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Minister Louise Upston · Member for Taupō · National Party · Leader of the House / Member for Taupō · National Party · Minister for Child Poverty Reduction / Member for Taupō · National Party · Minister for Disability Issues / Member for Taupō · National Party · Minister for Social Development and Employment / Member for Taupō · National Party · Minister for Tourism and Hospitality / Member for Taupō · National Party · Minister for the Community and Voluntary Sector
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Showing 751 to 800 of 1370 written question sets.

Answered

Question 17542 (2026)

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Asked by

Willow-Jean Prime

List MP · Labour Party

Question

  • (matches this search)

    What papers, if any, did the Minister take to Cabinet during the week beginning 20 April 2026, by title and date?

Answered by

Hon Louise Upston

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

Answer

With the exception of Cabinet Appointments and Honours (APH) papers and minutes, all Cabinet and Cabinet committee papers and minutes must be proactively released and published online within 30 business days of final decisions being taken…

Answered

Question 17606 (2026)

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Asked by

Priyanca Radhakrishnan

List MP · Labour Party

Question

  • (matches this search)

    What papers, if any, did the Minister take to Cabinet during the week beginning 20 April 2026, by title and date?

Answered by

Hon Louise Upston

Member for Taupō · National Party · Minister for Disability Issues

Answer

With the exception of Cabinet Appointments and Honours (APH) papers and minutes, all Cabinet and Cabinet committee papers and minutes must be proactively released and published online within 30 business days of final decisions being taken…

Answered

Question 17612 (2026)

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Asked by

Helen White

Member for Mt Albert · Labour Party

Question

  • (matches this search)

    What papers, if any, did the Minister take to Cabinet during the week beginning 20 April 2026, by title and date?

Answered by

Hon Louise Upston

Member for Taupō · National Party · Minister for the Community and Voluntary Sector

Answer

None.

Answered

Question 17616 (2026)

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Asked by

Jan Tinetti

List MP · Labour Party

Question

  • (matches this search)

    What papers, if any, did the Minister take to Cabinet during the week beginning 20 April 2026, by title and date?

Answered by

Hon Louise Upston

Member for Taupō · National Party · Minister for Child Poverty Reduction

Answer

With the exception of Cabinet Appointments and Honours (APH) papers and minutes, all Cabinet and Cabinet committee papers and minutes must be proactively released and published online within 30 business days of final decisions being taken…

Answered

17165, 17166, 17168 (2026)

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Asked by

Chlöe Swarbrick

Member for Auckland Central · Green Party

Questions

  • 17165 (matches this search)

    Has she received any reports or advice on demand for food banks, and if so, is demand for food banks increasing?

  • 17166 (matches this search)

    What, if any, reports or advice, listed by title and date, has she received on demand levels for food banks?

  • 17168 (matches this search)

    Has she received any reports or advice on demand for food banks, and if so, how much demand is there for food bank support?

Answered by

Hon Louise Upston

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

Answer

In my capacity as Minister for Social Development and Employment, I regularly request and receive advice on a range of topics. In the interest of transparency, a list of reports received by my office from the Ministry of Social Development…

Answered

17184, 17211 (2026)

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Asked by

Ayesha Verrall

List MP · Labour Party

Questions

  • 17184 (matches this search)

    What is the number of residential disability beds in New Zealand per quarter for the past six financial years?

  • 17211 (matches this search)

    What is the number of Residential Disability beds in New Zealand per quarter for the past six financial years?

Answered by

Hon Louise Upston

Member for Taupō · National Party · Minister for Disability Issues

Answer

I refer the Member to the attached table, which provides the number of individuals who have had their needs assessed as requiring the level of support provided by residential-based support services. The Ministry of Social Development’s…

Answered

Question 17231 (2026)

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Asked by

Lan Pham

List MP · Green Party

Question

  • (matches this search)

    Has the Minister received any analysis of the reputational damage an open-cast gold mine with a permanent toxic tailings dam could do to the 'Southern Way' campaign?

