---
title: "Let it go: Devolving power and resources to improve lives - NZIER working paper 2023/02"
description: New Zealand's social assistance system does not meet the needs of people experiencing persistent disadvantage.
---

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# [Let it go: Devolving power and resources to improve lives - NZIER working paper 2023/02](https://www.nzier.org.nz/publications/let-it-go-devolving-power-and-resources-to-improve-lives)

 Written by [The NZIER Team](https://www.nzier.org.nz/publications/author/the-nzier-team) | December 13, 2023

 

New Zealand's social assistance system does not meet the needs of people experiencing persistent disadvantage.

The government should introduce a deliberate strategy of using a people-centred, devolved approach to address persistent disadvantage.

Under a devolved system, power over what to do, when, how and even why rests with the people experiencing disadvantage and the organisations helping them build a better life.

[View full post](https://www.nzier.org.nz/publications/let-it-go-devolving-power-and-resources-to-improve-lives)

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