May 2015: Post Budget Breakfast Series
CPAG 2015 Budget analysis
Each year, CPAG brings together a team of experts to take an indepth look at the government’s 2015 budget. We analysed government spending in the crucial areas of health, education, social security and family incomes, as well as the big picture distributional issues.
Budget Analysis Summary - Full Budget analysis coming soon
The annual Budget is an opportunity to focus policies on the wellbeing of children and the general health of communities. In a time of recovery the children must be the first priority, so it is heartening to see in Budget 2015 the first real increase in beneficiary incomes since 1972. The changes are part of a $790 million package which targets up to 200,000 of the worst off families and includes extra cash for beneficiaries with children and some families on Working for Families. This increase recognises families reliant on benefit income have fallen behind other households. More money is welcome. An increase of $25 a week will make a real difference to a family’s ability to provide the basics for their children.
Post Budget Breakfast Presentations and Speeches
Auckland
Associate Professor Susan St John
Alan Johnson
Dr Hirini Kaa
Wellington
Deborah Morris-Travers
Christchurch
Professor Paul Dalziel and live video recording
CPAG Media Releases
2015 Budget signals important change in approach to child poverty
Child Poverty Action Group says it is heartening to see the first real increase in beneficiary incomes since 1972 announced in Budget 2015.
Budget must ensure families have enough income to provide for children
The 2015 budget must address the issue of adequate income for families if the government is serious about reducing child poverty in New Zealand, says the Child Poverty Action Group.
CPAG Media Coverage
TVNZ: Child poverty groups welcome rise in benefits for poor familes
Dunedin TV: Local child poverty group say latest welfare changes aren't enough
Northern Advocate: Budget 2015: Mixed news for poorest families & Budget 2015: Child poverty package 'just the start'
Waatea News: Cash the key for poor families
Radio New Zealand: Changes to working for families
TV3: Poverty package a 'step forward' but not enough
NZ Herald: Child poverty group says Budget announcement just the first step & Child poverty campaigners warn against tax cuts
TV3- Paul Henry: Is the Government doing enough to tackle child poverty?
Briefing Papers
Prevention: The Best Way To Address Child Poverty (May 2015)
Associate Professor Mike O'Brien
An overview of New Zealand's Housing (May 2015)
Alan Johnson
More Income Is Required To Improve The Health Of Poor Children (May 2015)
Professor Innes Asher
A step change for children: Fix Working for Families (April 2015)
Associate Professor Susan St John
