The National-led Government has today presented a budget that ensure all New Zealanders share in the benefits of our
growing economy.
It seizes upon the many opportunities presented by a growing economy from a government who cares and knows how to get
results.
Our ninth Budget shows economic growth is expected to average around 3 per cent over the next few years, leading to more
jobs and higher incomes for hard working Kiwis.
Here are some highlights from Budget 2017:
· $2 billion per year Family Incomes Package - by adjusting income tax thresholds this will help hard working New
Zealanders to keep getting ahead. In Budget 2017 we’re also increasing Working for Families and supporting low-income
families with more money for their accommodation costs.
· 1.3 million families will benefit from the Family Incomes Package, by $26 a week, on average, with changes
particularly targeted at low and middle income earners. Around 750,000 superannuitants will also benefit.
· $4 billion investment in the vital public infrastructure a growing economy needs - new roads, rail, schools,
hospitals, and housing.
· $7 billion for public services, especially health, education and law and order.
· $321 million for 14 Social Investment initiatives to improve the lives of some of our most vulnerable people.
· $2 billion for law and order including 1125 more Police staff across the country, and more money to prevent burglaries
and target reoffending.
This Budget shows the Government is continuing to build upon the economic success of the past few years by supporting
economic growth and creating jobs.
We now have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to raise the living standards of all New Zealanders and share the
benefits of a strong and growing economy.
We need to retain our focus on delivering a strong economy because if we slip back, these opportunities will quickly
disappear.
Kind Regards,
Bill English
Prime Minister