The Goldilocks budget
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Date published: 9:25 am, May 20th, 2022 - 24 comments
Categories: budget 2022, Economy, grant robertson, labour, treasury
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How was the 2022 budget? Was it the worst since Ruth Richardson’s mother of all budgets or the best since the first Labour Government gave everyone a Christmas bonus in 1935?
Open mike 21/05/2022
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Date published: 6:00 am, May 21st, 2022 - 4 comments
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Daily review 20/05/2022
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Date published: 5:30 pm, May 20th, 2022 - 25 comments
Daily review is also your post. This provides Standardistas the opportunity to review events of the day. The usual rules of good behaviour apply (see the Policy). Don’t forget to be kind to each other …
The Media and the Australian election
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Date published: 2:03 pm, May 20th, 2022 - 5 comments
I cannot understand why in Australia Scotty from Marketing still has a fighting chance of remaining as Prime Minister. But the recent tightening in the polls suggests that this is a possibility.
Open mike 20/05/2022
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Date published: 6:00 am, May 20th, 2022 - 46 comments
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Daily review 19/05/2022
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Date published: 5:30 pm, May 19th, 2022 - 4 comments
Daily review is also your post. This provides Standardistas the opportunity to review events of the day. The usual rules of good behaviour apply (see the Policy). Don’t forget to be kind to each other …
The politics of high inflation – can governments do anything?
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Date published: 10:46 am, May 19th, 2022 - 13 comments
It is clear that we will continue to face these economic challenges with tools that are ill-equipped to face the problems. Only a truly international response can create an economy that delivers for all.
Budget Day: there are real alternatives
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Date published: 9:34 am, May 19th, 2022 - 9 comments
Budget Day, where our centre left neoliberal government straddles the line between compassion and BAU. Given the pressures of climate, the pandemic and global instability, what are the real alternatives?
Budget Day!
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Date published: 8:15 am, May 19th, 2022 - 50 comments
Today is budget day. What surprises will Grant Robertson announce to address the country’s many and varied problems. Will Christopher Luxon and Nicola Willis be able to sound like they actually understand what is in the budget? Stay tuned for 2 pm …
Open mike 19/05/2022
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Date published: 6:00 am, May 19th, 2022 - 29 comments
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Daily review 18/05/2022
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Date published: 5:30 pm, May 18th, 2022 - 63 comments
Daily review is also your post. This provides Standardistas the opportunity to review events of the day. The usual rules of good behaviour apply (see the Policy). Don’t forget to be kind to each other …
Longing for a low carbon future
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Date published: 8:27 am, May 18th, 2022 - 48 comments
It’s the question that obsesses me, how to cultivate a deep cultural longing for a post-carbon, more just, more equal world?
– Transitions Town pioneer Rob Hopkins
Open mike 18/05/2022
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Date published: 6:00 am, May 18th, 2022 - 50 comments
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Daily review 17/05/2022
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Date published: 5:30 pm, May 17th, 2022 - 18 comments
Daily review is also your post. This provides Standardistas the opportunity to review events of the day. The usual rules of good behaviour apply (see the Policy). Don’t forget to be kind to each other …
Has Business NZ been telling porkies?
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Date published: 8:08 am, May 17th, 2022 - 18 comments
Business NZ has claimed that the proposed Fair Play legislation breaches International Labour Law and that the International Labour Organisation agrees with it. But its claims appear to be on the wrong side of what we could politely describe as the truth.
The Emissions Reduction Plan we voted for
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Date published: 6:05 am, May 17th, 2022 - 33 comments
what kind of climate action do we want?
Open mike 17/05/2022
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Date published: 6:00 am, May 17th, 2022 - 55 comments
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Daily review 16/05/2022
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Date published: 5:30 pm, May 16th, 2022 - 25 comments
Daily review is also your post. This provides Standardistas the opportunity to review events of the day. The usual rules of good behaviour apply (see the Policy). Don’t forget to be kind to each other …
Justice for Shaireen
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Date published: 12:11 pm, May 16th, 2022 - 29 comments
The spotlight is again on Israel after the senseless shooting of Al Jazeera journalist Shireen Abu Akleh allegedly by an Israeli army sniper and on the subsequent disruption of her funeral by Israeli defence forces.
Open mike 16/05/2022
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Date published: 6:00 am, May 16th, 2022 - 199 comments
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The Auckland Mayoralty campaign
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Date published: 1:22 pm, May 15th, 2022 - 9 comments
The Auckland mayoralty campaign promises to be a fascinating contest between a right winger promising to spend $1.5 million on the campaign and wants to turn sprinklers on the homeless and Efeso Collins who promises to run an inclusive respectful campaign.
Open mike 15/05/2022
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Date published: 6:00 am, May 15th, 2022 - 60 comments
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Shane Jones’ weird premature budget take
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Date published: 11:02 am, May 14th, 2022 - 11 comments
Former Labour MP Shane Jones has criticised the 2021 budget even though he has no idea what is going to be in it.
The Kim Hill/Kathleen Stock interview
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Date published: 10:44 am, May 14th, 2022 - 121 comments
Kathleen Stock: the professor who lost her career amid toxic gender debate
Open mike 14/05/2022
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Date published: 6:00 am, May 14th, 2022 - 192 comments
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Daily review 13/05/2022
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Date published: 5:30 pm, May 13th, 2022 - 6 comments
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Australien Government Ad: Election 2020
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Date published: 1:31 pm, May 13th, 2022 - 13 comments
JuiceMedia have done their high quality opinionated but fact based satire Honest Government Ad describing the lowlights of the current Aussie shitshow. If you haven’t seen it yet, then be my guest.
Open mike 13/05/2022
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Date published: 6:00 am, May 13th, 2022 - 97 comments
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Daily review 12/05/2022
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Date published: 5:30 pm, May 12th, 2022 - 35 comments
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Kia kaha Kelvin Davis
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Date published: 10:13 am, May 12th, 2022 - 27 comments
Kelvin Davis gave an outstanding speech in Parliament yesterday where he ridiculed opposition for proposals that if passed would enhance inequality.
