Framework to track government progress on Pacific people's wellbeing launched

Friday, 16 September 2022

The new strategy is expected to hold government agencies to account for programmes and initiatives about Pacific peoples. (File image)

A framework that will look into government investment in Pacific wellbeing, track its progress and help it respond better to the needs of the community has been launched.

Minister for Pacific Peoples Aupito William Sio launched the All of Government Pacific Wellbeing Strategy at Manukau on Friday.

It was part of the Government’s 2020 election commitment, developed and supported by Pacific communities through targeted talanoa sessions.

Sio said strengthening partnerships with Pacific communities was at the heart of the strategy.

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“Working alongside communities to ensure more of our aiga and families have access to the staples of life – like housing, education, training and job opportunities – provides more prosperous communities, and ensures greater economic security for all New Zealanders,” Sio said.

“This values-based approach recognises Pacific communities as the owners of their cultures, identities and languages – the cornerstone of Pacific wellbeing – and that they must lead in decisions that affect their lives.”

It establishes new ways of working across government to answer the call to action from Pacific communities to achieve the Lalanga Fou vision of a thriving, confident, resilient, healthy and prosperous Pacific Aotearoa, he said.

The strategy includes a set of indicators and measures that will hold Government agencies to account if they do not meet expectations and identify any gaps that need addressing, he said.

“This piece of work will improve outcomes for Pacific communities now and well into the future, ensuring no one is left behind during the post-Covid economic recovery.”

The strategy identifies four key priorities, including to establish genuine partnerships between Government agencies and Pacific communities that work towards tangible outcomes likes homes, jobs and training opportunities.

It will also measure and monitor the impact of investment in Pacific communities and ensure Pacific cultural values are at the heart of Pacific initiatives and programmes.

“The four priority areas will guide how the Government works with our communities towards reducing social and economic disadvantages and improving Pacific wellbeing.”