The Auckland Women’s Centre is calling on the Government to fully invest in violence prevention and take stronger action against what it describes as growing campaigns of misogyny targeting women and marginalised communities across Aotearoa.
The call comes amid increasing concern from advocacy groups about online abuse, gender-based violence and cuts to programmes supporting women, rangatahi and victim-survivors. The organisation says harmful narratives targeting women, Māori and LGBTQIA+ communities are becoming more visible both online and in public discourse.
The Centre says long-term investment is urgently needed in prevention-focused education, community support services and culturally grounded programmes that strengthen safety and wellbeing. It argues funding cuts and policy changes in recent years have weakened frontline responses to family violence, sexual violence and stalking.
Advocates have also raised concerns about proposed changes to relationships and sexuality education in schools, warning the removal of references to Te Tiriti o Waitangi, mātauranga Māori and gender diversity risks making schools less safe for vulnerable young people.
The Auckland Women’s Centre says respectful, inclusive education is a critical tool for preventing abuse, bullying and coercive behaviour before it escalates into violence. The organisation points to growing evidence showing rangatahi continue to experience high levels of sexual violence and online harassment.
The Centre has also criticised what it sees as a broader rollback of protections and support systems for women and minority communities, including reduced support for violence-prevention initiatives and Māori-led advisory groups.
Founded nearly 50 years ago, the Auckland Women’s Centre provides counselling, advocacy, community education and support services for wāhine across Tāmaki Makaurau. The organisation says stronger Government leadership is needed to counter hate-driven movements and ensure women and vulnerable communities are protected.
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