Answered by

Hon Louise Upston

Member for Taupō · National Party · Minister for Tourism and Hospitality

Answer

No. My officials inform me that this has not been raised as a risk with regard to the Regional Tourism Boost – Round 2: Southern Way campaign

Answered

17300, 17301 (2026)

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Asked by

Steve Abel

List MP · Green Party

Questions

  • 17300 (matches this search)

    What, if any, are the expected timeframes for the second reading of the Gene Technology Bill?

  • 17301 (matches this search)

    Is it the Government's intention to progress the Gene Technology Bill this term of Parliament, if not, what is the Government's intention?

Answered by

Hon Louise Upston

Member for Taupō · National Party · Leader of the House

Answer

The Government intends to progress all Legislation on the Order Paper.

Answered

17026, 17034 (2026)

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Asked by

Oriini Kaipara

Member for Tāmaki Makarau · Te Pāti Māori

Questions

  • 17026 (matches this search)

    How many households, if any, containing a disabled child have experienced a reduction in Accommodation Supplement or income related rent since the boarder income changes took effect on 2 March 2026?

  • 17034 (matches this search)

    How many households, if any, containing a disabled adult have experienced a reduction in Accommodation Supplement or income related rent since the boarder income changes took effect on 2 March 2026?

Answered by

Hon Louise Upston

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

Answer

I am advised by the Ministry of Social Development (the Ministry) that obtaining this information would require substantial manual collation and engagement, diverting Ministry staff from their core duties. I am further advised that people…

Answered

Question 17050 (2026)

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Asked by

Francisco Hernandez

List MP · Green Party

Question

  • (matches this search)

    How much, if any, did the Minister’s departments, agencies, crown entities and any other bodies that the Minister is responsible for, if any, spend on the Carbon Neutral Government Programme in the 2023/24 financial year?

Answered by

Hon Louise Upston

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

Answer

I am advised that the Ministry of Social Development has spent $629k on the Carbon Neutral Government Programme in the 2023/24 financial year. I am further advised that the Social Workers Registration Board spent $2,862 on auditing…

Answered

Question 17057 (2026)

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Asked by

Francisco Hernandez

List MP · Green Party

Question

  • (matches this search)

    How much, if any, did the Minister’s departments, agencies, crown entities and any other bodies that the Minister is responsible for, if any, spend on the Carbon Neutral Government Programme in the 2023/24 financial year?

Answered by

Hon Louise Upston

Member for Taupō · National Party · Minister for Disability Issues

Answer

Whaikaha - I am advised that Ministry of Disabled People – Whaikaha spent nothing on the carbon neutral government programme in the 2023/24 financial year. For Disability Support Services, I refer the Member to reply number 17050 (2026)

Answered

Question 17059 (2026)

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Asked by

Francisco Hernandez

List MP · Green Party

Question

  • (matches this search)

    How much, if any, did the Minister’s departments, agencies, crown entities and any other bodies that the Minister is responsible for, if any, spend on the Carbon Neutral Government Programme in the 2023/24 financial year?

Answered by

Hon Louise Upston

Member for Taupō · National Party · Minister for Tourism and Hospitality

Answer

I am advised Tourism New Zealand spent $21,233 on the Carbon Neutral Government programme for the 2023/24 financial year

Answered

Question 16883 (2026)

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Asked by

Oriini Kaipara

Member for Tāmaki Makarau · Te Pāti Māori

Question

  • (matches this search)

    Has MSD undertaken any analysis of the likely impact of retrospective reassessment under the Social Security (Accident Compensation and Calculation of Weekly Income) Amendment Bill on clients who are disabled; if so, what were the findings?