Open mike 12/05/2022
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Date published: 6:00 am, May 12th, 2022 - 89 comments
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- Decarbonising the schoolsThe government has announced it will be replacing all coal boilers in schools by 2025: All remaining coal boilers in New Zealand schools will be replaced with cleaner wood burners or electric heating by 2025, at a cost of $10 million, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has announced. The coal ...2 weeks ago
- Neo-Nazis in Ukraine. Comedians are often more truthful than politicians.
Israeli news media and politicians often complain about the activity of neo-Nazis in Ukraine. “Activists and supporters of Ukrainian nationalist parties hold torches as they take part in a rally to mark the 112th birth anniversary of Stepan Bandera, in Kyiv, Ukraine, January 1, 2021. Credit: Valentyn Ogirenko/Reuters The recent ...2 weeks ago - Skeptical Science New Research for Week #18 2022Another gnawing warming worry Accidental outcomes of our engineering prowess are warming Arctic regions at a rapid pace. Another species of accomplished engineers is rapidly occupying and exploiting new territory we've thereby made more easily available, namely beavers (Castor canadensis). Beaver populations in affected Arctic regions have increased from "none" to "quite a ...2 weeks ago
- Pursuit of Indigenous sovereign rightsDr Simon Lambert’s dream is to see Indigenous nations across the world exercising their sovereign rights by adding their say to disaster risk reduction planning. Simon, of Ngāi Tūhoe and Ngāti Ruapani ki Waikaremoana, specialises in indigenous disaster risk reduction, indigenous health and indigenous development, social science, environmental management, planning ...2 weeks ago
- ‘My stroke gave me purpose’ – Rukingi HaupapaRukingi Haupapa (Ngāti Whakaue, Te Arawa) credits his stroke in 2005 for changing his life: leading him to change his name, get his mataora (facial moko) and set up a trust to help fellow stroke survivors. Oranga (health and wellbeing) is Rukingi’s passion. He holds a Master’s degree in Indigenous ...2 weeks ago
- Thoughts on an abusive copThe Independent Police Conduct authority has today released two reports relating to the same police officer. In the first, they are found to have used excessive and unjustifiable force in the arrest of a child. In the second, they are found to have seriously assaulted a man during an unlawful ...2 weeks ago
- Green Party urges Labour to provide support to those who need it most
The Green Party is calling on Labour to expand the temporary cost of living payment to those most in need. ...19 hours ago - Budget 2020: James Shaw Budget SpeechCHECK AGAINST DELIVERY Mr Speaker, It has taken four-and-a-half years to even start to turn the legacy of inaction and neglect from the last time they were in Government together. And we have a long journey in front of us! ...2 days ago
- Greens MP Dr Elizabeth Kerekere says wins for health not enough for Māori or RainbowToday Greens Te Mātāwaka Chair and Health Spokesperson, Dr Elizabeth Kerekere, said “The Greens have long campaigned for an independent Māori Health Authority and pathways for Takatāpui and Rainbow healthcare. “We welcome the substantial funding going into the new health system, Pae Ora, particularly for the Māori Health Authority, Iwi-Partnership ...2 days ago
- Budget 2022: Greens call for urgency with nature-first climate investmentsBudget 2022 shows progress on conservation commitments in the Green Party’s cooperation agreement Green Party achievements in the last Government continue to drive investment in nature protection Urgent action needed on nature-based solutions to climate change Future budget decisions must reflect the role nature plays in helping reduce emissions ...2 days ago
- Budget 2022: Greens celebrate landmark investment in climate actionLandmark week for climate action concludes with climate budget Largest ever investment in climate action one of many Green Party wins throughout Budget 2022 Budget 2022 delivers progress on every part of the cooperation agreement with Labour Budget 2022 is a climate budget that caps a landmark week ...2 days ago
- Budget 2022: Govt must build on half price fare extension and make public transport freeGreen Party welcomes extension to half price fares Permanent half price fares for Community Services Card holders includes many students, which helps implement a Green Party policy Work to reduce public transport fares for Community Services Card holders started by Greens in the last Government Budget 2022 should be ...2 days ago
- Budget 2022: Greens welcome winter energy support and funding for community energyNew cost of living payment closely aligned to Green Party policy to expand the Winter Energy Payment Extension and improvement of Warmer Kiwi Homes builds on Green Party progress in Government Community energy fund welcomed The Green Party welcomes the investment in Budget 2022 to expand Warmer Kiwi ...2 days ago
- Budget 2022: Greens welcome support to address youth homelessnessBudget 2022 support to reduce homelessness delivers on the Green Party’s cooperation agreement Bespoke support for rangatahi with higher, more complex needs The Green Party welcomes the additional investment in Budget 2022 for kaupapa Māori support services, homelessness outreach services, the expansion of transitional housing, and a new ...2 days ago
- Green Party PR – Budget 2022: Greens call for greater ambition to address inequality crisisGreen Party reaffirms call for liveable incomes and wealth tax Calls on Government to cancel debt owed to MSD for hardship assistance such as benefit advances, and for over-payments The Green Party welcomes the support for people on low incomes Budget 2022 but says more must be done ...2 days ago
- Extra support with the cost of living
At the heart of this year’s Budget is our cost of living package, designed to ease the pressure on New Zealanders in the face of global inflation. ...2 days ago - 13 highlights of Budget 2022Our Government has just released this year’s Budget, which sets out the next steps in our plan to build a high wage, low carbon economy that gives economic security in good times and in bad. It’s full of initiatives that speed up our economic recovery and ease cost pressures for ...2 days ago
- Strengthening Democracy Bill pulled from biscuit tinA stronger democracy is on the horizon, as Golriz Ghahraman’s Electoral (Strengthening Democracy) Amendment Bill was pulled from the biscuit tin today. ...2 days ago
- What to expect in Budget 2022Tomorrow, the Government will release this year’s Budget, setting out the next steps in our plan to build a high wage, low carbon economy that gives economic security in good times and in bad. While the full details will be kept under wraps until Thursday afternoon, we’ve announced a few ...3 days ago
- Next steps in our plan to address climate changeAs a Government, we made it clear to New Zealanders that we’d take meaningful action on climate change, and that’s exactly what we’ve done. Earlier today, we released our next steps with our Emissions Reduction Plan – which will meet the Climate Commission’s independent science-based emissions reduction targets, and new ...5 days ago
- Landmark climate plan secures path to net zeroEmissions Reduction Plan prepares New Zealand for the future, ensuring country is on track to meet first emissions budget, securing jobs, and unlocking new investment ...5 days ago
