New Zealand's Ministry of Justice was established on October 1, 1995. Its challenges have been to maintain existing areas of responsibility carried over from the old Department of Justice; to develop the capacity for new strategic functions; and to put in place the administrative structures, staffing, policies, and practices suitable for a small policy ministry. Consultation and discussion with a large number of stakeholders now characterizes its operations. Significant progress was made in developing new areas of responsibility in which a strategic approach and coordination with the justice sector is critical: the justice- sector information strategy, strategic purchase advice, and the response to crime strategy. The Ministry also made significant advances in existing areas of responsibility carried over from the Department of Justice; for example, a wide range of policy and legislative initiatives were completed. Advice was provided on topical criminal justice issues, including the problem of gangs, which has attracted media attention. The Ministry commissioned or produced a variety of research reports on criminal justice issues. A table shows the link between the Ministry's outputs and the Government's outcomes.