Petition request

That the House of Representatives amend student loan legislation to introduce a compassionate exemption providing interest-free status and retrospective interest relief for overseas borrowers who relocated to reunite with parents who had permanently left New Zealand while the borrowers were financially dependent on them.

Petition reason

I think there is a gap in current legislation for overseas borrowers who did not relocate for economic or lifestyle reasons, but to remain with their family after their parents permanently moved overseas while they were studying. In these circumstances, I contend that relocation may not have been an independent decision but one driven by family and living circumstances during a period of educational dependence and financial vulnerability.

Signatures are now being accepted
33 days left
Closing date: 30 Nov 2026 11:59 PM NZST

Petition progress

  • Open for signatures
  • Closed for signatures
  • Select Committee
  • Reported
  • Referred to Minister
Number of signatures: 2
Closing date: 30 Nov 2026