- Supercharging decarbonisation & transforming the energy system...5 days ago
- Pasifika communities must be part of immigration rebalanceThe Greens are calling for the Government to reconsider the immigration reset so that it better reflects our relationship with our Pacific neighbours. ...7 days ago
- More support for Alcohol Harm Minimisation BillHamilton City Council and Whanganui District Council have both joined a growing list of Local Authorities to pass a motion in support of Green Party Drug Reform Spokesperson Chlöe Swarbrick’s Members’ bill to minimise alcohol harm. ...1 week ago
- The next steps in our plan to speed up New Zealand’s economic growthToday, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern announced a major package of reforms to address the immediate skill shortages in New Zealand and speed up our economic growth. These include an early reopening to the world, a major milestone for international education, and a simplification of immigration settings to ensure New Zealand ...1 week ago
- Immigration reset entrenches discrimination towards low-waged migrantsProposed immigration changes by the Government fail to guarantee pathways to residency to workers in the types of jobs deemed essential throughout the pandemic, by prioritising high income earners - instead of focusing on the wellbeing of workers and enabling migrants to put down roots. ...1 week ago
- Green Party supports nurses’ ERA decisionThe Green Party supports nurses’ continued push for pay equity and calls on the Government to deliver the back pay they had expected. ...2 weeks ago
- Budget 2022 Speech: Investing to eliminate violence in our homes and communitiesEhara taku toa i te toa takatahi, engari taku toa he toa takimano – my strength is not mine alone but the strength of many (working together to ensure safe, caring respectful responses). We are striving for change. We want all people in Aotearoa New Zealand thriving; their wellbeing enhanced ...2 weeks ago
- Allied health workers deserve better conditionsThe Green Party is throwing its support behind the 10,000 allied health workers taking work-to-rule industrial action today because of unfair pay and working conditions. ...2 weeks ago
- SPEECH: Building a low-carbon futureTēnā koutou, tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou katoa. Ngā mihi o te ata. Good morning ...2 weeks ago
- Celebrating Gasav Ne Fäeag Rotuạm Ta – Rotuman Language WeekToday marks the first celebration for Pacific Language Weeks 2022 with Gasav Ne Fäeag Rotuạm Ta – Rotuman Language Week. ...2 weeks ago
- Six ways we’re reducing cost pressures for New ZealandersSince the day we came into Government, we’ve worked hard to lift wages and reduce cost pressures facing New Zealanders. But we know the rising cost of living, driven by worldwide inflation and the war in Ukraine, is making things particularly tough right now. That’s why we’ve stepped up our ...2 weeks ago
- Disability assist dogs now protected in lawThe Green Party has changed the law to ensure people do not face discrimination for having a disability assist dog. ...2 weeks ago
- Greens call for government to implement all recommendations of Casey report into detention of asylum...An independent review of New Zealand’s detention regime for asylum seekers has found arbitrary and abusive practices in Aotearoa’s immigration law, policy, and practice. ...3 weeks ago
- Government support for Levin community hit by tornado
The Government is contributing $100,000 to a Mayoral Relief Fund to help the Levin community following this morning’s tornado, Minister for Emergency Management Kiri Allan says. “My thoughts are with everyone who has been impacted by severe weather events in Levin and across the country. “I know the tornado has ...16 hours ago - Statement from the Quintet of Attorneys General in support of Prosecutor General Iryna Venediktova a...The Quintet of Attorneys General have issued the following statement of support for the Prosecutor General of Ukraine and investigations and prosecutions for crimes committed during the Russian invasion of Ukraine: “The Attorneys General of the United Kingdom, the United States of America, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand join in ...17 hours ago
- Andrew Little Budget 2022 post-Budget health speech, Auckland, 20 May 2022Morena tatou katoa. Kua tae mai i runga i te kaupapa o te rā. Thank you all for being here today. Yesterday my colleague, the Minister of Finance Grant Robertson, delivered the Wellbeing Budget 2022 – for a secure future for New Zealand. I’m the Minister of Health, and this was ...22 hours ago
- Govt helps supermarket shoppers get a fair dealUrgent Budget night legislation to stop major supermarkets blocking competitors from accessing land for new stores has been introduced today, Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs Dr David Clark said. The Commerce (Grocery Sector Covenants) Amendment Bill amends the Commerce Act 1986, banning restrictive covenants on land, and exclusive covenants ...2 days ago
- Prime Minister: Wellbeing Budget 2022 speechIt is a pleasure to speak to this Budget. The 5th we have had the privilege of delivering, and in no less extraordinary circumstances. Mr Speaker, the business and cycle of Government is, in some ways, no different to life itself. Navigating difficult times, while also making necessary progress. Dealing ...2 days ago
- Future resource management system implementation fundingBudget 2022 provides funding to implement the new resource management system, building on progress made since the reform was announced just over a year ago. The inadequate funding for the implementation of the Resource Management Act in 1992 almost guaranteed its failure. There was a lack of national direction about ...2 days ago
- Funding certainty for quality public mediaThe Government is substantially increasing the amount of funding for public media to ensure New Zealanders can continue to access quality local content and trusted news. “Our decision to create a new independent and future-focused public media entity is about achieving this objective, and we will support it with a ...2 days ago
- Funding boost secures Defence capabilities$662.5 million to maintain existing defence capabilities NZDF lower-paid staff will receive a salary increase to help meet cost-of living pressures. Budget 2022 sees significant resources made available for the Defence Force to maintain existing defence capabilities as it looks to the future delivery of these new investments. “Since ...2 days ago
- Budget 2022 supports resilient and sustainable cultural sectorMore than $185 million to help build a resilient cultural sector as it continues to adapt to the challenges coming out of COVID-19. Support cultural sector agencies to continue to offer their important services to New Zealanders. Strengthen support for Māori arts, culture and heritage. The Government is investing in a ...2 days ago
- Minister of Finance: Wellbeing Budget 2022 SpeechIt is my great pleasure to present New Zealand’s fourth Wellbeing Budget. In each of this Government’s three previous Wellbeing Budgets we have not only considered the performance of our economy and finances, but also the wellbeing of our people, the health of our environment and the strength of our communities. In Budget ...2 days ago
