Imagine New Zealand without poverty. For too long, we’ve accepted poverty and inequality as inevitable parts of our society. But what if we could build a system that provides everyone with a basic foundation for a decent life? That’s the promise of Universal Basic Income (UBI).
UBI is simple yet revolutionary: a regular, unconditional cash payment to every New Zealand citizen, regardless of income, employment status, or background. It’s a safety net woven so tightly that no-one falls through the cracks.
Why UBI?
The outcomes are transformative and include:.
- Poverty Reduction
UBI directly tackles poverty by providing a guaranteed income floor, ensuring everyone can afford basic necessities like food and housing.
- Economic Stimulus
When people have more money, they spend it, boosting demand and creating jobs. UBI injects much-needed stimulus into local economies.
- Improved Health & Well-being
Financial stress takes a huge toll on mental and physical health. UBI reduces stress, leading to healthier and more productive lives.
- Entrepreneurship & Innovation
UBI provides a safety net that encourages people to take risks, pursue their passions, and start new businesses.
- Greater Equality
UBI helps to close the wealth gap, creating a more just and equitable society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
- Adaptation to Automation
As technology advances and jobs become automated, UBI can provide a crucial buffer, ensuring people can adapt and retrain for new opportunities.
Addressing the Concerns
Some common concerns about UBI include the cost and the potential for people to stop working. However, studies have shown that the cost can be offset by streamlining existing welfare programmes and that most people continue to work, using UBI to supplement their income or pursue education and training. The evidence suggests that UBI is not a disincentive to work, but rather an enabler of opportunity.
The Time is Now
The world is changing rapidly, and our social safety nets need to evolve to meet the challenges of the 21st century. UBI is not a silver bullet, but it’s a powerful tool that can help us build a more just, equitable, and prosperous society for all.
Join the Movement
Learn more about UBI, talk to your friends and family, and contact your elected officials to let them know you support this transformative policy. Together, we can create a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
– Jane Wilson, CoOperativeNZ 2025
