Ministerial foreword
The Government has three priorities for the next decade:
economic transformation, families - young and old, and national
identity. Economic transformation is about creating a knowledge-based
high-income economy that has opportunities for everyone. Families -
young and old is about supporting families to be strong and safe for
their members. National identity is about all New Zealanders taking
pride in who we are.
This year’s Social Report shows the progress we’re making
towards these themes: a growing economy, with its positive impact on
unemployment, incomes and living standards; gains in health and
education; pride in our rich culture and unique identity; protection of
our environment; improved safety at work and elsewhere; enjoyment of
sport and active leisure; and building a nation from an increasingly
diverse population.
The Social Report 2006 looks at how New Zealanders
have fared over the past 20 years, and shows that we’re enjoying
improved wellbeing. Although there are still disparities between
Europeans and other ethnicities, the report shows real gains for these
other groups. Working for Families will further improve the
circumstances of low and middle income families over the next few years.
The inclusion of regional and territorial authority level
indicators in last year’s Social Report expanded its usefulness for
organisations that focus on local issues, particularly councils. I’m
pleased to see that this information has been updated and expanded this
year. This is valuable information for local councils’ community
outcomes processes as well as for local organisations wanting more
relevant information for their planning and monitoring.
This Government knows that economic and social wellbeing are
equally important. A strong economy will deliver the living standards,
services and quality of life that people deserve. In turn, a strong
economy requires healthy, well educated and highly motivated people. I
look forward to seeing our continued progress reflected in future
social reports.
David Benson-Pope
Minister for Social Development and Employment
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