National promises random drug testing for jobseeker beneficiaries
New Zealand's National Party has proposed a policy to implement random drug testing for jobseeker beneficiaries. The plan aims to ensure recipients remain work-ready, with failed tests potentially leading to benefit reductions.
Why it matters
This policy highlights ongoing political debates regarding welfare reform, personal responsibility, and the balance between government support and strict conditionality.
National is promising to introduce random drug testing for those on the jobseeker benefit to ensure they're "ready for work".
A policy document released by the party said New Zealanders were regularly required to pass drug tests to get or keep a job and it was "not too much to ask" that people getting Jobseeker Support take "reasonable steps to remain work-ready".
The announcement is part of a five-point plan that wants to "remain focused on employment", and is "fair and affordable for taxpayers."
National's Social Development and Employment spokesperson Louise Upston made the announcement in Paraparaumu on Thursday morning.
Upston said it would start with 10,000 tests in the first year and expand over time.
National expects the policy to cost around $1.5 million per annum and be funded from MSD baselines. The savings are expected to be just over $580 million from 2027/28 to 2030/31.
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