Hon Anne Tolley

Minister for Children

31 March 2017
Media Statement

New Ministry for Vulnerable Children, Oranga Tamariki launched

Minister for Children Anne Tolley has welcomed today’s official launch of the new Ministry for Vulnerable Children, Oranga Tamariki.

“It’s important our vulnerable children and young people have a safe, stable and loving home so they can go on to lead successful lives,” says Mrs Tolley.

“The new Ministry puts children and young people’s safety and wellbeing first. It will work with families and whānau to ensure children and young people get access to the care and support they need, and will ensure they have a say in decisions that affect them – this is what young people have told me they want.

“This is the start of a four to five year major transformation programme to build a more child-centred care and protection system, focusing on harm and trauma prevention and early intervention, rather than crisis management.

“The Ministry for Vulnerable Children, Oranga Tamariki will also be a single point of accountability for children and young people where it will be easier for them to raise concerns or complaints.

“Children and young people will also have access to a new independent advocacy service, VOYCE – Whakarongo Mai.”

The Prime Minister Bill English attended today’s launch in Wellington with Minister Tolley, along with a number of young people who have experienced state care and have had or continue to have input into the overhaul.
Budget 2016 invested $347 million to fund the current transformation process and to address cost pressures.

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