An independent monitoring system and more rights for caregivers are part of the Act Party's plan to improve Oranga Tamariki.

Leader David Seymour says the agency has failed our most vulnerable children.

Act wants to split social worker duties between mentors and child protection officers to serve both a tough and a nurturing role.

Also on their agenda is transferring youth justice functions from Oranga Tamariki to Corrections, and boosting accountability by giving the agency's boss KPIs. 

Seymour says caregiving must be made more appealing to address a national shortage.

Act's spokesperson for Children, Karen Chhour, joined Mike Hosking to discuss.

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