Petition request

That the House of Representatives urge the Government to commission an independent review to evaluate the replacement of proprietary software such as Microsoft Windows and Office with free, open-source alternatives across all government agencies.

Petition reason

The New Zealand Government spends millions each year on Microsoft software licences —expenditure that leaves our economy permanently. Mature, free alternatives exist: Linux replaces Windows, LibreOffice replaces Office. Countries including France, Germany, Brazil, and South Korea have made this switch. I think NZ taxpayers deserve fiscal responsibility. Open-source software carries no licensing fees and is used by governments overseas.

Petition progress

  • Open for signatures
  • Closed for signatures
  • Select Committee
  • Reported
  • Referred to Minister
Number of signatures: 71
Date presented: 15 Sep 2026
Considered by: Petitions
Presenting member: Davidson, Reuben
Closing date: 01 Sep 2026