community organisations, sports groups and more. The survey closes on 31 May 2024. The survey provides a snapshot of the not-for-profit sector. It is run every 2 years. 

Community-based strategy for diversity and inclusion

Inclusive Aotearoa Collective Tāhono has released A community-based national strategy for diversity and inclusion (2024). The strategy offers eight outcomes and action-oriented objectives for community-based organisations in Aotearoa and abroad, including: valuing Indigenous knowledge, connected networks, and social structures and values. This strategy draws on Inclusive Aotearoa Collective Tāhono’s research on belonging, which asked diverse communities in Aotearoa what strengthens and what stands in the way of belonging and inclusion.

NZFVC Quick Reads: 11 April 2024

Welcome to our Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

New WHO briefs on measuring violence against women with disabilities and older women

The World Health Organisation has released 2 new policy briefs, Measuring violence against women with disability (2024) and Violence against women 60 years and older (2024). They are the first in a series on neglected forms of violence co-produced by the WHO and UN Women. The briefs address data availability, methodological issues and recommendations for good practice. They are intended for use by researchers, national statistics offices, social care and welfare services and others involved in data collection on violence against women. For more information see the WHO media release.

E Tū Whānau rangatahi film awards announced 

The E Tū Whānau rangatahi film awards were announced during the Māoriland Film Festival in Ōtaki in March 2024. The winning films explored themes of female strength, pride and inclusivity, safety and tikanga, and resilience and conflict resolution, giving voice to the perspectives, experiences, and concerns of rangatahi Māori. E Tū Whānau’s media release provides a full list of the award categories, the winners, and links to the short films.

Ministry of Youth Development report on youth engagement

The Ministry of Youth Development (MYD) released a new report The Hive Deep Dive with Decision-Makers: Insights & Recommendations (2024), which explores public servant and decision-maker perspectives on the barriers to youth engagement in their work and opportunities for youth voice to be embedded in policy development and decision-making. The findings highlight that most decision-makers believe young people's perspectives are critical. However, due to timeline and budget constraints they rely - sometimes exclusively - on existing research rather than engaging directly with young people. The report identifies a number of barriers to youth engagement and opportunities to address these barriers. Learn more from the Ministry including brief summaries of the report or sign up for updates from the Hive, a Youth Voice initiative funded by MYD and delivered by Curative NZ since 2019.

NZFVC Quick Reads: 5 April 2024

Welcome to our Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

ACC’s new Sensitive Claims Service contract out for tender

ACC’s new Sensitive Claims Service contract, coming into effect on 1 December 2024, is now out for tender. The Sensitive Claims Service provides fully funded support, treatment, and assessment services for survivors of sexual abuse and assault. ‘Suppliers’ and ‘Named Service Providers’ are able to apply now but applications remain closed to ‘Service Provider’ until 20 May 2024. Descriptions of these categories as well as information on how to apply can be found on the How to apply for the new Sensitive Claims Service contract webpage. Applications must be in by 5pm on: 17 May 2024 for large suppliers; 24 May 2024 for medium suppliers; 31 May 2024 for small suppliers; and 2 August 2024 for named service providers. ACC are also hosting online briefing sessions about the tender on 18 and 26 April 2024. 

Submissions open on Corrections (Victim Protection) Amendment Bill 

Public submissions are open for the Corrections (Victim Protection) Amendment Bill. The closing date for submissions is midnight 6 May 2024. This bill proposes to create an on obligation for the Chief Executive of the Department of Corrections and prison managers to protect those who are subject to a protection order and victims of crime from contact from prisoners. The bill would require Corrections to put in place arrangements to make sure that victims and others who are subject to protection orders under the Family Violence Act 2018 are protected from unwanted communications with prisoners. The above bill differs from the Corrections Amendment Bill which is also currently at select committee. For more on this see our recent news story. 

New Framework and Assessment Tool for supporting people with intellectual disabilities online

The Digital Citizens Framework (2023) and its accompanying set of tools were designed by Hōhepa Canterbury to support people with intellectual disabilities and their families, support teams, and educators to access the internet safely and achieve meaningful digital citizenship. Hōhepa Canterbury is a vibrant community of people with intellectual disabilities encouraging people to live fully engaged lives. The Digital Citizens Framework and its tools can assist people with intellectual disabilities, and their family and support teams, to evaluate their existing knowledge and identify learning opportunities and areas where they may need additional support. The Framework and the related tools, alongside their EasyRead versions, can be found on the webpage Supporting People With Intellectual Disabilities. 

2023 Digital Violent Extremism Transparency Report published

Te Tari Taiwhenua | Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) have released their 2023 Digital Violent Extremism Transparency Report (2023). The purpose of this report is to show the public what the DIA is doing to address harm from online violent extremism. Some of the report’s key findings, which can be also found in the DIA media release, were a 25% increase in URL referrals being made to the DIA regarding online violent extremism, with X/Twitter, Telegram, and TikTok being the most common sources. The report also stated that the most commonly reported ideology type was ‘Identity motivated’, specifically “white-identity”. For a summary of the report, see 1News’ coverage.

UN CEDAW committee seeking feedback on women's participation in decision making

The committee for the United Nations Convention on the Elimination of All forms of Discrimination Against Women (UN CEDAW) is developing a new General Recommendation (GR 40) to provide guidance on reaching equal and inclusive representation of women in decision-making systems in both the public and private sectors. Comments have been invited on the draft general recommendation and must be in by 18 April 2024. Interested parties should submit their comments in a word document to ohchr-cedaw@un.org, with the subject line "Draft General Recommendation on EIRWDMS". 

NZFVC Quick Reads: 27 March 2024

Welcome to our Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

Video from NZFVC panel on coercive control and systemic entrapment

The video recording from our panel event, Recognising and responding to coercive control and systemic entrapment, is now available. Denise Wilson, Heather Douglas and Rachel Smith spoke about coercive control and systemic entrapment and how individuals, organisations and systems can better support victim-survivors. They were joined by Julia Tolmie for the question and answer. The video, slides and links to related reports and articles are available.

Call for abstracts for symposium of Māori experiences of intergenerational trauma, recovery and healing

Te Atawhai o Te Ao is hosting the 2024 He Pounga Waihoe nā ō Mātua Symposium — Symposium of Māori experiences of intergenerational trauma, recovery and healing in June 2024. The call for abstracts to present is open now. Abstracts are invited from current Master’s and doctoral Māori students, those who have completed their studies, community researchers, whānau, hapū, iwi, service providers and others who are interested in Māori experiences of intergenerational trauma and healing. Registration to attend is not yet open. Follow the Te Atawhai o Te Ao Facebook page for updates and details when registration is open.

New research on family violence risk from Women's Refuge

The National Collective of Women’s Refuges Inc is partway through the research project – Safer When, Safer How. The research is looking at family violence risk and what really works to make women safer. They have shared findings from looking at 3500 assessments of risk for women who reached out to Women's Refuges for assistance. The media release highlighted that "The data provided crucial insight into the many and varied ways that family violence perpetrators use coercion to get what they want. Most go unseen by others, but seriously impact how safe women and children can be, how healthy they can be, and what resources they can have even long after the violence stops."

MOJ published updated statistics

The Ministry of Justice (MOJ) has published the latest statistics on criminal convictions and sentencing for the 2023 calendar year. This includes data tables related to family violence and sexual violence. These data tables are updated every 6 months. MOJ also published a summary of Trends for people with finalised charges in court (2023). For more statistics related family violence and sexual violence, see our Statistics resources.

