29088 (2026). Hon Kieran McAnulty to the Minister of Housing

29088 (2026). Hon Kieran McAnulty to the Minister of Housing: How many beneficiaries, if any, received reduced payments as a result of the redirection of benefit funding under the five short-term actions announced in September 2025?

Hon Chris Bishop: I am advised that the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) is unable to provide the information sought by the Member. Most people living in social housing pay a contribution equivalent to 25 per cent of their income and can have this portion redirected to the provider. For clients receiving a benefit, this is generally 25 per cent of their main benefit. In most cases the client must agree to the redirection of part or all of their benefit, however, in certain circumstances, where MSD considers that there is good cause, it may be required without the client's consent. Further information can be found here: www.workandincome.govt.nz/map/income-support/core-policy/redirection-of-benefit-payment/specific-situations-where-there-is-good-cause.html While MSD has visibility of redirections made to particular providers, determining whether a redirection was established to support a person experiencing rough sleeping would require the review of individual client files and substantial manual collation of information. This would divert staff from their core duties. In accordance with Speaker's Ruling 210/6, I consider that the time and expense involved in answering the Member's question is not in the public interest. This is also my response to WPQ 29089.