Government Proposes Victim-Focused Reforms to Name Suppression Laws

Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith outlined the reforms, emphasizing a justice system centred on victims’ needs and greater transparency.

The Government has announced proposed changes to New Zealand’s name suppression laws aimed at prioritizing the rights and well-being of victims of sexual violence. Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith outlined the reforms, emphasizing a justice system centred on victims’ needs and greater transparency. Key Reforms to Name Suppression Laws

Victim Consent for Offender Name Suppression:

Courts will no longer have the authority to grant permanent name suppression to adults convicted of sexual offences unless the victim consents.

Currently, victims’ views are considered, but the final decision rests with the courts.

“Long battles over name suppression retraumatize victims and prevent them from warning others or discussing their experiences,” said Minister Goldsmith.

In cases where victims cannot or choose not to make the decision, courts will retain the authority to determine name suppression for offenders.

Automatic Name Suppression for All Sexual Offence Victims:

Victims of all sexual crimes, including intimate visual recording offences, will automatically receive name suppression under the proposed changes.

Currently, only victims of certain sexual offences are automatically granted this protection, leaving others to apply to the court, often causing additional distress.

“This legislative gap has created inconsistencies, and these changes ensure all victims are shielded from the fear of public exposure,” Goldsmith added.

Additional Measures to Support Victims

Streamlining Victim Participation: The reforms aim to simplify victims’ interactions with the justice system, reducing administrative hurdles.

Victim Advocacy: Government initiatives will include funding for support services to assist victims in navigating legal processes.

Strengthened Offender Accountability: The reforms also focus on identifying and holding offenders of serious sexual crimes accountable to deter future offences.

Addressing Victim Concerns and Building a Safer Society

The proposed changes reflect a broader Government commitment to reducing crime and improving victim outcomes, with a target to cut serious violent crime by 20,000 cases by 2029.

“Victims deserve a system that empowers them, prioritizes their safety and dignity, and ensures openness of court proceedings when appropriate,” Minister Goldsmith said.

Public Consultation and Next Steps

The reforms will undergo a period of public consultation, allowing input from advocacy groups, legal professionals, and the public. The final legislative framework is expected to be introduced to Parliament in early 2025.

Empowering Victims and Restoring Trust

These changes are part of a larger effort to rebuild trust in the justice system, ensuring it meets the needs of those most affected by crime. The reforms aim to strike a balance between protecting victims’ privacy and promoting transparency and accountability in the justice process.

“These proposals send a strong message: the needs of victims come first. By addressing these gaps, we’re creating a justice system that prioritizes fairness and safety for all,” Goldsmith concluded.