Mana Mokopuna report on children’s experiences of racism and ideas to end it

Mana Mokopuna – Children and Young People’s Commission published a new report “Without racism Aotearoa would be better”: Mokopuna share their experiences of racism and solutions to end it (2024). The report shares insights from conversations with 161 young people about their experiences of racism, how it is a barrier to living their best lives and their ideas for solutions. To learn more listen to interviews with Chief Children’s Commissioner Dr Claire Achmad on Waatea News and 531pi.

New website with info on youth legal rights and related report

The Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) launched a new Youth Tool Kete website which contains information about legal rights and responsibilities and how to get help from a real person at CAB. It covers key issues that young people ask about often including things like flatting, problems at work and wellbeing. Under wellbeing there is information about relationship issues, domestic violence and more. CAB also launched the report Youth Engagement with Citizens Advice Bureau: A CAB Spotlight Report on the issues facing young people in Aotearoa (2024). The report looks at the most common issues for people under age 25 who seek help from CAB.

National Rape & Sexual Abuse Crisis line 0800 88 33 00 – renamed

The National Rape & Sexual Abuse Crisis Line is the new name for the former National Support Line for Survivors of Sexual Abuse & Their Whanau. The toll free line, 0800 88 33 00, is now administered by the Wairarapa Rape & Sexual Abuse Collective Inc. Callers line are given a menu to connect directly to the specialist service providers in their area. See more background from the Wairarapa Rape & Sexual Abuse Collective Inc.

NZFVC Quick Reads: 14 March 2024

Welcome to our Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

Literature review, A Litany of Sound revisited, published

A literature review, Violence within whānau and mahi tūkino – A Litany of Sound revisited (2023), has been published by Te Pūkotahitanga – the Tangata Whenua Ministerial Advisory Group. Written by Professor Denise Wilson (Tainui, Ngāti Porou ki Harataunga, Whakatōhea, Ngāti Oneone, Ngāti Tūwharetoa), the review builds upon a previously unpublished resource developed for Interim Te Rōpū. The executive summary states that the review:

“provides current information, explores some areas raised in A Litany of Sound in greater detail and expands the context for Māori living with violence and mahi tūkino. Eliminating violence and mahi tūkino affecting whānau Māori must be a collective effort led by Māori. Addressing the contextual, historical and social conditions must underpin such an effort that enables the persistence of intergenerational violence and trauma within whānau Māori.”

The literature review is free to access online. More information on this work can be found in Te Pūkotahitanga’s media release. 

New article on economic abuse from NZ Family Violence Study data

Researchers at Waipapa Taumata Rau | University of Auckland have published an article on economic abuse in Aotearoa using data collected in the NZ Family Violence Study. Economic Abuse by An Intimate Partner and Its Associations with Women’s Socioeconomic Status and Mental Health (2024), by Brooklyn Mellar, Janet Fanslow, Pauline Gulliver, and Tracey McIntosh, was published in the Journal of Interpersonal Violence and is open access. Professor Janet Fanslow gave an interview about the study on RNZ. The University of Auckland have also published a media release about the article.

Aroha in action, updated and re-released

The Aroha in action booklet has been updated and re-released 15 years after its initial publication by Amokura Family Violence Consortium in Te Tai Tokerau and SKIP (now Tākai). The original author, Di Grennell MNZM, worked with Tākai on the updated edition. Grounded in concepts from te ao Māori, Aroha in action is a resource that aims to ensure that all mokopuna thrive in safe and nurturing environments. More information on the updated Aroha in action can be found in Tākai’s media release. Aroha in action can be ordered or downloaded for free from Tākai.

Interview about migrant victims of family violence and visa issues on RNZ

In an interview with RNZ, researchers and advocates, Dhilum Nightingale and Sarah Croskery-Hewitt have called for family violence visas to be made easier to obtain, citing the heavy evidential burden placed on victims when trying to obtain one. Nightingale and Croskery-Hewitt have featured in NZFVC webinars on issues related to immigration which are available on our website, including: Rights and needs of migrant victim-survivors of family violence within immigration policies and practices (2022); and Immigration policy and family violence: Findings from in-depth research (2023).

Applications open for Māori for scholarships and community writers awards

Te Atawhai o Te Ao: Independent Māori Institute for Environment and Health have opened their 2024 Scholarships and Community Writers Awards for submissions. The scholarships are available for Māori master’s and doctoral students and the writers awards are available for Māori community writers. The scholarships and writers awards are intended to support and contribute to the ‘He Pounga Waihoe nā ō Mātua’ research programme at Te Atawhai o Te Ao. More information on He Pounga Waihoe nā ō Mātua, alongside the application requirements and process can be found on the Applications for scholarships and community writers awards 2024 webpage. Applications close 8 April 2024.

Dates for 2024 pacific language weeks announced 

Te Manatū mō ngā Iwi ō te Moana-nui-ā-Kiwa | The Ministry for Pacific Peoples has announced the 2024 dates for the Pacific Language Weeks. A full list of the dates can be found on the Ministry for Pacific Peoples, Pacific Language Weeks page.

NZFVC Quick Reads: 8 March 2024

Welcome to our  Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

NZFVC Hei Oranga mō Tātou Pānui Raumati 2024

We have just published Hei Oranga mō Tātou Pānui Raumati 2024. This is the second issue of our new pānui which is focused on work and information we think will be particularly useful for kaimahi Māori. You can access the previous issue of Hei Oranga mō Tātou, as well as the previous issues of our monthly pānui, on our Previous pānui | newsletters page. To receive the Hei Oranga mō Tātou pānui in the future, join our mailing list.

New Australian report on coercive control

The Australian Institute of Family Studies has published a rapid literature review on coercive control: What the research evidence tells us about coercive control victimisation (2024). For information on coercive control from an Aotearoa perspective, see Julia Tolmie, Rachel Smith, and Denise Wilson’s recent work: Understanding Intimate Partner Violence: Why Coercive Control Requires a Social and Systemic Entrapment Framework (2023). The authors of this article along with Australian law professor Heather Douglas will be speaking at our free, in-person panel event on Recognising and responding to coercive control and systemic entrapment. There are still places available, registrations close Friday 8 March 2024. A video of the event will be made available on our website. Subscribe to our mailing list to be notified when the recording is available. 

'Talking Masculinities' free talks for teachers and youth workers

The Talking Masculinities research team will be hosting 4 free workshops across Aotearoa for teachers and youth workers in the month of March. Talking Masculinities aims to build the capacity of teachers and youth workers in Aotearoa to address misogynistic extremism and harmful narratives around gender among young people. The workshops will be held in Auckland on 20 March 2024, Wellington on 21 March 2024, Christchurch on 26 March 2024, and Dunedin on 27 March 2024. Alongside the workshops, the researchers are also conducting a short anonymous online research survey for teachers and those working with youth. The results of the survey will inform subsequent workshops and be used in academic presentations and publications.  Kris Taylor, one of the researchers for Talking Masculinities, was also involved in the project, Shifting the Line: Boys talk on gender, sexism and online ethics. 

Event and new Matike Mai website on constitutional transformation 

In memory of the late Dr Moana Jackson, the Designing Our Constitution 2024 conference is a 2-day hui that aims to continue the constitutional conversations sparked through Matike Mai Aotearoa, and which have carried on through the Māori Constitutional Convention 2021, Constitutional Kōrero 2022, the Power in Our Truth Conference 2023 and other forums. It builds on He whakaaro here whakaumu mō Aotearoa: the report of Matike Mai Aotearoa. The hui is taking place 2-4 April 2024 and is open for registration for both in-person and virtual attendance. This event is being organised in partnership by Te Kāhui Tika Tangata Human Rights Commission, the National Iwi Chairs Forum and Te Puna Rangahau o Te Wai Ariki | Centre for Indigenous Peoples and the Law, University of Auckland. Matike Mai Aotearoa have also launched a new website as “…a crucial step in promoting understanding and dialogue around Constitutional transformation for Aotearoa.” 

