Page 1 Summary of feedback on the RNZFB Board's draft Position Statement on the Accessibility for New Zealanders Bill Produced 2022 by Accessible Formats Service, Blind Low Vision NZ, Auckland. Purpose of consultation The Social Services and Community Select Committee called for public submissions on the Accessibility for New Zealanders Bill (the Bill) on 16 August 2022. Translations of the Bill are available in Braille, Large Print, and Audio on the Parliament website. Submissions close on 7 November 2022. The RNZFB Board will make a submission on the Bill. Click here for the translations of the Bill in Braille, Large Print, and Audio: https://www.parliament.nz/en/pb/sc/scl/social-services-and-community/news-archive/information-about-the-accessibility-for-new-zealanders-bill-in-alternative-formats/ At the last Board meeting, Directors agreed to consult members on the draft RNZFB Board Position Statement on the Accessibility for New Zealanders Bill (the draft Position Statement). Consultation on the draft Position Statement occurred from Wednesday 14 September until Sunday 25 September 2022. Consultation involved a short survey of three questions which are listed below. • Do you support the draft RNZFB Board Position Statement on the Accessibility for New Zealanders Bill? • If No, then why don't you support the draft Position Statement? Please say what changes you would like. • Do you have any further comments about the RNZFB Board's draft position statement? This document summarises the feedback received from 192 respondents. Summary 94% of respondents supported the draft Position Statement: • "This sends a clear message to the Government that the proposed Bill does not go far enough." • "You have my full support. And thank you for putting forward such a wonderful draft position statement." • "Tautoko! I fully support the draft position statement." 6% of respondents didn't support the draft Position Statement for the following reasons: • Clarity is needed around when the Bill will apply to avoid possible conflict with existing legislation. • Some members would have preferred discussion around comprehensive disability rights legislation. • The scope of the draft Position Statement is too broad, and lacked substance and purpose. Page 2 • There is a need for continued work with members and consumer groups to ensure the feedback process is led by people who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision. Changes requested • Adjust the tone of the submission to reflect a more collaborative approach. • Emphasise the need for enforceable and identifiable standards. The standards development process needs to be future proofed and independently regulated. • Continue to keep the voice of disabled people front and centre. • Clarify terms used in relation to technology i.e. digital technology (e.g. computer, cell phones) and banking technology (e.g. financial). • Include more detail about the specific barriers that people who are blind, deafblind or have low vision experience, including: "Some of the barriers we face could be incorporated into new houses such as cupboard heights." "Paths would be made more suited for the mobility disabled." "Commercial and retail buildings must have vision impaired access to lifts and toilets." "All government departments, banks, insurance and commercial retail, make provision for those who need their services but are partially or fully blind." • Highlight the severe inequity that people experience when trying to access digital media and information. • Ask all political parties what they will commit to do with the Bill, prior to the 2023 election. • Raise concerns that the legislation is bureaucratic and will result in the squandering of taxpayers' money. End of Summary of feedback on the RNZFB Board's draft Position Statement on the Accessibility for New Zealanders Bill