Scott Simpson Coromandel MP

Nobody deserves to be a victim of crime. Not here in the Bay, not anywhere in the Coromandel electorate and not anywhere in New Zealand.

Since 2008 the Government has been working hard to put victims at the heart of our justice system, because we know they deserve and need our support.

Laws can't change the past, or take away the pain victims may have suffered, but they can provide protection and support services.

So I was pleased to work on and support the Victims of Crime Reform Bill during my time as Chair of Parliament's Justice select committee.

The result is new laws that give victims a greater voice in our criminal justice system.

Victims are now able to read their victim impact statements to the court at the judge's discretion, and can include photos to show the impact of the offending.

If a victim wants to meet with their offender, they must be allowed access to restorative justice services, which enable these meetings, where possible.

National is expanding restorative justice – with services having received $4.4 million in extra operating funding during two years for an extra 2400 restorative justice conferences.

These changes help empower victims so they can start to heal and move forward with their lives and are steps I strongly support.

The experience of crime and its aftermath can be extremely stressful for victims and their families. We want them to feel safe in their homes and communities.

I'm very proud to be part of a Government committed to creating a justice system that treats victims with dignity and respect, and ensures they are supported, their rights are protected, and their voices are strong.