Answered by

Hon Louise Upston

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

Answer

I am advised that the Ministry of Social Development (Ministry) is unable to provide the information sought by the Member within a written parliamentary question timeframe as it would take substantial effort and require the Ministry to…

Answered

16442, 16443 (2026)

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Asked by

Willow-Jean Prime

List MP · Labour Party

Questions

  • 16442 (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Accommodation Costs Arrears Grant; if so, what were they and when did they come…

  • 16443 (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Accommodation Costs in Advance Grant; if so, what were they and when did they come…

Answered by

Hon Louise Upston

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

Answer

I am advised that, from 1 July 2024, the Ministry of Social Development extended support to cover certain accommodation arrangements to which the Residential Tenancies Act 1986 does not apply. This is also my response to WPQ 16443 (2026)

Answered

Question 16444 (2026)

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Asked by

Willow-Jean Prime

List MP · Labour Party

Question

  • (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Accommodation Security Cover Grant; if so, what were they and when did they come…

Answered by

Hon Louise Upston

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

Answer

I am advised that, from 1 July 2024, the Ministry of Social Development extended support to cover certain accommodation arrangements to which the Residential Tenancies Act 1986 does not apply. I am further advised that from March 2 2026,…

Answered

16445, 16447 (2026)

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Asked by

Willow-Jean Prime

List MP · Labour Party

Questions

  • 16445 (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Accommodation Supplement; if so, what were they and when did they come into effect?

  • 16447 (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Away from Home Allowance; 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 2 March 2026, the housing contribution received from all boarders (62 percent of the weekly board payment) was included in the assessment of housing subsidies. This is also my response to WPQ 16447 (2026)

Answered

16446, 16482 (2026)

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Asked by

Willow-Jean Prime

List MP · Labour Party

Questions

  • 16446 (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Advance Payment of Benefit; if so, what were they and when did they come into…

  • 16482 (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Recoverable Assistance Payment; if so, what were they and when did they come into…

Answered by

Hon Louise Upston

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

Answer

I am advised that from 11 December 2023, more hardship payments required approval from a Ministry of Social Development Manager before they could be made. This included approval for specific types of Advance Payments of Benefit. I am…

Answered

Question 16448 (2026)

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Asked by

Willow-Jean Prime

List MP · Labour Party

Question

  • (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Bond 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, from 1 July 2024, the Ministry of Social Development extended support to cover certain accommodation arrangements to which the Residential Tenancies Act 1986 does not apply. I am further advised that from 2 March 2026,…

Answered

39 questions (2026)

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Asked by

Willow-Jean Prime

List MP · Labour Party

Questions

Matching question numbers: 16454 (2026), 16455 (2026), 16457 (2026), 16458 (2026), 16461 (2026), 16462 (2026), 16464 (2026), 16469 (2026), 16470 (2026), 16471 (2026), 16472 (2026), 16473 (2026), 16476 (2026), 16477 (2026), 16478 (2026), 16479 (2026), 16480 (2026), 16484 (2026), 16489 (2026), 16510 (2026), 16511 (2026), 16512 (2026), 16513 (2026), 16514 (2026), 16515 (2026), 16516 (2026), 16517 (2026), 16519 (2026), 16521 (2026), 16522 (2026), 16523 (2026), 16524 (2026), 16525 (2026), 16526 (2026), 16527 (2026)

  • 16449 (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Business Training and Advice Grant; if so, what were they and when did they come…

  • 16450 (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Child Disability Allowance; if so, what were they and when did they come into…

  • 16451 (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Civilian Amputee Assistance; if so, what were they and when did they come into…

  • 16453 (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Civil Defence Payment; if so, what were they and when did they come into effect?

Show the remaining 35 questions
  • 16454 (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Clothing Allowance for Orphan's Benefit and Unsupported Child's Benefit; if so,…

  • 16455 (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Community Costs; if so, what were they and when did they come into effect?

  • 16457 (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Course Participation Assistance; if so, what were they and when did they come into…

  • 16458 (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Early Learning Payment; if so, what were they and when did they come into effect?

  • 16461 (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Employment Transition Assistance; if so, what were they and when did they come into…

  • 16462 (matches this search)

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

  • 16464 (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Extraordinary Care Fund; if so, what were they and when did they come into effect?

  • 16469 (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Holiday and Birthday Allowance; if so, what were they and when did they come into…

  • 16470 (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Home Help; if so, what were they and when did they come into effect?

