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Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Re-establishment grant (Special Needs Grant); if so, what were they and when did they come into effect?

Answered Question 16481 (2026)
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Asked by

Willow-Jean Prime

List MP · Labour Party

Question

  • Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Re-establishment grant (Special Needs Grant); if so, what were they and when did they come into effect?

Answered by

Hon Louise Upston

Member for Taupō · National Party · Minister for Social Development and Employment

Answer

I am advised that as of 3 September 2025, MSD entered into a preferred supplier arrangement with four suppliers of whiteware. The preferred supplier arrangement meant that when a Special Needs Grant (including a Re-establishment Grant) was made for whiteware they had to be purchased from one of four preferred suppliers