The New Zealand Public Health and Disability Act 2000 required the Minister for Disability Issues to develop a strategy called the New Zealand Disability Strategy, to provide the framework for the Governments overall direction for the disability sector in improving disability support services. [2]

Under the act, the minister is also required to consult with relevant organisations and individuals before determining or altering the strategy [3], and to report on progress in implementing the strategy each year [4]. The strategy, and any amendment, replacement or report, must be made available to the public and to the House of Representatives [5].

In May 2000, the Minister for Disability Issues established a sector reference group to advise on the content of and the consultation process for the strategy. Extensive consultation followed the publication of the discussion document, Making a World of Difference Whakanui Oranga, and 700 submissions were received. They included submissions from individual people with disabilities, their families and whānau, service providers and advocates, and feedback from 68 meetings around the country.

The New Zealand Disability Strategy was released on 30 April 2001. The strategy goes further than required under the legislation, providing a framework to address disability issues (not just services) across society.