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Category: New Zealand

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Experienced retail investor found liable for market manipulation

    Source: Budget 2025 – Greenpeace braced for ‘scorched earth’ budget from Govt

    Media Release  
    MR No. 2025 – 13

    Kok Ding Cheng, an experienced retail investor, has been ordered to pay the Crown a pecuniary penalty of $198,000, following a civil proceeding brought by the Financial Markets Authority (FMA) – Te Mana Tatai Hokohoko for market manipulation.  

    The FMA’s case centred on five small orders for of NZX-listed shares of Rua Bioscience Limited (RUA) that Mr Cheng made over a 10-day period during late 2020 via a broking account he held with ASB Securities.  The Court found in making each of those five orders, which ranged from $59 to $540, Mr Cheng breached s265 of the Financial Markets Conduct Act 2013 which prohibits trade-based market manipulation.  The Court found that Mr Cheng deliberately placed the orders for the purpose of increasing the price and/or demand for Rua shares.

    Mr Cheng did not file a statement of defence during the proceeding, and so the proceeding progressed by way of formal proof hearing.  

    FMA Head of Enforcement, Margot Gatland said, “Mr Cheng’s orders lacked a genuine commercial purpose and were instead made for the purposes of increasing the price and/or demand for RUA shares at a time when he held a material shareholding in the company.  

    “Market manipulation undermines confidence in financial markets because it means investors can’t trust prices or market activity to be genuine. We take cases of market manipulation seriously to ensure New Zealand’s markets reflect genuine supply and demand, in order to preserve their integrity and reputation.

    “We considered Mr Cheng’s conduct warranted a strong response to deter market manipulation. This case and the Judge’s ruling are important reminders that trade-based market manipulation can occur when trading through online share brokerage accounts. Investors should be careful to understand their obligations when trading online, as trading listed shares for disingenuous reasons can result in liability.” 

    The $198,000 is to be paid to the Crown after it is first applied to the FMA’s actual costs in taking the case. 

    ENDS 

    Media contact  
    If you have any questions about this media release, please contact [email protected]   

    Related links  

    FMA vs Cheng Judgment [PDF 415KB]

    FMA files market manipulation case against Kok Ding Cheng for trading of Rua shares

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Westpac to pay $3.25 million penalty for misleading customers

    Source: Budget 2025 – Greenpeace braced for ‘scorched earth’ budget from Govt

    Media Release
    MR No. 2025 – 14

    Westpac is to pay a penalty of $3.25 million for misleading customers entitled to advertised discounts as well as overcharging some of its business customers. Westpac admitted its conduct in civil proceedings brought by the Financial Markets Authority (FMA) – Te Mana Tātai Hokohoko – at the High Court in Auckland in December 2024.

    Westpac’s breaches of the fair dealing provisions under the Financial Markets Conduct Act 2013 (FMCA) affected a total of 24,621 customers and resulted in $6.35m in overcharges. Westpac admitted having made misrepresentations in respect of the following historic issues:

    • Customers entitled to various benefits under Westpac’s Employee, Gold and Platinum (EGP) packages failed to receive the advertised discounts
    • Personal and business banking customers failed to receive benefits under one of Westpac’s other advertised packaged arrangements
    • Westpac failed to honour agreed pricing for business customers who held a “Business Transact Account”.

    FMA Head of Enforcement, Margot Gatland, said, “Westpac’s issues stemmed from deficiencies in its systems that meant the bank failed to deliver contractually agreed discounts to their customers. Westpac used preferential pricing to attract and retain customers, without having systems that could reliably deliver on those promises.”  

    Westpac has remediated impacted customers. “The FMA acknowledges Westpac’s full cooperation throughout the FMA’s investigation, and the work it undertook to remedy the issues,” said Ms Gatland.

    “The $3.25 million penalty against Westpac reflects the number of customers affected,” Ms Gatland said. “The relationship between financial institutions and their customers must be one of trust. Customers should rightfully expect to be treated fairly and that agreements between the two parties will be honoured.”

    In his penalty decision Justice Venning said, “I accept Westpac’s submission there is no suggestion that its conduct was deliberate or wilfully misleading, nor that there was any intention to intentionally deprive customers of benefits. While it had in place systems, the systems were insufficient.”

    ENDS

    Media contact

    If you have any questions about this media release, please contact [email protected]

    Related

    FMA v Westpac – Judgment [PDF 265KB]

    Westpac admits to misleading representations that resulted in $6.35m in overcharges
     

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Update on the Pushpay insider trading appeal

    Source: Budget 2025 – Greenpeace braced for ‘scorched earth’ budget from Govt

    Media Release  
    MR No. 2025 – 15

    The Financial Market Authority (FMA) – Te Mana Tātai Hokohoko – has welcomed the Court of Appeal’s decision on the Pushpay insider trading appeal. 

    In August 2023 the defendant was found guilty of an insider trading offence following a four-week trial in the Auckland High Court. They were sentenced to six months community detention and a fine of $100,000. In April 2024 they appealed the conviction and the High Court’s decision to refuse name suppression. The Crown also appealed the sentence, saying it was manifestly inadequate.  

    FMA Head of Enforcement Margot Gatland says, “We were pleased with the Court’s decision to uphold this conviction. Insider trading is a serious offence that undermines investor confidence in New Zealand markets. The FMA will continue to take action when we see this type of misconduct as it damages the trust and confidence in New Zealand’s financial markets and businesses.” 

    In its judgment the Court of Appeal:  

    • dismissed the appeal against conviction,  
    • dismissed the appeal against the refusal to grant name suppression, pending final decision of the conviction appeal, with the existing interim name suppression to continue for seven days post judgment, and
    • granted the Crown’s appeal against the sentence in part, increasing the fine aspect of the sentence to $200,000.  

    Name suppression continues for seven days to allow the defendant to notify family members and/or business interests in advance of name suppression lapsing.   

    ENDS

    Background

    The case, brought by the FMA, centered around the resignation and sell-down of shares of former Pushpay co-founder and Director Eliot Crowther in June 2018. The FMA considered Mr Crowther’s intention in this regard to be material information, which, if generally available, would be likely to have a material effect on the price of Pushpay’s shares at the time.  

    The FMA alleged that the defendant knew of, and used, that information to advise or encourage others to trade in the lead up to Mr Crowther’s announcement.  

    Mr Crowther’s trading was legitimate, and he was not party to the proceedings. 

    Related media releases 

    FMA alleges insider training of Pushpay shares

    Guilty verdict media release

    Media contact 

    If you have any questions about this media release, please contact [email protected]  

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: FMA issues a warning on managed investment scheme

    Source: Budget 2025 – Greenpeace braced for ‘scorched earth’ budget from Govt

    Media Release  
    MR No. 2025 – 16

    The Financial Markets Authority (FMA) – Te Mana Tātai Hokohoko – has issued a public warning about a managed investment scheme operated by Jesse Joseph Vaughan and former NZ company Crypto Partners Limited (CPL). 

    FMA Executive Director of Response and Enforcement Louise Unger said, “We understand that Mr Vaughan, the sole director and shareholder of formerly registered company CPL, has offered investments in a managed investment scheme (MIS) operated by CPL. He did so without holding a MIS manager licence, and without providing the required disclosure, which are both contraventions of the Financial Markets Conduct Act 2013.” 

    Mr Vaughan also told his investors in a newsletter that he had applied for a MIS manager’s licence, and that it was being reviewed by the FMA.  

    “I can confirm that neither Mr Vaughan nor CPL has ever applied to the FMA for any form of market services licence,” said Ms Unger. “One of the main purposes of the market services licensing regime is to require licensees to act with integrity, diligence and skill and in the best interests of investors using their services. We consider that CPL and Mr Vaughan’s conduct has been contrary to these obligations and investors are likely to have experienced significant detriment as a result.  

    “The FMA will continue to take actions when we see misconduct damaging the trust and confidence in New Zealand’s financial markets and businesses. We do this to both prevent and deter others from doing this and, in this case, to hold Mr Vaughan to account,” concludes Ms Unger. 

    If you are an investor in CPL, let us know  

    If you are an investor in CPL and have not received the return of your investment, or you have recently been contacted by Mr Vaughan inviting you to invest in his business, we encourage you to report the details to the FMA.  