- Wellbeing Budget 2022 SpeechIt is my great pleasure to present New Zealand’s fourth Wellbeing Budget. In each of this Government’s three previous Wellbeing Budgets we have not only considered the performance of our economy and finances, but also the wellbeing of our people, the health of our environment and the strength of our communities. In Budget ...2 days ago
- Coronial delays addressed by Budget 2022Four new permanent Coroners to be appointed Seven Coronial Registrar roles and four Clinical Advisor roles are planned to ease workload pressures Budget 2022 delivers a package of investment to improve the coronial system and reduce delays for grieving families and whānau. “Operating funding of $28.5 million over four ...2 days ago
- Paving the way for better outcomes for disabled peopleEstablishment of Ministry for Disabled People Progressing the rollout of the Enabling Good Lives approach to Disability Support Services to provide self-determination for disabled people Extra funding for disability support services “Budget 2022 demonstrates the Government’s commitment to deliver change for the disability community with the establishment of a ...2 days ago
- Investing in education so all Kiwis can succeedFairer Equity Funding system to replace school deciles The largest step yet towards Pay Parity in early learning Local support for schools to improve teaching and learning A unified funding system to underpin the Reform of Vocational Education Boost for schools and early learning centres to help with cost ...2 days ago
- Primary sector backed to grow and innovate$118.4 million for advisory services to support farmers, foresters, growers and whenua Māori owners to accelerate sustainable land use changes and lift productivity $40 million to help transformation in the forestry, wood processing, food and beverage and fisheries sectors $31.6 million to help maintain and lift animal welfare practices across Aotearoa New Zealand A total food and ...2 days ago
- More support for first home buyers and rentersHouse price caps for First Home Grants increased in many parts of the country House price caps for First Home Loans removed entirely Kāinga Whenua Loan cap will also be increased from $200,000 to $500,000 The Affordable Housing Fund to initially provide support for not-for-profit rental providers Significant additional ...2 days ago
- Budget lifts up to 14,000 children out of povertyChild Support rules to be reformed lifting an estimated 6,000 to 14,000 children out of poverty Support for immediate and essential dental care lifted from $300 to $1,000 per year Increased income levels for hardship assistance to extend eligibility Budget 2022 takes further action to reduce child poverty and ...2 days ago
- A booster for RNA research and developmentMore support for RNA research through to pilot manufacturing RNA technology platform to be created to facilitate engagement between research and industry partners Researchers and businesses working in the rapidly developing field of RNA technology will benefit from a new research and development platform, funded in Budget 2022. “RNA ...2 days ago
- Unleashing business potential across NZA new Business Growth Fund to support small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) to grow Fully funding the Regional Strategic Partnership Fund to unleash regional economic development opportunities Tourism Innovation Programme to promote sustainable recovery Eight Industry Transformation Plans progressed to work with industries, workers and iwi to transition ...2 days ago
- Securing the wellbeing of Pacific communitiesBudget 2022 further strengthens the economic foundations and wellbeing outcomes for Pacific peoples in Aotearoa, as the recovery from COVID-19 continues. “The priorities we set for Budget 2022 will support the continued delivery of our commitments for Pacific peoples through the Pacific Wellbeing Strategy, a 2020 manifesto commitment for Pacific ...2 days ago
- Government delivers timely support for whānauBoost for Māori economic and employment initiatives. More funding for Māori health and wellbeing initiatives Further support towards growing language, culture and identity initiatives to deliver on our commitment to Te Reo Māori in Education Funding for natural environment and climate change initiatives to help farmers, growers and whenua ...2 days ago
- Government delivers critical infrastructureNew hospital funding for Whangārei, Nelson and Hillmorton 280 more classrooms over 40 schools, and money for new kura $349 million for more rolling stock and rail network investment The completion of feasibility studies for a Northland dry dock and a new port in the Manukau Harbour Increased infrastructure ...2 days ago
- A health system that takes care of Māori$168 million to the Māori Health Authority for direct commissioning of services $20.1 million to support Iwi-Māori Partnership Boards $30 million to support Māori primary and community care providers $39 million for Māori health workforce development Budget 2022 invests in resetting our health system and gives economic security in ...2 days ago
- Investing in better health servicesBiggest-ever increase to Pharmac’s medicines budget Provision for 61 new emergency vehicles including 48 ambulances, along with 248 more paramedics and other frontline staff New emergency helicopter and crew, and replacement of some older choppers $100 million investment in specialist mental health and addiction services 195,000 primary and intermediate aged ...2 days ago
- A Secure Future for New Zealanders’ healthLandmark reform: new multi-year budgets for better planning and more consistent health services Record ongoing annual funding boost for Health NZ to meet cost pressures and start with a clean slate as it replaces fragmented DHB system ($1.8 billion year one, as well as additional $1.3 billion in year ...2 days ago
- Cost of living package eases impact on households – 2.1 million Kiwis to get new targeted paymentFuel Excise Duty and Road User Charges cut to be extended for two months Half price public transport extended for a further two months New temporary cost of living payment for people earning up to $70,000 who are not eligible to receive the Winter Energy Payment Estimated 2.1 million New ...2 days ago
- Budget highlights underlying strength of economy in face of global headwindsA return to surplus in 2024/2025 Unemployment rate projected to remain at record lows Net debt forecast to peak at 19.9 percent of GDP in 2024, lower than Australia, US, UK and Canada Economic growth to hit 4.2 percent in 2023 and average 2.1 percent over the forecast period A ...2 days ago
- Budget 2022: A secure future in difficult timesCost of living payment to cushion impact of inflation for 2.1 million Kiwis Record health investment including biggest ever increase to Pharmac’s medicines budget First allocations from Climate Emergency Response Fund contribute to achieving the goals in the first Emissions Reduction Plan Government actions deliver one of the strongest ...2 days ago
- Budget 2022: A secure futureBudget 2022 will help build a high wage, low emissions economy that provides greater economic security, while providing support to households affected by cost of living pressures. Our economy has come through the COVID-19 shock better than almost anywhere else in the world, but other challenges, both long-term and more ...2 days ago
