New Family Violence Training Directory Empowers Frontline Workers with Critical Skills

In a significant step towards bolstering New Zealand’s response to family and sexual violence, Minister for the Prevention of Family and Sexual Violence, Karen Chhour, has officially launched a comprehensive one-stop-shop training directory. This centralized resource is specifically designed to support and empower the nation’s family violence workforce—those professionals who are often the first point of contact for individuals and families experiencing violence and trauma.

Addressing a Growing Need

The launch of the directory marks a milestone in the government’s ongoing commitment to strengthening the frontline response to family violence. Minister Chhour emphasized the dedication and compassion of the family violence workforce, describing them as “a deeply caring and thoughtful group who provide support to people and families during the most challenging times of their lives.”

The new training directory is aimed at helping these workers access the most up-to-date, evidence-based training programs. This ensures they remain well-equipped to offer sensitive, informed, and effective assistance to those impacted by abuse and violence.

Guided by a National Framework

The directory aligns with the Family Violence Entry to Expert Capability Framework, a national guideline that outlines the knowledge, skills, and behaviors required for practitioners and support staff across various roles. The framework is structured into four levels—Essential, Entry, Enhanced, and Expert—allowing individuals to progressively build their capabilities in a structured and strategic manner.

This tiered approach ensures that everyone in the family violence workforce, from new entrants to seasoned professionals, can find relevant training tailored to their level of expertise and the specific demands of their roles.

Prioritizing Victim Survivor Voices

Central to the development of the directory and the framework has been the voices and needs of victim survivors. Minister Chhour acknowledged that survivors have consistently called for better-trained support systems, stating, “The message from victim survivors has been clear. We need to support this vital workforce by ensuring they are able to support them in ways that enable them to get to safety, stay safe, and start healing.”

By offering easy access to best-practice training opportunities, the directory helps ensure that survivors receive compassionate and competent care that respects their autonomy and fosters long-term safety and recovery.

Supporting the Supporters

Minister Chhour described the directory as “just one way we are helping the helpers,” emphasizing that an effective family violence response system must be underpinned by strong, ongoing support for those working within it. This resource not only improves access to training but also reinforces a culture of continual learning and reflection within the sector.

By helping practitioners stay abreast of emerging research, cultural competency practices, trauma-informed approaches, and legal updates, the directory plays a vital role in creating a more resilient and effective workforce.

Looking Ahead

The launch of the training directory is part of a broader government strategy to tackle family and sexual violence through systemic reform, workforce development, and victim-centered services. As awareness and understanding of these complex issues evolve, tools like the training directory will remain essential in ensuring that frontline services can keep pace and continue to offer safe, respectful, and effective support.

For many workers in the field, this directory could be a game-changer—streamlining their access to knowledge, enhancing their ability to make a difference, and ultimately, supporting more families on their journey to safety and healing.