People receiving Jobseeker Support will now need to reapply for their benefit every 26 weeks, rather than once a year, as part of a Government move to increase accountability and improve employment outcomes.

Social Development and Employment Minister Louise Upston says the change, which takes effect from today, is aimed at encouraging more regular engagement between jobseekers and the Ministry of Social Development (MSD).

“Reapplying for their benefit more often makes sure people receiving Jobseeker Support engage with MSD more regularly,” Upston said. “It allows frontline staff to ensure people are doing everything they can to find a job and get the right kind of support.”

The six-monthly reapplication process is also intended to give MSD more frequent opportunities to review a person’s eligibility and clarify their obligations while receiving the benefit.

Upston said the new requirement is part of the Government’s broader effort to support people off welfare and into work. “Having to apply only once a year was a significant gap and didn’t help either jobseekers or the MSD staff working with them,” she said.

The Government has made adjustments to the reapplication process to make it more streamlined. In some cases, people who have recently interacted with MSD about their job search may be able to complete the process online without an in-person appointment.

According to the Minister, the changes aim to reduce administrative burden while keeping the focus on helping people overcome barriers to employment. “The improved reapplication process means less time repeating information and more time focusing on support,” Upston said.