- Health Minister to attend World Health Assembly in GenevaHealth Minister Andrew Little will represent New Zealand at the first in-person World Health Assembly since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, to be held in Geneva, Switzerland, from Sunday 22 – Wednesday 25 May (New Zealand time). “COVID-19 has affected people all around the world, and health continues to ...3 days ago
- New efforts to counter illegal timber tradeNew Zealand is committing to trade only in legally harvested timber with the Forests (Legal Harvest Assurance) Amendment Bill introduced to Parliament today. Under the Bill, timber harvested in New Zealand and overseas, and used in products made here or imported, will have to be verified as being legally harvested. ...3 days ago
- Deaths in New Zealand lower than expected so far during the pandemicThe Government has welcomed the release today of StatsNZ data showing the rate at which New Zealanders died from all causes during the COVID-19 pandemic has been lower than expected. The new StatsNZ figures provide a measure of the overall rate of deaths in New Zealand during the pandemic compared ...3 days ago
- New law helps secure New Zealand’s maritime domainLegislation that will help prevent serious criminal offending at sea, including trafficking of humans, drugs, wildlife and arms, has passed its third reading in Parliament today, Foreign Affairs Nanaia Mahuta announced. “Today is a milestone in allowing us to respond to the increasingly dynamic and complex maritime security environment facing ...4 days ago
- Trade and Export Growth Minister to travel to Bangkok for APECTrade and Export Growth Minister Damien O’Connor is set to travel to Thailand this week to represent New Zealand at the annual APEC Ministers Responsible for Trade (MRT) meeting in Bangkok. “I’m very much looking forward to meeting my trade counterparts at APEC 2022 and building on the achievements we ...4 days ago
- Government welcomes historic pay-equity dealSettlement of the first pay-equity agreement in the health sector is hugely significant, delivering pay rises of thousands of dollars for many hospital administration and clerical workers, Health Minister Andrew Little says. “There is no place in 21st century Aotearoa New Zealand for 1950s attitudes to work predominantly carried out ...4 days ago
- Government delivers new ICU space at Christchurch HospitalHealth Minister Andrew Little opened a new intensive care space for up to 12 ICU-capable beds at Christchurch Hospital today, funded from the Government’s Rapid Hospital Improvement Programme. “I’m pleased to help mark this milestone. This new space will provide additional critical care support for the people of Canterbury and ...4 days ago
- Next steps for specialist mental health and addiction servicesBudget 2022 will continue to deliver on Labour’s commitment to better services and support for mental wellbeing. The upcoming Budget will include a $100-million investment over four years for a specialist mental health and addiction package, including: $27m for community-based crisis services that will deliver a variety of intensive supports ...4 days ago
- 195,000 children set to benefit from more mental health supportBudget 2022 will continue to deliver on Labour’s commitment to better mental wellbeing services and support, with 195,000 primary and intermediate aged children set to benefit from the continuation and expansion of Mana Ake services. “In Budget 2022 Labour will deliver on its manifesto commitment to expand Mana Ake, with ...4 days ago
- Belarusian leaders and defence entities targeted under latest round of sanctionsForeign Minister Nanaia Mahuta has today announced sanctions on Belarusian leaders and defence entities supporting Russia’s actions in Ukraine, as part of the Government’s ongoing response to the war. “The Belarusian government military is enabling the illegal and unacceptable assault on Ukraine’s sovereignty,” Nanaia Mahuta said. “Under the leadership of ...5 days ago
- Queen's Platinum Jubilee Tree planting event at Government HouseJust after World War 2, there were incentives to clear forest and bring land into agricultural production. In places, the land had been stripped bare as forests were felled for sheep grazing. Today, you only have to look at the hills around Taihape and see the stumps of a once ...5 days ago
- Newspoll and Ipsos both give Labor clear leads in final polls; counting of early votes
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne AAP/Lukas Coch The federal election is on Saturday. Polls close at 6pm local time; that means 6pm AEST in the eastern states, 6:30pm in SA and the ...9 hours ago - Monkeypox in Australia: what is it and how can we prevent the spread?Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By C Raina MacIntyre, Professor of Global Biosecurity, NHMRC Principal Research Fellow, Head, Biosecurity Program, Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney CDC/Wikimedia Two cases of monkeypox have been detected in Australia, following reported cases in several European countries. Both are in men just ...12 hours ago
- Week in politics – The Budget and the ERP: How they went down
Analysis - It was the government's biggest week of the year with the Budget and the Emissions Reduction Plan coming out, and neither was given much of a welcome, Peter Wilson writes. ...14 hours ago - ‘Some leaders only want to hear the good news’: politicians tell us how political careers can en...Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ataus Samad, Lecturer, Western Sydney University Mick Tsikas/AAP With the election almost upon us, thoughts are more than ever turned to political survival. While getting pre-selected and winning elections are the initial, difficult challenges of a political career, a major ...14 hours ago
- Keith Rankin Chart Analysis – Covid19: New Zealand deaths coming into winter 202215 hours ago
- The rise and rise of Harry Styles: how did the former boyband member become the biggest name in pop?Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Liz Giuffre, Senior Lecturer in Communication, University of Technology Sydney Lillie Eiger/ Sony You’ve probably heard the name Harry Styles. He is the current “real big thing” in popular music. But how did a former boy band star become ...15 hours ago
- Here’s what the government and universities can do about the crisis of insecure academic workSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jess Harris, Associate Professor in Education, University of Newcastle Shutterstock Contract and casual workers in Australian universities have borne the brunt of revenue losses and funding cuts to higher education and research. When the government refused to provide JobKeeper to ...15 hours ago
- Levin tornado: Government puts $100k into relief fundAfter a tornado hit Levin, the government will put $100,000 into a mayoral relief fund to help with the recovery. ...16 hours ago
- Budget 2022: Stamp Duty On Foreign Buyers Of Residential Property Should Be Considered
New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty managing director Mark Harris is advocating for a stamp duty on foreign buyers of residential property. Following yesterday’s Budget 2022 announcement, Harris believes that a stamp duty would help increase the ...16 hours ago - Budget unleashes laments from groups that were overlooked or short-changed (including hopes of Human...
