20095 (2026). Hon Willow-Jean Prime to the Minister for Social Development and Employment

20095 (2026). Hon Willow-Jean Prime to the Minister for Social Development and Employment: Does the Ministry of Social Development use artificial intelligence in the production of advice to the Minister; if so, in what way?

Hon Louise Upston: I am advised that the Ministry of Social Development may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support staff who produce advice. Staff may use Ministry-approved tools in a range of ways as productivity aids, for example, to help draft or edit text or summarise information. The Ministry have recently secured access to MAXQDA to support analysis of submissions as part of the Select Committee process. Where these tools are used, officials remain involved in and responsible for the content and the quality of advice provided to Ministers. This is in line with the Ministry’s Artificial Intelligence Policy that applies to all staff and contractors.