    Media contact  

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Consultation on Industry Skills Boards’ coverage

    Source: Tertiary Education Commission

    Last updated 21 May 2025
    Last updated 21 May 2025

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    We consulted on a proposed model for the number and coverage groupings of Industry Skills Boards. The consultation has now closed.
    We consulted on a proposed model for the number and coverage groupings of Industry Skills Boards. The consultation has now closed.

    The Government is proposing to set up seven Industry Skills Boards (ISBs) that cover these broad areas:

    Automotive industries
    Construction industries
    Infrastructure industries
    Food and fibre industries
    Service industries
    Manufacturing and technology industries
    Social and community industries.

    As part of setting up Industry Skills Boards, some industries and sectors that are currently covered by a Workforce Development Council are proposed to be covered by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority.
    These proposals were covered in the Consultation Document ISB Coverage (PDF 426 KB).
    Frequently asked questions
    Consultation was open from Monday 28 April until 5.00pm, Tuesday 20 May.
    Thank you to the groups and individuals that made submissions. Your views will help inform final decisions by the government on the number and coverage of Industry Skills Boards. They will also inform the detailed coverage provisions in ISBs’ Orders in Council. These Orders will be consulted on later this year.
    New work-based learning model

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Advice seen by Minister

    Source: Tertiary Education Commission

    Date
    Reference Number
    Title

    19 December 2019
    AM/19/01484
    Aide-Memoir: Discussion paper: establishing a CoVE specialising in Secondary Tertiary Programmes, Multiple Pathways and Transitions (PDF 1.4 MB) 

    5 December 2019
    B/19/01460
    Funding Agreement between the Crown and Lincoln University (PDF 1.3 MB) 

    3 December 2019
    1210568
    Education Report: High-level decisions on the unified funding system for discussion at the strategy session on 12 December (PDF 7.8 MB)

    22 November 2019
    B/19/01385
    Tertiary Education Commission 2019/20 Quarter One Performance Report

    20 November 2019
    B/19/01340
    Tertiary Education Report: August 2019 Fees-Free Enrolment Update (PDF 658 KB) 

    20 November 2019
    B/19/01339
    Tertiary Education Report: August 2019 Enrolment Update (PDF 590 KB) 

    15 November 2019
    AM/19/01341
    Expenditure accrual adjustment to Vote Tertiary Education

    13 November 2019
    AM/19/01357
    Overview of standard operating procedures and/or code of practices for TEI accommodation services

    11 November 2019
    Cabinet paper
    Confirmation of Crown capital investment to support the rebuild of Lincoln University’s science facilities (PDF 1.2 MB)

    7 November 2019
    AM/19/01351
    Tertiary Education Institution Accommodation Overview

    1 November 2019
    AM/19/01338
    No recoveries for exceeding prior achievement limit in 2019 for YG and SAC 1-2

    29 October 2019
    B/19/01328
    Tertiary Education Commission Annual Report for the year ended 30 June 2019

    25 October 2019
    AM/19/01337
    Reform of Vocational Education Programme Governance – Update

    24 October 2019
    E/19/01252
    Ako Aotearoa 2019 Tertiary Teaching Excellence Awards Evening – 30 October 2019

    23 October 2019
    B/19/01284
    Crown support for Whitireia Community Polytechnic

    15 October 2019
    E/19/01277
    Launch of Drawing the Future event on 18 October at Porirua East School

    14 October 2019
    B/19/01260
    Report to Ministers from the University of Canterbury Futures Governance Oversight Group

    14 October 2019
    B/19/01275
    ITP constitutions for two councils

    9 October 2019
    AM/19/01258
    AgResearch business case for a new building at Lincoln University

    4 October 2019
    E/19/01256
    Opening the 15th New Zealand Vocational Education and Training Research Forum on Tuesday 15 October 2019

    25 September 2019
    B/19/01192
    Update on Careers System Strategy Engagement Process (PDF 500 KB) 

    20 September 2019
    B/19/01175
    Tertiary Education Commission draft Annual Report for the year ended 30 June 2019 (PDF 276 KB) 

    19 September 2019
    B/19/01211
    Tertiary Education Report: Draft Cabinet paper on supporting the rebuild of Lincoln University’s science facilities and reallocation of funding to Tai Poutini Polytechnic (PDF 159 KB) 

    17 September 2019
    B/19/01023
    Review of the appointment of the Commissioner of Whitireia and WelTec (PDF 250 KB) 

    13 September 2019
    B/19/01210
    Establishing a Stakeholder Advisory Group for Reform of Vocational Education

    13 September 2019
    B/19/01209
    Workforce Development Council and ITO Workstream: Progress update (PDF 861 KB) 

    13 September 2019
    1204429
    Briefing Note: Unified Funding Work Programme: Progress update (PDF 3.6 MB)

    10 September 2019
    E/19/01176
    Ministerial visit to the University of Auckland on Tuesday, 10 September 2019

    9 September 2019
    E/19/01176
    Ministerial visit to the University of Auckland on Tuesday, 10 September 2019 (PDF 871 KB) 

    9 September 2019
    E/19/01169
    Meeting with Greg Wallace, Chief Executive of Master Plumbers on Thursday 12 September 2019

    6 September 2019
    B/19/01141
    ITP constitutions for seven councils (PDF 297 KB) 

    2 September 2019
    E/19/01158
    Ministerial visit to Unitec Institute of Technology on Tuesday, 3 September 2019 (PDF 3.2 MB) 

    27 August 2019
    B/19/01065
    Tertiary Education Report: Lincoln University Programme Business Case: Moving Forward (PDF 487 KB) 

    27 August 2019
    B/19/01086
    Tertiary Education Report: April 2019 Fees-Free Enrolment Update (PDF 640 KB) 

    21 August 2019
    B/19/01085
    Tertiary Education Report: April 2019 Enrolment Update (PDF 826 KB)

    19 August 2019
    E/19/01093
    Minister of Education Opening the Primary ITO Symposium on Tuesday 20 August 2019

    8 August 2019
    AM/19/00929
    Fees-free monitoring and addressing non-complying TEOs

    26 July 2019
    E/19/00868
    Ōritetanga Learner Success Conference (PDF 240 KB) 

    26 July 2019
    AM/19/00971
    Talking Points for Cabinet on 29 July 2019 – NZIST Establishment Board Appointment

    25 July 2019
    B/19/00928
    Lincoln University and the University of Canterbury Partnership Proposal (PDF 1.5 MB) 

    24 July 2019
    B/19/00882
    Crown support for Tai Poutini Polytechnic (PDF 670 KB)

    20 July 2019
    AM/19/00790
    WAIKATO INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY 2018 Annual Report (PDF 459 KB) 

    19 July 2019
    AM/19/00959
    Southern Institute of Technology’s proposal for Telfrod – Talking point for Cabinet

    19 July 2019
    AM/19/00954
    Annotated Agenda – NZ Institute of Skills and Technology Establishment

    17 July 2019
    B/19/00773
    Update on Careers System Strategy and Career Action Plan (PDF 275 KB) 

    17 July 2019
    B/19/00867
    Southern Institute of Technology’s proposal for operating Telford in 2020 and 2021 (PDF 486 KB) 

    15 July 2019
    AM/19/00800
    Assurance findings for the Reform of Vocational Education Programme

    15 July 2019
    B/19/00763
    2020 Investment Round Update: Indicative Allocations

    11 July 2019
    E/19/00879
    Minister to visit Otago University on 12 July 2019 (PDF 465 KB) 

    10 July 2019
    B/19/00819
    Manukau Institute of Technology– council constitution (PDF 402 KB) 

    10 July 2019
    AM/19/00880
    Compliance monitoring of fees-free tertiary education and prosecution for false statutory declarations

    4 July 2019
    B/19/00785
    TEC 2018/19 Quarter Three Performance Report (PDF 355 KB) 

    3 July 2019
    B/19/00861
    Review of the appointment of the Commissioner of Unitec (PDF 289 KB) 

    1 July 2019
    B/19/00840
    2018 Educational Performance Indicators (PDF 1.1 MB) 

    1 July 2019
    AM/19/00820
    Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi 2018 Annual Report (PDF 506 KB) 

    1 July 2019
    B/19/00708
    Publication of the Tertiary Education Commission’s Statement of Intent 2019/20–2022/23 and Statement of Performance Expectations 2019/20 (PDF 274 KB) 

