7375 (2024). Hon Dr Duncan Webb to the Minister for Social Development and Employment

7375 (2024). Hon Dr Duncan Webb to the Minister for Social Development and Employment: Is the minister confident that all payments made under her portfolio to members of the Gloriavale Christian Community are being received by the individuals entitled to them, if not, what actions is she taking?

Hon Louise Upston: The Ministry of Social Development (MSD) and I take benefit fraud very seriously because the public must have confidence that taxpayers' money is being spent on those in genuine need. Allegations or concerns can be submitted here www.msd.govt.nz/form/msd/govt/nz/form.req2?requestType=msd-govt-nz-select-form-v1 or alternatively phone 0800 556 006. All applications for welfare assistance are treated equally and are subject to the same entitlement, identity, and eligibility criteria. MSD has helped those who have left Gloriavale access social support over the years, often as a first port of call. This includes income, employment, and accommodation support. Such support is all consistent with business-as-usual welfare settings.