Budget boost for struggling Disabled Peoples Ministry
1News: 30/5/2024
The coalition government has delivered a funding boost for the beleaguered Whaikaha – Ministry of Disabled People.
The 2024 Budget will provide an additional $1.1b over five years – including nearly $400m already committed for the rest of this financial year and for 2024/25.
The ministry has been under fire for what was seen as poorly communicated changes to support service access, as the ministry faced a shortfall.
The issues cost Penny Simmonds her position as the Disability Issues Minister.
“The coalition Government wants the best outcomes for the disability community, which is why we are prioritising the essential frontline services they rely on,” said Disability Issues Minister Louise Upston.
The minister said the “substantial investment” will allow eligible New Zealanders to access essential services, equipment and support they need.
That included home and community support services, respite care and community residential care, among other things.
“An independent review that is now underway into the disability support system will also help the Government improve the long-term financial sustainability of these services and ensure taxpayers are getting value,” Upston said.
“It’s important we provide disabled Kiwis with ongoing support that meets their needs and helps them lead a good life.”
The funding comes on top of maintaining the Government’s more than $2.2 billion per annum investment in disability support services.
Sector grateful - but funding the 'bare minimum'
NZ Disability Support Network chief executive Peter Reynolds said the funding would allow the sector to stand still but not move forward.
"We're grateful for the funding confirmed in today's budget — but this is the bare minimum required and won't extend support to more people in need or increase the quality of care.
"Providers face cost pressure across the board, with the prospect of covering unfunded Pay Equity wage increases hanging over them. Disabled New Zealanders deserve world class support, so all eyes are now on Minister Luxton's independent review to address the root cause."