Measures to further protect children introduced

The National-led Government is making changes to further protect children from assault, neglect, and ill-treatment. These changes will be made through the Crimes Amendment Bill (No 2) which was introduced to Parliament this week. Failure to protect a child or vulnerable adult from the risk of death, grievous bodily harm, or sexual assault will be a new offence under the bill. This will make sure household members who fail to tell authorities about abuse are held to account. The bill will also double the maximum penalty for cruelty to a child, and extend a legal duty on parents and caregivers to take reasonable steps to protect a child or vulnerable adult from injury. Children are among our most vulnerable members of society and they deserve special protection. More information: http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/govt-fast-tracks-moves-further-protect-children