The policy's primary focus was on requiring parents to return to work as early as possible after having a subsequent child. However, there is no evidence to suggest that the policy has reduced time on benefit or improved financial or social outcomes. In fact, it disproportionately impacts Māori and women, has contributed to increasing complexity in the welfare system, and has reduced flexibility for parents to spend time with their child or children. The Welfare Expert Advisory Group recommended the removal of the subsequent child policy. It noted the policy is an aspect of the system that does not support women's roles as carers. In our manifesto, the Government committed to removing the subsequent child policy in 2021. In July 2020, Cabinet agreed to the policy's removal and the Government publicly announced this decision.