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March 19, 2026
#national: Home support workers hit hard by fuel costs as calls grow for urgent Government support
Matthew Tukaki
Posted On March 19, 2026
More than 23,000 home support workers across Aotearoa are calling on the Government to step in as rising petrol prices place increasing pressure on an already stretched workforce.
The workers, who provide essential in-home care for older people, disabled New Zealanders, and vulnerable whānau, say the surge in fuel costs is making it increasingly difficult to carry out their jobs. Many rely on their own vehicles to travel between clients, often covering multiple locations in a single day.
Advocates say the current system does not adequately compensate workers for the true cost of travel, leaving many effectively out of pocket as petrol prices continue to climb. Existing travel reimbursements are widely seen as falling short of actual fuel expenses, particularly as prices rise sharply across the country.
The situation has been exacerbated by the broader cost-of-living crisis, with fuel prices increasing rapidly in recent weeks amid global instability. There are growing concerns that without immediate intervention, some workers may be forced to reduce hours or leave the sector altogether.
Unions and sector representatives warn that any loss of workforce capacity would have serious consequences for the health system, particularly for those who depend on regular in-home care to remain safe and independent. They argue that home support workers are a critical part of the healthcare system, helping to reduce pressure on hospitals and aged care facilities.
Calls are now being made for targeted support measures, including increased travel allowances or fuel subsidies, to ensure workers are not financially penalised for delivering essential care in the community.
The pressure on the Government comes as officials consider possible responses to rising fuel costs more broadly, with ministers indicating any intervention would likely be temporary and targeted to those most in need.
For many in the sector, the issue is urgent. Without meaningful support, there are concerns the growing financial strain could deepen workforce shortages and disrupt care for thousands of New Zealanders who rely on these services every day.
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