Disability support provider ConneXu is encouraging
careful consideration of the potential impact recent and
proposed policy changes may have on disabled people and
their whānau.
This includes the proposed Disability
Support Services Bill currently before Select Committee,
alongside recent announcements affecting accessible housing,
transport support and disability-related community
funding.
ConneXu Chief Executive Fern Ryan says it is
important that disabled people remain at the centre of
conversations and decisions that shape the future of
disability support in Aotearoa.
“Disabled people
already face barriers across many areas of everyday life,
including housing, transport, employment and community
participation. As changes are considered across the sector,
it is important we continue building systems that strengthen
inclusion, independence and choice.”
Ryan says it is
also important to consider the cumulative impact multiple
changes may have on disabled people and
whānau.
“When changes affecting housing, transport,
funding and disability support happen at the same time, it
is important we understand the wider impact these may have
on people’s everyday lives and long-term
wellbeing.”
Recent changes and announcements
include:
- Kāinga Ora removing its target for 15%
of new homes to meet universal design standards, reducing
planned accessible homes from 562 last year to 97 this year
— an 82.7% decrease. - The permanent closure of the
Lottery Grants Individuals with Disabilities Fund on 15 May
2026. - The reduction of the Total Mobility Scheme
subsidy from 75% to 65% from 1 July
2026.
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ConneXu is also encouraging strong
participation in the Select Committee process for the
Disability Support Services Bill to help ensure disabled
people, whānau and providers have the opportunity to share
their experiences and perspectives.
“Good disability
legislation should be informed by the voices of disabled
people themselves. Meaningful consultation and accessible
participation are critical to building confidence in the
future direction of the sector.”
ConneXu is
encouraging disabled people, whānau, carers and support
networks to take part in the submission process and make
their voices heard.
Information about the Disability
Support Services Bill submission process, including
submission guidance and templates, can be found through the
NZDSN website and via resources available on the
ConneXu website.
“You do not need to be a policy
expert to share your experiences. Disabled people and their
families are the experts in their own lives, and their
voices matter.”
ConneXu supports ongoing engagement
and constructive conversations with disabled people,
whānau, providers and Government as the proposed
legislation progresses.
About
ConneXu:
ConneXu is a disability support
provider based in the Waikato, Bay of Plenty and Taupō
regions. Founded in 1989, ConneXu partners with disabled
people to support choice, independence and community
connection, alongside the support of whānau and team
members. ConneXu’s approach is guided by the principles of
Enabling Good
Lives.
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