Todd Talks By Todd Muller

Family violence is one of those issues that elicits a singularly strong reaction from many in NZ. It is unacceptable, and those who perpetrate violence against others, particularly those who should be closest to them, require tough consequences.

While we have the lowest crime rate in 35 years, violent crime is not falling as fast.

About half of all homicides in New Zealand are a result of family violence, and about half of all violent offence charges in the courts relate to family violence.

Addressing our nation's high rate of family violence is a crucial part of our commitment to deliver better public services for New Zealand families.

We want to ensure our homes are safe places for all women, children and men, and ensure victims are not re-victimised.

We've announced a cross-Government package to strengthen efforts across Justice, Police, Corrections and Courts to improve the safety of family violence victims and make services more responsive to their individual needs.

We will establish a Chief Victims Advisor to advise the Minister of Justice on the needs and views of victims of crime.

We will trial an intensive case management service to provide specialist support for family violence victims at high risk of serious harm or death.

We will establish a nationwide home safety service to empower women to leave violent relationships.

We will trial mobile safety alarms with GPS technology for victims, so they can immediately notify Police of an emergency and their location; and introduce legislation to allow courts to stipulate GPS monitoring on high-risk family violence offenders.

We will also explore the possibility of a conviction disclosure scheme, which would allow people to ask whether their partner has a history of violence.

Concerned third parties, such as parents, would also be able to request this information so long as they have good reason to.

Our initiatives will improve awareness, support and protection for victims, and will make them strong.