Budget Cuts and Shifts Announced

Finance Minister Nicola Willis drops her third Budget, promising a “grown-up” plan with no lolly scramble — slashing nearly 9,000 public sector jobs, merging agencies, and boosting tech to save cash. Defense gets a $1.5 billion boost for drones, ships, and new vessels. Social housing sees mixed changes: some families get more support, others face cuts and stricter entry rules. Plus, school lunches stay funded, Otago Central Lakes gets healthcare cash, and literacy programs get a boost — but the fees-free uni scheme is gone. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/d0bd636989504464