Statement of Intent 2009–2012 – Minister's Foreword

The Statement of Intent 2009-2012 sets out the major priorities the Ministry of Social Development will be accountable for over the next three years.

The short-term focus will be on delivering the Government's pre-election commitments to deliver prosperity and security, and to help New Zealanders make the best of the difficult economic situation.

This year, the Ministry's most important responsibility is to lessen the impact of the economic downturn on families and individuals. To do this, we will need an unrelenting focus on paid work, because we believe keeping people in some form of employment is critical. Achieving this means working closely with employers and providing practical support to help them get through the downturn. We want New Zealand to be well-positioned to take advantage of the upturn when it occurs.

We cannot let people use the recession as an excuse to stay on benefits. A life of welfare dependency is a life of limited opportunity. For those needing temporary assistance, we will streamline our processes to ensure they get the support services they need to help them get back into work as quickly as possible.

We will target young people at risk of entering the youth justice system, by ensuring there are a good range of programmes available to deal with their diverse needs. We will develop new approaches to help that small group of young people who have tried everything the current system offers, or who are guilty of repeated violent crime. The Ministry will also provide programmes for more young people - not just those deemed 'problem kids' - so all our youth can realise their potential.

There will be a focus on early childhood, especially on those aged under two years at risk of abuse or neglect. Giving a child a good start has more chance of a successful outcome for the individual and their community than dealing with an at-risk teen. This means providing support for those parents who need it.

We will also promote a positive change across society in attitudes towards people with disabilities, and work to improve service delivery.

Our older people deserve certainty during these times, Superannuation will be paid at a minimum of 66 per cent of the net average wage. We will provide more flexibility with overseas pension arrangements. We will support the independence of older people, and give them every opportunity to participate in their communities.

In tough economic times, the Government is obliged to ensure we deliver value for money. We cannot continue to fund programmes that don't address priority areas, especially when Government's financial situation is so constrained. We need to develop creative ways of assisting more people with limited resources.

I am looking forward to working with the Ministry to advance these goals.

Hon Paula Bennett
Minister for Social Development and Employment
Minister for Disability Issues
Minister of Youth Affairs