Dissertation presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Bachelor of Laws (Hons) at the University of Auckland. Available on short (2 hour) loan from the University's Davis Law Library.

This dissertation examines the role played by the Domestic Violence Act (1995) and contrasts it against the existing legislative framework for the protection of children. The Domestic Violence Act includes provisions for the protection of children from a wide range of behaviours said to constitute violence. In contrast to the Children, Young Persons and their Families Act (1989), the safety of the child is the ultimate standard. It is submitted that an integrated approach to protection would be desirable, but it appears difficult to reconcile the different underlying philosophies of the above legislation. The State appears to be delegating its responsibility for protecting children both to the family and to the Courts. The enthusiastic response to the new Act suggests that it is viewed by the public as an alternative to the State's mechanisms and focus on family in the Children, Young Persons and their Families Act. However, the Domestic Violence Act is not wide enough to comprehensively protect children. The State needs to review and amend the present framework for protection.--AUTHOR'S ABSTRACT

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