In 2015, all United Nations members signed up to Transforming our world: the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (the 2030 Agenda). The 2030 Agenda seeks to improve life for current and future generations, particularly for those who are more vulnerable or described by the 2030 Agenda as being the 'furthest behind'.

It sets out 17 Sustainable Development Goals to be achieved by 2030. These goals encompass social, environmental, and economic sustainable development. Each goal has several targets designed to create urgent action. There are 169 targets overall.

Findings demonstrate that the New Zealand government is yet to establish a foundation from which to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.