The Coalition Government has recently released its latest quarterly action plan – 38 commitments to be delivered by the end of June. And once again, ACT is punching well above its weight. Nearly half of the actions are led by ACT Ministers, advance our coalition commitments, or reflect policies we campaigned on. That means delivery for the Kiwis who voted for real change.

One area where that change was urgently needed is law and order. We’ve already made significant strides in this area to introduce tougher consequences for crime and restore rights for victims. From those I speak to regularly, including small business owners and retail workers, these changes are a welcome change from the previous Government who let those who followed the rules pay the price while offenders walked free.
But we know more is needed, and that is reflected in this latest plan.

Cabinet will soon be taking decisions on strengthening trespass law, following proposals from the Ministerial Advisory Group for Victims of Retail Crime which was established by my ACT caucus colleague Nicole McKee and the Minister of Justice. This group is comprised of high-calibre individuals including those representing dairy owners, liquor stores, retailers, and supermarkets. Some have been the person working behind the counter when violent thieves have entered their store.
Strengthening
trespass laws means clearer authority for business owners, greater protection for their property rights, and safer environments for staff and customers alike. Paired with the other changes we’ve made in the law-and-order space, it’s clear whose side ACT is on.

Backing that up is the 600-bed expansion of Waikeria Prison. It’s a major win for public safety. We’re not prepared to let serious offenders slip through the cracks because there isn’t room in prison to keep them off the streets. That’s not justice.

New Zealanders want safer streets, and that starts with consequences. ACT is delivering them. But our work isn’t just limited to crime. In the education space, the Government plans to introduce legislation requiring universities to actively protect freedom of expression. This will clarify universities’ obligations to support open debate and a diversity of viewpoints.
At a time when polarisation and censorship are growing concerns globally, we must reinforce New Zealand’s tradition of academic freedom and respectful disagreement – principles that have long underpinned peaceful democratic societies.

It’s also the way to ensure university students can get the best possible education, founded in critical thinking and the discovery of new information. For years, we’ve seen concerning trends – invited speakers shut down, unpopular views silenced, students afraid to speak freely, and compulsory courses forcing a one-sided view on students. Is it any wonder universities’ international rankings have been slipping?

Taken together, these actions show ACT’s priorities. We’re focused on safety, fairness, and freedom. Whether it’s backing small business owners, holding criminals to account, or standing up for open debate, ACT is making the system work for the people who follow the rules, not those who break them.
Finally, I am heartened to see that the Government will soon confirm details of the Parent Visa Boost – an essential policy to help attract and retain migrants who contribute so much to New Zealand.

I hope to provide a more comprehensive update with details on how this visa will work shortly. Until then, please feel free to get in touch with me about any Government-related issues you may have. -Dr Parmjeet Parmar