New Youth19 report on Pacific health and wellbeing 

The Youth19 Research Group has published Talavou o le Moana: The health and wellbeing of Pacific secondary school students in Aotearoa New Zealand: A Youth19 report (2024). This report summarises key findings for Pacific secondary school students in the areas of: ethnic and gender identity; family and faith; socioeconomic environments and housing; education; friends and community connections; physical, mental and sexual health; substance use; and healthcare access. An executive summary of the report and a video recording of the launch webinar, alongside the report itself, can be accessed on the Talavou o le Moana webpage. 

Update from Te Pūkotahitanga, Tangata Whenua Ministerial Advisory Group

Te Pūkotahitanga’s most recent update shares insights gathered from their last regional wānanga for 2023. This includes an approach to whānau transformation that draws upon the history and pūrākau of hapū to offer unique roadmaps for navigating daily life violence free. Te Pūkotahitanga is the Tangata Whenua Ministerial Advisory Group appointed in June 2022 to provide independent advice on the implementation of Te Aorerekura. 

Wānanga for Māori researchers

Rauika Māngai have organised Te Kura Roa: Creating Our Future for Mātauranga Māori and Science. Te Kura Roa is a free 2-day wānanga in Pōneke | Wellington running from 26-27 March 2024 and intends to bring Māori researchers, practitioners, and champions together to explore the future of mātauranga Māori and science. A multi-purpose report will be produced from this wānanga, consolidating the discussion which which will have taken place, to inform the sector and decision makers. Registration is still open and is required. Rauika Māngai is an assembly of representatives from the 11 National Science Challenges and Ngā Pae o te Māramatanga.

NZFVC Quick Reads: 1 March 2024

Welcome to our new Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. This is a new format and we welcome your feedback. Let us know what you think at info@nzfvc.org.nz. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

Te-Tiriti Based Futures and Anti-Racism 2024

Te Tiriti-based futures + Anti-racism 2024 is a free online conference in Aotearoa taking place 16-25 March 2024. The conference focus is Te Tiriti-based futures, anti-racism and decolonisation. Ani Mikaere will be speaking on “Colonialism, Racism and the Logic of Genocide”, Leonie Pihama on “He Waka Eke Noa: The Role of the State in perpetuating Violence on Māori”, and Tracy McIntosh on “The case for abolishing prisons”. The full programme and registration information can be found on the conference website.

Ombudsman report highlights concerns with Oranga Tamariki 

The Chief Ombudsman, Peter Boshier, recently released the report, Children in care: complaints to the Ombudsman 2019-2023 (2024). The report details the types and numbers of complaints to the Ombudsman about Oranga Tamariki, the emerging themes from the complaints, relevant case studies, and how the Ombudsman resolves issues for complainants and overall system improvement. The report also covers the recommendations the Ombudsman makes to Oranga Tamariki, and how and when Oranga Tamariki responds to these recommendations. See also the Ombudsman’s media release for the report.

International Women’s Day 2024, events related to gender-based violence

The 8th of March 2024 marks United Nations’ International Women’s Day. This year’s theme is "Invest in women: Accelerate progress" and includes 5 areas for global advocacy and activism to focus on: investing in women, a human rights issue; ending poverty; implementing gender-responsive financing; shifting to a green economy and care society; and supporting feminist change-makers. Many organisation around Aotearoa have organised events in support of IWD 2024, including the National Council of Women New Zealand Influence Action Hub who are hosting an online webinar on 8 March, Countering Misogyny: The Link Between Online Misogyny and Violent Extremism. On March 7, Shama Ethnic Women’s Trust are hosting their International Women’s Day 2024 National Zoom Gathering where guest speaker, Dhilum Nightingale, will share insights from her work at the intersection of family law and immigration law supporting migrant women victim/survivors of violence. For a select list of International Women’s Day Events in Aotearoa, see our dedicated event page. 

Te Rā o Ngā Tamariki | Children’s Day 2024

The 3rd of March 2024 marks Te Rā o Ngā Tamariki | Children’s Day 2024 in Aotearoa. This year’s theme is the whakataukī, “He taonga te tamaiti —children are our greatest gift”. The Te Rā o Ngā Tamariki website has a compiled a list of Children’s Day events taking place across Aotearoa, as well as community resources, and free downloadable resources for those thinking about hosting an event. Tākai, a one-stop hub for whānau supporters, has also provided a set of free downloadable resources for event organisers and whānau.

Information for families of children who are victims of online sexual exploitation

Te Tari Taiwhenua | The Department of Internal Affairs have published an information sheet, developed jointly with NZ Police, Customs, and Ministry of Justice, for non-offending partners and family members impacted by a child sexual exploitation investigation. The resource contains information on the court process as well as support services available to them. The information sheet was mentioned in the Te Tari Taiwhenua media release for the Digital Child Exploitation Team 2023 end of year reporting. More information on the process in Aotearoa for responding to online child sexual exploitation can be found on the Te Tari Taiwhenua webpage. 

New report on public attitudes about the internet

InternetNZ | Ipurangi Aotearoa have released their report, New Zealand’s Internet Insights 2023 (2023). This report, produced by Verian (formerly Kantar Public), explores the attitudes of internet users in Aotearoa towards the internet. Ipurangi Aotearoa highlighted in a media release for the report that there is growing concern about misleading information on the internet. In a separate media release, Ipurangi Aotearoa also highlighted the high level of concern found in their report about children’s access to harmful content and exposure to cyber bullying. Netsafe welcomed these findings in their media release and called for the Harmful Digital Communications Act to be strengthened in order to better protect young people.

NZFVC Quick Reads: 23 February 2024

Welcome to our new Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. This is a new format and we welcome your feedback. Let us know what you think at info@nzfvc.org.nz. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

Reports from Aotearoa researchers on child protection decisions

The Marsden Funded study, Producing facts: how is big data made? Exploring child protection reporting decisions and older people's health assessments, has published 2 reports and a preprint research article. Part of the study looked at the social processes of data production in child protection in Aotearoa. The publications are: Family and whānau experiences of being reported to Oranga Tamariki (2023); Decisions to report children to Oranga Tamariki by schools in Aotearoa: reasons, processes and outcomes (2023); and, The heuristic divergence between NGO reporters and child protection agencies: Negotiating risk amidst shifting sands (2023). The authors include Emily Keddell, Pauline Norris, Esther Willing, Donna Cormack, and Sarah Colhoun.

New report from the Child Poverty Action Group (CPAG) on children working to help their families

The Child Poverty Action Group (CPAG) has recently published a new report, Overloaded and Overlooked: Investigating how poverty drives school students into paid work (2024). The report investigates how poverty-driven student employment in Aotearoa is being monitored and measured, alongside what practical steps are being taken to help children in this situation.

New report from Office of the Auditor General on young people’s unmet mental health needs

The Office of the Auditor General (OAG) recently released the report, Meeting the mental health needs of young New Zealanders (2024). This report investigates the difference made for young people by the 33% increase in government spending on mental health and addiction services since 2018. In their official media release, the Auditor General called for coordinated action to meet the needs of young people. VOYCE – Whakarongo Mai welcomed the report and its recommendations in their media release. The Auditor General’s overview of the report, alongside a written and video summary can be found on the Meeting the mental health needs of young New Zealanders webpage.

Reports from Abuse in Care Inquiry

The Abuse in Care Royal Commission of Inquiry publicly released 2 independent research reports. The first report was authored by Max Rashbrooke and Angie Wilkinson and is titled, Cracks in the Dam: The social and economic forces behind the placement of children into care (2019). The second report was authored by Sharon Shalev and is titled, Uses and abuses of solitary confinement of children in State-run institutions in Aotearoa New Zealand (2022).

