Governance transition: Frequently asked questions
Kia ora koutou
As we move towards 1 July 2025, we wanted to share some of the questions and answers that have been raised and discussed with our CCS Disability Action whānau over the last few weeks.
If, after reading the Q&A below, you still have any questions at all – please don't hesitate to get in touch with us.
Ngā mihi nui
Dairne Kirton
National President, CCS Disability Action
Mel Smith
Chief Executive, CCS Disability Action
Q&A
1. What is the second Special General Meeting (SGM) about?
The second SGM is where members will be asked to approve the transfer of assets from their local CCS Disability Action branch to the new structure. This is one of the final steps in our move to a more unified, efficient way of working together as a national organisation.
2. Why do we need to transfer the assets?
To move from 18 separate local societies into one national group, we need to shift all the assets (like property and funds) to the new legal entities that will manage them going forward. This ensures everything is in the right place for the new structure to start from 1 July 2025.
3. What is being transferred?
Each branch will be transferring its key assets—such as buildings, vehicles, and any financial investments—to either the CCS Disability Action Foundation (for assets) or CCS Disability Action Services Limited (for services and operations).
4. Who is getting the assets?
The assets will be transferred to the CCS Disability Action Foundation, which is a new national charitable trust created to hold and manage all assets on behalf of the wider organisation. This makes it easier and more cost-effective to look after our assets and plan for the future.
5. What process are we using to do this transfer?
We’re using a Sale and Purchase Agreement, paired with a Deed of Forgiveness of Debt. This legal approach allows us to transfer the assets without triggering unnecessary costs or taxes.
6. Why are we using a Sale and Purchase Agreement and not a Deed of Gift?
If we used a Deed of Gift, we could be required to pay 15% GST on the market value of the properties being transferred—which could cost the organisation millions. By using a Sale and Purchase Agreement and then forgiving the debt, we legally transfer the assets without those extra costs. It’s a smart and safe way to make the change.
7. Is this process legal and approved?
Yes. The legal documents and process have been developed with the support of independent legal and financial experts. They meet all legal requirements and are designed to protect the interests of CCS Disability Action, its donors, and the people we support.
8. Will this change affect how we deliver services?
No. The way we support disabled people and their whānau will stay the same. In fact, the new structure will make it easier to share resources and provide consistent, high-quality services across the country.
9. What happens after the second SGM?
Once the second SGM votes to approve the transfer, the actual legal transfer of assets will begin. Everything is planned to be completed by 30 June 2025 so the new structure can fully begin on 1 July 2025.
10. How will members be kept informed during this process?
We will continue to share updates through local meetings, email communications, and the Governance Review section of our website. You can also ask questions directly by contacting your local branch.
11. Will this change affect the services I receive?
No. The services you receive from CCS Disability Action will not change. You will continue to work with the same staff, in the same way, in your community.
12. Will the staff I know still be there?
Yes. All staff will continue in their roles. From 1 July 2025, they will be employed by CCS Disability Action Services Limited, but their day-to-day work, relationships, and support for you will stay the same.
13. Will the services in my area still be offered?
Yes. All current services will continue to be provided in your area. The new structure will actually help us strengthen and improve how we deliver services by bringing everything under one national team.
14. Will this change affect my funding or support plan?
No. Your funding and support plan will remain the same. This change is about how we manage the organisation behind the scenes—it won’t impact your entitlements or how you are supported.
15. Why are we changing if services are staying the same?
We are changing to make sure our organisation is sustainable, effective, and focused on people. By moving to one national structure, we can reduce duplication, save money, and make sure more of our resources go directly into supporting disabled people and whānau.
16. What is happening to local branch governance groups?
From 1 July 2025, our current local branch governance committees will no longer operate in their current form. Instead, we will have Voice and Action Groups in communities across the country to carry forward local insight, advocacy, and leadership.
17. What are Voice and Action Groups?
Voice and Action Groups are new community-led groups that will bring together disabled people, whānau, and supporters to share what’s important locally. They’ll give feedback, raise issues, and help make sure CCS Disability Action stays connected to the needs and aspirations of the people we support.
18. How are Voice and Action Groups different from local committees?
Unlike formal governance committees, Voice and Action Groups are not responsible for legal or financial decisions. Instead, they’re focused on community voice, inclusion, and influence—ensuring that people with lived experience help shape our services and priorities.
19. Why are we making this change?
The new structure reduces the administrative burden on local volunteers and creates a clearer, more efficient governance model. Voice and Action Groups ensure we still hear directly from the community while allowing our national Board to focus on legal and strategic responsibilities.
20. Will my community still have a say?
Absolutely. In fact, Voice and Action Groups are designed to strengthen community voice by focusing on action, advocacy, and feedback—not on paperwork or finance. We want local communities to help lead change, not manage legal structures.
21. Can I be part of a Voice and Action Group?
Yes! Anyone who shares our mission and values—especially disabled people and their whānau—is encouraged to get involved. Each group will work in ways that suit their local community and will be supported by staff and national structures.