9. RUSSELL FAIRBROTHER (Labour) Link to this
to the Minister for Social Development and Employment
What changes that will benefit New Zealand families come into force on 1 April this year?
Hon DAVID BENSON-POPE (Minister for Social Development and Employment) Link to this
I am pleased to advise the House that a number of significant changes take place from 1 April, in addition to the increases already announced to superannuation, the minimum wage, and annual leave entitlements. As endorsed by the House yesterday, the Working for Families tax credits will increase by $10 per week per child on 1 April. Unemployment, sickness, invalids, widows, and domestic purposes benefit rates will all increase in line with the increase in the Consumers Price Index on 1 April. Additionally, on 1 April there will be an increase of $10 per week per child in the foster care allowance, and a $20 per week per child increase in the orphans and the unsupported child’s benefit rates. Those moves will ensure that all families in New Zealand will share the benefits of a growing economy.
Russell Fairbrother Link to this
Has the Minister seen any reports that not all families should share in the wealth of a growing economy?
Hon DAVID BENSON-POPE Link to this
I heard an extraordinary report from the House yesterday that an MP had described targeted tax credits as a joke. I doubt whether William and Josephine from Kaitāia, who actually live in that member’s electorate, would think that receiving more than $300 per week in Working for Families tax credits is a joke.
Hon Parekura HoromiaHon DAVID BENSON-POPE Link to this
More than $300 per week. But I am sure they would have regarded the $10 per week that was being offered by National at the last election as a complete farce.