02-07-2025
Proceeds Of Crime Fund Fights Violence And Meth
Associate Minister of Justice
New initiatives to tackle violent crime and methamphetamine-related harm are being rolled out through a revamped Proceeds of Crime Fund, Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee announced today.
The redesigned fund now has a single, sharp focus: reducing violent crime supporting the Government's goal of 20,000 fewer victims by December 2029.
'As I said when I announced these changes our expectation is that proposals will be able to demonstrate clear outcomes. Rather than gangs benefiting through a programme which is still yet to present its final report – a year after its conclusion - as was the case under the previous government,' Mrs McKee says.
'Other changes to the Fund have allowed for a clear and consistent assessment of proposed initiatives, and for out of cycle proposals to be considered when they present a significant opportunity.
'This streamlined approach means we can invest in programmes that break the cycle of violence and drug-related harm, making our communities safer and giving people the support they need to lead better lives. It's about ensuring that money taken from criminals is put to work for everyday New Zealanders,' Mrs McKee says.
The following programmes have received funding:
The Meke Academy, which works with young people who are at high risk of serious offending in Hawke's Bay, will receive $1.506m over three years. The academy aims to reduce the risk of offending, reduce drug use, and help young people obtain qualifications and literacy and numeracy skills.
Kauhanga - Creating Sacred Pathways – this programme is run by the Billy Graham Youth Foundation and provides physical and social development for high-risk young people. It will receive $1.953m over three years to expand into eight areas. Kauhanga helps develop resilience and pathways for long term education, training, health and whānau outcomes.
The Motueka Meth Harm Reduction programme has received funding of $1.503m over three years in the first round of funding for 2025. The programme will include a mixture of rehabilitation support for individuals, help for affected whānau and a prevention campaign for the community.
About the Proceeds of Crime Fund
The Fund was established in 2009 and has been administered by the Ministry of Justice since April 2019.
The Criminal Proceeds (Recovery) Act 2009 allows Police to seize cash and assets gained directly or indirectly through crime. After legal processes are complete, the recovered funds go into the contestable Proceeds of Crime Fund.
The Fund supports targeted initiatives that reduce violent crime, directly contributing to the Government's goal of reducing victimisation.
The next funding round is expected to open in October this year.
