We’re working to ease the cost of living and this month several initiatives come into effect.
One is the Family Boost policy already underway. This package allows eligible families to claim up to $150 per fortnight for childcare costs.
Another positive change will kick in from 31 July when income tax thresholds will shift, meaning average income households will receive tax relief of up to $102 per fortnight. Every bit counts for households struggling to get ahead and we take the view that you know better how to spend your money than governments do.
The coalition Government also announced a $604 million funding boost to Pharmac, which means more Kiwis are able to access life-changing medicines. This delivers on the pledge we made to New Zealanders in 2023 and it’s a statement that when we say we’re going to do something, we’ll follow through.
The funding boost is set to cover up to 26 cancer and 28 other treatments. An estimated 175,000 people will benefit in the first year alone. It is an unprecedented investment into the health of New Zealanders and the impact will be felt now and into the future.
We all know someone who has been diagnosed with cancer. Beyond the natural, understandable worry and the often physical side-effects of treatments, cancer places a heavy financial burden on individuals and their families. Too often people must make heart-breaking decisions when determining how or if to fund further treatments.
I’m pleased to be a part of a government which has prioritised access to these life-changing medicines. Boosting the funding to Pharmac will be a relief to many New Zealanders and it is a huge step forward for cancer treatment in this country. Some of the newly funded cancer treatments will be available from October/November, with more phased in over the next year.
Back in June we also had our first-ever ‘scrutiny week’ at Parliament, which required Government Ministers to brief Parliamentary Select Committees about their portfolio. While chairing the Environment Committee, I had the opportunity to raise the walking track to Cathedral Cove with Conservation Minister Tama Potaka. He confirmed that restoring walking access is a priority and he’s receiving regular updates from his officials.
There is a plan and budget in place to get this iconic destination fully reopened. I’m delighted that just last week we had confirmation from him that $5m would be made available to ensure the track is open for the coming summer.
Finally, news that the Whitianga Summer Concert will return in 2025 is a huge boost to our region. It’s a vote of confidence that the Coromandel Peninsula is still the best place to spend the summer and will be welcomed by local businesses anticipating another busy holiday period.
