FVDRC welcomes new approach to family violence

The Family Violence Death Review Committee (FVDRC) welcomes the announcement of a new model to lead prevention and reduction in family and sexual violence.

Under a ‘joint venture’ approach, outlined today by Under-Secretary to the Minister of Justice (Domestic and Sexual Violence Issues) Jan Logie, chief executives from across the public sector will work together to deliver an integrated, whole-of-government approach to family violence and sexual violence.

FVDRC Chair Professor Jane Koziol-McLain says it is critical we continue to tackle the complex problem of family violence, which is continuing to destroy families and whānau.

‘To do this there needs to be a fundamental shift in thinking. For too long the system has been fragmented and lacking a joined-up approach. To succeed, it needs to allow the workforce to respond to this complex problem collectively.

‘The FVDRC hopes this new approach will lead to an integrated system built on a shared understanding of different services and what they have to offer.’

Professor Koziol-McLain said the FVDRC was encouraged to hear that the work of the joint venture will be informed by a Māori advisory group.

‘For Māori, a legacy of colonisation has been a negative impact on the structure and function of whānau, and of wāhine (female) and tane (male) roles within it. Whānau violence results from the destruction and distortion of whakapapa, tikanga, wairua, tapu, mauri and mana.

‘Mainstream approaches have had little effect in stemming the tide of whānau violence, which is supported by structural inequities and widespread attitudes that entrap women and men alike.

‘The FVDRC hopes the Māori advisory group will have a mandate to lead the development and implementation of frameworks and practices to constructively transform violence within whānau, hapū and iwi.

‘We look forward to the government’s ongoing engagement and consultation with experts in this area to assist in the further development of this approach.’

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