22 Jun 2026
4 months ago
812 views
The Ministry of Disabled People – Whaikaha has awarded $1.7 million in funding to disability community organisations to enhance governance and leadership capabilities. This investment aims to empower disabled people to lead and participate more actively in decision-making, improve engagement with government agencies, and support historically underrepresented groups. By building long-term community capability, the funding helps shape policy and services while upholding the rights and dignity of disabled people.
02 Jun 2026
4 months ago
887 views
Disability Issues Minister Louise Upston announced a new community consultation from June 8 to July 31 to gather feedback on improving disability support services, focusing on flexible supports, better planning, and enhanced respite options for carers. The consultation will inform the development of a new carer support package aimed at providing financial aid, improved respite, and practical assistance, addressing the complexities of current formal employment arrangements for family carers. The government has committed $2.1 billion in recent budgets to strengthen the disability support system and emphasizes ongoing engagement with the disability community to create a fair, transparent, and sustainable service framework.
10 Feb 2026
8 months ago
1340 views
A new nationally consistent approach to Disability Support Services (DSS) will standardize needs assessment and support allocation across New Zealand, ensuring fairness regardless of location. This includes personalized funding plans, consideration of families and carers in assessments, and greater choice and control for around 38,500 people with flexible funding. The changes, informed by extensive consultation, aim to simplify processes, improve wellbeing, and provide a stable foundation for the disability support system's future.
03 Dec 2025
10 months ago
1131 views
Minister Louise Upston reaffirmed the New Zealand Government’s commitment to improving the lives of disabled people, endorsing the 2025 international theme of fostering inclusive societies. The government recently launched the New Zealand Disability Strategy 2026–2030, focusing on education, employment, health, housing, and justice to address ongoing disadvantages faced by disabled individuals. Key initiatives include significant investments in learning support, enhanced Disability Support Services, increased funding for residential care, and the development of a new Carers’ Strategy Action Plan.