  • 16471 (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Home repairs and maintenance; if so, what were they and when did they come into…

  • 16472 (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the House Modification Funding; if so, what were they and when did they come into…

  • 16473 (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the International Custody Dispute Payment; if so, what were they and when did they come…

  • 16476 (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the New Zealand Seasonal Work Scheme; if so, what were they and when did they come into…

  • 16477 (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Orphan's Benefit; if so, what were they and when did they come into effect?

  • 16478 (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Out of School Care and Recreation (OSCAR) Subsidy; if so, what were they and when…

  • 16479 (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Power, gas and heating if you have a disability; if so, what were they and when did…

  • 16480 (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Power, gas, water bills or heating; if so, what were they and when did they come…

  • 16484 (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Residential Care Loan; if so, what were they and when did they come into effect?

  • 16489 (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Residential Support Subsidy; if so, what were they and when did they come into…

  • 16510 (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Rural Assistance Payments; if so, what were they and when did they come into effect?

  • 16511 (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the School and Year Start-up Payment; if so, what were they and when did they come into…

  • 16512 (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Seasonal Work Assistance; if so, what were they and when did they come into effect?

  • 16513 (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Self-employment start up payment; if so, what were they and when did they come into…

  • 16514 (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Social Rehabilitation Assistance; if so, what were they and when did they come into…

  • 16515 (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Special Disability Allowance; if so, what were they and when did they come into…

  • 16516 (matches this search)

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

  • 16517 (matches this search)

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

  • 16519 (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Tenancy Costs Cover; if so, what were they and when did they come into effect?

  • 16521 (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Transition to Alternative Housing Grant; if so, what were they and when did they…

  • 16522 (matches this search)

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

  • 16523 (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Unsupported Child's Benefit; if so, what were they and when did they come into…

  • 16524 (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Winter Energy Payment; if so, what were they and when did they come into effect?

  • 16525 (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Work Bonus; if so, what were they and when did they come into effect?

  • 16526 (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Young Parent Payment; if so, what were they and when did they come into effect?

  • 16527 (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Youth Payment; 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 by the Ministry of Social Development (the Ministry) that no changes have been identified. This is also my response for WPQ’s 16450, 16451, 16453, 16455, 16457, 16461, 16462, 16470, 16471, 16472, 16473, 16476, 16479, 16480,…

Answered

Question 16452 (2026)

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Asked by

Willow-Jean Prime

List MP · Labour Party

Question

  • (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Childcare Subsidy; 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 June 2024, changes were made to the Social Security Regulations 2018 to allow the Childcare Subsidy to be paid for top-up payments required by educators for children attending licensed home-based Early Childhood…

Answered

Question 16456 (2026)

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Asked by

Willow-Jean Prime

List MP · Labour Party

Question

  • (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Disability Allowance; 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 2 March 2026, it became a requirement that the Ministry of Social Development must review a beneficiary’s eligibility and rate of a specified benefit at least once every 52 weeks (mandatory reviews). This included…

Answered

Question 16459 (2026)

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Asked by

Willow-Jean Prime

List MP · Labour Party

Question

  • (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Emergency Benefit; 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 26 May 2025, a person applying for, or transferring to an Emergency Benefit (for those who have similar work-test conditions as a condition of grant of the Emergency Benefit) were required to have a completed…

Answered

Question 16460 (2026)

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Asked by

Willow-Jean Prime

List MP · Labour Party

Question

  • (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Emergency Maintenance Allowance; if so, what were they and when did they come into…

Answered by

Hon Louise Upston

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

Answer

I am advised that as of 2 March 2026, it became a requirement that the Ministry of Social Development must review a beneficiary’s eligibility and rate of a specified benefit at least once every 52 weeks (mandatory reviews).

