Family Protection Orders in Lae, Papua New Guinea: Part 3 Factors Affecting the Accessibility and Effectiveness of the Orders

Abstract

A pilot study on the use and effectiveness of family protection orders (FPOs) was undertaken in Lae, Papua New Guinea (PNG) in 2018. The aim of the orders, introduced under the Family Protection Act (FPA) 2013, is to improve access to justice and the protection of and support for victims of domestic and family violence (DFV). This is the third and final In Brief summarising the findings from the pilot study, with the first two focusing on access to justice and safety. The pilot study suggests that more people are applying for orders and the process is timelier and more effective over almost four years. This In Brief considers the impact of the reform on the system and the factors that were identified as affecting the accessibility and effectiveness of FPOs. The recommendations from stakeholders and survivors who were interviewed in the study are also summarised.