Story perspectives

Accessibility Standards Bill Aims to Boost GDP $578 M.

7/8/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Accessibility Standards Bill, a Member’s Bill, seeks national standards to remove avoidable barriers for disabled New Zealanders.
New Zealand First introduced the bill, which now awaits parliamentary consideration.
The 2023 Census found that 17 percent of New Zealanders have a disability, with prevalence rising sharply with age.
Party estimates say closing the disability employment gap could add $578 million to GDP, with standards reducing costs and benefiting seniors, families, businesses and the public.

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Story summary

The Accessibility Standards Bill, a Member’s Bill, seeks national standards to remove avoidable barriers for disabled New Zealanders.
New Zealand First introduced the bill, which now awaits parliamentary consideration.
The 2023 Census found that 17 percent of New Zealanders have a disability, with prevalence rising sharply with age.
Party estimates say closing the disability employment gap could add $578 million to GDP, with standards reducing costs and benefiting seniors, families, businesses and the public.