Answered

16463, 16465 (2026)

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Asked by

Willow-Jean Prime

List MP · Labour Party

Questions

  • 16463 (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Flexi-wage – job seeker information; if so, what were they and when did they come…

  • 16465 (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Flexi-wage for self-employment; if so, what were they and when did they come into…

Answered by

Hon Louise Upston

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

Answer

I am advised that on 5 February 2024, a number of changes were made to the Flexi-Wage Employment Subsidy Programme. The changes included adjusting the maximum payable, allowing wage subsidies to be paid in variable weekly amounts;…

Answered

Question 16466 (2026)

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Asked by

Willow-Jean Prime

List MP · Labour Party

Question

  • (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Flexible Childcare Assistance; if so, what were they and when did they come into…

Answered by

Hon Louise Upston

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

Answer

I am advised that from 1 April 2024, Flexible Childcare Assistance (FCA) was expanded to support more caregivers with informal childcare costs. Other changes included extending the maximum payment duration to 52 weeks, and an increase to…

Answered

Question 16467 (2026)

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Asked by

Willow-Jean Prime

List MP · Labour Party

Question

  • (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Funeral 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 from 8 December 2025, the guidance on allowable costs for the Funeral Grant was expanded beyond the costs associated with the proper disposal of a body.

Answered

Question 16468 (2026)

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Asked by

Willow-Jean Prime

List MP · Labour Party

Question

  • (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Guaranteed Childcare Assistance Payment; if so, what were they and when did they…

Answered by

Hon Louise Upston

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

Answer

I am advised that from 1 April 2024, the maximum rate of the Guaranteed Childcare Assistance Payment was set to align with the highest Childcare Subsidy rate and would change each year with the annual general adjustment. I am further…

Answered

Question 16474 (2026)

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Asked by

Willow-Jean Prime

List MP · Labour Party

Question

  • (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Moving Costs 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 from 1 July 2024, the Housing Support Products programme was expanded to include the provision of recoverable financial assistance to people in accommodation arrangements that were not covered by the Residential Tenancies…

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Question 16475 (2026)

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Willow-Jean Prime

List MP · Labour Party

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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 New Employment Transition Grant; if so, what were they and when did they come into…

Answered by

Hon Louise Upston

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

Answer

I am advised that from 11 December 2023, more hardship payments required approval from a Ministry of Social Development Manager before they could be made. This included Transition to Work Job Placement costs of $501 or more.

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Question 16481 (2026)

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Willow-Jean Prime

List MP · Labour Party

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  • (matches this search)

    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…

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…

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Question 16483 (2026)

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Willow-Jean Prime

List MP · Labour Party

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  • (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Relocate for Work Support; 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 from 31 March 2025, the Relocate for Work Support replaced the $5K to Work Grant and provided limited financial support for eligible beneficiaries to relocate to take up an offer of suitable and sustainable employment.…

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Question 16487 (2026)

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Willow-Jean Prime

List MP · Labour Party

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  • (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Residential Care Subsidy; 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 from 6 November 2023, amendments to Regulations provided that for people receiving a Residential Care Subsidy, severe weather-related payments were exempt from consideration as an income or a cash asset for a period of 12…

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Question 16518 (2026)

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Willow-Jean Prime

List MP · Labour Party

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  • (matches this search)

    Have there been any changes since 1 November 2023 to eligibility criteria, or assessment and decision-making processes, in relation to applications for the Temporary Additional Support; if so, what were they and when did they come into…

Answered by

Hon Louise Upston

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

Answer

I am advised that, from 20 May 2024, the definition of 'basic telephone costs' for Temporary Additional Support was updated to include mobile phone plans, where there is no landline at the person’s home. I am further advised that, from 2…

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Question 16520 (2026)

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Willow-Jean Prime

List MP · Labour Party

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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 Training Incentive Allowance; if so, what were they and when did they come into…

Answered by

Hon Louise Upston

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

Answer

I am advised that from 30 June 2024, the Training Incentive Allowance (TIA) was made permanent. TIA had been reinstated from July 2021 for eligible beneficiaries undertaking courses at levels 4 to 7 on the New Zealand Qualifications…

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16528, 16529 (2026)

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Willow-Jean Prime

List MP · Labour Party

Questions

  • 16528 (matches this search)

    How long, on average, from the time the application is lodged does it take for a person to receive an Out of School Care and Recreation (OSCAR) Subsidy payment?