And how did the people react to the boost in spending announced in this year’s Budget to promote our wellbeing? In some cases by pleading for more; in other cases, by grouching they got nothing. But Budget spending is never enough. Two lots of bleating came from the Human Rights ...17 hours ago - VIDEO: It’s not just politicians on tenterhooks – pollsters are tooSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra University of Canberra Professorial Fellow Michelle Grattan and Emma La Rouche, from the University of Canberra’s Media and Communications team, look at the last week of the campaign as Australians head to the polls. ...18 hours ago
- Australia’s cities policies are seriously inadequate for tackling the climate crisisSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Anna Hurlimann, Associate Professor in Urban Planning, The University of Melbourne Shutterstock It will be impossible to tackle climate change unless we transform the way we build and plan cities, which are responsible for a staggering 70% of global emissions. ...18 hours ago
- Military Spending Increases: Time To #BudgetForPeaceMilitary spending allocated in the 2022 Wellbeing Budget is $6,077,484,000 - an average of more than $116.8 million every week, and a 10.4% increase on actual spending in 2021. [1] This year’s increase illustrates yet again that the government remains ...18 hours ago
- Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Steven Tingay, John Curtin Distinguished Professor (Radio Astronomy), Curtin University JIM LO SCALZO/EPA The United States Congress recently held a hearing into US government information pertaining to “unidentified aerial phenomena” (UAPs). The last investigation of this kind happened ...18 hours ago
- Labour’s BSHIT BudgetBank shareholders, speculators, investors, and ticket clippers will be partying for days over the enormous profits they’ll be expecting following Labour’s budget reveal yesterday. After a 48 percent increase in profits in 2021, banks in particular ...19 hours ago
- Science's Slice Of Budget 2022 – Expert ReactionBudget 2022 has a relatively small amount of new cash allocated to science, research and innovation. This budget comes ahead of what could become a major overhaul of the research, science, and innovation sector in the coming years, with MBIE now ...19 hours ago
- Labour’s fourth ‘well-being budget’ still comes up short on the well-being of womenSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jennifer Curtin, Professor of Politics and Policy, University of Auckland Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern speaks to parliament via video link from COVID isolation during budget day. Getty Images All budgets are about economics and politics, and 2022’s was no different. The Labour ...19 hours ago
- Don’t Worry, It’s Just A Test – Emergency Mobile Alert Nationwide Test This SundayEarly this Sunday evening there will be a phone alert you can’t ignore – but don’t worry, it’s just a test. This year’s nationwide test of the Emergency Mobile Alert system will take place on Sunday 22 May between 6-7pm It is expected ...19 hours ago
- Inaugural Chinese Medicine Council Of New ZealandIt was announced today that the inaugural Chinese Medicine Council of New Zealand (CMCNZ) has been appointed by the Minister of Health, Hon. Andrew Little. This brings the Chinese medicine profession in under the Health Practitioners Competence Assurance ...19 hours ago
- Why do we get teary when we’re tired or sick?Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Peggy Kern, Associate professor, The University of Melbourne Shutterstock It’s been a big week and you feel exhausted, and suddenly you find yourself crying at a nice nappy commercial. Or maybe you are struck with a cold or the coronavirus ...19 hours ago
- Buzz from the Beehive – it’s all about the Budget and billions being disbursed to buck us up in ...No, we haven’t fully analysed Budget 2022, but we did listen to Finance Minister Grant Robertson’s speech. He took great pride in announcing his fifth Budget invests $5.9 billion a year in net new operating spending, while introducing multi-year funding packages that also draw from Budget 2023 and Budget 2024 ...20 hours ago
- Can sniffer dogs really detect COVID almost as well as a PCR test? Turns out they canSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Hassan Vally, Associate Professor, Epidemiology, Deakin University Victor Grabarczyk/unsplash Dogs have an exceptional sense of smell. We take advantage of this ability in many ways, including by training them to find illicit drugs, dangerous goods and even people. In ...20 hours ago
- Govt Playing Dirty With Timing Of New Employment TaxThe Government is using dirty tactics as it pushes through enabling legislation to increase PAYE revenue by 10% under the cover of yesterday’s Budget, says the New Zealand Taxpayers’ Union in response to the Income Insurance Scheme (Enabling ...20 hours ago
- Pacific services receive $196m boost in NZ Budget – new RNZ radio boostRNZ Pacific A total of NZ$196 million has been set aside for Pacific services in Aotearoa New Zealand in this year’s Budget. A big chunk of that — $76 million will go on Pacific health services. Finance Minister Grant Robertson said the cash injection would be used to support Pacific ...20 hours ago
- West Papuan students face ‘hardship and stress’ over scholarship lossBy George Heagney of Stuff A group of students from West Papua, the Melanesian Pacific region in Indonesia, are fearful about their futures in New Zealand after their scholarships were cut off. A group of about 40 students have been studying at different tertiary institutions in New Zealand, but in ...20 hours ago
- NZ Budget 2022: Record $11.1 billion post-covid boost for health systemBy Craig McCulloch, RNZ News deputy political editor More than two million New Zealanders will get a one-off $350 sweetener as part of the Budget’s centrepiece $1 billion cost-of-living relief package. The temporary short-term support is counterbalanced by a record $11.1 billion for the health system as the government scraps ...20 hours ago
- Pax Christi helps Papuan students stranded in NZ with $1000 grant in study pleaAsia Pacific Report newsdesk A movement dedicated to peaceful self-determination among indigenous groups in the Pacific is the latest group in Aotearoa to add support for struggling Papuan students caught in Aotearoa New Zealand after an abrupt cancellation of their scholarships. About 70 Papuan students are currently in New Zealand ...20 hours ago
- New Caledonia’s pro-independence parties choose for French electionsRNZ Pacific The pro-independence coalition parties of Kanaky New Caledonia have selected their candidates for the French Legislative elections next month. Wali Wahetra from the Palika Party is standing in one electoral district, and Gerard Reignier from Union Caledonienne is standing in the other. Speaking with La Premiere, Wahetra explained ...20 hours ago
- Pink tears for the Philippines, and transforming the rage into hopeCOMMENTARY: By Nina Santos in Auckland On May 9, the Philippines went to the polls in what has been called “by far the most divisive and consequential electoral contest” in the Philippines. The electoral race had boiled down to two frontrunners: one was the current Vice-President Leni Robredo, running on ...20 hours ago
