More Info →Evans Family Collection: Mrs Evans collecting the Family Benefit

A photographic series prepared by the Prime Minister’s Department in 1947 to attract British migrants. The Evans family of 5 Mansford Place, Palmerston North were selected to show the living conditions of a typical New Zealand family. Betty Evans collects the Family Benefit at a Post Office Savings Bank. The 1938 Social Security Act established the Family Benefit, payable for every child under 16 years or up to 18 years for full-time students. It was normally paid to the mother in cash or by credit to her Post Office Savings account. At this time the benefit was £26 per annum for each child.