    1 July 2019
    AM/19/00827
    Aide-Memoire: Lincoln University Programme Business Case: Moving Forward (PDF 303 KB) 

    1 July 2019
    B/19/00840
    2018 Educational Performance Indicators

    28 June 2019
    E/19/00835
    Meeting with Service Skills Institute Incorporated on Monday 1 July 2019

    25 June 2019
    AM/19/00821
    Talking Points for APH on 26 June 2019 – Appointment to the council of Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi (PDF 219 KB)

    20 June 2019
    AM/19/00790
    WAIKATO INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY 2018 Annual Report

    19 June 2019
    AM/19/00797
    Growing the Food and Fibres Sector – Recommendations for the TEC

    17 June 2019
    E/19/00776
    University of Canterbury – Opening of the Rehua Building on 25 June 2019 (PDF 326 KB) 

    12 June 2019
    E/19/00690
    Meeting with the Commissioner of WelTec and Whitireia (PDF 346 KB) 

    12 June 2019
    AM/19/00749
    Update on Whitireia Community Polytechnic and the Wellington Institute of Technology

    10 June 2019
    AM/19/00739
    Update on the current situation of funding training and education of carers

    7 June 2019
    B/19/00702
    Recognition of Skills Active Aotearoa Limited as an industry training organisation (PDF 1.1 MB) 

    31 May 2019
    B/19/00709
    Waikato Institute of Technology Council Constitution (PDF 441 KB) 

    31 May 2019
    AM/19/00704
    Unitec Institute of Technology 2018 Annual Report (PDF 408 KB)

    31 May 2019
    B/19/00706
    2018 final full-year enrolments at tertiary education organisations

    31 May 2019
    AM/19/00707
    Update on the financial position of ITPs

    30 May 2019
    B/19/00703
    Recognition of the Funeral Service Training Trust of New Zealand as an industry training organisation (PDF 479 KB) 

    30 May 2019
    B/19/00701
    Recognition of Primary Industry Training Organisation as an industry training organisation (PDF 897 KB) 

    30 May 2019
    E/19/00705
    Meeting with UCOL on 5 June 2019  (PDF 2.6 MB)

    27 May 2019
    AM/19/00648
    Advice on options to support the University of Canterbury following the Christchurch mosque attacks

    24 May 2019
    B/19/00650
    Ministerial appointment to Te Whare Wananga o Awanuiarangi

    17 May 2019
    B/19/00706
    2018 Final Full-Year Enrolments at Tertiary Education Organisations (PDF 1.1 MB) 

    17 May 2019
    B/19/00640
    Tai Poutini Polytechnic Capital Injection – Final Milestone (PDF 386 KB) Tai Poutini Polytechnic Capital Injection Appendix A (PDF 1.6 MB) 

    16 May 2019
    AM/19/00651
    Western Institute of Technology at Taranaki 2018 Annual Report (PDF 516 KB) 

    10 May 2019
    E/19/00555
    Meeting with Professor Jan Thomas from Massey University on 22 May 2019 (PDF 682 KB) 

    10 May 2019
    E/19/00644
    Meeting with Southland Federated Farmers

    9 May 2019
    B/19/00613
    Letters for Ministerial appointments to two tertiary education councils (PDF 286 KB) 

    8 May 2019
    E/19/00509
    Minister to speak at the Open Polytechnic Graduation on Thursday, 23 May 2019 (PDF 3.2 MB).

    3 May 2019 
    AM/19/00611
    Lincoln University 2018 financial results (PDF 247 KB) 

    3 May 2019
    AM/19/00615
    Ministerial Appointment to the council of Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi

    23 April 2019
    B/19/00527
    Release of the 2018 PBRF Quality Evaluation Results 

    10 April 2019
    E/19/00512
    Meeting with Primary Industry Training Organisation on Thursday 11 April 2019 

    9 April 2019
    E/19/00473
    Meeting with WITT to discuss RoVE on 11 April 2019 

    8 April 2019
    E/19/00482
    Meeting with Andrew Robb from Tai Poutini Polytechnic on 11 April 2019 

    3 April 2019
    B/19/00451
    Salvation Army foundation education delivery consultation outcomes 

    3 April 2019
    B/19/00469
    Inspiring Futures – Response 

    2 April 2019
    E/19/00465
    Ministerial visit to open new Tech Park Campus development at Manukau Institute of Technology on 5 April 2019 

    28 March 2019
    E/19/00446
    BusinessNZ Major Companies Group – Chief Executive Forum on Friday 5 April 2019 

    27 March 2019
    B/19/00448
    Letters for Ministerial appointments to eight tertiary education institution councils 

    27 March 2019
    B/19/00442
    Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology – council constitution 

    25 March 2019
    B/19/00360
    2018 Interim Full-Year Enrolments at Tertiary Education Organisations 

    18 March 2019
    AM/19/00414
    Talking Points for APH on appointments to eight ITP councils 

    14 March 2019
    B/19/00161
    TEC 2018/2019 Quarter Two Performance Report 

    12 March 2019
    E/19/00396
    Meeting with The Skills Organisation 14 March 2019 

    12 March 2019
    E/19/00398
    Meeting with Careerforce Thursday 14 March 2019 

    12 March 2019
    B/19/00381
    Letters for Ministerial appointments to two university councils 

    7 March 2019
    B/19/00158
    Careers System Strategy Workstream Implementation Update 

    5 March 2019
    AM/19/00330
    Talking Points for APH on appointments to two TEI Councils 

    1 March 2019
    E/19/00166
    Meeting with Competenz Chair and Chief Executive Thursday 7 March 

    1 March 2019
    E/19/00234
    Local Government New Zealand Rural and Provincial Meeting 

    27 February 2019
    E/19/00165
    Visit to Telford (PDF 326 KB) 

    26 February 2019
    E/19/00150
    Meeting with primary industry leaders to discuss your vision on Reform of Vocational Education (PDF 269 KB) 

    25 February 2019
    E/19/00246
    Meeting with the Tertiary Education Union (TEU) at Waikato Institute of Technology (Wintec) (PDF 2 MB) 

    15 February 2019
    B/19/00082
    Lincoln University and the University of Canterbury Partnership Proposal: next steps (PDF 2.3 MB) 

    11 February 2019
    AM/19/0060
    World Economic Forum OECD Release of Envisioning the Future of Education and Jobs: Trends, Data and Drawings report (PDF 159 KB) 

    7 February 2019
    AM/19/00083
    2018 full-year enrolment reporting timeline (PDF 397 KB) 

    1 February 2019
    B/19/00081
    Southern Institute of Technology’s proposal for operating Telford in 2019 (PDF 393 KB) 

    February 2019
    Cabinet paper
    Council Appointments for Ara Institute of Canterbury, Eastern Institute of Technology, Manukau Institute of Technology, NorthTec, Otago Polytechnic, Tai Poutini Polytechnic, Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology, UCOL and the Western Institute of Technology at Taranaki (PDF 320 KB) 

    30 January 2019
    B/19/00055
    Appointment of an advisory committee to support the Commissioner of Whitireia and WelTec (PDF 202 KB) 

    29 January 2019
    AM/19/00064
    Computer in Homes Tender (PDF 824 KB) 

    28 January 2019
    AM/19/00063
    Meeting with the Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Canterbury (PDF 1.2 MB) 

    21 January 2019
    E/19/00010
    Ara Institute of Canterbury – Manawa and Outpatients facility opening on Thursday 31 January 2019 (PDF 1.2 MB) 

    11 January 2019
    B/19/00028
    Update World Economic Forum: Launch of Envisioning the Future of Education and Jobs (PDF 554 KB) 

    8 January 2019
    B/19/00007
    University of Auckland – amendment to council constitution (PDF 303 KB) 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Budgets

    Source: Tertiary Education Commission

    Last updated 25 May 2023
    Last updated 25 May 2023

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    Every year the Government allocates funding to a range of tertiary education initiatives as part of the budget. This section includes information on recent budgets and their implications for tertiary education.
    Every year the Government allocates funding to a range of tertiary education initiatives as part of the budget. This section includes information on recent budgets and their implications for tertiary education.

