Government targets show positive trend but concerns over rising welfare numbers.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has presented the second quarterly update on nine Government targets, highlighting progress in areas such as law and order, education, and healthcare. According to data, there are fewer victims of violent crime and a reduction in youth offending. Additionally, work to get families out of emergency housing has shown significant headway with a 60% decrease from when the current government took office.
However, concerns have been raised about the number of people on Jobseeker Support, which increased by over 8,000 in the September quarter. In response, the Prime Minister emphasized the need for welfare reforms to support those who can work and help them build brighter futures through opportunity and independence. To address this, targeted support will be provided through Budget 2024, and obligations within the welfare system will be reinforced.
The government's law and order agenda is also a key focus area, with Prime Minister Luxon stating that it is "laser-focused on going after criminals and keeping Kiwis safe." While progress has been made in some areas, the Prime Minister acknowledged that there is still much work to be done.