Bill O’Brien, of Dunedin, MNZM, for services to victim support and the prevention of domestic violence
Bill O’Brien is a Trustee and Manager of the Sophie Elliott Foundation, which works to reduce levels of domestic violence and help young people foster healthy relationships. He co-authored the book ‘Loves Me Not – How to Keep Relationships Safe’ with the Foundation’s founder, Lesley Elliott. He has written more than 30 books, four of which have specifically given victims a voice. In his previous career with the New Zealand Police, he drove the implementation of the ‘Keeping Ourselves Safe’ programme for primary schools. Mr O’Brien helped establish and chair Victim Support Dunedin and was a foundation member of the New Zealand Council for Victim Support Groups.