- PNG has lost a ‘vibrant and visionary’ leader, says grand chief Sir BobPNG Post-Courier Governor-General Grand Chief Sir Bob Dadae has described Papua New Guinea’s late Deputy Prime Minister Sam Basil as a vibrant and visionary leader who was passionate about his people and the electorate. He said Basil loved and dedicated his life to the people of Bulolo until his unexpected ...20 hours ago
- Changes To Refugee Settlement Service Providers For Quota Refugees...20 hours ago
- 2022 Budget – Was The Retired Community Ignored Or Forgotten?Are you receiving NZ Superannuation? If you are, then no, you are not one of the 2.1 million Kiwi’s getting the $350 cost of living supplement announced in the 2022 Budget. If you hold a Gold card the extension of the half priced public ...20 hours ago
- Budget 2022: Cost-of-living sweetener planned well in advance – RobertsonThe Finance Minister says help with the rising cost of living was not a last-minute addition to the Budget. ...20 hours ago
- Government Priorities Are Wrong...20 hours ago
- Debtfix Pleased Budget 2022 Recognised Lower Income Is Under $70k...21 hours ago
- Visionwest Waka Whakakitenga – Response To Budget 2022On May 19th, the Government released its 2022 Budget which included a number of initiatives to help vulnerable whānau in our communities. Many of these initiatives focus on a proactive strategy to recover from the effects of COVID. Within the community ...21 hours ago
- Grey Power Disappointed In The BudgetBudget 2022 has been a disappointment for New Zealand’s leading advocate for older people. Although the Grey Power Federation is pleased to note that the Government is investing $3.103 million over four years to continue implementing the Better Later ...21 hours ago
- Russia’s blockade could cause mass famine beyond Ukraine – but it’s a crime without a nameSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alexander Gillespie, Professor of Law, University of Waikato Ukraine’s sea port of Mariupol, blockaded and now fallen to Russian forces. Getty Images Trying to gauge the worst aspect of the Russian invasion of Ukraine is difficult. For some, it will be the ...21 hours ago
- National MP Jacqui Dean to leave Parliament after electionWaitaki MP Jacqui Dean, a National Party MP and former deputy mayor, has announced she will not contest next year's election. ...22 hours ago
- Funding Supports New Construction Sector Transformation PlanThe Government has committed $37.485m to continue the work of achieving a thriving, fair and sustainable construction sector. The funding will support the Construction Sector Accord to deliver its Construction Sector Transformation Plan 2022-2025. “This ...23 hours ago
- Mental Health And Wellbeing Commission Welcome Budget 2022 Investment In Specialist Mental Health An...The Commission commends the Government’s Budget 2022 investment in specialist mental health and addiction, particularly the investment in community-based crisis services, specialist child and adolescent mental health and addiction services, and ...23 hours ago
- What’s it like to be on Venus or Pluto? We studied their sand dunes and found some cluesSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Andrew Gunn, Lecturer, Monash University Sand blown by wind into ripples within Victoria Crater at Meridiani Planum on Mars, as photographed by NASA’s Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter on October 3, 2006. NASA/JPL-Caltech/University of Arizona/Cornell/Ohio State University What is it like to be on ...1 day ago
- Australians face their starkest choice at the ballot box in 50 years. Here’s whySource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Mark Kenny, Professor, Australian Studies Institute, Australian National University You first have to lose an election on principle if you want to win one on principle. This was how Labor rationalised the miscalculations that led to its “Don’s Party” disappointment in 1969, ...1 day ago
- Treating sleep apnoea can improve memory in people with cognitive declineSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Camilla Hoyos, Research Fellow, University of Sydney Shutterstock There is increasing recognition of the important role sleep plays in our brain health. Growing evidence suggests disturbed sleep may increase the risk of developing dementia. I and University of Sydney ...1 day ago
- 5 charts show how trust in Australia’s leaders and institutions has collapsedSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Samuel Wilson, Associate Professor of Leadership, Swinburne University of Technology Shutterstock Whatever the result of the 2022 election, one thing is clear: many Australians are losing faith that their social institutions serve their interests. Our annual survey of 4,000 Australians ...1 day ago
- Watch: National Party leader Christopher Luxon delivers post-Budget speechNational Party leader Christopher Luxon has labelled the Budget a "backwards Budget" and with "bandaid" solutions. Watch his post-Budget speech here ...1 day ago
- Māori health workers unsure how far Budget funding will goMāori health and social workers say the funding announced in yesterday's Budget will do little to help ease their burden, or close equity gaps. ...1 day ago
- Grattan on Friday: Numbers fly as unedifying campaign draws towards its closeSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra The text arrived on Thursday morning, from a woman who helps me with my horses. “And now I have to do that voting thing. Recommendations please? Who is best?” Well Margaret, after an unedifying ...1 day ago
- Reducing COVID transmission by 20% could save 2,000 Australian lives this yearSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Margaret Hellard, Deputy Director (Programs), Burnet Institute Australia’s COVID death toll is rising, yet public health measures to reduce transmission such as mask mandates are largely a thing of the past. It’s time for governments and the community to consider what ...1 day ago
- Treasury investigates Wall Street Journal's early release of Budget detailsAn investigation is underway into the early release of details from the Budget by the Wall Street Journal. ...2 days ago
- At 3.9%, Australia’s unemployment rate now officially begins with ‘3’. What’s next?Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John Hawkins, Senior Lecturer, Canberra School of Politics, Economics and Society and NATSEM, University of Canberra Shutterstock Early in the election campaign, on April 14, we learned that Australia’s unemployment rate had slipped below 4% in March, to 3.95% – ...2 days ago
- Budget 2022: $11.1b allocated to overhauling the health systemThe sum includes about $1.8 billion to wipe out DHB deficits, while Pharmac will receive $191m over two years to fund new drugs - with a particular focus on cancer care. ...2 days ago
- Budget Brings Positive Relief Measures And The Promise Of Long-term ProgressE tū welcomes Budget 2022, which includes a range of measures that will help E tū members and their communities during a time of increased hardship coming out of the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic. E tū Assistant National Secretary Annie Newman ...2 days ago