    Most of this funding is appropriated, or made available, through Vote tertiary education. The Ministry of Education (MoE) is the lead agency for the sector.
    Our Statement of Intent explains how we will manage the services involved in providing the funding to tertiary education organisations (TEOs).
    The Government’s financial year runs from 1 July to 30 June, whereas we base our funding for most TEOs on the calendar year. This means it can take a while for budget decisions to have an impact.
    Read more about recent budgets and their implications:

    Related Content

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Budget 2025 for tertiary sector

    Source: Tertiary Education Commission

    Last updated 22 May 2025
    Last updated 22 May 2025

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    The Government released its 2025 Budget on Thursday 22 May, which included $398 million investment in the tertiary sector over four years.
    The Government released its 2025 Budget on Thursday 22 May, which included $398 million investment in the tertiary sector over four years.

    The Budget tertiary system investment includes:

    $213 million to provide a 3 per cent increase in tuition and training subsidies from 1 January 2026 in targeted subjects across all levels of tertiary study.
    $64 million for an additional 1.75 per cent increase in tertiary education subsidies at degree level and above in high demand “STEM” subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths), along with Initial Teacher Education and other priority health workforce areas.
    $111 million to fund enrolment growth in 2025 and 2026, including another 175 Youth Guarantee students a year.

    For more information on Budget 2025 and the tertiary sector, see:

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Funding rates by year

    Source: Tertiary Education Commission

    Last updated 23 May 2025
    Last updated 23 May 2025

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    Funding rates are used to allocate funding to tertiary education organisations, and may be based on learner numbers, hours or EFTS. These funding rates vary for different funds and years.
    Funding rates are used to allocate funding to tertiary education organisations, and may be based on learner numbers, hours or EFTS. These funding rates vary for different funds and years.

    The ‘Funding rates for 2025 and 2026’ spreadsheet contains 2025 and 2026 funding rates for the following funds:

    DQ7-10: Delivery at Levels 7 (degree) to 10 on the NZQCF 
    DQ3-7: Delivery at Levels 3 to 7 (non-degree) on the NZQCF: delivery component, learner component, and strategic component
    DQ1-2: Delivery at Levels 1 and 2 on the NZQCF
    ACE: ACE in Schools and ACE in TEIs
    ELT: English Language Teaching
    L&N: Intensive Literacy and Numeracy, and TEO-led Workplace Literacy and Numeracy
    Gateway: cohort number rates, and rates per learner
    YG: Youth Guarantee, and YG Exceptional Travel
    Equity: Equity Funding for DQ1-2 and DQ7-10

    The spreadsheet also contains a table of DQ3-7 rates by course classification for the purposes of TEOs submitting combined DQ3-7 and DQ7-10 commitment documents.
    Funding rates for 2026 
    We have developed some examples to show how Budget 2025 targeted tuition subsidies have been calculated for 2026. This is because both decreases and increases apply to some rates.  
    These examples explain how we have calculated the 2026 funding rates for DQ3-7 and DQ7-10. 
    Rates will be finalised following consultation on the 2026 funding mechanisms later this year.  
    2026 funding rates including targeted rate examples (PDF 392 KB)
    Funding rates for 2025 and 2026
    Funding rates for 2025 and 2026 (XLSX 72 KB)
    Historical funding rates
    Funding rates for 2024 and 2025 (XLSX 62 KB) 
    2025 funding rates increase:

    For 2025 funding rates, there will be a general 2.5% increase from the 2024 funding rates.
    Delivery at Levels 7 (degree) to 10 on the NZQCF (DQ7-10) will include the additional 4% applied in 2024 and continued into 2025.
    The Mātauranga and te reo Māori DQ3-7 and DQ7-10 funding rate includes the additional 3.75% increase applied to the 2024 base funding rate, which includes 5%, and an additional 4% rate increase for DQ7-10 for 2024. For 2025 to 2027, there is a 3.75% increase applied to the 2024 base funding rate, which includes 5% for DQ3-7 and DQ7-10 only. This is part of the total 15% increase being funded and implemented over four years.

    Funding rates for 2023 and 2024 (XLSX 51 KB)

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Pharmac funds and widens access to melanoma medicines

    Source: PHARMAC

    Pharmac is funding more medicines for people with skin cancer (melanoma), from 1 June 2025.

    The decision includes widening access to pembrolizumab (branded as Keytruda) and funding dabrafenib (branded as Tafinlar) and trametinib (branded as Mekinist) for the first time. They will be funded for people with stage 3B to stage 4 melanoma.

    “These medicines will help about 285 New Zealanders by preventing people’s cancer from spreading or coming back” says Geraldine MacGibbon, Pharmac’s Director Pharmaceuticals.

    Pembrolizumab is already funded for people with melanoma who can’t have surgery to remove their cancer. Now it will be funded for people around the time of surgery too.

    Dabrafenib with trametinib will be funded for people with melanoma, who have a BRAF gene mutation. It will provide a treatment option after surgery or if they cannot have surgery.

    MacGibbon thanked everyone who provided feedback during Pharmac’s public consultation. 

    “We heard through the consultation the benefit of having more treatments funded – clinicians and their patients will now have more options to help them live longer.”

    Feedback to the consultation also highlighted the need for medicines that would reduce the side effects from treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors. So, as part of this decision Pharmac is widening access to infliximab (branded as Remicade) and tocilizumab (branded as Actemra). 

    “We expect about 65 people with different types of cancer to benefit from wider access to infliximab and tocilizumab in the first year of funding. Having these medicines available will help manage some side effects from cancer treatment.”

    The Government provided additional funding to Pharmac in June 2024 to fund new medicines and to widen access to medicines that are already funded. The funding boost covers medicines for both cancer and non-cancer health conditions.  

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Pharmac seeks feedback on updates to COVID-19 antiviral medicines

    Source: PHARMAC

    Media release Medicines COVID-19

    Pharmac has today opened consultation on a proposal to simplify the criteria for people accessing COVID-19 antiviral medicines, along with the process for funding and supply of these medicines.

    Pharmac currently funds two COVID-19 antivirals for people who meet the eligibility criteria. Antiviral medicines help to prevent people with a COVID-19 infection from becoming severely unwell.

    “We’re proposing to change the way we describe who is at high risk from developing a COVID-19 infection,” says Pharmac’s Director Pharmaceuticals, Geraldine MacGibbon.

    The change Pharmac is proposing will mean that all people who are aged 50 years or older with COVID-19 and are determined to be at high risk could access funded antivirals if they need them.

    “We’re also proposing to change to how we manage the funding and supply of these medicines,” MacGibbon says.

    The management and supply of COVID-19 treatments was unique due to the need to respond to the global COVID-19 pandemic, but Pharmac is now working to align the funding and supply of COVID-19 antivirals with our normal process, MacGibbon says.

    Currently Pharmac buys COVID-19 antivirals upfront from the medicines budget, and then supplies them to pharmacies and Health NZ hospitals at no cost.

    “The change we are proposing will mean pharmacies and Health NZ hospitals can order what they need from wholesalers and claim back costs from Pharmac. This change will align the management of COVID-19 antivirals with other funded medicines in New Zealand,” MacGibbon says.

    “We need your feedback to tell us if this proposal will meet the needs of New Zealanders who need access to this medicine. Your input is valuable to us and has an impact on the decisions we make,” MacGibbon says.

    The consultation is open now until Friday 30 May. If the proposal is approved, changes would take effect from 1 September and 1 October 2025. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: 13,000 people to benefit from new insulin medicine

    Source: PHARMAC

    Pharmac will fund a new type of insulin for people with diabetes, branded as Ryzodeg, from 1 May 2025.

    Pharmac’s Director Pharmaceuticals, Geraldine MacGibbon, expects about 13,000* people with diabetes will benefit from this insulin in the first year of funding, increasing to about 18,000 after five years.

    “Ryzodeg is a combination of a long-acting and a rapid-acting insulin. It helps manage blood sugar levels throughout the day.

    “We received feedback from people who would benefit from this decision. They shared with us how funding Ryzodeg would make living with diabetes easier, especially for people who have difficulty managing their insulin needs with the currently funded products.

    “They also told us it would mean they could reduce the number of times they need to inject themselves with insulin,” MacGibbon says.

    NovoMix 30, an older insulin product is being discontinued by the same supplier, Novo Nordisk, from the end of this year.