Salvation Army State of the Nation 2024 report released

The Salvation Army | Te Ope Whakaora has recently released their 2024 State of the Nation report, The Things We Inherit Ngā Tukunga Iho (2024). The report gives an updated national overview of trends and outcomes within several focus areas: children and youth, work and incomes, housing, social hazards, Māori wellbeing, and crime and punishment which includes reporting on family violence. The Salvation Army’s Cultural Advisor, Dr Gina Colvin-Ruwhiu, spoke to Waatea News about the report with a focus on the indicators for Māori wellbeing. The full report, a summary document, and an interactive data dashboard are accessible on the State of the Nation 2024 webpage.

NZFVC Quick Reads: 16 February 2024

Welcome to our new Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. This is a new format and we welcome your feedback. Let us know what you think at info@nzfvc.org.nz. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

Registration open for NZFVC event on coercive control

The New Zealand Family Violence Clearinghouse (NZFVC) is hosting a panel of experts from Aotearoa and Australia to speak on the topic of coercive control. The in-person panel event, Recognising and responding to coercive control and systemic entrapment, will be taking place on Monday 11 March, 5:30-7pm at Waipapa Taumata Rau, the University of Auckland City Campus. The event will be recorded and made available on our NZFVC website at a later date. More information can be found on our event page.

Best practice guidelines for Te Ao Mārama in courts

The Chief District Court Judge released the Te Ao Mārama Best Practice Framework (2023) for implementing the District Court’s Te Ao Mārama – Enhancing Justice for All initiative. The Framework outlines the foundational elements of Te Ao Mārama and how it will operate in the family, youth and criminal jurisdictions of the District Court. There is information related to court proceedings for Family Violence, Care and Protection and Care of Children.

Applications open for Niu Dawn Raids Funding Initiative grants

Applications have opened for the Niu Dawn Raids Funding Initiative grants. This is an opportunity for Pacific organisations or individuals to undertake large-scale professional artistic and historical work that captures and reflects community experiences of the Dawn Raids. Pasefika Proud notes that the funding is “…intended as a community-led process of healing through art and looks to increase historical resources for future generations and enable a deeper public understanding of the Dawn Raids from the perspective of Pacific communities.” Expressions of interest are due by Thursday 29 February 2024. 

Feedback invited on National Pacific Disability Action Plan  

Whaikaha – Ministry of Disabled People is developing a National Pacific Disability Plan and wants to hear from Pacific disabled people and their aiga or whānau. They are asking for feedback on how well the system and sector are working and what isn’t working. Whaikaha are organising a series of talanoa around the country between 15-28 February 2024. Get more information and the schedule for the talanoa. There will also be an online survey. For questions contact pacificpeoples@whaikaha.govt.nz.

Man Box 2024 findings from Australia

The Men’s Project has recently published The Man Box 2024: Re-examining what it means to be a man in Australia (2024). The study investigated the attitudes towards manhood and the behaviours of Australian men aged 18-45. Michael Flood, one of the Advisors to the Man Box 2024 research, commented on the study’s results, saying “…that there has been little change in the past five years in young men’s levels of endorsement of male aggression, stoicism, traditional divisions of household work, homophobia, and hypersexuality.” The full report, an executive summary, and several factsheets produced from the report can be accessed on The Man Box 2024 webpage. 

Independent Monitor report on agency compliance

Aroturuki Tamariki | Independent Children’s Monitor has released their third report on agency compliance with the National Care Standards Regulations, Experience of Care in Aotearoa 2022/2023 (2024). The report looks at whether agencies with custody and care responsibilities are complying with the Regulations and whether it is making a difference for children and young people in care. Both Chief Children’s Commissioner and VOYCE – Whakarongo Mai have raised concerns about the findings.

NZFVC Quick Reads: 2 February 2024

Welcome to our new Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. This is a new format and we welcome your feedback. Let us know what you think at info@nzfvc.org.nz. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

New resources on inclusive sport for Rainbow communities

Ihi Aotearoa | Sport NZ have released resources to support the sector to provide more inclusive opportunities for Rainbow communities. Developed in partnership with InsideOUT Kōaro, the educational resources include a three-part e-learning module, fact sheets on Rainbow awareness and inclusion, and an animated video highlighting the experiences of trans young people. These resources sit alongside the Guiding Principles: Inclusion of Transgender People in Community Sport (2022).

Te Pūtahitanga o Te Waipounamu funding applications open

Te Pūtahitanga o Te Waipounamu have opened applications for their WAVE 18 and their Tai Neke, Tai Ora funding rounds. Te Pūtahitanga o Te Waipounamu is the Whānau Ora Commissioning agency for Te Waipounamu | the South Island. The WAVE 18 fund is inviting applications that support Te Pūtahitanga o Te Waipounamu’s Whānau Ora outcomes, outlined in their 7 pou. The Tai Neke, Tai Ora fund is inviting applications that promote whānau hauora and build connections to te ao Māori. Applications for both funding rounds close 14 February 2024. See Te Pūtahitanga o Te Waipounamu’s media release for more information.

New resource on supporting men healing from sexual violence

The US-based National Sexual Violence Resource Centre has released Supporting Men in Healing from Sexual Violence: Tip Sheets for people and organisations who work with male victim/survivors. This is part of their Working with Male Survivors of Sexual Violence tool. The tip sheets cover: reaching men, addiction, transmasculine survivors, forensic exams, and incarcerated men. It also includes quick reference links for advocates working with men who are victim/survivors of sexual violence. Find local services for male survivors from Tautoko Tāne | Male Survivors Aotearoa. 

New reports related to Oranga Tamariki  

Three reports have been publicly released on the wellbeing of children in Oranga Tamariki care. Oranga Tamariki released their Safety of Children in Care: Annual Report, July 2022 to June 2023 (2023) which provides details on the nature and volume of harm experienced by children in care. Oranga Tamariki also released their Compliance Report against National Care Standards Regulations: 2022/2023 Financial Year (2024) which is Oranga Tamariki’s self-assessment of their compliance with the National Care Standards (NCS) Regulation 2018. The final report, Access to Primary Health Services and Dental Care: An in-depth look into the experiences of accessing primary health services and dental care for tamariki and rangatahi in care (2024), was published by Aroturuki Tamariki Independent Children’s Monitor and reports on Oranga Tamariki’s implementation of the NCS Regulations 2018 in relation to primary health and dental care.  Oranga Tamariki’s media release notes that more children and young people were harmed while in the care of Oranga Tamariki  in the period July 2022 and June 2023 compared to the previous reporting period. The Chief Children’s Commissioner Dr Claire Achmad responded to these findings in the Mana Mokupuna media release. 

New report on long covid and intimate partner violence

The Australia-based Long Shadow Pandemic project team at Monash University have published a new report, Disconnected & Insecure: the intersection between experiences of long COVID & intimate partner violence (2024). The project team have also published a summary of the report’s findings: How health and safety are compromised for people living with long COVID and intimate partner violence. 

NZFVC Quick Reads: 26 January 2024

Welcome to our Weekly Quick Reads. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. This is a new format and we welcome your feedback. Let us know what you think at info@nzfvc.org.nz. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

Wellington City Council launches sexual violence prevention plan 

The Wellington City Council (WCC), with funding from ACC, have produced the Preventing Sexual Violence in Pōneke Roadmap and Action Plan (2023). WCC is also partnering with ACC to host one of the Te Aorerekura Action 13 Primary Prevention Practitioner pilots. See the WCC webpage and WCC media release for more information.

