The Government is delighted to welcome the release of The Social Report 2004. The Social Report is an annual report that monitors progress in improving the wellbeing of New Zealanders across a wide range of outcomes.
Social reporting enables us to compare wellbeing in New Zealand with wellbeing in other countries and helps to identify key issues and areas where government action may be needed. The Social Report provides greater transparency in government and stimulates public debate on the key issues facing New Zealand society.
This year's Report is based on an expanded set of indicators which allow us to examine areas of wellbeing that were not within the scope of previous reports. This includes new indicators of leisure and recreation, work/life balance, trust between New Zealanders, and contact between young people and their parents.
The Social Report 2004 shows a steady improvement in the outcomes of New Zealanders across a wide range of areas. It is my view that recent Government policies have made an important contribution to these improvements. Moreover, announcements in the latest Budget in the areas of 'Working for Families', early childhood education, and housing, will further improve the lives of ordinary New Zealanders.
The Government is committed to investing in New Zealanders, and creating a prosperous and inclusive society in which social outcomes continue to improve. The Social Report is central to monitoring progress towards this commitment.
Steve Maharey
Minister for Social Development and Employment
