Because it is still relatively new and there is (as yet) no body of precedent for applying a wellbeing framework, we're focusing on building the depth of capability among our staff. As we develop our own expertise, at the same time we are sharing our experience with others.
Our aim is to build a wide understanding of what the LSF is all about; how it can help illuminate some of the complex, long-standing issues that affect the wellbeing of New Zealanders; and how it can help us assess where we have the greatest opportunities to make a difference.
Listed below you'll find links to the presentations and videos from some of these engagements:
Impact assessment, the Living Standards Framework and value for money – March 2024
This video explains how the Treasury’s Living Standards Framework (LSF) has been developed and applied in the work on policy initiative assessment (impact analysis) we do at the Treasury. Impact analysis is about the process of critically appraising policy ideas for their likely impacts on things that matter to New Zealanders. It’s part of the Treasury’s overall approach to supporting value for money in government activities. The video is intended for anyone who is relatively new to impact analysis and wants to orient themselves on how it is used in the field, using the Treasury as an example. The Treasury is required to, as a core element of what we do, assess the value of initiatives proposed by other government agencies as part of providing advice to Ministers. The LSF helps us in our discussions with other government agencies on the impacts of their policy initiatives.
International conference – “Understanding the impact of public intervention – how to make public investment work for a better future” – October 2019
The Treasury was invited to attend a conference held in Vilnius (Lithuania) for European Union delegates, to discuss New Zealand’s experience in “Understanding the impact of public intervention – how to make public investment work for a better future”. Although the Treasury was unable to send a representative, we recorded a brief interview with acting Secretary to the Treasury, Struan Little, who answered some of the delegates’ questions.
Podcast - How to speak LSF – August 2019
Chief Economist to the Treasury Tim Ng had a conversation with Dr Troy Coyle, chief executive of the Heavy Engineering Industry Association, about how the Living Standards Framework and a wellbeing approach relate to New Zealand’s metals industry, and why we should care. You can pick up the podcast from the HERA website.
Audit New Zealand roadshow series - March-April 2019
The Treasury’s Deputy Chief Economic Advisor Diana Cook and Chief Economic Advisor Tim Ng spoke about the Living Standards Framework and how it is being applied. Diana’s presentation is available to view on the Audit New Zealand website.