Disability Support Service Bill submission writing with Kahurangi Carter

Hui with Kahurangi Carter – Thursday 4 June 2026

 

This hui focused on preparing submissions opposing the Disability Service Standards (DSS) Bill. The kōrero highlighted the social, economic, and ethical implications of the Bill, and the importance of centring lived experience and personal stories in advocacy.

 

Key Themes

1.     Personal Services and Systemic Impact

  • Waiting for services leads to increased disabling conditions and inequity.

  • The Bill risks reinforcing barriers rather than enabling flexibility and choice.

  • Collaboration and international accountability are essential, i.e. using levers like UNCRPD and UNDRIP

 

2.     Human and Economic Costs

  • The DSS bill is linked to the proposed legislation regarding end-of-life, and the potential for disabled people being forced into end-of-life situations as supports become unavailable.

  • The bill opens the door to families providing care losing economic security and opportunity to contribute to the workforce.

  • The opportunity cost of excluding disabled people and carers from full participation is significant.

 

3.     Legislative Concerns

  • The DSS Bill enables secondary legislation that limits flexibility and choice.

  • Comparison to pay equity issues – systemic inequity persists.

  • The Bill may shift responsibility for care from the State to whānau, reducing access to funded support.

 

4.     Narrative and Advocacy Approach

  • Submissions can be short and direct: e.g., “I oppose this Bill because….”

  • Emphasise personal stories, facts, and data – these reach the heart of the matter.

  • Many MPs who will be on the select committee may not have read the Bill; submissions should make the human impact clear.

 

5.     Social and Ethical Dimensions

  • The Bill may normalise or soften attitudes toward reduced support, similar to trends seen in ACC and End of Life Choices legislation.

  • Disability is not an accident – it requires sustained, equitable support.

  • The framing of care as a burden risks deepening social exclusion.

 

6.     Community and Action Points

  • CCS Disability Action is preparing a piece titled “Opening the Door,” addressing these issues.

  • Enrol to vote early; if a snap election occurs, same-day enrolment is no longer an option.

 

Key Takeaways

  • Personal stories are the most powerful advocacy tool.

  • Economic framing (costs, opportunity loss) strengthens the argument.

  • Collective voice matters – coordinated submissions amplify impact.

  • Act now: prepare and submit opposition statements, encourage others to enrol and participate. 

Earthquake Disability Leadership Group