Report on provider support for transgender and intersex individuals 

The Anti-Violence Resource Centre (ARC) has published a report about family violence and sexual violence sector readiness to provide services for transgender and intersex individuals seeking help:  ARC Readiness Assessment: transgender and intersex competency in violence prevention services (2023). The Anti-violence Resource Centre is a collaboration between Gender Minorities Aotearoa and Intersex Aotearoa. 

Two reports propose new approach to social services and persistent disadvantage

Two reports have outlined approaches to social services and persistent disadvantage that focus on iwi and local communities having power and resources to design and implement solutions for their communities. Self-determination in Te Tairāwhiti: Social services devolution – the roadmap and evidence (2023) is from Manaaki Tairāwhiti. Let it go: Devolving power and resources to improve lives (2023) is from the New Zealand Institute of Economic Research. For an overview of the 2 reports, see Newsroom’s article, Two reports challenge Govt to devolve power to help severely disadvantaged.

UN resources on engagement of older people

The UN Decade of Healthy Aging has published resources designed to increase the meaningful engagement and participation of older people in policy and decision making. The resources include a discussion paper on voice and meaningful engagement, a toolkit on the use of participatory video as a means to achieve meaningful engagement, and a series of case studies to show what meaningful engagement looks like across a variety of contexts. 

NZFVC Quick Reads: 12 January 2024

Welcome to our new Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. This is a new format and we welcome your feedback. Let us know what you think at info@nzfvc.org.nz. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

E Tū Whānau Rangatahi Film Challenge accepting applications

The 2024 E Tū Whānau Rangatahi Film Challenge have announced they are now accepting submissions to be screened at the E Tū Whānau Rangatahi Film Awards on 22 March 2024 in Ōtaki. Submissions are open to rangatahi between the ages of 12 and 24. The film should be no longer than 5 minutes and must present the creator’s perspectives as young person in Aotearoa, using one of the 6 E Tū Whānau values as their starting point. The deadline for submission is 20 February 2024. The Rangatahi Film Challenge seeks to foster the next generation of Māori leaders in the film industry. Follow this link for more information on the submission process.

Final report for He Waka Eke Noa published

The final report, He Waka Eke Noa: Māori Cultural Frameworks for Violence Prevention and Intervention (2023), published and hosted by Tū Tama Wahine o Taranaki, is now available. The project emerged out of a desire from Iwi and Māori service providers for a greater understanding of the role of cultural frameworks of violence for prevention and intervention. The Kaupapa Māori project focused on Māori understandings of wellbeing and how it is affected by violence. He Waka Eke Noa also features the first national Māori survey focused on experiences of violence. 

Review of qualifications relating to family violence

Toitū te Waiora | Community Health Education and Social Services, one of the 6 Workforce Development Councils, is reviewing 8 Health and Wellbeing qualifications. Toitū te Waiora are asking for feedback through a survey. Included in the 8 qualifications being reviewed is the New Zealand Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Level 3) which includes the Integrated Practice (Family and Whānau Harm) strand, the New Zealand Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Social and Community Services) (Level 4), and the New Zealand Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Peer Support) (Level 4).  Follow the link to register your interest and take part in the Health and Wellbeing Survey.

Social Workers Registration Board consult on proposed increase to fees and levy

The Social Workers Registration Board (SWRB) is consulting on proposals to change their fees and the disciplinary levy for social workers. The SWRB have organised 2 Zoom question and answer sessions on 18 and 23 January 2024 and a document with the information on the proposed changes and consultation. Links to these, as well as information on how to submit feedback, can be found at the SWRB Fees and Disciplinary Levy: Consultation 2023 webpage. The closing date for submissions has been extended to 7 February 2024.

Oranga Tamariki section 7aa 2023 progress report

Oranga Tamariki released their Section 7AA report – Improving outcomes for tamariki Māori 2023 in December 2023. The report shows “incremental” progress is being made to improve outcomes for tamariki, rangatahi, their whānau, Hapū and Iwi. For more information, see Waatea News’ coverage, Slow progress in Oranga Tamariki reform.  

New report from VOYCE – Whakarongo Mai on Oranga Tamariki Complaints Process

VOYCE – Whakarongo Mai were commissioned by Oranga Tamariki, as part of the Manaaki Kōrero programme, to answer the question: What do tamariki, rangatahi and whānau need to feel safe, comfortable and confident raising their needs and concerns and providing feedback to Oranga Tamariki? The final report, Manaaki Kōrero: He mana Tamariki, He mana whānau, He mana tangata e! (2023), shares the insights and experiences of 61 tamariki and rangatahi and 38 caregivers and whānau speaking on what is needed for a feedback and complaints system that is “fit-for-whānau”. See our related news story Oranga Tamariki: how to make a complaint, new reports and related news.

Netsafe’s 2023 Annual Population Survey results reveal state of digital harm in Aotearoa 

Netsafe has released its 2023 Annual Population Survey results, revealing the state of digital harm in Aotearoa. Four reports were produced from the survey results covering Trended results, Online hate speech, the Māori population, and the General population. These highlight that Māori, people under 30, people who are neurodiverse, and the LGBTQIA+ community are disproportionately affected by digital harm in Aotearoa. For commentary from Amokura Panoho, Pou Tātaki Mātauranga Māori at Netsafe, responding to the survey findings, see her interview with Te Ao news, Nearly half of Māori experience online harm, survey finds. For more information, see Netsafe’s media release on the results. 

IHC report highlights health and wellbeing outcomes for people with intellectual disabilities, including violence related outcomes

A new report released by the IHC Group, From Data to Dignity: Health and Wellbeing Indicators for New Zealanders with Intellectual Disability (2023), reveals people with intellectual disabilities are experiencing “poorer outcomes across a wide range of social and economic outcomes.” The IHC group supports and advocates for people with intellectual disabilities. Key findings for the violence sector, highlighted in the report’s media release, include: “parents with an intellectual disability are 15 times more likely to have their child placed into state care than general population”; “almost 20% of children with an intellectual disability were reported by police as being present during a domestic violence call”; and, “intellectually disabled people are 3.3 times more likely to be a victim of crime”.

2023 study finds IPV rates high across all ethnic groups, but significant disparities exist for Māori 

A new article drawing on the He Koiora Matapopore | 2019 NZ Family Violence Study, Ethnic-specific prevalence rates of intimate partner violence among women in New Zealand (2023) has been published in the Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health. The study found that lifetime prevalence of intimate partner violence across all ethnic groups in Aotearoa is high, with over half of all women reporting any intimate partner violence (55.8%). Though, substantial ethnic disparities exist, with wāhine Māori reporting the highest prevalence of intimate partner violence (64.6%), followed by NZ European women (61.6%). For other related articles, see our entry covering He Koiora Matapopore on our website.

Shama Ethnic Women’s Trust releases results of the evaluation of their Sexual Violence Prevention (SVP) Programme

Shama Ethnic Women’s Trust have released the report, Evaluation of the Sexual Violence Prevention Programme (2023). The evaluation’s purpose was to gauge the impact of their Sexual Violence Prevention programme for its participants and the communities they represent. 

Report from Australian insurer shows insurance products often used to coerce and control victim-survivors of violence

A new report from Australia, Understanding family violence and the risks of insurance (2023), published by the insurer, Allianz Australia, found that insurance products were being used commonly by perpetrators of violence to exert control over the victim-survivor. The report details the top 7 insurance issues and related consumer risk for those experience family violence. The examples include claims being declined due to damage being intentionally caused by a perpetrator named on the policy, or by someone invited into the customer’s home. They also provided a toolkit to help protect victim-survivor’s assets should they chose to separate from the person perpetrating the violence. See an overview of the research findings in the ABC News article Stealing cars, hiding keys, cancelling insurance: UNSW study reveals how domestic violence perpetrators use cars to control and intimidate.

