Fact sheet: DSS moves from Whaikaha to MSD

Published 16 Aug 2024

As the Ministry of Disabled People - Whaikaha was facing cost pressures, the Minister wanted a full picture of the situation before considering any changes to the system.

The Independent Review included seven recommendations, which have been accepted by Government.

Work on implementing the findings of the Independent Review began in August 2024, with initial reports back by the end of 2024.

You can find the details of each recommendation on the Whaikaha website at www.whaikaha.govt.nz/news/independent-review

What does this mean now?

If you are a disabled person, family member, or carer of a disabled person, there is unlikely to be immediate change to the support you receive.

For now, you will continue to get the funding, equipment, care and the other disability support you are eligible for.

The changes made to Flexible Funding in March 2024 will remain.

The prioritisation for Equipment and Modification Services (EMS) put in place in March 2024 remains in place.

What could this mean in the future?

People will be consulted as we move through the process. We will continue to work with Whaikaha, other providers and disability organisations, as more details are confirmed.

To get in touch with Whaikaha, you can email them at contact@whaikaha.govt.nz  or phone 0800 566 601. 

We are also here to support you throughout this change.