A national summit on family violence, which will cover proposed law changes to domestic violence legislation, will take place in Wellington on 07 June 2017.

The event will be hosted by Justice Minister Amy Adams and Social Development Minister Anne Tolley.

Legislation intended to overhaul the family violence system was introduced to Parliament this month.

The Family and Whānau Violence Legislation Bill will update the Domestic Violence Act, amend six more Acts and make consequential changes to over 30 pieces of law.

It implements the decisions announced by the Government in September 2016 aimed at breaking the pattern of family violence and reducing the harm and cost inflicted on those who suffer violence and the wider New Zealand society.

“Across New Zealand there are large numbers of people working hard every day to combat this horrific form of abuse. The Family Violence Summit will bring together people from the sector to continue the conversation around how we break the pattern of family violence and reduce the harm,” says Ms Adams in a joint press release.

Mrs Tolley says family violence has devastating impacts on individuals, families and communities and costs New Zealand over $4 billion per year.

“Agency and non-government organisation responses are typically siloed and difficult for people to navigate between. The Summit will aim to contribute to a more joined up sector.”

Invitees will comprise of a broad cross-section of groups involved in combating family violence including NGOs, support workers, victims, and former perpetrators.