The Ministry of Health in New Zealand has confirmed a loss of 123 roles as part of the coalition government’s cost-cutting measures. This equates to cutting one in six positions at the ministry, with nine fewer jobs going than indicated by the government in April. Around 250 jobs were being disestablished, and 100 would have minor changes. 124 new positions will be created.
Specialist teams supporting clinical, community, and mental health have been downsized, including clinical leadership and the team responsible for protecting the rights of those receiving compulsory mental health treatment.
The Health Ministry met with all staff after a three-week consultation with more than 450 submissions. Changes include extending the ability to apply for voluntary redundancy to all affected kaimahi, amending the 2024/25 remuneration proposal to be more equitable, changing appointment processes for new positions, and changing the organizational structure.
The ministry is working to support those affected and will offer workshops on navigating change, financial well-being, CV development, and interview skills.
Mental health, addiction, and suicide prevention are health system priorities, and the ministry is establishing a new Programme Director for Suicide Prevention. A multidisciplinary team will deliver the function and work programme of suicide prevention, with a combined capacity of 7.5 full-time equivalent staff. Health New Zealand remains responsible for funding and delivering suicide prevention programmes and supports to the community.
