Opposition to proposed “move-on” powers
The Coalition to End Women's Homelessness supports the many service providers across Aotearoa who oppose the Government’s proposed move-on powers.
Move-on powers are not evidence-based solutions. They do not create new housing, do not deliver the support people need when they are struggling, and do not address the underlying causes of homelessness.
Instead, move-on powers risk displacing people in need and may increase vulnerability to harm - particularly for women experiencing homelessness. Being pushed into more isolated spaces can heighten safety risks, reduce access to support services, and limit contact with trusted community supports.
Our research shows that emergency and temporary accommodation is already operating beyond capacity. Simply moving people on does not solve homelessness when there are not enough safe places for people to move to.
CEWH maintains that the most effective response to homelessness is a housing-plus-support approach.
CEWH advocates for approaches that strengthen whānau, uphold dignity, and deliver lasting change, including:
Nationwide investment in Housing First and kaupapa Māori housing models that respond to complex needs
Expansion of wrap-around support services
Increased supply of affordable, safe housing
Stronger partnerships with iwi, hapū, and Māori housing providers
Policy settings that honour Te Tiriti o Waitangi and address structural inequities
Ensuring no one is discharged from health, justice, care, or protection systems into homelessness
Homelessness reflects a systems failure and requires a systems response. Sustainable solutions will come from cross-sector collaboration, not from approaches that risk criminalisation or displacement.
Read the press release by housing peak bodies Te Matapihi He Tirohanga mō te Iwi Trust and Community Housing Aotearoa here.
