Nova Scotia launches ministers’ table to tackle gender-based violence

Nova Scotians with personal, professional or community-based experience in addressing gender-based violence can apply to join the new ministers’ table.

The table will be led by Justice Minister Becky Druhan and Leah Martin, the minister responsible for the Advisory Council on the Status of Women.

It will bring together up to 25 community members to help advise the government on how to prevent, address and respond to gender-based violence.

“This is an opportunity to bring voices together from across the province, especially those on the front lines and those with lived experience,” said Druhan. “When we listen directly to those doing the work and living the realities, we can better identify and take actions that lead to real change.”

This initiative is part of the 2025-26 provincial budget, which included more than $100 million to address gender-based and intimate partner violence.

“We’re not starting from scratch. Advocates, professionals and service providers have been doing this work for years in communities across Nova Scotia. Their input and expertise will not only guide government’s efforts, but also how we work together to advance real, lasting change for victims, survivors and communities,” said Martin.

The province says the table is part of its broader response to gender-based and intimate partner violence. It will meet at least four times a year to discuss both prevention and response strategies.