  • 16529 (matches this search)

    Have there been any delays in processing Out of School Care and Recreation (OSCAR) Subsidy payments this year; if so, how long have delays been and why have they occurred?

Answered by

Hon Louise Upston

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

Answer

I am advised by the Ministry of Social Development (the Ministry) that obtaining this information would require substantial collation and engagement and would divert Ministry staff from their core duties. In accordance with Speaker’s…

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Question 16548 (2026)

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Asked by

Jan Tinetti

List MP · Labour Party

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  • (matches this search)

    What papers, if any, did the Minister take to Cabinet during the week beginning 13 April 2026, by title and date?

Answered by

Hon Louise Upston

Member for Taupō · National Party · Minister for Child Poverty Reduction

Answer

With the exception of Cabinet Appointments and Honours (APH) papers and minutes, all Cabinet and Cabinet committee papers and minutes must be proactively released and published online within 30 business days of final decisions being taken…

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Question 16552 (2026)

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Asked by

Helen White

Member for Mt Albert · Labour Party

Question

  • (matches this search)

    What papers, if any, did the Minister take to Cabinet during the week beginning 13 April 2026, by title and date?

Answered by

Hon Louise Upston

Member for Taupō · National Party · Minister for the Community and Voluntary Sector

Answer

None.

Answered

Question 16558 (2026)

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Asked by

Priyanca Radhakrishnan

List MP · Labour Party

Question

  • (matches this search)

    What papers, if any, did the Minister take to Cabinet during the week beginning 13 April 2026, by title and date?

Answered by

Hon Louise Upston

Member for Taupō · National Party · Minister for Disability Issues

Answer

With the exception of Cabinet Appointments and Honours (APH) papers and minutes, all Cabinet and Cabinet committee papers and minutes must be proactively released and published online within 30 business days of final decisions being taken…

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Question 16622 (2026)

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Asked by

Willow-Jean Prime

List MP · Labour Party

Question

  • (matches this search)

    What papers, if any, did the Minister take to Cabinet during the week beginning 13 April 2026, by title and date?

Answered by

Hon Louise Upston

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

Answer

With the exception of Cabinet Appointments and Honours (APH) papers and minutes, all Cabinet and Cabinet committee papers and minutes must be proactively released and published online within 30 business days of final decisions being taken…

Answered

Question 16632 (2026)

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Asked by

Glen Bennett

List MP · Labour Party

Question

  • (matches this search)

    What papers, if any, did the Minister take to Cabinet during the week beginning 13 April 2026, by title and date?

Answered by

Hon Louise Upston

Member for Taupō · National Party · Minister for Tourism and Hospitality

Answer

With the exception of Cabinet Appointments and Honours (APH) papers and minutes, all Cabinet and Cabinet committee papers and minutes must be proactively released and published online within 30 business days of final decisions being taken…

Answered

Question 16653 (2026)

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Asked by

Jan Tinetti

List MP · Labour Party

Question

  • (matches this search)

    What aides-mémoire, briefings, memos, notes, reports, or any other advice, if any, has the Minister or their Office received during the week beginning 13 April 2026, listed by agency, title and date received?

Answered by

Hon Louise Upston

Member for Taupō · National Party · Minister for Child Poverty Reduction

Answer

In my capacity as Minister for Child Poverty Reduction, I regularly request and receive advice on a range of topics. In the interest of transparency, a list of reports received by my office from the Ministry of Social Development is…

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Question 16657 (2026)

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Asked by

Helen White

Member for Mt Albert · Labour Party

Question

  • (matches this search)

    What aides-mémoire, briefings, memos, notes, reports, or any other advice, if any, has the Minister or their Office received during the week beginning 13 April 2026, listed by agency, title and date received?

Answered by

Hon Louise Upston

Member for Taupō · National Party · Minister for the Community and Voluntary Sector

Answer

In my capacity as Minister for the Community and Voluntary Sector, I regularly request and receive advice on a range of topics. In the interest of transparency, a list of reports received by my office have been, or will be, proactively…

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Question 16662 (2026)

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Asked by

Priyanca Radhakrishnan

List MP · Labour Party

Question

  • (matches this search)

    What aides-mémoire, briefings, memos, notes, reports, or any other advice, if any, has the Minister or their Office received during the week beginning 13 April 2026, listed by agency, title and date received?

