In May and June 2024, nearly 400 people working across Aotearoa New Zealand’s family violence and sexual violence (FVSV) sectors took part in the FVSV Workforce Survey. Their voices have helped build a clearer picture of who makes up the workforce, the challenges they face, and the support they need to thrive.

The survey was a joint initiative between The Centre for Family Violence and Sexual Violence Prevention and ACC, designed to inform progress towards the Outcomes and Measurement Framework of Te Aorerekura and support ongoing workforce development.

Key Findings

  • Diverse and dedicated: Respondents included frontline and back-office workers, specialists and generalists, government and NGO staff. 80% identified as women, with strong representation from Māori (23%) and Pacific peoples (34%).
  • Training and capability: While many had received recent training, especially in family violence, fewer had training aligned with the Te Aorerekura Capability Framework. Access to relevant information and resources varied widely.
  • Relationships and wellbeing: Most respondents rated their relationships with local government staff positively, but relationships with national offices were more mixed. 65% reported good or very good wellbeing at work.
  • Community-specific training: Many had received training to work with whānau Māori, Pacific families, children and young people, and LGBTQIA+ communities—but gaps remain.

Why This Matters

The FVSV Workforce Survey is a vital tool for understanding the needs, strengths, and experiences of those working to prevent and respond to violence in our communities. It helps ensure that workforce development is grounded in lived experience and supports continuous improvement across the sector.

What’s Next?

The next FVSV Workforce Survey will launch at the end of August 2025. If you work in the FVSV sector, your voice matters. Keep an eye out for the survey link and help shape the future of our workforce.

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