- Budget 2022 Is All About Health, Climate And The Cost-of-living. But Can It Deliver Without Fueling ...The 2022 Budget was delivered against a gloomier backdrop. The latest forecasts suggest more subdued growth, more persistent inflation, and further tightening in the labour market. The headline numbers provided little surprise. The Government ...2 days ago
- Budget 2022: Expectations vs RealityThere was a lot riding on the year's Budget: Cost-of-living challenges, health, climate, education - so did the spending match sectors' hopes? ...2 days ago
- Recap: Budget 2022 – find out where the money is goingInequality campaigners say the government's cost of living payment is a slap in the face to some of the country's most vulnerable. ...2 days ago
- This election, many adults with disabilities won’t be allowed to vote. That should changeSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Wendy Bonython, Associate Professor of Law, Bond University Shutterstock This Saturday, most Australians over 18 will vote in the federal election. The right to participate in elections is enshrined in international and domestic human rights law. Under Australia’s Commonwealth ...2 days ago
- Here’s how we track down and very carefully photograph Australia’s elusive snakesSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Chris Hay, Honorary Fellow, The University of Queensland A mulga snake Christina N. Zdenek, CC BY-NC-ND Environmental scientists see flora, fauna and phenomena the rest of us rarely do. In this series, we’ve invited them to share their unique photos from ...2 days ago
- A budget for the ‘squeezed middle’ – but will it be the political circuit-breaker Labour wants...Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Richard Shaw, Professor of Politics, Massey University Getty Images One way to make sense of Finance Minister Grant Robertson’s fifth budget speech was to see it as a political performance working on different levels. First, Labour needs this budget ...2 days ago
- Greater Wellington Welcomes Cheaper Fares For Community Services Card HoldersGreater Wellington welcomed news today that the Government will permanently fund cheaper public transport fares for community services card hold holders. Chair of Greater Wellington Daran Ponter said there had been strong support for this type ...2 days ago
- Raiding super early has already left women worse off. Let’s not repeat the mistake for home deposi...Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alison Preston, Professor of Economics, The University of Western Australia Shutterstock In 2020 the Morrison government allowed Australians to raid their superannuation to get through during the pandemic. This week Scott Morrison proposed letting people raid their super for a ...2 days ago
- Arts and culture have been all but overlooked this election – but the Greens have a big-picture pl...Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ben Eltham, Lecturer, School of Media, Film and Journalism, Monash University Shutterstock The past term of government has been tough for arts and culture in Australia. Culture was among the worst affected by the pandemic of any aspect of society: ...2 days ago
- Watch: Political parties respond to Budget 2022National, ACT, Te Pāti Māori and the Green Party have given their responses to the government's Budget 2022. ...2 days ago
- Winston Peters – Budget 2022It's a 'cost of living crisis' not a 'spending on living crisis'. Throwing more and more money at a black-hole for kiwis to spend is akin to the famous saying: "...it's like standing in a bucket and trying to pull yourself up by the handle." ...2 days ago
- Tertiary Education Out In The Cold Once AgainTe Hautū Kahurangi | Tertiary Education Union and the New Zealand Union of Students’ Associations are disappointed to see the tertiary education sector largely ignored once again in the Labour government’s fifth Budget since taking office in 2017. ...2 days ago
- 'Lacklustre Budget' Lacks Long Term ThinkingThe biggest Budget spend up in New Zealand’s history has delivered some, but not a lot, of initiatives that will support businesses in the Canterbury region. "Some of the initiatives announced in Budget 2022 will go some way towards helping business, ...2 days ago
- Community Housing Aotearoa Welcomes The Announcement Of $350m Affordable Housing FundCommunity Housing Aotearoa, a peak body for the community housing sector, welcomes the announcement in today’s Budget to create a $350M Affordable Housing Fund. This investment is a good use of the unallocated Residential Response Fund and a sign ...2 days ago
- Better Access To SME Finance One Piece Of Good NewsThe Government’s fourth wellbeing budget fittingly delivered a raft of initiatives to support people, communities and the environment, but when it came to business support it was much as expected. The good news is $100m has been allocated for a ...2 days ago
- Pluses But No Explicit Budget Funding For Preventing Violence And Abuse Against Disabled People Conc...Budget 2022 has pluses and minuses for the disabled community, says Disability Rights Commissioner Paula Tesoriero. On the plus side there was considerable investment in the new Ministry for Disabled People and other funding which has the potential ...2 days ago
- VUWSA Statement On Budget 2022...2 days ago
- Budget 2022: Good Start, But More Infrastructure Investment NeededNew Zealand’s national association for civil contractors has welcomed the $230 million investment in trades training programmes, increased funding for rail and rural broadband infrastructure, and support for Construction Sector Accord Transformation ...2 days ago
- ProCare Disappointed Nurses Left Out In The Cold In Budget 22Leading healthcare provider, ProCare is disappointed that primary care nurses have been left out of today’s Budget announcement. Gabrielle Lord, Nursing Director and General Manager Practice Services, at ProCare says: “Nurses have been the backbone ...2 days ago
- Health Budget Fails To Address Key Determinant Of Health Which Is IncomesThe Health and Climate Budget, being touted as Securing our Future fails to address a key determinant of health, which is low incomes. “There was talk in lockdown about keeping (the governments) eye on the ball, and I kept thinking, are they aware ...2 days ago
- ProCare Welcomes Budget Funding For Warm, Dry Homes To Reduce Respiratory IssuesLeading healthcare provider ProCare has today welcomed funding in today’s Budget to ensure Kiwis can live in warmer, dryer homes. This is one of the biggest determinants of health and is one of the key measures we can take to prevent hospitilisations ...2 days ago
- People On Income Support Excluded From Cost Of Living Budget Measures – Anti-Poverty GroupsA coalition of anti-poverty groups has challenged the Government for excluding people receiving income support from today’s cost of living ‘helicopter payments’, saying they have chosen to leave families living in the harshest poverty further ...2 days ago
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