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Budget to deliver $76m funding boost for family violence services

May 9, 2018

Ms Ardern said organisations like the Salvation Army will most keenly feel the need for the $76m package.

The government has announced that this year's budget will include 30 per cent more money for social services dealing with the harm caused by family violence.

Minister of Social Development Carmel Sepuloni, Minister for Children Tracey Martin and Under-Secretary to the Minister of Justice on Domestic and Sexual Violence Issues Jan Logie issued a joint statement this morning saying the funding boost will be the first in ten years.

"Nearly half of those receiving the increase are women's refuges who provide vital support keeping women and children safe," Ms Sepuloni said.

"The nearly 30 per cent increase in funding is critical to the Government's efforts to turn around New Zealand’s tragic family violence record."

The funding boost will deliver an additional $76.157 million into the sector over four years, which Ms Sepuloni says will give a much-needed boost to the 150 providers of family violence services in New Zealand.

Ms Logie welcomed the funding, calling it an "an important first step".

"As we start the broader work of challenging and responding to family and sexual violence, it's crucial that victims and their families can get the support they need now ... they can’t wait," Ms Logie said.

Ms Martin said "the announcement delivers on the Coalition Agreement between Labour and New Zealand First to increase funding in this area".

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