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 2 March 2026, amends multiple Ministerial directions and welfare programmes under sections 7 and 101 of the Social Security Act 2018 respectively.

The instrument amends three Ministerial directions and three Ministerial welfare programmes under the Social Security Act 2018 to give effect to the Social Assistance Legislation (Accommodation Supplement and Income-related Rent) Amendment Act 2025 (“Amendment Act”). The amendments are necessary as the Amendment Act repeals sections 65(2) and 66(3) of the Social Security Act 2018 (“Act”), which define “accommodation costs” and “premises” respectively. Where relevant, references to “accommodation costs” or “weekly accommodation costs” have been replaced with “weekly qualifying accommodation costs” in order to be consistent with the amendments made by the Amendment Act. Definitions of “premises” have also been updated in response to the amendments in the Amendment Act.

These amendments ensure that these Ministerial directions and welfare programmes continue to operate as intended following the amendments made by the Amendment Act.

The amendments also make minor editorial corrections.

The instrument is secondary legislation for the purposes of the Legislation Act 2019 and is administered by the Ministry of Social Development.

Dated this 2nd day of December 2025.

Hon LOUISE UPSTON, Minister for Social Development and Employment.