Story perspectives

NZ Bill Says Crown Not Family Carer Employer, Critics Protest

5/19/2026

Summary

Story summary

The New Zealand government introduced the Disability Support Services Bill to state Crown is not the employer of family carers.
The bill leaves current funding and support levels unchanged.
Disability Issues Minister Louise Upston said the bill will not affect the two existing successful employment claims.
Disability advocate Jane Carrigan and Dr Huhana Hickey called the bill the worst legislation and said it shifts burdens to families and withdraws support.

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Story summary

The New Zealand government introduced the Disability Support Services Bill to state Crown is not the employer of family carers.
The bill leaves current funding and support levels unchanged.
Disability Issues Minister Louise Upston said the bill will not affect the two existing successful employment claims.
Disability advocate Jane Carrigan and Dr Huhana Hickey called the bill the worst legislation and said it shifts burdens to families and withdraws support.