The Royal Commission investigated what happened to children, young people and vulnerable adults while in the care of the State or faith-based institutions, mainly between 1950 and 1999. It heard nearly 3,000 survivor accounts of abuse and neglect and its findings and recommendations are the result of five years of investigations, research, private sessions, and public hearings.
The Crown response to the Royal Commission
On 24 July 2024, the Royal Commission’s final report was presented to Parliament.
On 12 November 2024, the Prime Minister, Rt Hon Christopher Luxon, delivered a public apology in Parliament on behalf of the Crown to survivors of abuse in care. This was a significant event for many survivors, their whānau, advocates and for the country. The text of the Prime Minister’s apology is available at: Prime Minister apologises for abuse in care(external link)
The Ministry of Justice is one of the government agencies contributing to the Crown response to the Royal Commission. We have progressed several legislative amendments and continue to support the Crown's response.
This subject may raise difficult emotional responses from readers. If you would like to talk to a support person the Royal Commission website lists some telephone helplines or services that offer support, information and help. All services are free. Support services | Abuse in Care - Royal Commission of Inquiry(external link).