$90 M Budget Investment Strengthens Protection for At-Risk Children

A key part of the package is $15.9 million over two years to deliver mandatory training for approximately 20,000 core children’s workers across New Zealand.

The Government is investing $90 million through Budget 2026 to strengthen New Zealand's child protection system, with a strong focus on helping professionals identify risks earlier and respond before children experience serious harm. The funding follows the Government's decision to accept all recommendations made by the late Dame Karen Poutasi in her review of child safety. Officials say the investment is designed to create a stronger safety net for vulnerable children while improving the ability of frontline agencies to work together when concerns arise.

Child Poverty Reduction Minister Louise Upston said the initiative supports the Government's goal of preventing harm to children by building a system that can respond more effectively when warning signs first appear.

Mandatory Training for 20,000 Children's Workers

A key part of the package is $15.9 million over two years to deliver mandatory training for approximately 20,000 core children's workers across New Zealand. The programme builds on a pilot phase launched in January 2026, where 500 workers took part in testing the new training model. The next stage will involve a phased rollout, with groups of around 6,500 workers receiving training over the next two years.

The courses are designed to give teachers, healthcare professionals, social service workers and others who regularly work with children the knowledge and practical skills needed to recognise signs of harm, understand risk factors and respond appropriately when concerns emerge. Officials believe consistent training across the workforce will improve decision-making and help ensure children receive support earlier.

Expanding Capacity Across Child Protection Agencies

The largest portion of the funding package, $64.7 million over four years, will be directed to Oranga Tamariki to help manage an expected increase in reports of concern as more risks are identified through training and improved information sharing. The investment will support the recruitment of additional social workers and improve access to services for children and whānau who require assistance.

Another $9.7 million over four years will strengthen Health New Zealand's role in child protection. The funding will allow specialist staff to work alongside New Zealand Police and Oranga Tamariki when investigating the most serious abuse cases.

Government officials say stronger collaboration between agencies will improve risk assessments and address weaknesses identified in Dame Karen's review. Dedicated health specialists will provide additional expertise when complex cases require a coordinated response. The Government plans to introduce the reforms gradually, allowing agencies to adapt while monitoring the impact of the changes. Leaders say the phased approach will help ensure resources are directed where they are needed most and provide valuable insight into future funding requirements as the child protection system continues to evolve.