Why does law reform matter?
Many laws and systems in New Zealand aren’t designed with Deaf and disabled people in mind.
This leads to unfair policies, inaccessible processes, and discrimination.
At Aotearoa Disability Law, we use our legal knowledge and real-life casework to advocate for change.
We identify systemic problems and work with government, courts, and human rights organisations to make laws fairer and more accessible.
We make sure your voice is heard in the legal system.
Watch in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) - no audio
How we work to change the law
We push for better laws, policies, and processes by:
- Identifying problems through our legal work – The cases we see help us understand where the law is failing.
- Working with other organisations – We collaborate with the Human Rights Commission, disability groups, and advocacy networks.
- Reporting back to our community – We keep you updated on legal changes and how they affect you.
- Giving feedback on new laws and changes to current law – We review government bills and reports from non-governmental policy bodies.
- Speaking up for the Deaf and disabled community – We provide expert advice to courts, policymakers, and stakeholders.
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What we’re working on
Here are some of the key law reform issues we’re currently involved in:
- Making courts more accessible – We’re working with the Court to improve accessibility for Deaf and disabled people.
- Human rights advocacy – We collaborate with the Human Rights Commission to push for better legal protections.
- Reviewing new laws – We provide feedback on proposed bills that affect the Deaf and disabled community.
- Fixing systemic legal barriers – We advocate for changes in policies that create unnecessary hurdles for Deaf and disabled people.
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Significant Submissions and Speeches
Disability Support Services (DSS) Community Consultation
March 2025
ADL's submission
Fifth Periodic Report -International Covenant for Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights (ICESCR)
February 2025
Dame Helen Winkelmann, Chief Justice of New Zealand, address to Auckland Disability Law AGM
November 2024
ADL's Response to Remote Participation in Court
September 2024
ADL's Submission to Health and Disability Commission Review
July 2024
ADL's Submission on Accessibility in Courts
September 2023
ADL's Submission on Accessibility for New Zealanders Bill
November 2022
Contact Aotearoa Disability Law
Making justice accessible for Deaf and disabled people.
Email info@adl.org.nz
Phone 09 257 5140
Text only mobile number 027 457 5140
Send us an NZSL message at www.nzsl.direct/adl
CURRENTLY UNDER MAINTENANCE, PLEASE USE A DIFFERENT CONTACT METHOD
Mangere Community Law Centre,
Unit 9, Shop 27,
Mangere Town Square,
Mangere, Manukau 2022
