Aotearoa Disability Law

09/06/2026

Without alternate formats, many disabled people miss out on important information and the chance to take part in decisions that affect them.

We manage the all-of-government process for providing information in alternate formats.

We were pleased to support Reserve Bank of NZ to make the ‘Keeping Cash Local’ consultation information accessible to more people.

It’s about keeping basic cash services available to everyone, and you can now access the information in a format that works for you.

Have your say by 31 July – link in comments. 🔗

Image description: graphic with a white background and a heading that says “Alternate formats for Keeping Cash Local consultation available now.” A hand is holding a New Zealand $50 note across the lower half of the image. At the bottom, a pink banner lists the alternate formats: Easy Read, Braille, Large Print, Audio and NZ Sign Language.

Image credit: Reserve Bank of New Zealand

23/04/2026

Applications are now open for vacancies on the Te Rōpū Kaiārahi Hauātanga, the Ombudsman’s Disability Advisory Panel.

Te Rōpū Kaiārahi Hauātanga Panel plays an important role in providing lived experience and professional disability right advice, insight and guidance to support the Ombudsman Office’s work. Panel members contribute their knowledge, perspectives, and expertise to help ensure our work remains grounded in the communities we work with.

We are seeking people who are passionate about contributing their lived experience to influence meaningful change. If this sounds like you, we would love for you to apply. You can find the application details here: https://careers.ombudsman.parliament.nz/jobs/OMB-1915761

We’ve also made information available in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) and alternative formats here: https://www.ombudsman.parliament.nz/resources/te-ropu-kaiarahi-hauatanga-panel-advertisement-april-2026

Please contact us to get the job description and advert in Braille.

Applications close on: 11th May 2026

24/03/2026

📢 Have your say on accessible housing in Northland

Whangārei Accessible Housing Trust is applying for government funding to build more accessible, affordable homes from the Far North through to Auckland.

They need community input to show:
• Where homes are needed
• What size homes are required
• The level of disability and accessibility needs

If you are disabled, support someone who is, or work in the sector, your feedback will help strengthen the case for more accessible housing.

📝 Complete the short survey here:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Z3CT285

Shared by Tiaho Trust on behalf of WAHT.

03/02/2026

02/02/2026

27/01/2026

This February, Whare Āwhina is partnering with Aotearoa Disability Law and kaupapa-aligned organisations to bring free, culturally grounded disability law workshops to communities across Te Taitokerau.

These workshops are for tangata whaikaha, whānau, carers, support workers and practitioners to better understand their rights, choices, and future planning options.

By delivering workshops across multiple locations, we’re working to remove barriers and make legal information more accessible to our communities.

📅 February 16–20
📍 Multiple locations across Te Taitokerau
✔️ Free
✔️ Plain language
✔️ Whānau-centred

👉 Learn more about the roadshow, topics, dates and locations here: https://www.whareawhina.org.nz/blog/post/159007/free-disability-law-workshops-coming-to-te-taitokerau/

16/12/2025

People who experienced abuse in care were denied the opportunity for a decent life. Instead, they experienced violence, isolation, and systemic failure. That...

16/12/2025

16/12/2025

We know how vital the Total Mobility scheme is for independence and connection in our communities. The Government has confirmed that everyone who relies on this service will continue to get subsidised taxi fares, but with some essential changes to ensure the scheme’s long-term sustainability.
Key points:
• Subsidy changes from July 2026: The subsidy level will move from 75% to 65%. Fares will increase slightly, but the subsidy remains higher than it was before 2022.
• Immediate funding: $10 million is being invested now to support councils and keep the scheme operational.
📣We also want to hear from you
Consultation is open now on proposals to strengthen the scheme. You can provide your input on our website. Consultation closes 22 March 2026.
https://www.transport.govt.nz/consultations/proposals-to-strengthen-total-mobility

15/12/2025