Transforming the Welfare State: Towards a New Social Contract

Description

In this BWB Text, Jonathan Boston tackles one of the most urgent questions in contemporary New Zealand: how should we transform the welfare state? Not only do we need to alleviate our current serious social problems, but we also need to meet the challenges of the future in a way that enhances intergenerational fairness and wellbeing. The answer, Boston argues, lies in a comprehensive package of reforms covering the benefit system, family assistance, child support, housing, and health care.

Jonathan Boston is a Professor of Public Policy in the School of Government at Victoria University of Wellington. He is an influential researcher and public commentator on social issues such as child poverty.