Dear Ministry of Social Development,
To: Ministry of Social Development (MSD)
Subject: Official Information Request – Purpose and Definition of Gender Data Collected by MSD

Tēnā koe,

Under the Official Information Act 1982, I request the following information regarding MSD’s collection and use of “gender” data on its forms and internal systems.

1. Purpose of Collecting Gender Identity Data
MSD forms collect “gender” as a self‑identified, open‑ended category with no finite list of possible responses (e.g., male, female, gender diverse, or any self‑described identity).

Please provide:

The specific operational purpose(s) for which MSD collects gender identity information.

All MSD policies, internal guidance, or decision‑making frameworks that rely on gender identity.

Any services, entitlements, assessments, or eligibility criteria that are affected by a client’s gender identity.

2. Standardisation and Data Processing
Given that gender identity is an unlimited, self‑defined category, please provide:

How MSD codes, standardises, or categorises gender identity entries that fall outside “male” or “female.”

Any data dictionaries, coding manuals, or internal classification systems used to process gender identity data.

Any documents describing how MSD ensures data quality, consistency, or comparability for this open‑ended category.

3. Distinction Between Gender and Biological Sex
Please provide:

MSD’s definitions of “gender” and “biological sex.”

All MSD forms, systems, or datasets that collect biological sex.

The rationale for collecting gender identity instead of biological sex in contexts where biological sex may be operationally relevant (e.g., health‑related services, demographic reporting, statistical analysis).

4. Standards and Compliance
Please confirm:

Whether MSD follows the Stats NZ Data Standard for Gender, Sex, and Variations of Sex Characteristics.

Which version of the standard is currently in use.

Any MSD‑specific modifications, interpretations, or deviations from the Stats NZ standard.

5. Documents and Communications
Please provide:

All internal documents, memos, emails, or briefing notes that discuss MSD’s adoption or implementation of the Stats NZ gender and sex standards.

Any impact assessments, risk assessments, or policy analyses relating to the shift from biological sex to gender identity in MSD data collection.

Format
I request that all information be provided in electronic form.

Statutory Reminder
I draw your attention to MSD’s obligations under the Official Information Act to:

provide the information within 20 working days,

supply reasons for any refusal, and

consider releasing information with redactions rather than withholding it in full.

Yours faithfully,

Nigel Gray