Crown Response Office Established to Drive Action on Royal Commission into Abuse in Care

Stanford praised the courage of survivors who shared their experiences and affirmed the Government's commitment to addressing the Royal Commission’s recommendations.

A new Crown Response Office is being established within the Public Service Commission to lead the Government's response to the Royal Commission into Abuse in Care, as recommended by the Commission's final report.

Lead Coordination Minister Erica Stanford emphasized the importance of creating an Office within a central government agency to prioritize action across the public service. The Office will ensure individual agencies are held accountable through clear plans and monitored progress, while engaging with survivors and stakeholders to implement Cabinet decisions.

Stanford praised the courage of survivors who shared their experiences and affirmed the Government's commitment to addressing the Royal Commission’s recommendations. An additional $2.96 million has been allocated to enhance the Office's capacity to lead this work.

The current Crown Response Unit, operating since 2019, will transition from Oranga Tamariki to form the foundation of the new Office. The Public Service Commission will also chair the governance arrangements of relevant public sector chief executives. A Functional Chief Executive will be appointed to lead the Office, reporting to the Lead Coordination Minister.

Stanford expects the new structure will accelerate the Crown’s response, ensuring decisive action across the public service.