Long Covid Support Aotearoa Questions Political Claims on Welfare Abuse
Long Covid Support Aotearoa (LCSA) is actively contesting recent political assertions concerning the increase in health-related benefits, emphasizing that the rising figures do not equate to welfare misuse.
Need for Caution in Policy Actions
The organization urges policymakers to fully grasp the reasons behind the growing number of individuals unable to work, particularly the potential impact of Long Covid. Proposed reductions in support may unjustly penalize those incapacitated by illness.
Political Proposals and Rising Beneficiaries
This announcement comes amidst ACT’s proposal to implement drastic cuts to disability benefits, while National has suggested future reductions to Jobseeker Support that would impact individuals receiving assistance due to health or disability issues. Data from the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) indicates a 22% rise in Jobseeker Support recipients on health or disability grounds from September 2021 to September 2026.
Concerns Over Misinterpretation of Data
During last week’s Powerbrokers’ Debate, ACT leader David Seymour claimed that some New Zealanders were receiving benefits illegitimately. In response, LCSA cautioned that such statements threaten to erode public confidence in both beneficiaries and their supporting health professionals.
Insights from Healthcare Professionals
“Before politicians conclude that the increase in benefit recipients reflects system abuse, they must comprehend the factors driving these statistics,” stated Larisa Hockey, Chair of LCSA. “Individuals suffering from Long Covid and similar health issues genuinely want to work, yet many are unable to do so due to health constraints. They merit supportive policies grounded in facts rather than suspicion.”
Mandatory Certifications for Beneficiaries
Recipients of Jobseeker Support due to health or disability are required to furnish medical documentation detailing how their condition affects their work capabilities. Their eligibility is subject to regular re-evaluation.
Ongoing Health Risks from Covid
Dr. Buzz Burrell, a general practitioner and previous MSD-designated doctor, remarked in 2025 that “the overwhelming majority” of individuals receiving health-related benefits are sincere in their need. He emphasized that most beneficiaries desire to be employed.
Long Covid’s Unacknowledged Impact
As Covid infections persist, many New Zealanders continue to experience long-term health complications. Experts assert that Long Covid could increase mortality risk and cause latent cellular and organ damage.
The Need for Comprehensive Data
The 2024/25 New Zealand Health Survey revealed that approximately 185,000 adults reported experiencing Long Covid symptoms. Women and Māori individuals were notably more likely to report such experiences. However, Long Covid has yet to be adequately addressed in political discussions despite its widespread impact.
Long Covid and Economic Considerations
MSD pointed out in 2022 that the pandemic’s psychosocial effects might contribute to the ongoing rise in welfare numbers, a trend observed in other nations as well. The role of Long Covid, in conjunction with other health and demographic factors, remains critical yet unquantified.
Call for Evidence-Based Policies
In announcing ACT’s policy for disability cuts, Seymour questioned the validity of the reported increase in individuals unable to work. The Mental Health Foundation has noted a marked rise in mental distress among the populace, further complicating the narrative.
LCSA’s Appeal to Political Leaders
LCSA is urging all political entities to ensure the protection of vital health and disability financial support, to gather extensive data on Long Covid and other aftereffects of infections such as ME/CFS, and to develop welfare policies grounded in sound evidence.
Conclusion
“New Zealand must understand the reasons for an increasing number of people unable to work, particularly the role of Long Covid,” Hockey implored. “Reducing support without thoroughly investigating the underlying causes risks exacerbating hardship without addressing the core issues.”
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