Luganville, 30 May 2025: The Ministry of Justice, Youth and Community Services (MJYCS) is strengthening efforts to tackle family violence and abuse in remote communities with a Peer Support Session in Santo for 28 Authorised Persons to strengthen their frontline response.

Authorised Persons (APs) are volunteers appointed under the Family Protection Act to issue temporary protection orders, connect families to critical services, and act where police and courts are not easily accessible. The four-day APs Peer Support Session was aimed at strengthening their skills, deepening their knowledge, and reinforcing their vital role in communities.

The session also provided a platform for peer learning, legal refresher training, and direct engagement with key partners including the Vanuatu Police Force, Child Desk, Disability Desk, and the Vanuatu Women’s Centre. These activities are part of MJYCS’ broader effort to support APs and strengthen community-based protection mechanisms.

The Peer Support Session is an annual initiative that provides APs with a platform to share best practices and success stories to encourage and support new APs and those facing similar challenges. For the first time, this year’s session brings together APs from two islands—Santo and Malekula—fostering peer learning and stronger connections.

Delivered by teams from across Vanuatu’s justice and community services sector, with support from the Vanuatu Australia Policing and Justice Program (VAPJP), the session forms part of Australia’s long-standing partnership with Vanuatu and the MJYCS to expand access to justice for those most in need.

MJYCS Director of Women’s Affairs, Ms Rothina Noka aid the AP program plays a crucial role in strengthening protection for families.

“Authorised Persons are vital to our response to domestic violence. The Ministry is committed to ensuring they have the knowledge, networks and support they need to carry out this difficult but important role in the community in both peace and disaster times,” said Ms Noka.

Australian High Commission VAPJP Program Manager, Ellenson Taurakoto joined the sessions in Santo and said it was a privilege to meet the APs, who stand at the front line of justice in their communities.

“Australia is a committed partner to the Government of Vanuatu, including in its efforts to build safer communities for all. APs play a critical part in that, particularly around addressing family violence issues in remote communities,” said Ms Taurakoto.

As of May 2025, there are 28 APs across Santo and Malekula—20 based in Santo and 8 in Malekula—serving rural communities where access to police and courts remains limited.

AP Pastor Lulu Baia, who volunteers and serves in South Santo Area 2, said the sessions are very valuable for APs and for the communities. “It can be hard when you are doing this work alone. Coming together with others reminds us we’re not alone—and gives us the strength and knowledge to keep going. And allows us to provide those at risk with the help they need,” Pastor Baia said.

The Peer Support Program has been operating since 2019 MJYCS will continue working with partners to support a strong, community-led response to family violence.