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A summary of the Statement of Intent 2009-12

The Department's responsibilities

The Department has an overriding responsibility to ensure that all its activities are managed efficiently and effectively and deliver real value in line with Government priorities. We are also looking to reduce our overall operating costs.

The Department:

  • ensures the regulatory environment for the sector, including the residential rental housing market, is effective and efficient and ensures public safety
  • provides policy advice to the Government on housing and building issues
  • delivers timely, cost-effective and accessible information, advice and dispute resolution services
  • provides advice to the Government on Housing New Zealand Corporation performance
  • administers the State Housing Appeals Authority
  • manages occupational licensing within the building sector.

The Department also works with Housing New Zealand Corporation to meet the Government's priorities for social housing and the housing market; to analyse the housing environment, including housing affordability; and to ensure the best use of state housing assets.