(The accommodation supplement is subject to an asset test. For single individuals, the cash asset limit is $8,100. For couples, the limit is $16,200.)

(Question 4)

 Will your party increase the asset threshold for eligibility for the Accommodation Supplement? If yes, what threshold do you propose and when would it be introduced?

National

National will release our full policy platform closer to the election.

Greens

The Green Party does not have a policy to increase the asset threshold for accessing the Accommodation Supplement. However, we note the Welfare Expert Advisory Group recommendations on indexing the supplement to real housing costs and would be open to exploring this.

Labour

The Labour Party is committed to a fair system that helps people deal with the cost of living. We’ll be announcing more policies over the coming months to help Kiwis with the cost of living.

N Z First

(responded with a generic statement on overall housing policy)

New Zealand First recognises the importance of housing Seniors and will continue to deliver on the practical actions that prioritises housing security and affordability.

In the current term of Government New Zealand First delivered improvements to the rates rebate scheme thresholds, retained the winter energy payment and legislation to make it easier to build subsidiary dwellings.

Expanding housing options and support infrastructure development will continue. This has been achieved through the Fast Track legislation which has allowed for faster approvals and greater confidence in development.

Delivering a Seniors Housing Plan will be a priority for NZ First and this will include considerations around expanded options for addressing the cost pressures of being able to age in place.

This will include expanded options for affordable housing and recognising the existing initiatives that are delivering innovative solutions.

Long term, secure rental is not only delivered through social housing and therefore NZ First will continue to explore more options and investment, particularly in regional New Zealand.

Warm, dry, secure, accessible and low maintenance homes will not only improve quality of life and health outcomes but will strengthen communities and families. New Zealand First will also, as part of banking reform, investigate financing options to expand opportunity for Seniors to be able to subdivide, build a subsidiary dwelling, downsize or move closer to family.

Opportunity Party

Our tax reset proposes replacing the accommodation supplement with a universal, abatable housing supplement payment. This would not be subject to any cash asset threshold.

(Question 5)

Does your party support reviewing the Accommodation Supplement asset thresholds on a regular basis to ensure they remain fit for purpose?

National

National will release our full policy platform closer to the election.

Greens

As noted above, the Green Party does not have a policy to increase the asset threshold for accessing the Accommodation Supplement. However, we note the Welfare Expert Advisory Group recommendations on indexing the supplement to real housing costs and would be open to exploring this.

Labour

As above.

N Z First

As in ( Question 4) above.

Opportunity Party

Yes.