Labour Voters Favor Targeted GP Subsidies Over Universal Access

A recent poll indicates a significant shift in the preferences of Labour voters regarding the party’s proposed approach to general practitioner (GP) subsidies. Conducted by the Taxpayers’ Union and Curia from November 2-6, 2023, the survey of 1,000 eligible voters revealed that 57% of Labour supporters believe GP subsidies should be targeted mainly towards low- and middle-income New Zealanders, rather than implemented universally.

The Labour Party’s current policy aims to provide three free GP visits annually for every New Zealander, funded through a proposed tax on property profits—excluding family homes—earned after July 1, 2027. To address potential criticisms of this tax as a revenue grab, Labour has pledged to allocate all revenue from the levy directly to health initiatives.

Despite this commitment, the polling data suggests that a majority of Labour voters are not entirely convinced by the universal access model. Only 35% of respondents supported the policy of extending free GP visits to all adults, regardless of income, while 8% remained uncertain. Overall, 44% of the full sample favored a targeted approach, while 38% preferred a universal scheme.

Political Spectrum and Demographic Insights

The poll also highlights notable divisions among voters from different political parties. Support for targeted subsidies is nearly identical among Labour and Greens voters, with 58% backing the targeted approach. Interestingly, supporters of the ACT Party exhibited stronger support for universal subsidies than anticipated, with 53% in favor.

Demographic trends reveal that age significantly influences opinions on GP subsidies. Among younger voters aged 18–39, 43% preferred universal subsidies compared to 36% who favored targeting. The preference for income-targeting increases with age, rising to 47% among those aged 40–59, and 52% for voters over 60. This demographic, often facing long wait times and workforce shortages in healthcare, appears less convinced by Labour’s promises of universal access.

Geographical differences also emerge in the poll results. Voters in Auckland are the only group where support for universal subsidies (strongly at 48%) surpasses that for targeting (43%). Conversely, Wellington voters overwhelmingly favor targeting, with 60% supporting this option compared to just 34% for universalism.

Responses and Future Directions

The pressure on New Zealand’s healthcare system remains palpable, with clinics reporting extended wait times and an aging GP workforce that is struggling to meet demand. James Ross, spokesperson for the Taxpayers’ Union, commented that universal subsidies “make no sense when people can’t access a GP now” and could exacerbate existing issues.

In response to the poll findings, Ayesha Verrall, Labour’s spokesperson for health, reaffirmed the party’s commitment to universal healthcare, stating, “Labour believes in universal healthcare—that everyone should be able to access the health system regardless of income.” She emphasized that the proposed policy is intended to ensure timely access to healthcare, which could ultimately reduce costs for the health system.

The poll also explored perspectives on capital gains tax (CGT), revealing that 61% of respondents believe any CGT should be based solely on real, inflation-adjusted gains. Among Labour supporters, 69% agreed with this approach, indicating a potential area of focus for the party leading into upcoming elections.