The Minister for Disability Issues has announced that the Government is introducing a new Disability Support Services Bill.
The Bill is the first step in building a foundational legal framework for DSS. More changes will come later. These will be shaped by what disabled people and the community tell us.
There are no immediate changes
People should continue to access their supports and funding as they do now.
The Bill does not:
- change anyone’s current supports, funding, or eligibility
- establish new obligations on families
- introduce asset or income testing.
Asset and income testing is already used for a small number of DSS supports, such as home modifications and equipment. It is not used in relation to personal care or carer support, and the Bill does not change it. There are no plans to expand the use of asset or income testing (also referred to as means testing).
The Bill will be considered by Select Committee
The Bill is now going through the parliamentary process external.
The Social Services and Community Select Committee will consider the Bill.
Public submissions are now being called for external. The closing date for submissions is 1.00pm on Friday 12 June 2026
You can find out more about the Bill on our website
Other information about the Bill
- Read the Bill: Disability Support Services Bill | New Zealand Legislation external
- Watch what has been said in Parliament: Video On Demand | New Zealand Parliament external
- Read an outline of the costs, benefits, and options considered: Regulatory impact statements - Ministry of Social Development external
- Read about the policy objectives, background and context to the Bill: Disability Support Services Bill disclosure statement | NZ Legislation Disclosures external
- Read an assessment of the Bill against the New Zealand Bill of Rights Act: NZBORA advice - Disability Support Services Bill.pdf external
- How MSD will analyse submissions Disability Support Services Bill - Ministry of Social Development external