Improving legal protections for victims

Green MP Jan Logie’s Domestic Violence Victims Protection Bill seeks to create a system where businesses can better support victims of family violence. Photo: greens.org.nz

The Human Rights Commission has welcomed news a Members Bill seeking to improve legal protections for victims of domestic violence will get the consultation it deserves.

Green MP Jan Logie's Domestic Violence Victims Protection Bill seeks to create a system where businesses can better support victims of family violence.

The bill passed its first reading in Parliament and was unanimously supported by MP's earlier this week and will now go through the Select Committee public submission process.

Equal Employment Opportunities Commissioner Dr Jackie Blue says this is a fantastic step for an important piece of proposed legislation.

'It is not often that a members' bill gets the support of all parties at first reading. I am truly proud of Parliament's unanimous acknowledgement that the public, along with business, should have their say on this very important bill.

'Allowing the bill to advance through to Select Committee will mean a robust and thoughtful conversation can take place about the bill's merits and where adjustments can be made to ensure it is workable for all kiwi businesses – big or small.”

Jackie believes workplaces have a huge role to play in addressing the issue of domestic violence and there are already a number of businesses who have put active family violence policies in place to do that.

The bill has the potential to enable all New Zealand workplaces to offer their staff much-needed support, she says.

'The Commission looks forward to making a submission in due course and being part of crafting this important piece of legislation.”

A video produced by The Human Rights Commission asking businesses to implement their own family violence policy. Source: HRC.

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