Job seekers must attend benefits after six months

Mandatory Work Check-Ins for Jobseekers ImplementedMandatory Work Check-Ins for Jobseekers Implemented As of today, individuals receiving jobseeker’s benefits are required to attend work check-ins, a new obligation introduced as part of a broader “reset” of the social security system. Job Ready Individuals Targeted Those considered “job ready” will be required to participate in a seminar after six months of receiving benefits to assess their job search progress. Minister for Social Development and Employment Louise Upston emphasized the proactive nature of this measure, aimed at fostering greater engagement and accountability. Consequences of Non-Attendance Failure to attend a seminar without a valid reason may result in a reduction or suspension of benefits. However, individuals with health issues or disabilities are exempt from this obligation. Monitoring System Enhancement The work check-ins supplement the recently implemented “Kōrero Mahi” seminars, which provide early support and guidance to jobseekers. This multi-faceted approach aims to increase visibility and support for jobseekers who may not have dedicated case managers. Increased Competition in the Job Market Upston acknowledged the current competitive job market, with the number of applicants per advertisement significantly higher than in 2019. The government’s stance remains that those capable of working should seek employment as a means of self-sufficiency. Opposition and Criticism The announcement of benefit sanctions has drawn criticism from opposition parties and social security advocates. Additional measures planned for implementation include community-based job coaching, needs assessments, and non-financial sanctions for those who repeatedly fail to fulfill their work obligations.

As of today, a work check-in obligation starts for people with jobseeker’s benefits.

Anyone considered ‘job ready’ will be required to attend a seminar after six months to assess how the job search is going.

The change is part of a broader ‘reset’ of the social security system.

Minister for Social Development and Employment Louise Upston said it was a new demand from the coalition to make the social security system more proactive.

If someone misses a seminar without good reason, benefits may be stopped or reduced.

It would not be mandatory for people with a health problem or disability.

When Upston announced the broader benefits changes in February, he said the group check-ins would be the first step of additional monitoring of the benefits system and would apply to people MSD had less visibility on – those who did not yet have a dedicated case manager had .

On Monday she said around 190,000 people were currently receiving Job Seeker Support, and 53,000 of these people had an employment case manager at any time.

“I am concerned that the remaining 137,000 job seekers will not be able to talk to MSD about their progress for many months, with some not having to re-register until they re-apply for benefits 12 months later.

“Our government is changing this. The six-month work checks build on the new Kōrero Mahi – Let’s talk work seminars that job seekers now attend within two weeks of receiving benefits to plan the next steps for finding work.

“They are a precursor to the Coalition Government’s plan to introduce mandatory re-application for Jobseeker’s Allowance every six months.”

Job seekers currently had to reapply for support every year.

“These interventions will help job seekers get back on their feet quickly. MSD will ensure that their profiles and CVs are up to date, provide application tips and refer them to job sites and vacancies or further training.”

The check-ins are expected to cost approximately $1.2 million per year, funded through MSD baselines.

The announcement of benefit sanctions was met with criticism from opposition parties and social security advocates.

Other additional measures to be rolled out included community-provided job coaching, needs assessments, a traffic light system, new non-financial sanctions and measures for those who repeatedly failed to meet their work obligations.

RNZ has reported that people looking for a job are likely to face more competition than they would have in years.

The number of applicants per advertisement is almost three times as high as in 2019.

“This government believes that those who can work should work, because having a job is the best way for people to get themselves and their families out of trouble,” Upston said.