Legislation and policy shape many parts of life for disabled people and their families. Legislation establishes legal rights and protections, while policy helps guide how those laws are interpreted and put into practice. Together, they influence access to support, how services are delivered, responsibilities of providers, and what options are available when things go wrong or do not meet expectations.
Understanding legislation and policy can help disabled people and whānau understand their rights, navigate services more confidently, challenge unfair decisions, and make informed choices about the support available to them. It can also help people recognise when systems are not working as they should, and understand the options for raising concerns, making complaints or advocating for change.
Legislation |
What it Does |
Why it Matters for Disabled People |
|---|---|---|
Human Rights Act 1993 |
Prohibits discrimination on several grounds, including disability. | Protects disabled people from unfair treatment in employment, education, access to public places, provision of goods and services, and housing. |
New Zealand Bill of Rights Act 1990 |
Affirms fundamental rights and freedoms, including the right to freedom from discrimination on prohibited grounds, including disability. | Protects disabled people’s right to be free from discrimination by public authorities. |
UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) |
Sets international standards for equality, inclusion, dignity, and accessibility for all persons with disabilities. | Commits the New Zealand government to upholding rights, removing barriers, and promoting full participation. |
Education and Training Act 2020 |
Establishes the right to inclusive education. | Supports disabled learners to access learning support, adjustments, and equitable learning opportunities. |
Health and Disability Commissioner Act 1994 |
Establishes the framework for the Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers’ Rights. | Gives disabled people receiving health and disability services clear rights and provides a complaints and advocacy pathway if those rights are not upheld. |
ACC Act 2001 |
Provides compensation and rehabilitation support for injuries caused by accidents. | Offers rehabilitation, equipment, and support for people with accident-related impairments. |
Privacy Act 2020 |
Sets rules for how organisations collect, use, store, and disclose personal information. | Protects sensitive health and disability information and requires agencies to handle it responsibly. |
Building Act 2004 & Building Code |
Establishes accessibility requirements for buildings and public spaces. | Helps ensure environments are safe, usable, and accessible for people with a range of needs. |
Land Transport Act & Transport Rules |
Regulates road transport, vehicle standards, and road user requirements. Provides for accessibility and mobility parking. | Supports safe, accessible travel and mobility for disabled people. |
New Zealand Public Health and Disability Act 2000 |
Shapes the structure of the health and disability system. | Defines responsibilities of Health NZ and the Ministry of Disabled People. |
More information:
- Property Manager info
- Property Administrator info
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Health & Disability Commission links:
- Enduring Power of Attorney info
Youthlaw
YouthLaw provides free legal help to children and young people throughout Aotearoa New Zealand. Its work includes legal advice, legal information, education sessions, and law reform focused on young people’s rights and access to justice.
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