Family Violence Act 2018

A change in language: From “domestic” to “family” violence

On 1 July 2019, the Family Violence Act 2018 came into force. This replaced the Domestic Violence Act 1995.

This change emphasises the fact that violence can happen in a range of intimate and family settings, both inside and outside the home, and that this violence isn’t a private or “domestic” issue.

Family violence, in relation to a person, means violence inflicted against that person; and by any other person with whom that person is, or has been, in a family relationship.

Family violence is a pattern of behaviour that may include different forms of physical, sexual, or psychological abuse done against someone to control or coerce them, or with the impact of controlling or coercing them.

To take a look at this legislation in detail hit the link below. https://www.legislation.govt.nz/act/public/2018/0046/latest/whole.html