Answered by

Hon Louise Upston

Member for Taupō · National Party · Minister for Disability Issues

Answer

I regularly request and receive advice on a range of topics. In the interest of transparency, a list of reports received by my office from the: - Ministry of Social Development (MSD) is regularly published on MSD's website. The lists of…

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Question 16727 (2026)

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Asked by

Willow-Jean Prime

List MP · Labour Party

Question

  • (matches this search)

    What aides-mémoire, briefings, memos, notes, reports, or any other advice, if any, has the Minister or their Office received during the week beginning 13 April 2026, listed by agency, title and date received?

Answered by

Hon Louise Upston

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

Answer

In my capacity as Minister for Social Development and Employment, I regularly request and receive advice on a range of topics. In the interest of transparency, a list of reports received by my office from the Ministry of Social Development…

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Question 16737 (2026)

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Asked by

Glen Bennett

List MP · Labour Party

Question

  • (matches this search)

    What aides-mémoire, briefings, memos, notes, reports, or any other advice, if any, has the Minister or their Office received during the week beginning 13 April 2026, listed by agency, title and date received?

Answered by

Hon Louise Upston

Member for Taupō · National Party · Minister for Tourism and Hospitality

Answer

In my capacity as Minister for Tourism and Hospitality, I regularly request and receive advice on a range of topics. In the interest of transparency, a list of reports received by my office from the Ministry of Business, Innovation and…

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Question 16352 (2026)

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Asked by

Francisco Hernandez

List MP · Green Party

Question

  • (matches this search)

    What was the average wait time for people who received Civil Defence Payments following the severe weather events of late January 2026, broken down by region?

Answered by

Hon Louise Upston

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

Answer

I refer the member to the attached table, which provides the number of civil defence payment grants from 1 January 2026 to 31 March 2026 by month, MSD region and average processing time (days) This is also my response to WPQ 16360

Answered

16353, 16358 (2026)

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Asked by

Francisco Hernandez

List MP · Green Party

Questions

  • 16353 (matches this search)

    What were the reasons, if any, that applications for Civil Defence Payments were declined, if any, following the severe weather events of late January 2026?

  • 16358 (matches this search)

    How many claims for Civil Defence Payments following the severe weather events of late January 2026, if any, have been declined - broken down by region?

Answered by

Hon Louise Upston

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

Answer

I refer the member to the attached table, which provides the number of civil defence payment declines from 1 January 2026 to 31 March 2026 by month, MSD region and decline reason. This is also my response to WPQ 16358

Answered

Question 16360 (2026)

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Asked by

Francisco Hernandez

List MP · Green Party

Question

  • (matches this search)

    How many claims for Civil Defence Payments, if any, were made following the severe weather events in late January 2026, broken down by region?

Answered by

Hon Louise Upston

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

Answer

I refer the Member to reply number 16352 (2026)

Answered

Question 14238 (2026)

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Asked by

Francisco Hernandez

List MP · Green Party

Question

  • (matches this search)

    What was the composition of vehicle fleets, if any, in the Minister’s department’s, agencies, crown entities or any other bodies that the Minister is responsible for, if any, by fuel type in percentage terms in 2021?

Answered by

Hon Louise Upston

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

Answer

I refer the Member to the attached table, which provides the composition of vehicle fleets by fuel type for the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) and New Zealand Artificial Limb Service. The remaining Crown entities associated with MSD…

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Question 14243 (2026)

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Asked by

Francisco Hernandez

List MP · Green Party

Question

  • (matches this search)

    What was the composition of vehicle fleets, if any, in the Minister’s department’s, agencies, crown entities or any other bodies that the Minister is responsible for, if any, by fuel type in percentage terms in 2025?

Answered by

Hon Louise Upston

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

Answer

I refer the Member to reply number 14238 (2026)