19 July 2008 Media Statement

Breaking the Cycle of Violence

Youth Affairs Minister Nanaia Mahuta said the Global Youth Encounter Conference in Ohope, is a step in the right direction in breaking the cycle of family violence.

“This conference is a great initiative and I welcome the effort that is going into sending a clear message that we want homes within our communities free of violence and safe for families,” said Nanaia Mahuta.

“Every year the Police deal with more than 70,000 calls about family violence. That’s about one call every seven and a half minutes. These instances of family violence are happening across all cultures and social classes.”

“The stark truth is: family violence affects us all.”

The Global Youth Encounter Conference aims to find out what is happening in communities here and overseas, share some experiences of violence in Aotearoa New Zealand and how young people can and do respond.

In June 2005 the Taskforce for Action on Violence within Families was set up to advise the government on how to eliminate family violence in New Zealand.

“Reducing family violence is an important priority for the Labour-led Government, and this commitment is highlighted by the recent announcement of full funding for all contracted, essential social services delivered by community groups, for families, children and young people. A well-funded NGO sector is critical if we are to prevent family violence,” says Nanaia Mahuta.

“The Taskforce’s ‘It’s Not OK Campaign’ supports local communities in changing their attitudes and behaviours on family violence. The real change has to occur in our homes, and in our families. If we all take action we can all make a difference,” says Nanaia Mahuta.

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