    “The feedback we received from the community confirmed that Ryzodeg, will provide another option for people who currently use NovoMix 30,” says MacGibbon.

    “We will continue to work with Diabetes New Zealand, the New Zealand Society for the Study of Diabetes (NZSSD), and the supplier to make sure that the community and health care professionals understand what funded insulin options are available for people with diabetes.

    “We want to thank everyone who provided feedback during our public consultation on Ryzodeg. Your input is valuable to us and has an impact on the decisions we make.”

    * Update May 2025: 

    The number of people expected to benefit from this decision in the first year is about 12,000. The decision document is updated to reflect this. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Pharmac proposes to fully fund nutrition replacements for some people with Crohn’s disease

    Source: PHARMAC

    Pharmac is proposing to fully fund two liquid nutrition replacements for adults with Crohn’s disease who use them as their only source of nutrition.

    Crohn’s is a type of inflammatory bowel disease. Some people with Crohn’s disease may use liquid nutrition replacements as their exclusive, full diet for a period of 4–12 weeks. 

    The goal of this exclusive liquid nutrition diet is to rest the gut, to reduce inflammation and promote healing. This also may help manage symptoms and reduce the likelihood of needing surgery.

    The nutrition replacements in this proposal are Ensure Plus and Fortisip (200ml, 1.5kcal/ml). They are currently partly or fully funded for some health conditions in the community.

    A different fully funded nutrition replacement was previously available for people using it exclusively, but the supplier has stopped making it.

    Adrienne Martin, Pharmac’s Manager Pharmaceutical Funding says, “we’ve received advice from clinicians treating people with Crohn’s disease that Ensure Plus and Fortisip are suitable alternatives, but they’re only partly funded for some people with Crohn’s disease.”

    Pharmac wants to remove this additional cost on Ensure Plus and Fortisip so people with Crohn’s disease, who use them as their only source of nutrition, can continue to access and benefit from nutrition replacements.

    “Our role is to help people access the medicines and related products they need to improve their health. We estimate around 200 adults with Crohn’s disease would benefit from the funding each year.” says Martin.

    People can provide feedback through Pharmac’s website until Thursday 4 June.

    Following public consultation, Pharmac will make a decision on the funding proposal. If approved, these medicines are expected be fully funded from 1 July 2025.  

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Schedule rule changes will improve continuity of cancer care

    Source: PHARMAC

    Pharmac is proposing a change to the Pharmaceutical Schedule rules, which if agreed, would give New Zealanders with cancer greater continuity of care.  

    Pharmac is consulting on a proposal to amend the rules of the Pharmaceutical Schedule, following the Government’s decision to enable access to new publicly funded cancer medicines in private hospitals and clinics from 1 August 2025.

    “When Pharmac funds a new cancer medicine, there may be some people who have already started this treatment in a private health care facility. Currently, if this person wants their cancer medicine funded, they need to transition back into the public system during their treatment,” Director Strategy, Policy and Performance Michael Johnson says.

    Johnson says that the rule change Pharmac is consulting on will enable public hospitals to supply medicines to eligible private facilities and claim a subsidy from Pharmac in the same way as they do for medicines delivered within a public hospital. 

    Transitional access to new funded cancer medicines for patients receiving treatment in private facilities | Ministry of Health(external link)

    If approved, from 1 August 2025, public hospitals would be able to supply newly funded cancer medicines (those where funding begins on or after 1 August 2025) to private facilities to administer to their patients, where either:

    1. the person is already receiving treatment at the date that their medicine becomes funded by Pharmac, or
    2. the person has an approved treatment plan, and is about to start treatment, at the date that the medicine becomes funded by Pharmac.

    Funded medicine could be supplied to a private facility for the remainder of a person’s treatment course, for up to 12 months.

    “Your input is valuable and helps us make better decisions. Let us know what you think by 6 June,” Johnson says.

    Consultation on this proposal opens today and closes on 13 June. All feedback received before the closing date will be considered prior to making a decision on this proposal. Feedback can be emailed to consult@pharmac.govt.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Big Screen Symposium and Doc Edge Scholarships 2025

    Source: New Zealand Film Commission

    The New Zealand Film Commission is offering up to 15 scholarships for industry practitioners who live in regional areas of Aotearoa, identify as deaf, disabled or neurodiverse (DDN), or identify as gender diverse to attend the 2025 Doc Edge Industry or Big Screen Symposium.  

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Celebrating New Zealand Film Sector Wins at 2025 Global Production Awards in Cannes

    Source: New Zealand Film Commission

    The New Zealand Film Commission (NZFC) congratulates the outstanding achievements of the Māoriland Charitable Trust and Craig Gainsborough of Greenlit, recognised at the prestigious 2025 Global Production Awards, held in Cannes this week.

    The New Zealand Film Commission (NZFC) congratulates the outstanding achievements of the Māoriland Charitable Trust and Craig Gainsborough of Greenlit, recognised at the prestigious 2025 Global Production Awards, held in Cannes this week.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Agenda for May 2025 Cancer Treatments Advisory Committee (CTAC) meeting

    Source: PHARMAC

    Information on what the Cancer Treatments Advisory Committee (CTAC) will be considering at its half-day meeting in May 2025.

    Correspondence and matters arising discussion papers

    Potential oncology agent brand changes

    The Committee will discuss potential product changes that may result from the 2024/2025 Invitation to Tender (ITT). This is seeking specific advice from cancer specialists about oncology medicines that could be impacted by a brand change.

    Bevacizumab funding criteria for ovarian cancer

    From 1 March 2025, bevacizumab was funded for the treatment of advanced ovarian cancer. The Committee will consider correspondence on the current eligibility criteria, received after the funding decision. The Committee will review the eligibility criteria to ensure they are appropriate.

    Bevacizumab for ovarian cancer, advanced, 1st line | Application Tracker(external link)

    Bevacizumab for second-line treatment of high-risk advanced ovarian cancer | Application Tracker(external link)

    Bevacizumab for relapsed or recurrent glioma consultation feedback

    The Committee previously provided advice on multiple occasions on the use of bevacizumab for glioma. In October 2024, CTAC recommended that bevacizumab monotherapy for the treatment of relapsed or recurrent high-grade glioma be declined. This recommendation was in the context of ongoing lomustine supply. The Committee also recommended bevacizumab in combination with lomustine for the treatment of relapsed or recurrent high-grade glioma be declined.

    At this meeting the Committee will consider feedback received from the Brain Tumour Support NZ and the NZ Aotearoa Neuro-Oncology Society about the about the application for bevacizumab for relapsed or recurrent glioma.

    Bevacizumab for glioblastoma multiforme, relapsed or recurrent(external link)

    Bevacizumab with lomustine for high-grade glioma, relapsed or recurrent(external link)

    Applications

    Trastuzumab deruxtecan for Her-2 low, unresectable or metastatic breast cancer

    The Committee will discuss an application for the use of trastuzumab deruxtecan for the treatment of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) low, unresectable, or metastatic breast cancer. No targeted agents specifically for the treatment of HER-2 low unresectable or metastatic breast cancer have previously been considered by the Committee.

    Trastuzmab deruxtecan for Her-2 low, unresectable or metastatic breast cancer(external link)

    Azacitidine, ruxolitinib and tocilizumab for VEXAS syndrome

    The Committee will discuss three treatments for VEXAS syndrome. VEXAS syndrome (Vacuoles, E1 enzyme, X-linked, Autoinflammatory, Somatic) is a severe autoinflammatory condition that presents with various and broad symptoms, including blood, joint and skin symptoms.

    Azacitidine, ruxolitinib and tocilizumab are currently funded for certain uses with eligibility criteria. We understand some people with VEXAS may already be able to access funded treatment where their symptoms align with the funded population. In recent years, Pharmac has also considered a number of applications for individuals with VEXAS syndrome through its exceptional circumstances framework – Named Patient Pharmaceutical Assessment (NPPA). 

    We will seek initial advice from CTAC about treatments for this condition, before considering what further advice may be required from other specialty areas.

    Azacitidine for VEXAS syndrome(external link)

    Ruxolitinib for VEXAS syndrome(external link)

    Tocilizumab for VEXAS syndrome(external link)

    Advisory meeting agenda

    The scheduling and agenda setting process for advisory meetings considers multiple factors. We aim to balance the relative priorities of clinical advice needed across indications, the factors for consideration for each application (for example unmet health need), the time since applications were received and the internal and advisor resource available to support each meeting.

