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

Crises are among the greatest challenges a minister will face while in office. However, ministers often struggle to find the time to reflect on how they respond to them effectively. This report sets out the key leadership roles ministers play during a crisis, and what they can do to prepare for, and learn from, crises.

This audit report reviews the implementation of a revised approach to setting expectations for regulator performance. It concludes regulatory entities need better support to ensure they have up to date Statements of Expectation in place and makes recommendations for improvement.

New Zealand’s Executive Branch has grown to an abnormal size. This research summary argues that the number of departments, portfolios, and ministers likely causes a suite of coordination, policy drift and resource management problems.

This document commits to action to implement the recommendations outlined in the report of the Royal Commission into the Robodebt Scheme, and reinforces the Australian Government’s commitment to improve trust in government, deliver strong institutions, invest in a capable public sector, and ensure people are at the centre of policy development and government service delivery.