Election 2026: Greens want universal weekly payments for nurses, teachers, health workers
The New Zealand Green Party has proposed a policy to provide a $380 weekly payment to students in health and education fields during their compulsory practical placements. The initiative aims to improve student retention and address workforce shortages in these critical sectors.
Why it matters
This policy addresses the financial burden on students in essential public service roles, potentially impacting future workforce supply in healthcare and education.
Students who undertake practical training for health and education jobs would receive a universal weekly payment of $380, under a proposed Green Party policy.
“Students should not have to go broke while they train for the jobs New Zealand needs. Our paid placements policy will make sure they can afford the essentials while training,” says Green Party co-leader Marama Davidson.
The weekly payment would be on top of existing student loans or allowances and last for the duration of their compulsory placements.
The party estimates it’ll cost $74 million to $80m a year.
If students have to relocate for placements, some of those moving costs may be covered with a $1500 payment.
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