October 04, 2021
ACC takes new approach to sexual violence
The Accident Compensation Corporation is earmarking 25 per cent of a new $45 million fund for sexual violence primary prevention to go to kaupapa Māori approaches.
Minister Carmel Sepuloni says New Zealand has one of the highest rates of sexual violence in the OECD, with almost a quarter of adults in New Zealand experiencing sexual violence in their lifetime, and around one in six people affected by sexual violence before the age of 18.
She says the investment over four years will create a Te-Tiriti-informed primary prevention system aimed at addressing the underlying causes of sexual violence and changing attitudes and behaviours.
Associate ACC Minister Willie Jackson says Māori are disproportionately impacted by sexual violence and can experience it in culturally distinct ways.
He says Māori traditionally receive less support through ACC, and the new approach is a step towards equity.