The New Zealand Government has announced a significant investment to strengthen support services for children and young people with high and complex needs as part of Budget 2026.
Minister for Children Karen Chhour revealed that $93.5 million will be allocated over four years, alongside $0.8 million in capital funding, to improve care and support for vulnerable young people facing challenges related to health, mental wellbeing, disability, behaviour, safety, and other complex circumstances.
The funding will expand access to specialist care placements, clinical services, and a broader range of support options designed to improve stability for children and young people in care. The initiative also aims to prevent placement breakdowns and provide earlier intervention when support needs are identified.
According to the government, the investment will help ensure that children with the highest support requirements receive appropriate care while reducing the likelihood of escalation into more restrictive and costly care arrangements over time.
The new funding package reflects the government’s commitment to protecting vulnerable children and providing families with stronger support networks to address increasingly complex care needs across New Zealand.
