Integrated Data Infrastructure (IDI)
We’re pleased to advise that Veterans’ Affairs has now agreed with Stats NZ to have more de-identified veteran data added to the Integrated Data Infrastructure database (IDI). This will enable a range of research to be undertaken, which will ultimately benefit all veterans.
The need for more research on Kiwi veterans has been known for a long time. The development of The Veteran, Family and Whānau Mental Health and Wellbeing Policy Framework — Te Arataki, highlighted the problem, as it was largely based on studies from overseas because of the gaps in research from New Zealand.
We looked carefully into the privacy issues before agreeing to take this step, and we’re confident all this data is safe and that no one’s private information will be compromised because no personal information goes into the Integrated Data Infrastructure database (IDI). It is all de-identified. This means that all names and addresses are deleted. Also, any numbers that could be used to identify people, like IRD and NHI numbers, are encrypted (and replaced with another number).
You can read Stats NZ’s comprehensive plan to protect the data in the IDI on their website.
Read the plan on the Stats NZ website(external link)
It will not include any data that we hold about spouses or children.
The IDI contains data about life events, education, income, benefits, migration, justice, and health. It comes from government agencies, Stats NZ surveys, and non-government organisations (NGOs). The data is then linked together in the IDI to allow researchers to uncover insights into our society and economy, with the aim of improving outcomes for New Zealanders.
We have previously supplied the IDA with data about our Viet Nam veteran clients. Also, in 2023, the Social Investment Agency prepared a report on veterans using the IDI, but then, the IDI did not contain Veterans’ Affairs data at that time.
Once veteran data is in the IDI, researchers can take a closer look at things like how veterans engage with government agencies, what their needs might be, and the impacts of their deployments. The Veterans’ Medical Research Trust Fund sponsors researchers to use IDI as one of their reference tools. Their reports could influence planning and future veteran support policies.
FAQs
Isn’t this a breach of my privacy?
No. Supplying de-identified data to the IDI does not contravene the Privacy Act 2020. The IDI and the procedures associated with it are designed to comply with the Privacy Act 2020.
More information about the privacy procedures of the IDI(external link)
Is my name with the Stats department now?
No. All data that Veterans’ Affairs supplied to Stats NZ was de-identified.
How safe is this data?
Stats NZ follow a number of privacy and security procedures to ensure the security of all data inside the IDI, and they restrict access to the IDI.
When do I see the results or reports?
We expect some of the first reports to be published in 2026. If publicly available, we will publish them on this website.
Does the data include data about my wife or my children?
No. Just veterans.
