Digital Accessibility Standard consultation now open

The Government Digital Delivery Agency is seeking feedback on a proposed new Digital Accessibility Standard (DAS).

July 24th, 2026

A man sitting on a floor using a laptop computer on his lap

The DAS is a set of rules that aims to ensure disabled people can access government digital information and services. This includes people who use assistive technology such as screen readers, voice control software, captions, or alternative input devices. 

The DAS will replace the government’s current Web Accessibility Standard in early 2027.  

The government is still confirming which of its agencies will have to follow the DAS, though all agencies are strongly encouraged to.  

Why the Digital Accessibility Standard is replacing the Web Accessibility Standard 

The Web Accessibility Standard applies only to websites and web apps. The proposed DAS is likely to apply to all information and communication technology. This includes: 

  • websites, mobile apps, and non-web documents like PDFs, spreadsheets, and emails 

  • non-web software like operating systems or Microsoft Word 

  • hardware, from laptops and headsets to printers and kiosks. 

The change is designed to make sure accessibility is considered across all digital technology, not just websites.  This reflects the way people access information and services today through websites, mobile applications, digital documents, and other digital channels.  

All government digital information and services must be accessible to disabled people. This expectation is set out in New Zealand’s Human Rights Act and in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.  

Have your say 

The government is encouraging disabled people, accessibility professionals, government agencies, service providers, and members of the public to provide feedback on the draft DAS.  

You can give your feedback in several ways: 

The consultation closes 7 August 2026 

Find out more about the draft Digital Accessibility Standard -information is available in alternate formats. 

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