Deputy Leader for New Zealand First and spokesperson for associate finance, commerce, revenue and trade, Fletcher
Tabuteau, welcomes the Wellbeing Budget, “not only the wellbeing of our people, our mental health, our children and our
seniors, but also our businesses, business growth and export growth,” Fletcher Tabuteau said.
“I’m particularly proud that that New Zealand First has worked collaboratively with our Coalition partners to achieve
wins for our business sector.
“We now have greater and targeted support for venture capital with a new $300 million fund to assist New Zealand firms
that expand beyond the early start-up phase, something the previous Government knew was a problem but did nothing about.
“And we are taking emissions seriously with this budget in a positive way with $157 million to assist firms to come up
with innovative solutions.
“I’m also really pleased to see a $197 million reallocation of funding going towards a renewed focus on lifting the
status, quality and access to vocational educational training.
“Anyone who has ran their own business knows the value of having access to a skilled workforce. This is also good news
for our young ones who are looking for education and career options beyond school.
“A skilled workforce in turn means lower unemployment, higher wages, greater productivity, a stronger economy and better
social outcomes.
“This Budget addresses gaps that have existed for years, and finally we are seeing positive change both socially and
economically,” Fletcher Tabuteau said.