My mother and I have been battling our student loan debt while living overseas for years, and it’s become more than just a financial burden; it’s a source of extreme stress and emotional strain. We try our best to keep up with the interest and penalties, but the rules in place make it seem nearly impossible to make lasting progress. It feels like we're trapped in an unending cycle of debt, and we know we are not alone.

Many New Zealanders, like us, who are living abroad still owe substantial amounts on their student loans. The interest, penalties, and repayment rules for those overseas have left countless people struggling. Changes in countries, like Australia, have shown us that reform is not only possible but can be just and achievable. The current system hasn't been reviewed for far too long and is long overdue for an evaluation.

Statistics suggest that overseas borrowers are contributing to a significant portion of the student loans that are overdue or unpaid. However, the current regulations do not bridge the gap between what is feasible for the borrower overseas and what the New Zealand loan system demands. The system is outdated and needs adjustments to reflect the realities of living outside New Zealand.

We are simply calling for fairness. A review of the current loan rules for long-term overseas borrowers can offer relief and prevent unnecessary hardships. Many borrowers sincerely wish to pay off their loans, but the current mechanisms hinder them from doing so efficiently.

We need a constructive dialogue about how to address these issues. It’s time for an equitable solution that considers the difficulties faced by New Zealanders living overseas. We hope that by raising our voices, the authorities will hear our call for change.

Please sign this petition to urge the New Zealand government to review and reform the student loan rules applicable to overseas borrowers. Together, we can push for fair policies that provide the much-needed relief for many struggling individuals.