New figures from Te Hiringa Mahara-Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission show a significant decrease in young people accessing specialist mental health and addiction care, with 16,000 fewer individuals seen in the year to June 2024. Chief executive Karen Orsborn highlighted concerns about the workforce shortages and increasing complexity of needs contributing to the decline, particularly among those aged under 25. Urgent action and a focus on improving access for young people are recommended by the Commission to address these challenges.
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Govt can override councils under RMA shake-up, Chris Bishop announces
The Government plans to reclaim authority from local councils if their decisions hinder economic growth, development, or employment, as announced by Housing and RMA reform Minister Chris Bishop. A new regulatory power will be added to the Resource Management Act, requiring ministerial investigation and council engagement before use, aimed at preventing council actions that impede growth until a new planning system is established. Need More Context? 🔎
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