A controversial new Disability Support Services Bill is facing growing opposition from disabled people, carers, advocates, and whānau who warn it could fundamentally change how disability support is delivered in Aotearoa.
Critics say the legislation, introduced by the Government as a way to provide “clarity and stability” to Disability Support Services (DSS), risks shifting responsibility away from the state and onto families already struggling to provide care.
Among the strongest concerns is the Bill’s emphasis on a “families first” approach, which states that families, whānau, and culturally recognised family groups have responsibility for the wellbeing of their members before publicly funded disability support is provided. Opponents argue this could place even greater pressure on unpaid carers and relatives.
One of the most disturbing features of the bill is the way it shifts responsibility away from the State and back onto families. The explanatory note says the bill “clarifies that responsibility for care of disabled people rests in the first instance with their family and whānau, where appropriate”.
The Bill also responds to a landmark Supreme Court ruling that recognised some family carers as employees of the state. While the Government says the legislation will not affect the two successful claimants in that case, critics argue it could prevent similar claims in the future and remove potential legal pathways for family carers seeking recognition and fair compensation.
Families caring for disabled loved ones say the proposed changes create uncertainty at a time when many are already under significant financial and emotional pressure.
Advocates point to data showing disabled New Zealanders are more likely to experience financial hardship and that many families already absorb costs for equipment, therapy, transport, and full-time care that are not fully covered by public funding.
The Government maintains the Bill is intended to strengthen the system, improve transparency, and ensure long-term sustainability. Disability Issues Minister Louise Upston says the legislation does not change existing funding allocations or eligibility for support and is designed to provide a clearer legal foundation for services.
However, disability organisations remain unconvinced, with some describing the Bill as one of the most concerning pieces of disability legislation seen in recent years. Public submissions are now open, and advocates are urging disabled people, carers, and whānau to have their say before the legislation progresses through Parliament.
For many families, the debate goes beyond policy. It is about whether disabled New Zealanders can continue to rely on a support system based on rights, inclusion, and dignity—or whether more of the burden will fall on those already carrying the heaviest load.
