Notice is given of the making of the following instrument by the Minister for Social Development and Employment.

A copy of the instrument is available for free at: https://www.msd.govt.nz/about-msd-and-our-work/about-msd/legislation/notice-of-change.html.

This instrument, which comes into force on 1 July 2023, amends the Flexi-wage Employment Assistance Programme, established and approved on 9 February 2021 under section 124(1)(d) of the Social Security Act 1964 and saved by clause 21 of schedule 1 of the Social Security Act 2018 as if it was approved and established under section 101 of that Act.

It relates to the extension of Flexi-wage assistance to people eligible for New Zealand Superannuation and Veteran’s Pension (superannuitants). The amendment revokes clause 6(2)(d) which currently excludes superannuitants from eligibility. This means that superannuitants over 65 at the time of application will be eligible for assistance. It also amends clause 6(3) to ensure that people who were granted assistance before they became eligible for New Zealand Superannuation or Veteran’s Pension can continue to receive Band Two and Three support, despite no longer being at risk of long-term benefit receipt.

The instrument is secondary legislation and is administered by the Ministry of Social Development.

Dated this 29th day of May 2023.

Hon CARMEL SEPULONI, Minister for Social Development and Employment.