Labour has vowed to repeal the Government’s proposed disability legislation if elected in 2026, describing the bill as harmful and arguing it would weaken the rights, independence and wellbeing of disabled New Zealanders.
The commitment comes as debate continues over the Government’s disability reforms, which Labour says have caused significant concern among disabled people, their whānau and advocacy organisations.
Labour says the legislation has been developed without adequate engagement with the disability community and risks undermining confidence in a system that should place disabled people at the centre of decision-making.
The party has pledged that a future Labour-led government would withdraw the bill and work alongside disabled people, disability organisations and the wider sector to develop replacement legislation grounded in partnership, inclusion and the principles of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
Labour argues disability policy should be shaped through co-design, ensuring people with lived experience have a meaningful voice in decisions that affect their daily lives.
The party says its approach would focus on strengthening independence, improving access to support services and ensuring disabled New Zealanders can participate fully in education, employment and community life.
The announcement comes amid wider debate about disability policy, transport affordability, healthcare access and the cost of living, with disability advocates continuing to call for greater investment in support services and more accessible public infrastructure.
For Māori, the issue carries additional significance. Māori with disabilities, or tāngata whaikaha Māori, often face multiple barriers when accessing health, education, housing and disability services. Māori organisations have consistently advocated for culturally responsive services that recognise the importance of whānau, whakapapa and kaupapa Māori approaches to care.
Labour says future disability policy should better recognise these inequities while delivering services that are equitable, accessible and responsive to the needs of diverse communities across Aotearoa.
The disability sector is expected to remain a significant election issue as political parties outline competing visions for improving support, strengthening rights and ensuring disabled people are able to participate fully in society.
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