New law allowing automated benefit decisions to modernise welfare system, government says

Govt says AI will help moderinse welfare system

The government says a new law allowing the Ministry of Social Development to use AI to make benefit decisions will modernise NZ's welfare system.

New law allowing automated benefit decisions to modernise welfare system, government says

The Social Security (Modernisation) Amendment Bill was rushed through Parliament on Friday under urgency.

Improving Welfare System Efficiency

The Bill also strengthens existing safeguards for the use of automated decision-making, including legislative requirements to manage bias, ensure transparency and maintain appropriate human oversight.

New Zealand Passes Bill To Modernise Welfare System Administration - OpenGov Asia

New Zealand has passed new legislation aimed at improving the efficiency and administration of the welfare system through updated digital processes. On 29 May 2026, Parliament approved the Social Security (Modernisation) Amendment Bill, enabling broader use of automated decision-making within the Ministry of Social Development (MSD). According to the official government release, the reforms are […]