New Zealand has one of the most complex systems of executive government in the developed world – with 81 ministerial portfolios, 28 ministers and 43 departments. This report argues that this sprawling Cabinet structure makes accountability unclear, drives up costs and slows solutions to challenges like housing, welfare and climate change. The scale of the problem is evident in ministries such as the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, which reports to 20 different ministers.

The report concludes this proliferation undermines effective government. It argues that reform is essential for greater accountability, faster decision-making and stronger fiscal discipline.

Key findings

• International models show it can be done: comparable countries such as Ireland, Norway and Singapore govern effectively with 15 to 20 ministers. Australia’s 1987 reforms show that even a sprawling cabinet can be decisively streamlined.
• Consolidation is essential: New Zealand could reduce its Cabinet by consolidating portfolios into 15 to 20 natural policy domains and cutting departments from 43 to around 20.
• Junior ministers, not more portfolios: the report proposes a second tier of junior ministers as in Ireland, Australia and the United Kingdom (UK) to take on delegated ministerial responsibilities, with ultimate authority remaining with fewer senior, budget-holding Cabinet ministers.

The report is accompanied by a webinar and audio.