Submissions

Social Security Legislation Rewrite Bill

We submitted on the Social Security Rewrite Bill. This Bill aims to simpify the welfare system. The Government is unlikely to make any major changes to the welfare system through this Bill, but we took the opportunity to nudge them on two issues (the income exemption system and the inconsistency between the Child Disability Allowance and the Disability Allowance).

Parliamentary Inquiry into Mobility

We submitted to the Transport Select Committee on the future of transport. We think it is important to stay on top of new technology. We cannot assume that new technology will automatically take into account people with access needs. Sometimes the companies behind new technology will need a push to be inclusive. This submission was with the Blind Foundation.

Future of small passenger services consultation document

The Ministry of Transport recently reviewed the taxi industry and the rise of new alternatives to taxis, such as Uber. We submitted on this review. Uber is a phone app that matches you with someone who is willing to drive you for a fee. The rise of new technology, such as Uber, and its impact on transport, offers both risks and opportunities for people with access needs. Internationally, the evidence so far is mixed with both positive impacts and negative impacts.

Fetal alcohol syndrome disorder discussion document

The Ministry of Health has released a Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Disorder discussion document. It is good that the government is looking at the gaps in support for people with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Disorder. We did feel the government’s discussion document was a bit weak on human rights, however. The document also failed to think about what people with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Disorder might want themselves in terms of support and a good life. There was too much focus on the views of professionals, which is important, but only part of the picture.

Submission on Children Young Persons and Their Families Oranga Tamariki Legislation Bill

The Children Young Persons and Their Families Oranga Tamariki Legislation Bill will see the repeal of two discriminatory sections of the Children, Young Persons and Their Families Act; Sections 141 and 142. We have vigorously advocated for these sections to be repealed for a number of years now and their repeal is a victory for the rights of disabled children.

Please Contact Us for access to specific submissions.

Briefings

We do briefings to a wide range of Ministers. These briefings introduce ourselves to the Minister and raise a few key issues. You can check out our briefings in the resources section. How would you bring about positive change, if you were a Minister?