    We currently have a high number of funding applications for cancer treatments awaiting clinical advice.  We are working to enhance capacity and timeliness of expert advice for cancer treatment applications. We expect more applications will be able to be reviewed at future meetings.

    More information about advisory committees

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: From finger pricks to freedom

    Source: PHARMAC

    Life was admin heavy

    “Life was just admin heavy. I was doing injections every day and testing my blood sugar at every meal, so I was ecstatic when I heard the news,” she says.

    “I think back to when I was 10, and my mum would wake me up two-to-three times every night to check my blood sugar. This technology will make a real difference for people with diabetes, especially children.”

    The process of funding CGMs alongside insulin pumps involved innovation, commercial processes, collaboration, and the input of the wider health and disability system.

    How we did it

    The process began in February 2023 when Pharmac gave notice of a future procurement opportunity to suppliers. In July 2023, Pharmac invited proposals from suppliers through a request for proposals. Pharmac then developed a proposal to fund CGMs alongside insulin pumps and insulin pump consumables and asked the public what they thought.

    “We received significant feedback. While most of the feedback supported our proposal, it was clear that we needed to do further work with clinicians, consumer groups, and suppliers, to better understand the options and the needs of people with diabetes. We knew how important it was to get this right,” says Pharmac Senior Therapeutic Group Manager, Conal Edwards. 

    People were central to our work

    In May 2024, Pharmac extended the funding timeline to ensure we had all the information needed to make the right decision.

    Throughout June and July, Pharmac staff met with a large range of people to discuss the feedback. This included the Pharmac Diabetes Advisory Committee, Diabetes NZ, the New Zealand Society for the Study of Diabetes, Health New Zealand, and other government agencies, as well as suppliers, and other interested parties.

    Pharmac hosted an online webinar for the first time, attended by over 700 people, to provide an update on the CGM work. This provided the community a chance to engage directly with Pharmac and have their questions and concerns addressed by Pharmac staff. 

    A decision is made

    In August, Pharmac staff presented the updated proposal, including the feedback and amendments made, to the Pharmac Board. The Board approved the proposal and from 1 October 2024, CGMs were funded and available to people with type 1 diabetes, alongside new arrangements for funded insulin pumps and consumables.

    Since then, more than 16,000 people with type 1 diabetes have been prescribed funded CGMs.

    “It really is a testament to all of the people with type 1 diabetes who saw these devices as life changing for their health care and were determined to work with Pharmac to see them funded,” Edwards says.

    Life changing

    For Georgie, having access to funded CGMs is ‘life changing’.

    “Understanding how to monitor my blood sugars, knowing how certain foods affected me, and when, and how much insulin I should be using has changed my life. Once upon a time you didn’t know how you were going until you felt it. This is better.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Pharmac Board Chair welcomes organisational culture report

    Source: PHARMAC

    An independent review has found that Pharmac needs to make significant organisational changes over the next five years to meet public and stakeholders’ expectations.

    Pharmac’s Board commissioned organisational expert Debbie Francis to undertake a review at the end of last year. Board Chair Paula Bennett has welcomed the review’s findings and thanked Pharmac staff and external stakeholders for taking part, and Debbie Francis for her expertise.

    “Pharmac is full of committed, passionate people and we wanted to understand what a positive organisational culture could look like in five years, and how to achieve that,” she says.

    “This review, along with the feedback from the two consumer engagement workshops last year and the independent review of Pharmac in 2022, provides a clear sense of the direction we need to take as an organisation.”

    Bennett says Pharmac is preparing for a reset to make the organisation more outward-focused and is confident that consumers and stakeholders will start to see the changes that they have been asking for.

    The Pharmac Board has proactively released the executive summary of the independent workplace culture review on Pharmac’s website.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Agenda for June 2025 Rare Disorders Advisory Committee meeting

    Source: PHARMAC

    Pharmac is sharing the agenda for the upcoming Rare Disorders Advisory Committee meeting to be held on Tuesday 10 June 2025.

    Note the meeting date is now one day earlier than the date originally shared. This is to accommodate advisor availability. 

    What we’re doing

    Pharmac is sharing what medicine applications will be considered at the Rare Disorders Advisory Committee meeting on Tuesday 10 June 2025.

    We understand that people living with rare disorders face many challenges, including access to health care and effective medicines. Sharing the Rare Disorders Advisory Committee meeting agenda offers more transparency to those looking for updates on specific medicines.

    The agenda for the meeting includes applications for treatments for paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria (PNH), hereditary angioedema (HAE), Fabry disease, and spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). It also includes a review of recent evidence for miglustat for Neimann Pick Type C.

    The records from the Rare Disorders Advisory Committee meeting will be released later in the year. Funding applications will be reviewed using the Rare Disorders policy principles and will be assessed in line with Pharmac’s usual processes. 

    We are working with the consumer group Rare Disorders New Zealand(external link) to make sure the right voices are heard at this meeting – we thank them for their time and expertise.

    Applications

    Pegunigalsidase alfa-iwxy for Fabry Disease

    The Committee will discuss a new application for an Enzyme Replacement Therapy (ERT) for people with Fabry disease. Fabry disease is a neurological condition that can affect many parts of the body, including the kidneys, heart, and skin.

    Pegunigalsidase alfa-iwxy (branded as Elfabrio) is another treatment option for this condition.  The Committee had previously recommended funding of agalsidase alfa, agalsidase beta and migalastat for Fabry disease.

    Application for pegunigalsidase alfa-iwxj for Fabry disease(external link)

    Previous considerations of agalsidase alfa(external link), agalsidase beta(external link) and migalastat(external link) for Fabry disease.

    Onasemnogene abeparvovec for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), pre-symptomatic or type 1

    The Committee will rediscuss an application for onasemnogene abeparvovec for the treatment of pre-symptomatic or type 1 spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). SMA is a genetic disorder that causes muscle weakness and wasting due to the loss of nerve cells in the spinal cord.

    Previously the Rare Disorders Advisory Committee deferred making a recommendation for onasemnogene abeparvovec, seeking long-term evidence on its efficacy and safety. The Committee will consider the latest data now available.

    Application for onasemnogene abeparvovec for SMA(external link)

    Garadacimab for hereditary angioedema (HAE)

    The Committee will discuss a new application for people with hereditary angioedema (HAE). HAE is an inherited disorder that results in recurrent episodes of severe swelling (angioedema).

    The Committee had previously recommended funding of another treatment for HAE, lanadelumab.

    Application for garadacimab for HAE(external link)

    Previous application for lanadelumab(external link)

    Iptacopan, Eculizumab, and Crovalimab for paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria (PNH)

    The Committee will discuss three applications for treatments for paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria (PNH) – iptacopan, eculizumab, and crovalimab.  PNH is a rare blood disorder in which red blood cells break apart prematurely. This can lead to anaemia, blood clots and other complications.

    Pharmac has previously assessed eculizumab for PNH on several occasions. This is a new application which the Committee will consider in the context of rare disorders.

    Application for iptacopan for PNH(external link)

    New application for eculizumab for PNH(external link)

    Previous considerations of eculizumab for PNH(external link)

    Application for crovalimab for PNH(external link)

    Matters Arising

    Miglustat for Neimann Pick Type C

    The Committee previously assessed miglustat for Neimann Pick Type C. New evidence was provided by a clinician, and so the Committee will consider if this changes their previous recommendation.

    Previous consideration of Niemann Pick Type C(external link)

    Advisory meeting agenda setting

    The scheduling and agenda setting process for advisory meetings considers multiple factors. We aim to balance the relative priorities of:

    • clinical advice needed across indications
    • the factors for consideration for each application (for example unmet health need)
    • the time since applications were received
    • the internal and advisor resource available to support each meeting.

    Applications received through the rare disorders call for applications that are not included on this agenda will be considered as soon as practicable via the most appropriate Advisory Committee for the application.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Port State Control inspection campaign promotes fair crew conditions at sea

    Source: Maritime New Zealand

    New Zealand recently led an inspection campaign to assess seafarers’ employment conditions on board ships of various flag states subject to Port State Control. The campaign was a collaboration between both the Tokyo and Paris Memoranda of Understanding, with Maritime NZ staff participating throughout.

