The Green Party is accusing the Government of pushing through major disability support law changes without proper consultation, warning the reforms could create uncertainty and harm for disabled people, whānau and carers across Aotearoa.
The criticism follows proposed changes to disability support systems and funding processes, which the Greens say are being advanced too quickly and without adequate engagement with the disability community. The party argues disabled people and advocacy groups are once again being left out of decisions directly affecting their lives.
The Government says the reforms are necessary to make disability support services more financially sustainable, transparent and nationally consistent after an independent review identified rapidly rising costs and uneven access to services around the country.
Changes include new national assessment systems, revised funding models and tighter oversight around flexible funding arrangements currently used by many disabled people and carers. Ministers say the reforms are intended to provide greater consistency while still allowing disabled people more choice and control over their support.
However, disability advocates and opposition parties say the speed of the reforms is creating anxiety within the sector, particularly after previous funding changes in 2024 triggered strong backlash from carers and disability support users.
The Greens warn the changes risk undermining the Enabling Good Lives framework, which has been widely supported by disability communities for promoting self-determination, flexibility and person-centred support. Critics say rushed implementation could weaken trust in the system and leave vulnerable people struggling to navigate new rules.
Disability organisations have also raised concerns about whether enough safeguards, funding and frontline support will be in place before the reforms take effect. Some groups fear people could lose access to essential services or face greater bureaucracy under tighter budget controls.
The Government insists no one will lose existing support immediately and says the reforms are designed to stabilise a system facing growing demand and financial pressure. Ministers have pointed to Budget funding increases and ongoing consultation with parts of the disability sector as evidence the Government remains committed to improving services long term.
The debate comes amid wider concerns about cost-of-living pressures, healthcare access and support services for disabled New Zealanders and their whānau, with advocacy groups warning many families are already under severe financial and emotional strain.
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