Boost for maths and literacy made possible by spending discipline

“It’s possible to offer services that enable opportunity when you spend carefully," says ACT Leader David Seymour as he welcomes the Government’s investment in primary school maths and literacy.

“The Government is delivering this $131 million investment despite Budget 2026 having an operating allowance $300 million lower than previously planned. That speaks to the care we’re taking with taxpayers’ money and the discipline we’re bringing to spending decisions.

“ACT's Ministers have already secured around $14 billion in savings across Government Budgets so far. We’ve asked tough questions, cut waste, and focused spending on areas that actually improve people’s lives. We've copped criticism for making the tough decisions, but it is hard to see how investment like today's would be possible if we hadn't made those tough calls.

“Sensible spending means we can afford to invest in what really matters. And there are few things that matter more than ensuring the next generation has the knowledge needed to build good lives for themselves and support the country in the future.

“There’s no better indicator of a society’s future success than the amount of knowledge passed from one generation to the next. If New Zealand wants to be a high-income country in the twenty-first century, we need a school system that gives every child mastery of essential skills like reading, writing, and maths."