    The memoranda focus on eliminating substandard shipping, enhancing maritime safety, protecting the marine environment, and ensuring good working and living conditions on ships.

    The campaign was conducted from September to November 2024 and focused on crew wages and employment agreements in line with the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) 2006.

    During the three-month period, 8,134 inspections were carried out, with 6,580 specifically addressing the campaign’s focus areas that promote fair treatment and enhance the welfare of seafarers globally. The campaign resulted in 297 ship detentions, including 20 directly related to MLC violations, accounting for 7% of all detentions.

    Common deficiencies included the absence of signed seafarer employment agreements (16%) and seafarers being unable to access information about their employment conditions on board (28%).

    Ships from Panama, Liberia, and the Marshall Islands were most frequently inspected – 39% of the total. Some ships from Panama, Liberia, Mongolia, and Gambia were detained more than once.

    A comprehensive report detailing the findings will be published later this year.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Interim emergency ocean response capability for Cook Strait announced

    Source: Maritime New Zealand

    There was good news for safety in the Cook Strait on 17 April when Minister of Transport Chris Bishop announced that the Government is considering next steps on developing an emergency ocean response capability and has contracted anchor handling tug supply vessel – the MMA Vision – to provide assurance in the meantime.

    The MMA Vision, owned by MMA Offshore and currently on charter to support offshore activity in Taranaki, has assisted in previous incidents such as last year’s Manahau grounding on the West Coast, when it successfully pulled the barge off the beach and towed it to Tasman Bay.

    The agreement between Maritime NZ, MMA and the vessel charterer currently runs until July 2026 and will provide additional maritime safety and response capabilities for New Zealand and, in particular, Cook Strait. The vessel will be stationed in the vicinity of Wellington Harbour or the Marlborough Sounds when not engaged in its primary operational activity in Taranaki.

    Cook Strait is a vital maritime route between Wellington and Picton, known for its challenging conditions and high volume of marine traffic. The availability of the MMA Vision will reduce potential risk for passengers and vessels crossing the Strait.

    At the same time, the Government has decided to continue to explore procuring an enduring emergency ocean response capability, on a predominantly user-pays basis.

    “We are interested in testing the willingness of users (public and industry) to pay a levy to fund a permanent response capability. I have instructed officials to provide me with advice on the most effective approach and expect to hear back in the middle of the year,” Minister Bishop said in the 17 April statement.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Have your say about major changes to vessel design, construction and equipment rules

    Source: Maritime New Zealand

    Maritime NZ is proposing important changes to the Maritime Rules for vessel design, construction and equipment. These rules (sometimes known as the ‘40-Series’) are well over 20 years old and are in need of reform.

    The proposed changes are being consulted on as packages, each including four proposed new Rule Parts and the associated maritime transport instruments (MTIs). In total, 15 existing Rule Parts will be reformed through this programme. The proposed new rules and MTIs will come into force at the same time, after all changes have been consulted on.

    Maritime NZ consulted on the first package of proposals towards the end of 2024. Consultation on package two is now open. The proposed changes in package two relate to:

    • stability, drainage, freeboard, and subdivision
    • watertight and weathertight
    • electrical, and
    • radio equipment.

    “Consultation is your chance to tell us what you think, and help to influence the new rules. The proposals in this consultation aren’t a done-deal,” says Peter Brunt, Maritime NZ’s Deputy Chief Executive, Regulatory Frameworks. 

    “In particular, we really want to hear how you think the new stability rules should apply to existing vessels. We want to understand the costs and practical implications of the different options.”

    The proposals have been developed with extensive input from people working in the sector, and now everyone will be able to see what they look like.

    A snapshot of the proposed changes sits alongside the ‘Invitation to Comment’ and drafts of the new rules on our consultation webpage. You can use this information to help you to comment on the proposals by Friday, 11 July 2025.

    If you have questions or need help, please email [email protected].

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Your notifications matter — use our online form

    Source: Maritime New Zealand

    We appreciate the proactive approach many people take to safety and reporting incidents to Maritime NZ. Lately, we’ve noticed that some people are preferring to call our staff directly to notify them of incidents.

    While we understand the urgency, the way to report is through our online incident notification form – easily accessible via the red button on our homepage.

    Using our main contact channels ensures you get any immediate assistance you need, as they’re always monitored during business hours and have after-hours support in place. This helps you to avoid delays that can happen when reaching out directly to someone who might not be working. Also, giving Maritime NZ staff uninterrupted breaks from work is important for their health and wellbeing.

    When in doubt, fill it out

    If it’s crossed your mind to contact us, it’s worth submitting a notification. Not sure if it’s notifiable? Submit it via the form and we’ll review it.

    Our team will pick up your report quickly, assess its urgency, and ensure it reaches the right people. Urgent incidents are promptly escalated to the right frontline manager who will contact you to discuss any immediate steps needed (such as scene hold decisions).

    Even if no further action is needed, every notification helps our harm prevention teams identify trends and improve safety across the maritime sector.

    After hours serious event?

    On weekends, New Zealand public holidays and on weekdays between 4:30pm and 9am NZT call 0508 22 55 22 to notify us about an actual or potential loss of life, serious injury, serious damage to a vessel or port, or serious pollution.

    This will connect you with our out of hours call centre service, which will put you in contact with an experienced Maritime NZ staff member.

    For an emergency response if you’re facing a life-threatening situation and require emergency services, call 111 immediately or radio a MAYDAY on VHF Channel 16.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Renew your Maritime Transport Operator Certificate – we’re making it simple

    Source: Maritime New Zealand

    Maritime NZ knows many Maritime Transport Operator Certificates (MTOCs) expire this year and we want to help. We’re making renewal straightforward so it’s easy for you.

    Six months before your MTOC expires, we’ll send you everything you need to renew it – to avoid delays, please then apply as soon as you can. Don’t wait.

    It’s important to apply before your MTOC expires because we can’t renew an expired MTOC. Applying for a new one is a much longer process which includes a site visit. You would also be unable to operate until we issue a new MTOC. We don’t want that to happen.

    If you haven’t applied within three months of our email, we’ll send you a reminder but it’s best to not wait.

    We want to help your application go smoothly. If you have any questions, need assistance, or think you might have missed your six-month email, please:

    • talk to your maritime officer
    • email [email protected]
    • phone, toll-free, 0508 22 55 22 (press 1 from the menu)

    see our MTOC page.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Implementation – final-year Fees Free

    Source: Tertiary Education Commission

    On this page:

    Claiming Fees Free entitlement
    From 2026, after completing their first eligible provider-based qualification or work-based programme, learners will log in to myIR to confirm their eligibility (ie, if they meet the criteria), and claim their final-year Fees Free entitlement.
    Learners have 12 months to claim their entitlement once they have completed their qualification or programme. Learners that complete their first qualification in 2025, before the claim process is available, will have until the end of 2026 to claim their entitlement.
    Learners need to organise payment of their fees as required by their tertiary education organisation (TEO). TEOs will not receive Fees Free payments from the tertiary education commission (TEC) or Inland Revenue (IR) on behalf of eligible learners under the final-year Fees Free policy.
    Roles of agencies
    The Ministry of Education leads the policy work for final-year Fees Free. The TEC and IR lead the implementation work. 
    TEC is responsible for collecting learner enrolment and qualification completion data from TEOs. TEC will determine qualification/programme eligibility, calculate entitlement for learners, and provide data to IR to support identity matching and the assessment of learner eligibility. TEC will continue to hold the relationship with TEOs with regards to Fees Free.
    IR is responsible for assessing learner eligibility and paying entitlement to eligible learners. IR will provide support to learners through their customer service channels.
    Data collection
    To support the final-year Fees Free policy, TEOs will need to submit learner fee and provider-based qualification completion data. To reduce ongoing administrative burden for TEOs, we plan to collect this data using the Single Data Return (SDR) and Industry Training Register (ITR) collection processes on DXP Ngā Kete, instead of the separate monthly reporting templates used for the first-year Fees Free scheme. However, this will require system changes to the SDR/ITR and to student/trainee management systems, to ensure we collect the data required.
    With the Data System Refresh (DSR) programme already underway, we are integrating the data collection requirements for final-year Fees Free into the existing DSR specifications. 
    Provider-based data changes will be integrated into the data specifications for SDR in May 2025. Fees Free data submissions will be required for the first time in the August 2025 SDR.

