Statement of Intent 2005 - Minister's Foreword

The Government’s vision is of an inclusive New Zealand where all people have the opportunity to participate, to contribute, and to achieve economic independence for themselves and their families.

Since it established the Ministry of Social Development in October 2001, the Government has been implementing a programme of social development that is sustainable, works in concert with economic development, and makes a long-term, positive difference for New Zealanders of all ages, and in all families and communities. The Ministry’s implementation of the Working for Families package will make it easier to work and raise a family, while work towards introduction of a Single Core Benefit will pave the way for a much simpler benefit system with a clear focus on sustainable employment for working-age New Zealanders.

Improving the social wellbeing of children, young people and their families will involve the Ministry strengthening the range of social services available, with a particular focus on early intervention services, building the capacity of the non-government care and protection sector, and improving families’ access to quality, affordable early childhood education.

As part of its work to foster a whole-of-government approach to improving social wellbeing, the Ministry publishes an annual Social Report, and last year developed Opportunity for All New Zealanders, a "big picture" summary of what the government is doing across the social sector to improve the quality of New Zealanders' lives.

I look forward to working with the Ministry of Social Development on the wide-ranging initiatives described in this Statement of Intent, and I confirm that the information in this document is consistent with the policies and performance expectations of the Government.

Steve Maharey

Minister for Social Development and Employment

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