Govt Launches Regional Employment Drive to Cut Jobseeker Numbers by 50,000

The New Zealand Government has kicked off a nationwide initiative to reduce unemployment and bolster economic growth by connecting jobseekers with employers through a series of regional employment events. Spearheaded by Social Development and Employment Minister Louise Upston, the campaign began in Levin, with a strong showing from local businesses and community stakeholders in the Horowhenua and Kāpiti Coast regions.

A People-Centered “Going for Growth” Strategy

At the heart of the initiative is the Government’s Going for Growth strategy — a plan designed to develop local talent, increase earnings, and meet the labour needs of businesses across the country. Speaking at the event, Minister Upston praised the commitment of employers and the Ministry of Social Development (MSD):

“It was great to attend this event, acknowledge the commitment of MSD and recognise the partnership with local employers,” she said. “These events are about people. They’re about maximising the potential of Kiwis and ensuring businesses can access the workforce they need to compete globally.”

A core goal of the initiative is to reduce the number of people on the Jobseeker Support benefit by 50,000 by the year 2030. Minister Upston highlighted that this goal cannot be achieved by government alone, and will require sustained collaboration with employers, training providers, and community organisations.

MSD Employment Events Roll Out Nationwide

The Levin event marked the beginning of a national series of MSD-led gatherings that bring together government officials, employers, training organisations, and community representatives. Around 30 employers participated in the first event, underlining a shared determination to address local employment needs and support people into meaningful work.

The next stops on the itinerary include the Hutt Valley and Gisborne, with more regional events scheduled to follow. These events are tailored to highlight how MSD’s employment services and supports — including wage subsidies, training incentives, and job coaching — can assist businesses and help jobseekers move into employment faster.

“This week, I’m attending two more MSD-hosted events…with additional dates to be confirmed,” Minister Upston confirmed. “The faster we can help beneficiaries – especially young people – into sustainable work, the better the outcomes for everyone.”

New Tools and Services to Empower Jobseekers

Alongside the events, the Government has introduced a range of new employment support initiatives to increase engagement and ensure beneficiaries receive early and effective help. These include:

• Phone-Based Employment Case Management: Currently supporting over 6,000 jobseekers aged 18–24, this service provides personalised assistance to help young people stay on track and meet their job-seeking obligations.

• Community Job Coaching: An expansion of 2,100 more places for young jobseekers to access dedicated coaching support from community providers.

• More Frequent Work Seminars: These sessions aim to raise motivation and awareness of opportunities among jobseekers.

• ‘Traffic Light’ Monitoring System: A new compliance tool to help ensure jobseekers are progressing toward employment while fulfilling benefit obligations.

• Relocate for Work Support Payment: A newly introduced incentive to remove geographical barriers by helping individuals move to take up long-term employment in other regions.

A Nation-Wide Collaborative Push

Minister Upston lauded the Ministry of Social Development’s front-line teams, noting an 11% increase in work exits compared to the same period last year, a promising sign of recovery and effectiveness. She acknowledged that behind these statistics are real lives being changed — families breaking the cycle of welfare dependence and individuals regaining independence, confidence, and purpose.

“Work is about more than money. It also gives people a sense of purpose, independence, connectedness – leading to a better future,” Upston emphasized.

As the regional roadshow continues, the Government remains committed to transforming the employment landscape, ensuring that every New Zealander who wants to work has the opportunity, support, and tools to do so.