A Budget to Assist the Poorest

A people centred budget, which improves the plight of the poorest and most vulnerable Kiwis, is the expectation The Salvation Army has for Thursday’s budget.

We look to Government to launch the economic plan that comprehensively addresses housing supply and affordability, child poverty, social and economic deprivation in regional New Zealand said Major Sue Hay Director of the Army’s Parliamentary Unit.

With insufficient affordable, social and emergency houses particularly in Auckland, the budget should ensure all the “players” in alleviating poor housing supply are fully incentivised and focused to address the supply crisis. With a shortage of supply, permanent affordable housing is not available for the poorest in Auckland and other centres. Budget 2015 therefore requires a package of emergency funding measures people into secure and family friendly temporary accommodation.

Thursday is the day Government needs to announce it will fully fund all the excellent recommendations of the expert group on Child Poverty. Minister English should commit the Government to the annual number by which child poverty will reduce.

Parliament should hear on Thursday the process and plan the Government has to develop national sustainability goals which ensure all regions progress in lifting Kiwis from economic or social disadvantage. The outcome announced should be healthy regions diverting pressure away from Auckland and ensuring the natural benefits and present infrastructure of the regions is fully utilised.

ENDS

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