- Hon Nicola Willis
Over 97,500 New Zealand families have now received FamilyBoost payments to help with the cost of early childhood education, Finance Minister Nicola Willis says.
"Raising young children comes with significant costs, and this Government is committed to backing working parents with practical support that makes a real difference," Nicola Willis says.
"Last year we expanded FamilyBoost because we wanted more families to benefit and to receive larger payments.
"We increased the rebate from 25 per cent to 40 per cent of eligible early childhood education costs, increased the maximum payment from $75 to $120 a week, and expanded eligibility to families with an average household income of up to $229,000 a year.
"The latest figures show those changes are working. The average payment has increased by 70 per cent, and across the three quarters since the expansion an average of 12,331 families each quarter have received $75 or more each week towards their childcare costs.
"The June quarter is still being processed, but already 9,498 families have received $75 or more a week in FamilyBoost payments, with more claims continuing to come in.
"FamilyBoost is about making it easier for parents to balance work and family life while easing pressure on household budgets.
"We know that childcare costs can be a significant barrier for families, particularly when parents are returning to work after having children. That's why we've strengthened FamilyBoost so more working families can access meaningful support.
"Since the scheme was expanded, registrations have continued to grow. Around 115,000 families have now registered for FamilyBoost, with over 97,500 families having already received at least one payment.
"I encourage anyone who thinks they may be eligible to register through Inland Revenue. It only takes a few minutes and families have up to four years to make a claim.
"Backing working parents and giving children the best possible start in life is part of this Government's plan to fix the basics and build a stronger future. When families have more support to balance work and family life, they're better able to get ahead, and that's good for parents, children, and the wider New Zealand economy," Nicola Willis says.