Quick Reads: 13 December 2023

Welcome to our new Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. This is a new format and we welcome your feedback. Let us know what you think at info@nzfvc.org.nz. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

High Court judge determines Family Court decision unfair in Mrs P case

A High Court judge has set aside a Family Court relationship property decision saying "Unfairness is the inescapable conclusion here." Mrs P was a victim of domestic violence who was wrongly convicted of perjury. The conviction was quashed by the Court of Appeal in 2020. Her case gained attention through media reports and an open letter from 70 academics and domestic violence experts calling on the Prime Minister to address the miscarriage of justice and ensure the courts respond safely and effectively to protect victim-survivors. See the full High Court decision, W v W - [2023] NZHC 3491, on the Ngā Kōti o Aotearoa | Courts of New Zealand website. For more information see the RNZ article Woman vindicated after High Court rules Family Court judge acted unfairly and the Stuff article Family Court Judge in 'Mrs P' hearing acted unfairly - High Court.

Resource for parents and caregivers to talk with kids about sexuality, gender and safety

Hohou Te Rongo Kahukura — Outing Violence has created Kōrero mai | Talk to me, an online portal with information to help talk with kids about sexuality, gender and safety. It's designed for parents, caregivers, aunties, uncles, grandparents, older siblings, teachers, coaches or anyone else who has children in their life. It includes videos from parents and people talking about their experiences. There are also tip sheets for grandparents, solo parents, parents of disabled children, and keeping Rainbow children safe in a Christian faith environment. 

Report on improving the Code of Practice for Online Safety and Harms

Te Kāhui Tika Tangata | Human Rights Commission published the independent report, How to improve the Aotearoa New Zealand Code of Practice for Online Safety and Harms? (2023). The report looks at how the Code of Practice could be improved to address Te Tiriti and human rights. The Code is a voluntary code signed by Meta (Facebook and Instagram), Google (YouTube), Tiktok, Twitch, and Twitter (now X) to guide how these tech companies manage online harm in Aotearoa. In 2024 the Code will be reviewed. Community groups have previously raised concerns about the Code. Anjum Rahman, Founder and Project Co-Lead of Inclusive Aotearoa Collective Tāhono, spoke with radio 531pi about the report and issues with the Code. Aliya 'Allyn' Danzeisen, National Coordinator for Islamic Women's Council New Zealand, was recently interviewed about digital responsibility and the part the government needs to play.

Indigenous data sovereignty primer

Tahu Kukutai has published the short article Indigenous data sovereignty—A new take on an old theme (2023). It says "Indigenous Data Sovereignty (IDSov) is a rallying cry for Indigenous communities seeking to regain control over their information while pushing back against data colonialism and its myriad harms." The article provides an overview of Indigenous data sovereignty initiatives in Aotearoa and globally. This includes regulatory mechanisms that enable Indigenous Peoples to directly control and benefit from their information. 

New documentary: Pasifika people's experiences of abuse in care

Tagata Pasifika has published the documentary Our Country's Shame. It shares the experiences of 6 Pasifika people telling their stories of surviving abuse in care. They gave evidence at the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse In Care. The documentary is free to watch online.

Quick Reads: 5 December 2023

Welcome to our new Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. This is a new format and we welcome your feedback. Let us know what you think at info@nzfvc.org.nz. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

Save the date for 2024 national sexual violence and family violence conferences

Te Kupenga Whakaoti Mahi Patunga | National Network of Family Violence Services have announced the 2024 Aotearoa Family Violence Conference will take place 29 - 30 May 2024 in Te Whanganui-a-Tara | Wellington. Further details will be available soon. Contact conference@nnsvs.org.nz for questions.

Te Ohaakii a Hine – National Network Ending Sexual Violence Together (TOAH-NNEST) has announced the national sexual violence conference will be the 19-20 November 2024 at Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre. Follow the TOAH-NNEST Facebook page for future updates.

Report from Connections! Hui 2023

Shama has published a report summarising the discussions and findings from the Connections! Hui 2023 and community mapping organisation resource. The Connections! Hui bring together ethnic community organisers and practitioners working in family violence and sexual violence. This is the 3rd hui. It focused on continuing to develop culturally appropriate support services to prevent and respond to family violence and sexual violence, with a focus on different populations within ethnic communities and areas of work. The report summarises achievements and progress since 2019, and improvement opportunities for 7 areas: community engagement and collaboration, cultural competence and sensitivity, expanding the work in prevention, accessible and inclusive services, trauma-informed care, legal and policy development, and research and data collection.

Report on wellbeing for Pacific Women

Pacific Allied (Women’s) Council Inspires Faith Ideals Concerning All Incorporated (PACIFICA Inc) published the report A Wellbeing Report Voices from Pacific Women and Girls in Aotearoa, New Zealand (2023). PACIFICA Inc surveyed Pacific women and girls, aged between 13 to 78 years, and held talanoa to hear their perspectives about the challenges they face, their strengths and their hopes and goals for the future. For more information see the Pasefika Proud story Being heard – voices from Pacific women and girls, the news story from Te Manatū mō ngā Iwi ō te Moana-nui-ā-Kiwa | Ministry for Pacific Peoples, the article from Tagata Pasifika on PACIFICA Inc reveal new report that looks to elevate voice of Pacific women in New Zealand and interview with Repeka Lelaulu, President of PACIFICA Inc on 531pi.

Applications open to join Government Delegation to CSW68

Manatū Wāhine | Ministry for Women is inviting applications from individuals, academics and representatives of non-government organisations (NGOs) to join the official Aotearoa New Zealand Government delegation to the 68th session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW68). The CSW is the highest-level annual international forum on gender equality and women’s empowerment. The priority theme for CSW68 is Accelerating the achievement of gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls by addressing poverty and strengthening institutions and financing with a gender perspective. Applications close on 8 January 2024. See more information from Manatū Wāhine on the Commission on the Status of Women.

Research reports and guides related to abuse of older people (Australia)

The Government of Western Australia published 2 reports: Everyone’s business: Research into responses to the abuse of older people (elder abuse) in Western Australia Report (2023) and Research into the mistreatment of older Aboriginal Australians - 2022 report. They also published Best practice guidelines for interviewing older people at risk (2023). For more information see the Conversation article About 1 in 6 older Australians experiences elder abuse. Here are the reasons they don’t get help.

Quick Reads: 29 November 2023

Welcome to our new Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. This is a new format and we welcome your feedback. Let us know what you think at info@nzfvc.org.nz. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

Government Ministers and coalition agreements announced

The new Government was announced on 24 November 2023 with a 3-party coalition of National, ACT and New Zealand First. Karen Chhour is the new Minister for the Prevention of Family and Sexual Violence and Minister for Children. For other appointments, see the full Ministerial list. In announcing the new Government coalition, incoming Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said "The coalition documents between National and ACT, and National and New Zealand First, provide for both ACT and New Zealand First to support the major elements of National’s policy programme including our 100-day plan, our 100-point economic plan, and our tax and fiscal plans, with some adjustments." For specific policy details see the National Party and ACT New Zealand coalition agreement and the National Party and New Zealand First coalition agreement. New Finance Minister Nicola Willis said a mini budget would be released before Christmas.

Update: Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has released the new Government's 100 day plan with 49 action points. The Green Party, Labour Party and Te Pāti Māori have announced their allocation of portfolios.

2023 Youth Statement from Race Unity Hui

The National Race Unity Hui is a space for Aotearoa young people and their supporters to build a shared vision of the future of race relations in Aotearoa. The national Hui was held in Auckland in June 2023. Regional Hui were also held in Taranaki, Rotorua and Hamilton. From the Hui a Youth Statement is developed to present the views of participants on the root causes of racism and potential solutions to eradicate racism in Aotearoa. Read the 2023 Race Unity Hui statement: Awhihia Te Rito — Nurture the Young.

