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What is this consultation about?
This consultation is about further improvements to disability support services, so they’re more responsive and work better to support everyday lives.
We are focusing on key areas the disability community has told us matter most.
Why are you asking for feedback again?
We know many people have already shared their experiences and ideas over the past two years.
That feedback has helped shape changes we’ve already made — including more consistent needs assessments and more choice and control of flexible funding.
This consultation is not starting again - it builds on previous consultations.
The disability community has told us about the issues and this builds on what we’ve heard.
It focuses on key areas the community has said matter most – and what good support looks like from their perspective.
What are you asking about?
We’re asking for input on six key areas:
- outcomes that matter
- planning ahead for life changes
- feedback and complaints
- carer respite options
- flexibility of supports
- information and advice
These are the areas the community has told us are most important to improve.
Why are you focusing on these areas?
These areas were identified through earlier consultation with the disability community and targeted engagement with community groups.
People told us these are the areas where services need to improve the most.
How is this different from previous consultations?
Earlier consultations focused on identifying issues and stabilising the system.
This consultation goes a step further.
It focuses on specific areas the community has said matter most – and what good support looks like in these areas from the perspective of the community.
Is this consultation about the DSS Bill?
No. This consultation is separate and different from the Disability Support Services Bill.
- The Bill is a Parliamentary process that sets the legal framework for DSS.
- This consultation is about improving supports and is focused on some key service areas.
Can I give feedback on the Bill through this consultation?
Feedback on the Bill can only be provided through the Parliamentary select committee process.
If any member of the public wants to make a submission on the Bill, they need to do that through the Parliament select committee before 12 June.
Go to the Parliament website: Disability Support Services Bill - New Zealand Parliament external
Why are you running this consultation now alongside other change processes the disability community also need to engage with?
We know there are several changes happening for the disability community, and that taking part in consultations takes time and effort. We really appreciate people choosing to share their experiences and ideas with us.
Running this consultation now means service improvements can continue, building on what the community has already told us, instead of waiting longer for change. It helps us keep making practical improvements that matter to people.
How does this consultation relate to the new carer support package that DSS is developing?
This consultation includes a focus on improving respite options for carers.
What we hear from disabled people, families, whānau and carers about respite will help inform the wider development of a new carer support package. This could include a carer payment, improved respite options, and other practical support. It aims to give more certainty and consistency for family carers.
There will be further engagement with carer groups and representatives as the carer support work progresses.
Who can take part in the DSS community consultation?
We want to make sure these workshops focus on DSS-funded services and the views of disabled people, their family and whānau, carers and networks.
While anyone can take part, this consultation is focused on disabled people and those who support them.
There will be other forums for contracted DSS providers and hosts to engage and contribute to strengthening disability services.
What will you do with the feedback from the consultation?
We will:
- review and summarise what we hear
- share a summary of feedback
- use your input to shape further improvements to services.
We will keep the disability community updated on what we heard, what actions we are taking, and what will happen next.
How can I take part in the consultation?
You can take part in a way that works for you.
From 8 June to 31 July you can:
- complete an online survey
- join an online or in-person workshop
- make a written, recorded or NZSL submission.
You don’t need to respond to everything — just the topics that matter to you.
When will we see changes?
This consultation is about shaping ongoing improvements to services and strengthening disability support services.
Some changes may be able to happen sooner, while others may take longer to work through.
We will keep the disability community updated on what we heard, what actions we are taking, and what will happen next.
Have decisions already been made?
No. We are asking for your input on improvements and what we could do better in some specific areas – before decisions are made.
What if I can’t attend a workshop?
You don’t have to attend a workshop to take part.
You can:
- complete the online survey
- make a written or recorded submission
We’ve provided different options so people can take part in a way that works for them.
Do I have to answer every question?
No.
You can respond to as many or as few questions as you like.
Just focus on the topics that matter most to you.
Will my feedback make a difference?
Yes.
Feedback from the disability community has already led to important changes.
This consultation is the next step in improving services, and your input will help shape what happens next.
We will keep the disability community updated on what we heard, what actions we are taking, and what will happen next.
What happens after the consultation?
After 31 July, we will:
- analyse the feedback
- share a summary of what we heard on the DSS website
- use the feedback to inform improvements.
We will keep the disability community updated on what we heard, what actions we are taking, and what will happen next.