Regional Commissioner's foreword

Welcome to the Ministry of Social Development’s 2009/2010 Regional Plan for the Southern Region.

Over the last year, the international and national economic situation has deteriorated and many New Zealanders are concerned about their future. This year, the Ministry’s most important responsibility is to lessen the impact of the economic downturn on families and individuals.

The region has experienced a significant number of redundancies, closures, and business reorganisations over the past 12 months and it seems likely this will continue for some time yet. Having said this, our region is adaptable and there are many parts of our regional economy that are strong.

Our plan shows how we will work with employers to improve job retention and job advancement opportunities. We are also implementing programmes and services to meet skill shortages and to address local labour market issues. We want Southerners to be well-positioned to take advantage of the upturn when it occurs.

Our services have changed over time to become more flexible and responsive to people and the economy. Our systems were developed in times of much higher unemployment and they are adapting well to the current situation.

We have been working with other government and non-government agencies so we can deliver our services more effectively to the people who need them.

I encourage you to read about our plans.

John Allen
Regional Commissioner
for Social Development