Gender-Based Violence Teaching Toolkit (Canada)

The recent Conversation article, Gender-based violence: Teaching about its root causes is necessary to address it, highlighted a toolkit from Canada and the research to support the development of the toolkit. The Gender-Based Violence Teaching Toolkit and resources were developed to support secondary-school teachers in Ontario, Canada. Topics include intimate partner violence, sexual assault, consent and healthy relationships, human trafficking, transphobia and homophobia, gender policing, cisnormativity and heteronormativity, and missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and Two-Spirit people.

Research on respectful relationships education (Australia)

ANROWS published findings from research looking at respectful relationships education intervention in the report, A social network analysis and implementation study of an intervention designed to advance social and emotional learning and respectful relationships in secondary schools (2023). The research found students and teachers found the programme useful, but many teachers faced barriers to teaching the programme. The research also identified findings about the gendered nature of student relationships and the influence of those relationships on attitudes towards gender equality and gender-based violence. Learn more in the ANROWS webinar and the Guardian article ‘Desensitised’: calls for better education after research suggests Victorian boys less likely to stop harassment.

Technology Facilitated Gender-Based Violence and AI from UNESCO

A side event of the 42nd session of the UNESCO General Conference looked at AI and technology facilitated gender-based violence. The event included an overview of the UNESCO report, Technology-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence in an Era of Generative AI. The report looks at the risk of violence through AI. It includes recommendations for content distributors, content generators, policymakers, platform users, and civil society and researchers. For more information watch a recording of the event and see the UN Women brief overview of technology facilitated gender-based violence.

Quick Reads: 24 November 2023

Welcome to our new Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. This is a new format and we welcome your feedback. Let us know what you think at info@nzfvc.org.nz. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

New report on sexual offending against children 

The report, Identifying and understanding child sexual offending behaviour and attitudes among Australian men (2023), measured the prevalence of offending and risk behaviours and attitudes among a representative sample of 1,945 Australian men over 18 years of age. The executive summary highlights key findings including almost one in five (19.6%) Australian men in the study have sexual feelings for children and/or have sexually offended against children. It also looks at the different behaviours, attitudes and demographics for men who offend against children. It highlights that 29.6% of men with sexual feelings towards children want help. For more information, see the Guardian article One in 10 Australian men report having sexual contact with under-18s, study finds and the Sydney Morning Herald article The shocking number of Australian men sexually attracted to children and teens.

Corrections changes policy on community notifications in response to report

Corrections has made changes to their community notification policy, including changes related to sex offenders. The changes are in response to recommendations from an independent report by Dr Gwenda Willis, Independent Review of Ara Poutama’s Community Notification and Engagement Process (2023). The review was prompted by the murder of Julianna Bonilla-Herrera by her neighbour who was on parole following his release from prison 10 weeks prior to the murder. Corrections has accepted all 7 recommendations from the report, including expanding their community notification criteria to include adult sex offenders. For more information see the NZ Herald article Corrections to tell communities about more resident offenders.

New report about Pacific Rainbow people in Aotearoa

The Manalagi Survey Community Report: Examining the Health and Wellbeing of Pacific Rainbow+ Peoples in Aotearoa-New Zealand (2023) launched. The report shares findings from an Aotearoa survey of 750 Pacific Rainbow+ individuals and their allies. The survey asked questions about physical and mental health, support systems, family and disclosure, and religion, spirituality and community. Infographics for key finding are also available from the Manalagi Project website. RNZ spoke to principal investigator Seuta'afili Dr Patrick Thomsen about the findings. Dr. Patrick Tomsen also wrote a summary for E-Tangata.

Video recordings available from He Waka Eke Noa presentations

Video recordings of the webinars launching the findings from the He Waka Eke Noa research project are available. There were 9 webinars that covered contextualising and defining whānau violence, tikanga approaches to prevention and intervention, and He Waka Eke Noa: Findings and meanings. He Waka Eke Noa is a co-designed Kaupapa Māori project that is driven by Iwi and Māori social service provider aspirations to investigate the role of cultural frameworks in strengthening family and sexual violence prevention and intervention policies, practices and programmes.

Possible international forum on domestic violence and Hague Convention

The Eighth Meeting of the Special Commission on the Practical Operation of the 1980 Child Abduction Convention and the 1996 Child Protection Convention took place in October 2023 at the Hague. The meeting included discussion of issues related to domestic violence and the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction. The Conclusions and Recommendations notes the Special Commission supports the proposal of the UN Secretary General " to hold a forum that would allow for discussions amongst organisations representing parents and children, and those applying the Convention. ...The agenda of the forum, which would focus on the issue of domestic violence in the context of Article 13(1)(b), would be prepared by a representative Steering Committee" (see paragraph 26). The forum would ideally take place in 2024 and the Philippines offered to host the forum.

Quick Reads: 16 November 2023

Welcome to our new Quick Reads format. Each week we share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. This is a new format and we welcome your feedback. Let us know what you think at info@nzfvc.org.nz. See all past NZFVC Quick reads.

New fund for ethnic communities prevention activities

The Ministry of Social Development (MSD) has launched the Ethnic Communities Innovation Fund to promote the safety and wellbeing of ethnic people by supporting community-driven initiatives for preventing family and sexual violence. The fund is open to all ethnic groups across Aotearoa New Zealand for the prevention of family and sexual violence. Organisations can apply for up to $45,000 for a 12 month period. Applications are due by 9 December 2023. See more information about MSD's Ethnic Communities Violence Prevention programme including the updated ‘Our Culture, Our Pride: No Excuse for Abuse’ – Ethnic communities family violence booklet.

New report on youth experiences of sexual violence

Let's Talk Consent NZ has published the report, Youth Experiences of Sexual Violence in Aotearoa (2023), in collaboration with YWCA Auckland, HELP Auckland and Women’s Refuge. The report summarises themes and findings from 300 testimonies of young people's experiences of sexual violence and their perspectives on consent lessons taught in school. The report makes recommendations with a focus on 2 areas: improving school responses to disclosures and promoting consent culture. See the media articles for more information and interviews with the report's author, Genna Hawkins-Boulton: Schools struggling to deal with sexual violence (RNZ), Young victims of sexual violence speak of lack of support in schools (The Post) and watch an interview from Te Ao Māori News (at 24 minutes).

New report highlights issue for schools

In the report, Secondary principals’ perspectives from NZCER's 2022 National Survey of Schools (2023), principals identified "Providing support for vulnerable students (e.g., wellbeing or mental health needs)" as the top issue facing schools. Rangahau Mātauranga o Aotearoa | New Zealand Council for Educational Research runs the national survey every 3 years. RNZ reported that Sarah Maindonald, President of the Association of Counsellors, responded to the report highlighting that school counsellors are struggling to keep up with demand.

Review highlights Linda Tuhiwai Smith's Whatumanawa Collection as important tool

In her Spinoff review of Linda Tuhiwai Smith’s Whatumanawa Collection, Rangimarie Sophie Jolley writes "These are not bedtime stories about fairies and dragons – these are tools, tailor-made resources designed to support complex conversations amongst whānau." Linda Tuhiwai Smith published a series of illustrated books for tamariki. The books explore a range of issues to help tamariki understand and process trauma. The books cover domestic violence, child abuse, suicide of a sibling, death of a baby and a mother’s long term illness. 

