12878 (2026). Debbie Ngarewa-Packer to the Minister of Health

12878 (2026). Debbie Ngarewa-Packer to the Minister of Health: What steps, if any, is the Government taking to review mileage reimbursement settings for care and support workers?

Hon Simeon Brown: The Government is supporting home and community support workers by providing a 30 percent increase to their mileage rates to help offset rising fuel costs. The increase will remain in place for up to 12 months, or until the price of 91 octane petrol falls below $3 per litre for four consecutive weeks. It will apply to home and community support workers who work for providers contracted to Health New Zealand, the Ministry of Social Development, and ACC. The Government is also undertaking a longer-term review of the In Between Travel scheme as part of the broader aged care sector review.