Yellowknife — July 22, 2026
Amendments to the Protection Against Family Violence Act are now in force, strengthening protections for people experiencing family violence and improving access to support across the Northwest Territories.
The Protection Against Family Violence Act provides legal tools to help protect people from family violence and reduce the risk of further harm. The amendments update the Act to better reflect the experiences of victims and strengthen available protections.
Key changes include recognizing stalking as a form of family violence and adding a clear legal definition of stalking. The Act now also applies to a broader range of relationships, including intimate personal relationships, family relationships, and care relationships. In addition, a deemed fear provision has been introduced to help protect children and other vulnerable people who may be unable to express concerns about their safety.
The amendments strengthen the tools available to help keep people safe. Victims of stalking can now pursue a civil remedy through the courts, and in limited circumstances and where legally permitted, the RCMP may disclose identifying information about a suspected stalker to support safety planning. The legislation has also been modernized with clearer language and expanded access to Emergency Protection Orders, making it easier for people at immediate risk to obtain protection when they need it most.
Together, these amendments improve safety for victims, strengthen accountability, and make it easier for people experiencing family violence to access the protections and support they need.
Quote
“Everyone deserves to feel safe in their home and community. These changes to the Protection Against Family Violence Act will provide stronger protections for victims of family violence by expanding access to Emergency Protection Orders, recognizing the serious and harmful impacts of stalking, and creating additional options for victims to seek protection and justice. Together, these measures help to ensure safe communities for Northerners, by improving safety, supporting victims, and strengthening the response to family violence across the Northwest Territories.”
- Jay Macdonald, Minister of Justice
Quick facts
- The NWT Protection Against Family Violence Act has been in place since 2005 to provide emergency and long-term protection for victims of family violence.
Related links
- Protection Against Family Violence Act
- Protection Against Family Violence Act Regulations
- Fact Sheet about the Changes to Protection Against Family Violence Act
For media requests, please contact:
Justice Communications
Department of Justice
Government of the Northwest Territories