Parliament Advances Bill to Strengthen Oversight of Oranga Tamariki and Child Advocacy Systems

The Oversight of Oranga Tamariki System Legislation Amendment Bill seeks to clarify the roles of key agencies while increasing advocacy and independence for children’s welfare.

Legislation aimed at reinforcing oversight within the Oranga Tamariki system has passed its first reading in Parliament, announced Social Development and Employment Minister Louise Upston. The Oversight of Oranga Tamariki System Legislation Amendment Bill seeks to clarify the roles of key agencies while increasing advocacy and independence for children's welfare.

"These changes will enhance our child protection system by setting clear, defined roles for the agencies involved, and by elevating independence and advocacy," said Minister Upston.

Key elements of the Bill include:

Independent Children's Monitor: The Monitor will be reclassified as an Independent Crown Entity, with a new three-member board. The current Chief Executive, Arran Jones, will remain in his role until mid-2026 to assist with the transition.

Children's Commissioner Structure Change: The Children and Young People's Commission's five-member board will be replaced by a sole Children's Commissioner, a role to be filled by the current Chief Commissioner, Dr. Claire Achmad, for one year starting July 2025.

Dr. Achmad's reappointment underscores the government's commitment to continuity and experience. "Dr. Achmad is a respected advocate for children and young people. Her role as the sole Children's Commissioner will ensure that the voices and interests of children remain front and center," Upston added.

Strengthening Independence and Public Trust

The Bill responds to recommendations from the Abuse in Care Royal Commission of Inquiry to ensure that the Children's Monitor is fully independent of the government, fostering greater public trust. "The Human Rights Commission's report highlighted the need for an independent Children's Monitor to restore confidence and effectively address past failures," said Minister Upston.

The changes also provide further clarity on the independent roles of agencies under the Oranga Tamariki Act 1989, which assigns responsibilities to various agencies involved in children's welfare. These include Oranga Tamariki, the Police, and Ministries of Health, Social Development, Education, and Justice, among others.

The Oversight of Oranga Tamariki System Act 2022 established the Independent Children's Monitor to oversee Oranga Tamariki and empowered the Ombudsman to address complaints about children's services. The Amendment Bill does not change these agencies' duties but aims to enhance their function through clearer oversight and dedicated leadership.

Cost and Implementation

The Government will meet the costs of implementing these reforms by reallocating existing funds, ensuring no additional financial burden on the public.

As the Bill progresses through Parliament, the Government is confident that these changes will make New Zealand's child protection and advocacy systems stronger, more independent, and more responsive to the needs of children and families across the country.