Explanatory note
This note is not part of the regulations, but is intended to indicate their general effect.
These regulations, which come into force on 13 December 2019, amend the Student Allowances Regulations 1998 (the principal regulations). Regulation 2(1) of the principal regulations is amended so that specified State-supported care does not affect eligibility for or entitlements to student allowances.
The definition of a parent, in relation to a student, includes both a step-parent of that student and a person acting in place of a parent of that student. The replacement definition excludes, however, a specified caregiver of that student (as that new term is defined in regulation 2(1)). This ensures, for example, that a young person who is, or has been, in specified State-supported care does not have their eligibility or entitlement for student allowances affected by a person who is a specified caregiver of that young person.
The definition of personal income, in relation to a student, is amended to exclude any financial assistance received by the student under section 386AAG(1) or 386B(1)(b) of the Oranga Tamariki Act 1989. This amendment ensures that any financial assistance of that kind does not affect the student’s eligibility for or entitlements to student allowances.
The definition of spousal or partner’s income, in relation to a student, means (subject to inclusions and exclusions) the personal income of the spouse or partner of that student which is derived in New Zealand and overseas, whether or not that income is taxable. This definition is amended to exclude any financial assistance received by the spouse or partner under section 386AAG(1) or 386B(1)(b) of the Oranga Tamariki Act 1989. This amendment ensures that any financial assistance of that kind does not affect the student’s eligibility for or entitlements to student allowances.
The amendments apply only to study starting on or after 1 January 2020 (even if the enrolment concerned was applied for or permitted, or both, before that date).
Issued under the authority of the Legislation Act 2012.
Date of notification in Gazette: 12 December 2019.
These regulations are administered by the Ministry of Social Development.