Welfare reform is an important pillar of National’s plan for a brighter future for all New Zealanders.
We campaigned very strongly on this at the last election.
Making our welfare system work is also an important part of National’s plan to provide better public services for all New Zealanders.
It is great that I can update readers of Indian Newslink on our progress with this important policy.
Since we entered office in 2008, the National-led Government has had a strong focus on reducing long-term benefit dependence and helping people move into work.
Recently, the Social Development Minister Paula Bennett and I announced the next phase of our comprehensive welfare reform package.
Our welfare reform programme further emphasises our belief that New Zealanders are better off in work.
The National-led Government plans to take a supportive approach to helping young New Zealanders into work, and away from welfare.
We will help them better manage their essential payments, such as rent or power bills through a ‘Payment Card’.
We also encourage them to undertake budgeting and parenting to help them better manage their own lives.
These changes are targeted at young people on a collision course with long-term benefit dependence.
We will ensure that young people leaving school do not fall between the cracks.
The second part of our reforms is designed to bring our welfare system better in line with the needs of today’s families.
We will ensure that sole parents with children aged over five are supported to find part-time work. Sole parents with children aged over 14 will be expected to look for full time work.
We would also extend work obligations to women receiving the ‘Widow’s and Women Alone’ benefits.
These changes are designed to overhaul the welfare system in New Zealand.
I am pleased that National is delivering on our election promises, and working hard to build a brighter future for all New Zealanders.
You can read more about these reforms at www.national.org.nz/welfare-reforms.aspx.
I look forward to updating you on our progress later this year when we announce the next stage of our changes.
John Key is Prime Minister of New Zealand. The above article is exclusive to Indian Newslink ©
