75553 (2024). Francisco Hernandez to the Minister for Social Development and Employment

75553 (2024). Francisco Hernandez to the Minister for Social Development and Employment: What reasons, if any, were offered for declining funding applications for the civil defence payments for the Southern Flood Event, and what was the total amount of declined funding applications?

Hon Louise Upston: I am advised by the Ministry of Social Development (the Ministry) that details regarding eligibility to receive Civil Defence Payments are available here: https://www.workandincome.govt.nz/products/a-z-benefits/civil-defence-payment.html. There are a range of reasons as to why people might not qualify for Civil Defence Payments. These include not having an immediate or essential need, having already received Civil Defence Payment assistance within the relevant timeframe, or not living in the affected area. In these instances, the Ministry may be able to assist through other means of financial support. I am further advised that the amount declined is not held by the Ministry.