Universal Benefit Mooted in New Zealand

By Robyn Hunt

The New Zealand government is working towards a single benefit for everyone on welfare, except superannuitants.

All beneficiaries except superannuitants would receive the same benefit. They would then have the ability to 'top up' by undertaking training, voluntary work or study. There would also be 'top ups' for personal circumstances, such as dependent children or disability.

First mooted during the 1980's, the proposal for a universal benefit is not new. Critics of the current benefit system point out its complexity. Social Services and employment Minister Steve Maharey says that the universal benefit will be the final stage in his government's reform of the welfare system.

These reforms will also include repealing the work capacity assessment provisions introduced by the previous government, and increasing the income thresholds for eligibility for disability allowances from 1 January 2001.

The Minister hopes that plans for the universal benefit will be finalized by 2002.