We work on systemic change for the equity of disabled people

Disabled Persons Assembly NZ (DPA) is a not-for-profit pan-impairment Disabled People’s Organisation run by and for disabled people.

Since our formation in 1983, DPA has brought disabled people together and shaped our collective input in a way that drives system level change.

We recognise:

We drive systemic change through:

Leadership: reflecting the collective voice of disabled people, locally, nationally and internationally

Information and advice: informing and advising on policies impacting on the lives of disabled people

  • providing a channel for information between disabled people and government;
  • providing advice, commentary, and submissions to Parliament, government agencies, and local authorities;
  • providing advice to businesses and non-government organisations; and
  • research.

Advocacy: supporting disabled people to have a voice, including a collective voice, in society

  • listening to disabled people and identifying barriers to equity;
  • engaging both nationally and regionally with our members and the wider community - disabled people, whānau, allies and organisations;
  • building the capacity and capability of disabled people;
  • partnering with other organisations on projects and campaigns; and
  • engaging with the media.

Monitoring: monitoring and giving feedback on existing laws, policies and practices about and relevant to disabled people

  • monitoring existing and proposed laws, policies and practices relevant to disabled people and whānau; and
  • supporting government, organisations, businesses and the public to recognise, understand and address barriers to equity.
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