Explanatory note

This note is not part of the programme but is intended to indicate its general effect.

This welfare programme under the Social Security Act 1964, which comes into force immediately after it is established and approved, provides for the granting, in the absolute discretion of the chief executive of the Ministry of Social Development and within the limits set out in the programme, of special assistance for eligible people who are or may be at risk of long-term benefit receipt,-

(a) to help them become ready for work by reducing barriers to their employment; and

(b) if they are ready for work, to help facilitate their transition into, and retention of, sustainable employment.

The Ministerial Guidelines for Employment and Training Assistance are revoked (except for provisions for specified kinds of that assistance) but in exercising the discretion to grant employment or work readiness assistance, the chief executive must continue have regard to them until the close of 30 June 2014.