History of the Strategy
The development of the New Zealand Disability Strategy, including the consultation process and its launch in April 2001, is outlined here.
The Ministry of Health held the initial responsibility for the development of the New Zealand Disability Strategy, through the consultation process, launch and through the first year of its implementation. This responsibilty was transferred to the Office for Disability Issues on its establishment in July 2002.
About the Consultation Process
In April 2000, the Minister for Disability Issues commenced development of the New Zealand Disability Strategy by appointing a Sector Reference Group. This group, of 15 people with a wide range of expertise and knowledge of disability issues, provided advice on the content of the New Zealand Disability Strategy discussion document: Making a World of Difference.
The Ministry of Health, along with representatives from the Sector Reference Group, held 68 meetings around the country to gather feedback on the discussion document. Local members of the Disabled Persons Assembly hosted many of the meetings. Separate meetings were held for disabled people to ensure that their views were heard during this process. Hui and fono ensured that the voices of disabled Māori and Pacific peoples were heard.
Disabled people were also encouraged to hold their own discussion groups and make submissions.
The consultation process resulted 700 submissions, as well as feedback received from the public meetings. The Sector Reference Group used the information received during this consultation process to finalise their recommendations to the Minister for Disability Issues on the contents of the New Zealand Disability Strategy.
You can also download or order a hard copy of the publication: A Brief Summary of the Analysis of Submissions to the New Zealand Disability Strategy Discusion Document.
Media releases from Hon Ruth Dyson, Minister for Disability Issues
- 18 April 2000: New Zealand Disability Strategy takes another step forward.
- 6 May 2000: Disability strategy of special benefit to older people.
- 6 May 2000: Minister challenges depts to make information accessible.
- 6 May 2000: Disability document opens debate on national strategy.
- 24 May 2000: Reference group to advise government on Disability Strategy.
Publications
- Making a World of Difference - New Zealand Disability Strategy Discussion Document.
- NZ Disability Strategy Sector Reference Group's Recommendations to the Minister for Disability Issues: Word - 175k | PDF - 85k
- A Brief Analysis of Submissions to the New Zealand Disability Strategy Discussion Document: Word - 224k
Launch of the New Zealand Disability Strategy
The Strategy was launched on 30 April 2001. It provides a clear vision for a society where people with impairments can say that they live in a society that highly values their lives and continually enhances their full participation. It has 15 objectives and 113 actions. The objectives cover a range of subjects including: educating society, rights, receiving education, lifestyles, information, participation of Māori, Pacific peoples, children, youth and women, and valuing families, whānau and others who provide support.