Justice releases Domestic Violence Act discussion document

The Ministry of Justice today released the discussion document A Review of the Domestic Violence Act 1995 and Related Legislation, saying that it and the work it represents is part of the Ministry’s continuing focus on reducing family violence in New Zealand.

Families and Communities Manager Justine Cornwall said, “We can be proud that New Zealand has a comprehensive set of laws designed to protect women, children and men from violence in the home. However, we cannot be complacent about family violence as the number of reported domestic violence incidents increases each year.

“Research tells us that family violence does not discriminate. Its impact resonates through all sectors of the community. It affects families from all cultures, classes, backgrounds and socio-economic circumstances.

“The Ministry consulted with government agencies, the judiciary and representative interest groups to obtain an up-to-date picture of how the legislation is working. We found that most support the principles and framework of the Act but identified some areas where the Act could be strengthened.

“The Ministry is now consulting as widely as possible before developing proposals to amend this significant piece of legislation. It is important that everyone who is interested has the opportunity to make suggestions for change and to have their views acknowledged.”

The discussion document is available on the Ministry of Justice website www.justice.govt.nz. Submissions close on 28 January 2008.

ENDS

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