Significant changes to the future scope and direction of Whānau Ora include a non-government organisation (NGO) ‘commissioning for results’ model.

Professor Sir Mason Durie – chair of the Whānau Ora Governance Group – says an initial focus on building capability to provide whānau–centred services is progressing well and the focus will now shift to building whānau and family capability to self-manage.

The Government has agreed to the establishment of three NGO commissioning agencies with a North Island, South Island and Pacific focus with Te Puni Kōkiri continuing to be the administering department for Whānau Ora.

Suitable NGOs will be contracted to commission local-level whānau-centred initiatives through a range of entities. Services or opportunities funded through the NGOs will be available to all New Zealand families.

Sir Mason says the refocus signals an exciting and positive phase in the next stage of implementation.

“Progress since 2010 has been remarkable, not only for the establishment of a system for which there was no precedent but – more importantly – for demonstrating how significant gains for whānau and families can be achieved.

“The latest decisions signal a commitment to strengthen the direct engagement and support of whānau and families to set and realise their own development aims and aspirations.

“The commissioning model reflects the importance of community-based leadership and decision-making to the continued growth and success of Whānau Ora as a social, economic and cultural development approach for whānau and families.

“It is critical that provider collectives continue to complete changes to their whānau-centred service delivery over the next two years and that service funders capitalise on the strong and capable base that has been developed.”

Sir Mason acknowledged the significant work of the Whānau Ora provider collectives, Regional Leadership Groups and partner agencies among others over the past three years including the leadership and commitment of the Minister for Whānau Ora, Hon Tariana Turia.

It is anticipated that the commissioning agencies will be operational – completing a limited funding round – by the end of June 2014. The establishment, funding and transition period is estimated to take up to 24 months.

Whānau Ora

CONTACT: Vanessa Bidois, Whānau Ora Communications Adviser, mobile +64 27 845 6152, email bidov@tpk.govt.nz.