    Work-based data changes are expected to be integrated into the work-based data specifications in December 2024. Fees Free data submissions will be required for the first time from July 2025.

    Identity matching
    We’re asking TEOs to collect and report learner IRD numbers to TEC to enable effective and efficient data matching across agencies and to support the payment of Fees Free entitlement payments by IR. A learner’s IRD number will be used alongside their NSN and date of birth to confirm their identity and help confirm their eligibility.
    We are undertaking a Privacy Impact Assessment (PIA) for the collection of IRD numbers by TEOs, and the Ministry of Education has provided a summary of the initial PIA to the Office of the Privacy Commissioner.
    We will provide TEOs with advice on collection, retention and deletion of IRD numbers.
    Implementation FAQs
    If an employer pays for a learner’s fees, can the employer claim the entitlement when the learner completes their qualification?
    IR will only be making payments directly to learners – either offsetting their loan balance by the relevant amount for learners with loans or paying the learner’s entitlement into a nominated bank account.
    The final-year Fees Free policy is about rewarding learners for completing their tertiary study or training. Paying Fees Free entitlement to employers does not align with this. It would also add significant administrative complexity and cost which does not align with the Government’s overall focus on improving the effectiveness, efficiency and responsiveness of public services.
    Employers and learners will need to agree on how they will manage situations where the employer pays the fees. Employers may wish to adapt employment practices and contracts as necessary.
    Are there tax implications for learners receiving the entitlement?
    Fees Free entitlement paid to the learner will not be considered income for tax purposes.
    There are tax implications if an employer has paid a learner’s fees and claimed them as an expense, and the learner agrees to repay the employer the Fees Free entitlement. Once the employer receives the payment from the learner, the amount will be taxable to the employer.  
    Will statutory declarations still be used to confirm eligibility?
    No. Learners will need to declare that they meet eligibility criteria when they apply for their Fees Free entitlement via myIR. They will be asked to provide relevant information and confirm that the information is true and correct as part of this process.
    While creating the proposed implementation design, we considered the barriers that statutory declarations create for some learners and opted for an application process that could be completed digitally to reduce administrative complexity for learners and agencies.
    Will TEOs be able to check a learner’s eligibility?
    No, TEOs will not be able to check a learner’s eligibility.
    Learners will be able to work through the eligibility criteria and determine if they think they meet them. In 2025, we aim to provide a tool for learners to self-assess their eligibility against the full criteria.
    However, learners won’t be able to confirm their eligibility using their NSN until after they have completed their qualification or programme, and the TEC will not be providing a list of the eligible learners by NSN to TEOs. This is because we won’t know whether the learner is eligible or not until they complete their qualification or programme, and they may need to submit additional information to IR to confirm eligibility.
    We will provide TEOs with as much information as possible on entitlement settings and programme eligibility so they can help learners understand their entitlement.
    What happens if the learner hasn’t paid their fees to the TEO?
    TEOs will be responsible for ensuring that learners pay their fees and for recovering any debt the learner has. Fees Free entitlement will not be paid to the TEO where the learner has not paid their fees.
    There is no intention to include a reporting field for TEOs to record whether fees have been paid in full, or to provide this information to IR.
    How soon after completion will learners receive their entitlement?
    We will be ready to start making payments in early 2026, including payments for eligible learners who completed their qualification in 2025. A learner can apply for their entitlement at any time, but the frequency of payments is yet to be confirmed, as they rely on the frequency of data collection.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Data Specification for Work-based – Data System Refresh Programme

    Source: Tertiary Education Commission

    Last updated 21 May 2025
    Last updated 21 May 2025

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    This page provides information about the data required for reporting Work-based delivery (Actuals) on DXP Ngā Kete.
    This page provides information about the data required for reporting Work-based delivery (Actuals) on DXP Ngā Kete.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Changes to the vocational education and training (VET) system

    Source: Tertiary Education Commission

    Last updated 21 May 2025
    Last updated 21 May 2025

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    In December 2023, the Government announced its intention to disestablish Te Pūkenga | New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology and Workforce Development Councils (WDCs).
    In December 2023, the Government announced its intention to disestablish Te Pūkenga | New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology and Workforce Development Councils (WDCs).

    The Government plans to establish Industry Skills Boards (ISBs) to manage standards-setting and associated functions and will re-establish institutes of technology and polytechnics (ITPs) as either stand-alone or federated entities.
    In December 2024, the Government agreed to introduce legislation that would:

    disestablish Te Pūkenga
    enable the establishment of ITPs as either stand-alone or federated entities
    establish ISBs to manage standards-setting and associated functions.

    Government decisions to be made in 2025 include:

    details on the legislation to enable the changes
    the future model for work-based learning
    funding frameworks to support the new entities and delivery models
    which ITPs will be stand-alone or federated entities
    the number and coverage of ISBs.

    More information
    New work-based learning model
    Consultation on Industry Skills Boards’ coverage (now closed)
    Help establish Industry Skills Boards
    Redesign of Vocational Education and Training System – Ministry of Education

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New work-based learning model

    Source: Tertiary Education Commission

    Last updated 21 May 2025
    Last updated 21 May 2025

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    The Minister for Vocational Education has announced the government’s decision to introduce an industry-led independent work-based learning model.
    The Minister for Vocational Education has announced the government’s decision to introduce an industry-led independent work-based learning model.

    The two key components of the independent model are:

    Work-based learning is able to be offered by any provider that meets the government’s quality and funding requirements: institutes of technology and polytechnics (ITPs), private training establishments (PTEs) and wānanga. Providers will manage all aspects of an apprenticeship or traineeship, including the pastoral care for learners.
    Industry Skills Boards will be established on 1 January 2026 to ensure the qualifications needed by employers across the country are available to all providers. 

    Industry Skills Boards will be statutory standard-setting bodies, with majority industry governance. They will be responsible for developing qualifications, endorsing programmes and moderating assessments over key industry sectors. They will also have a workforce analysis function for their sectors, and provide investment advice to the Tertiary Education Commission (TEC).
    The industry-led independent model was consulted on earlier this year, but has a modified transition phase, designed to give industry a greater role in the future of the work-based learning system. 
    To enable the transition to this new model, Te Pūkenga’s work-based learning divisions, including their existing apprentices and trainees, will transfer to an Industry Skills Board for up to two years.  It is expected that during this period industry-led private training enterprises will be established to take over delivery from the work-based learning divisions, and ITPs and wānanga will also establish new work-based learning programmes.
    Employers, apprentices and trainees will be able to continue to work with and enrol the same people they currently work with. Although there will be changes to the reporting lines for the work-based learning divisions in Te Pūkenga, courses and qualifications will continue to be delivered, and every effort will be made to ensure that training is not disrupted.
    See more on Minister Simmonds’ work-based learning announcement.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Resist Government’s attack on pay equity and women workers

    Source: Maritime Union of New Zealand

    The Maritime Union of New Zealand has condemned the Government’s attacks on hard-won pay equity legislation, describing these as a direct assault on the rights and economic well-being of women and all working New Zealanders.

    Maritime Union National Assistant Secretary Fiona Mansell says the Government’s proposed changes to the pay equity framework will wreck decades of progress, undermine fairness and equality in the workplace, and harm women in historically undervalued occupations.

    “The proposals completely undermine the principle that women deserve equal pay for work of equal value,” says Ms Mansell.

    “For years, unions have fought tirelessly to establish and strengthen pay equity laws. Weakening pay equity laws will entrench poverty and make it harder for working families to get by.”

    Ms Mansell says pay equity is a critical component of addressing the gender pay gap and ensuring economic justice.

    The Maritime Union of New Zealand stands in solidarity with women workers and is working with other unions across the country who have voiced strong opposition to the Government’s backward stance.

    “Given the serious implications for women’s rights, workers’ rights, and economic fairness, MUNZ believes Workplace Relations Minister Van Velden’s position has become untenable.”

    She says the Maritime Union was calling for Minister Van Velden’s immediate resignation.

    The Maritime Union of New Zealand will continue fighting alongside the wider union movement and women workers to protect and advance pay equity.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –