United Future release family policy

STUFF.CO.NZ: United Future released its family policy, aimed at supporting parents in their relationships and through kinder tax treatment, this afternoon.

United Future campaigns on its family focus and the Families Commission was established as part of its agreement to support the Government.

The party says income splitting – where a couple's earnings are treated as one income for tax purposes – should apply to families with children.

Other elements of the policy included:

* more support for Relationship Services and marriage preparation courses, and improved access to parenting education programmes;

* a simplified personal tax system (10 percent on income up to $12,000; 20 percent on income between $12,000 and $38,000; and 30 percent on income above $38,000);

* family service centres for parents and children;

* character education programmes in schools;

* more support for children with disabilities through a Caregivers Allowance;

* shared care for children of separated families, DNA paternity testing where necessary; and

* a review of the Family Court and the Child Support system.

Aspects of the policy had already been announced. Deputy leader Judy Turner previously said shared parenting meant when both parents wanted custody there would be a presumption that day-to-day care would be shared unless there were good reasons against it. And allowing DNA tests to be ordered by the Family Court would ensure accuracy and that the right parent was contributing.

Party leader Peter Dunne said today, at a forum on family, the policy sought to address families' diverse needs.

"We have long believed that the primary role of any government is to promote policies which are good for families.

"At the same time, we recognise that families come in many shapes and sizes, and a one size fits all approach will not work."

Mr Dunne said the policy aimed to help strengthen families and support parents.