The New Zealand Disability Strategy was launched on 30 April 2001, after extensive consultation. This first report on progress in implementing the strategy covers the activities of 10 key government agencies for the three-month period from 1 July 2001 to 30 September 2001.

The strategy presents a long-term framework to change New Zealand from a disabling to a fully inclusive society. Its vision, based on a human rights perspective, is for people with disabilities to be able to say that they live in a society that highly values our lives and continually enhances our participation. To achieve this vision, the strategy outlines 15 objectives and 113 associated actions.

In spite of the short time period covered by this report, a considerable amount of progress has been made across departments in a range of areas to improve the participation and inclusion of people with disabilities.

The government will take the lead in implementing the strategy. However, its long-term success will also depend on the active support of other agencies, such as territorial local authorities (TLAs) and non-governmental organisations (NGOs). Although these agencies are not required to develop implementation plans, this first report highlights the efforts of some agencies to build an inclusive society.