Whaikaha working groups
Do you want to help shape a better future for disabled people in Aotearoa? Whaikaha – Ministry of Disabled People is refreshing the New Zealand Disability Strategy.
February 21st, 2025
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Join Whaikaha working groups for the New Zealand Disability Strategy refresh
Do you want to help shape a better future for disabled people in Aotearoa? Now is your chance! Whaikaha – Ministry of Disabled People is refreshing the New Zealand Disability Strategy.
With the current strategy (2016–2026) approaching its tenth year, they reckon it’s time for a refresh. They’re calling on our disabled community with lived experience of disability, as well as community members and experts, to be part of this important update.
Why should you get involved?
This is an incredible opportunity to be a voice for change and help shape policies that impact thousands of disabled people across Aotearoa. Your input will ensure the strategy reflects the real-life experiences, challenges, and aspirations of the disability community.
By joining a working group, you can:
✔ Make a difference by influencing government decisions.
✔ Share your experiences and expertise to drive positive change.
✔ Work alongside others who are passionate about accessibility and inclusion.
✔ Be part of a meaningful, nationwide initiative that will shape the future.
Can anyone apply?
Whaikaha is looking for people with:
✅ Lived experience of disability, including Deaf, tāngata whaikaha Māori, whānau hauā, Turi Māori, and Pacific disabled communities.
✅ A passion for making a difference in the lives of disabled people.
Each working group will consist of:
Three community members with lived experience of disability
Two government officials
Up to two industry/sector experts
Support from Whaikaha officials
What are working groups?
To support the refresh, Whaikaha is establishing five working groups, each focused on a key outcome area:
Health – Ensuring disabled people have equitable access to healthcare and support services.
Education – Creating a system that supports inclusive learning opportunities for all.
Employment – Addressing barriers to employment and promoting economic participation.
Housing – Improving access to safe, accessible, and affordable housing.
Justice – Ensuring disabled people have equal access to legal support and protection.
Each working group will help shape policies and recommendations that will form the basis of the updated strategy. This is an opportunity for the community to directly influence government policies and advocate for meaningful change.
How do working groups work?
If you join a working group, you’ll:
Provide insights, expertise, and leadership to help shape the new strategy.
Engage with government agencies, community groups, and industry experts to share ideas and develop recommendations.
Help identify barriers and solutions that will create real change for disabled people.
Contribute to policy discussions and strategy documents.
Work collaboratively across different working groups to ensure all key areas are connected.
Is there some kind of payment?
Being part of a working group requires:
⏳ Around 50 hours of participation between March and November 2025, including meetings and discussions.
🤝 Additional 40 hours for community engagement, gathering feedback and sharing updates.
💰 Compensation of $60 per hour for participation and preparation.
🚗 Travel costs covered, along with any required accessibility support.
Why do we need to update our Disability Strategy?
The New Zealand Disability Strategy guides how government agencies approach disability issues. The current strategy, developed in 2016, has been a key driver in reducing barriers and improving opportunities for our disabled community. However, as our society evolves, so do the challenges and priorities facing the community.
That’s why Whaikaha is refreshing the strategy—to ensure it remains relevant and continues to promote real change.
How to get involved?
If you’re interested, expressions of interest are open until 3 March 2025. You can submit your application in written form, via video, or in other accessible formats.
📧 Email: disabilitystrategy@whaikaha.govt.nz
📬 Post: Reply Paid 262204, PO Box 1556, Wellington 6140
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to Whaikaha.
📢 Final Selection Dates:
Applications close: 3 March 2025
Notifications sent: 21 March 2025
Final appointments made: 28 March 2025
This is a fantastic opportunity to be part of something truly impactful. Your voice matters—so step forward and help shape the future of disability policy in Aotearoa!