The Civil Defence Payment is finally being activated for some communities impacted by last week's climate-charged weather events, after the Greens urged the Government to make the support available.
"While we welcome the Civil Defence Payment, the Government needs to increase the payment and make it available to all regions affected by the extreme weather events" says Green Party Social Development and Employment Spokesperson, Ricardo Menendez March.
"It shouldn't have taken this long, and it shouldn't have taken such persistence from the Greens to activate this payment.
"We wrote to the Prime Minister earlier this week and we're glad that pressure worked.
"We intend to keep the pressure on the Government to double the payment and expand its availability to all affected regions.
"Currently, the maximum amount available is just $400. It hasn't been updated in at least 13 years, despite the much higher cost of living."
The Payment can cover things like food, bedding, clothes, and other essentials that are needed in the aftermath of civil emergencies.
"Those affected need immediate support. MSD must take a high trust approach to ensure that everyone gets the support they are entitled to, to help them get back on their feet.
"We know that the impacts of climate change don't impact everyone equally. People on low incomes are less resourced to cope with severe events such as storms and floods.
"The Greens are committed to ensuring everyone has the support they need after a disaster and would guarantee liveable incomes for everyone in Aotearoa.
"Nobody should be left behind in a climate crisis" says Ricardo.
