Source: RNZ

RNZ reports that New Zealand’s Ministry of Social Development will begin using basic AI tools to monitor whether jobseekers on benefits are meeting their contractual obligations. The government claims that this will improve administrative efficiency by automating checks on job search records, interview attendance, and other welfare compliance indicators.

While the AI system will not make direct decisions on benefits, it will flag potential breaches for human review. Critics have voiced concerns about privacy, algorithmic fairness, and transparency, warning that vulnerable groups may be disproportionately targeted. Officials state that the system will be carefully monitored and that safeguards will be in place to protect individual rights.

This development is part of a broader digital transformation agenda by the government, which includes greater use of automation in public services.