Statement of Intent 2005 - Ministry of Social Development at a Glance
The Ministry of Social Development is one of New Zealand’s largest government agencies. Our work to achieve better social outcomes for all New Zealanders affects almost every New Zealander, now or in the future.
Our policy advice and service delivery are underpinned by research and evaluation, building the evidence base that enables us to develop practical solutions to the issues facing New Zealanders today. Research and evaluation also enables us to monitor the wellbeing of different population groups, and identify issues that change and develop over time.
Much of our work is based on collaboration with other government agencies, with business and employers, and with community and voluntary organisations. This collaboration enables us to achieve positive results in:
- helping those people who are able to work to move into sustainable employment
- providing income security for those who are unable to work
- building strong families and communities
- ensuring that students can access their loans and entitlements, and minimising the amount of debt they incur
- improving the wellbeing of senior citizens and people with disabilities, and strengthening the government’s relationship with the community and voluntary sector
- ensuring individuals and families are able to access affordable healthcare
- preventing and reducing child abuse and neglect, and domestic violence
- preventing and minimising debt and benefit fraud.
