Ten key government agencies developed work plans for 2001/2002 to implement the New Zealand Disability Strategy. This report covers their achievements and initiatives for the three months from 1 July to 30 September 2001. It shows considerable initial progress, given the short timeframe and lack of formal monitoring process.

Overall, agencies have responded well to the strategys challenge to change attitudes, as well as policies, practices and legislation.

Many departments have focused on infrastructural issues such as human resources, physical access, communications and consultation, staff training and information. Many are working together on cross-sectoral initiatives.

A number of key initiatives have also occurred in the timeframe. These include the decision to close Kimberley and resettle its 375 residents with intellectual disabilities in the community; and the launch of Pathways to Inclusion, signalling a new employment focus for vocational services for people with disabilities, and the planned repeal of the Disabled Persons Employment Promotion Act 1960.

Future reports on progress will be more comprehensive and will cover a full calendar year. From next year, all government departments are required to prepare annual work plans to implement the strategy, and will be monitored against them. Work is also under way to determine the appropriate long-term mechanism and agency to oversee ongoing implementation and monitoring of the strategy.