New UN report on the impact of counter-terrorism on civil society

A report has been published from the Global Study on counter-terrorism and civic space by Fionnuala Ní Aoláin, the UN Special Rapporteur on counter-terrorism and human rights. The Special Rapporteur integrated a critical feminist analysis in her approach to the report, Global Study on the Impact of Counter-Terrorism on Civil Society and Civic Space (2023). The report notes that the Special Rapporteur adopted "...a broad understanding of gender as it manifests and functions in society" and "...the Global Study analyzes the specific ways that counter-terrorism measures target women, men, girls, and boys and is experienced first-hand by gender minorities." 

Quick Reads: 7 November 2023

Welcome to our new Quick Reads format. Each week we will share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. This is a new format and we welcome your feedback. Let us know what you think at info@nzfvc.org.nz. We will continue to publish our longer in-depth news stories as well.

Feedback invited on care records

Archives New Zealand is asking for feedback on what is defined as a care record. They are also asking for feedback about protecting or keeping records. This includes records related to state care and non-state care, like faith-based care. Feedback is due by 18 November 2023. The Abuse in Care Royal Commission of Inquiry has recommended the Crown urgently look at the rules about keeping care records and how they are managed. Te Rua Mahara o te Kāwanatanga Archives New Zealand and the Crown Response to the Abuse in Care Inquiry have developed a definition of what is a care record. They are asking for feedback on this definition and your opinion about keeping records. You can complete a survey online or email rkconsultation@dia.govt.nz. You can find more information from Archives New Zealand or see the media release from Te Tari Taiwhenua | Department of Internal Affairs.

New kaupapa Māori website to educate and prevent mahi tūkino

Te Puna Oranga have launched a new website Mauri Oho to help educate and prevent mahi tūkino (sexual violence). Mauri Oho focuses on eight kōwae (sections) to help people and their whānau gain knowledge, understanding, and awareness about mahi tūkino. Mauri Oho is an online learning platform based on the Whakatōkia te Kākano o te Hā resource booklet. The booklet was developed by Te Puna Oranga alongside whānau in 2014 to address the lack of kaupapa Māori mahi tūkino prevention resources. Te Puna Oranga is a kaupapa Māori family violence and sexual violence service provider based in Ōtautahi | Christchurch. Find more information about Mauri Oho in the September 2023 update from Te Puna Aonui.

New brief: Takatāpui youth voices from Youth19 survey

The Youth19 team and collaborators have published a new brief, Takatāpui Voices on what is needed for bright futures: A Youth19 Brief (2023). The report describes rangatahi Takatāpui as "Māori young people who are takatāpui, LGBTQIA+, queer, rainbow,nonbinary or questioning their gender identity". The brief explores themes from rangatahi Takatāpui students’ open-text responses in the Youth19 survey. It includes responses to questions about things that could be changed to make things better for young people in Aotearoa including changes at home or in family life, at school and in general.

Respectful relationships programme for Rainbow young people

InsideOUT Kōaro and RainbowYOUTH developed a respectful relationships programme for Rainbow rangatahi and young people. The programme, Aro ki te hā, is a 6-week exploration of respectful relationships with whenua, self and each other. The programme was developed with the involvement of a rōpū of young people that advised and shared decision making around the program’s content and delivery. The collective document, Tentacular Kōrero, shares the journey of developing the programme through stories, whakaaro, kōrero and mauri. The team also published the Aro ki te hā research report. Learn more about the development of the Aro ki te hā from the Rainbow Violence Prevention Network.

Youthline report

State of the Generation Report 2023 summarises findings from a survey of young people. The survey asked questions about what issues and challenges young people are facing, the impact of social media on young people's lives and how young people access support. Youthline commissioned the survey and report from Kantar Public.

UK documentary on deepfakes and image based abuse

RNZ highlighted a new documentary that tells the story of one woman's experiences of discovering her face has been digitally edited on to images of women on a porn website. The documentary, My Blonde GF: the experience of being deepfaked for pornography, is available from UK-based The Guardian. RNZ interviewed the filmmaker Rosie Morris about making the film.

Quick Reads: 1 November 2023

Welcome to our new Quick Reads format. Each week we will share selected news bites relevant to family violence and sexual violence in Aotearoa. This is a new format and we welcome your feedback. Let us know what you think at info@nzfvc.org.nz. We will continue to publish our longer in-depth news stories as well.  

New podcast focuses on sexual safety for Deaf, disabled or neurodivergent children

HELP Auckland and Rape Prevention Education have launched The Courage Club — a series of recorded podcasts for parents or caregivers of Deaf, disabled or neurodivergent children about sexual safety. The goal is to encourage brave conversations about disability and sexual safety. The podcasts cover talking about the awkward stuff, helping tamariki to understand their body and their needs, navigating carers and visitors in and out of the home, building the foundations for their positive sexual wellbeing and identity, and practical steps.

Launch of Moui Olaola, National Niue Strategic Wellbeing Plan 2023-2025

Niue communities in Aotearoa New Zealand and Pasefika Proud launched Moui Olaola, National Niue Strategic Wellbeing Plan 2023-2025 in October 2023. Moui Olaola outlines 5 strategic wellbeing priorities along with strategic wellbeing national actions and ongoing regional actions. Also see the previously launched Lalawa Ni Tiko Vinaka: the National Fijian Wellbeing Plan 2022-2025 and Kāiga Tokelau Wellbeing National Strategic Plan 2022-2026.

E Tū Whānau cards promote values

E Tū Whānau has created pass-along cards that summarise the 6 E Tū Whānau values and encourage kōrero of what the value look like in practice. The 6 values are aroha, whanaungatanga, whakapapa, mana manaaki, kōrero awhi and tikanga. The cards and related resources can be ordered through the E Tū Whānau website or by emailing admin@etuwhanau.org.nz.

Indigenous women speak about rise in online violence

Wāhine Māori and Indigenous women spoke at the trans-Tasman online safety conference, co-hosted by Netsafe and Australia's eSafety Commissioner, about the rise in online violence targeted Indigenous women. The panel included Taaniko Nordstrom, Linda Clay, and Kayla Cartledge, and was led by Amokura Panoho, a member of Te Pūkotahitanga, the Tangata Whenua Ministerial Advisory Group. Recent media from the NZ Herald (The harsh and unregulated reality of online safety for Indigenous women) and Stuff ('Rampant' increase of digital harm on Indigenous women, conference told) highlighted comments from the speakers included in their lived experience. Waatea News interviewed Amokura Panoho (Amokura Panoho | Member of Te Pūkotahitanga) and Te Karere interviewed Amokura Panoho and Kayla Cartledge (Indigenous women share racist online experiences at conference).

Report from Disinformation Project identifies rising anti-Māori racism, with significant impact to wāhine Māori

The Disinformation Project published Race and rage: Examining rising anti-Māori racism and white supremacist ideologies in Aotearoa New Zealand in October 2023. The report shows that disinformation is contributing to a rise in anti-Māori racism and exposure to white supremacist beliefs in Aotearoa New Zealand. Kate Hannah, Director and Founder of The Disinformation Project, said "As we’ve seen this week, these offline harms are having the most impact on wāhine Māori, and our research echoes this." For more information listen to the interviews with Kate Hannah on Waatea News and Te Ao Māori News.

Kapa haka competition supports kaimahi wellbeing

The NZ Herald highlighted a kapa haka competition in Waikato, hosted by Tuu Oho Mai to connect kaimahi, both Māori and tauiwi,  in the private and public sector with how culture can offer healing. Poata Watene is the CEO of Tuu Ohu Mai Services and member of Te Pūkotahitanga, the Tangata Whenua Ministerial Advisory Group. He said "Our why was really simple, it was about using kapa haka as a vehicle to give all our kaimahi across the sector greater insights into the benefits of how we use culture to heal." Tuu Oho Mai is a Te Ao Māori Family Violence specialist service provider who works with whānau and families affected by family violence.