CCS Disability Action submissions to Government
Advocacy is a big part of what we do, and that includes submitting on Government policies that are before the select committee. This allows us to directly influence legislative and policy decisions that impact the lives of disabled people. By sharing our knowledge and experiences, we ensure that the needs and voices of disabled people are considered. This leads to better support and services for the disability community and promotes transparency and accountability in Government decisions.
Find out more about making a submission here.
Principles of the Treaty of Waitangi Bill
By Phoebe Eden-Mann, National Policy Analyst, January 2025
“We have significant concerns about the Bill, and are strongly opposed to establishing a set of Treaty principles. We firmly believe that the Bill as it stands poses harm to whānau hauā (disabled Māori), and fundamentally undermines the Treaty of Waitangi purpose, integrity, and spirit.”
Social Security Amendment Bill
By Phoebe Eden-Mann, National Policy Analyst, January 2025
“We have significant concerns about what this Bill is proposing and the impact it will have on disabled people and their families. Disabled people are more likely to be disadvantaged by our existing welfare systems, and the proposed sanctions will only exacerbate those issues further.”
Budget Policy Statement 2025
By Phoebe Eden-Mann, National Policy Analyst, February 2025
“We have significant concerns about the priority areas as well as the short-term goals laid out in the Budget Policy Statement. We are also disappointed to see that disability is absent. While we recognise that the Government has decided to prioritise focusing on controlling Government spending, we wish to highlight the importance of prioritising disabled people in funding decisions moving forward. Disabled people make up approximately 24% of our population, or 1.1 million people, and that number will only increase with our ageing population. Disabled people are disproportionately affected by poverty and experience poor long-term health outcomes.”
Actioning change: Amplifying voices through Government submissions
At CCS Disability Action, advocacy lies at the heart of everything we do. One of the most impactful ways we champion a more inclusive and equitable society is by making submissions on Government policies and proposals. This process allows us to actively engage with select committees, influencing legislative and policy decisions that directly shape the lives of disabled people across Aotearoa New Zealand.
Making a submission to the Government is a vital part of the democratic process. It provides organisations like ours, as well as individuals, the opportunity to voice concerns, share expertise, and suggest improvements to legislation or policies before they are finalised. Submissions are presented to parliamentary select committees, where they are reviewed and considered as part of the policymaking process. By participating in this process, we ensure that decisions made by the Government reflect the needs and aspirations of the disability community.
Our submissions cover a wide range of critical areas, including human rights, accessibility, fair employment practices, inclusive education, and stronger community support. By drawing from the lived experiences of disabled individuals and their families, we ensure that our advocacy is rooted in real-world challenges and opportunities. This approach not only influences better services and supports but also promotes transparency, accountability, and fairness within Government decision-making.
Advocating for change is most effective when we work together. Through our submissions, we amplify the voices of the disability community to make sure they are heard by decision-makers at every level. By collaborating with disabled people, their families, and allies, we strive to create lasting change that benefits everyone.
Stay informed about our latest submissions to see how we’re influencing change, or take part in the process by making your own submission to Government policies. Together, we can create an inclusive future for all.