Govt Finalizes Framework to Strengthen Oversight of Oranga Tamariki with Independent Children's Commissioner

The decision to appoint a single Children’s Commissioner will provide a clear, visible advocate for young people, particularly those in Oranga Tamariki care or transitioning out of care.

The New Zealand Government has finalized a new framework aimed at strengthening the oversight of the Oranga Tamariki system by ensuring the independence of the children’s monitor and establishing a stand-alone Children’s Commissioner, Social Development and Employment Minister Louise Upston announced.

"We are committed to safeguarding the rights of our children and young people," Minister Upston stated. "By returning the Children and Young People’s Commission to a single Commissioner, we are moving away from the current five-member board structure."

The decision to appoint a single Children’s Commissioner will provide a clear, visible advocate for young people, particularly those in Oranga Tamariki care or transitioning out of care. "Having a dedicated advocate ensures that young people know exactly who to turn to if any issues arise," Upston added.

In addition, the Independent Children’s Monitor will be transitioned from a departmental agency within the Education Review Office to an Independent Crown Entity, reinforcing its role as a truly separate entity from the government.

Cabinet has also agreed to expedite an independent review of the Children and Young People’s Commission Act 2022 and the Oversight of Oranga Tamariki System Act 2022. This review, now set to be completed early next year, will align with the proposed changes and offer the public an opportunity to provide input on how the Oranga Tamariki system can be improved.

“These reforms address the controversial aspects of the previous government’s 2022 changes and fulfill a National-ACT coalition commitment to establish a truly independent monitoring and oversight agency for Oranga Tamariki," Upston said. "The safety and wellbeing of our children and young people must come first."