ACT promises $400m for general practice over four years
ACT says it will put more money into general practice so New Zealanders can get more appointments with a family doctor, or GP.
The party puts that extra funding at $400 million, to be provided over four years. ACT
It says the purpose is to keep doctors working in New Zealand. It also says the purpose is to attract more doctors from overseas to work here.
The commitment was announced on 18 October during the campaign for Election 2026. RNZ Campaign policies set out what parties say they would do if they take part in the next government. Voters consider those policies when deciding how to vote.
The money would go to general practice, the community clinics where people seek care for everyday health needs and ongoing conditions. A promise spread over several years would, if taken up after the election, be built into future government spending plans. Ministers prepare those plans and Parliament considers them through its usual process for agreeing to spend public money.
A general election chooses the members of Parliament who will represent voters for the coming term. After votes are counted, parties hold discussions about how a government with sufficient support to govern can be formed. That government then decides which campaign promises to advance and how to arrange payment for them.
Announcements made during a campaign do not themselves change services or spending. Until decisions are made by a new government and approved by Parliament, the ACT plan remains a proposal. Parliament debates and votes on such matters in public, and its decisions are recorded. Members explain their positions so the public can follow what has been agreed.
