Published May 2020

Two key series of engagement have been held since the Government made some high-level decisions in March 2019 to strengthen the oversight of the Oranga Tamariki system – engagement with Māori individuals and groups, and wider initial engagement with those who work in the sector and those who come into the contact with the Oranga Tamariki System.

Similar feedback and themes came out of both series of engagement, as outlined below, and will help shape this important mahi currently underway.

This report outlines the MSD’s process to engage with Māori and provides feedback on the themes that emerged from the hui. The focus of these hui was on the first phase of the work programme regarding the policy and legislative proposals agreed by Cabinet in March 2019. The feedback from the
engagement process informs and influences the development of a strengthened independent oversight system to ensure the system responds better to the needs of tamariki, rangatahi and their whānau and leads to improved outcomes as a result.

Background: In April 2019, the Government made some high-level decisions to strengthen the oversight of the Oranga Tamariki System. This included strengthening three functions – systemic advocacy, independent monitoring and assurance, and complaints oversight and investigations. The Government appointed the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) to establish a more robust independent monitoring function, which includes being named as the monitor for the National Care
Standards that came into effect on 1 July 2019. (From the website and report). More information about the engagement process can be found on the website. Record #6645