Media Release – 10 Sep 2026
First significant research in Aotearoa New Zealand to examine the impact of the Domestic Violence – Victims’ Protection Act (DVVPA) released today
This report, part of Women’s Refuge’s Safer When, Safer How research funded by Contact Energy, examines how the DVVPA is impacting workplace responses to family violence. Since its introduction in 2019, the Act has helped more women experiencing intimate partner violence disclose abuse at work, access workplace entitlements, and remain in employment. The report identifies practical steps workplaces can take to create safer, more supportive environments for women experiencing family violence.
Read the report here
Editors Notes:
Safer When, Safer How?:
Safer When, Safer How the aims to examine family violence risk and what really works to make women safer. This work is generously funded by Contact Energy. More info here.
New Zealand’s family violence statistics:
- On average, just under 50,000 women and children are referred to Women’s Refuge each year.
- On average Women’s Refuge answers 71 crisis calls per day.
- New Zealand has the highest rates of family violence in the OECD.
- 1 in 3 women will experience abuse in their lifetime in Aotearoa.
- Nearly half of all homicides and reported violent crimes are related to family violence.
- Around 67% of family violence episodes go unreported.
Media Enquiries: Susan Barker Communications, Marketing and Fundraising Manager Susan@refuge.org.nz 027 403 5155