DPA New Zealand

Annual Report

1st July 2006 to 30th June 2007

Vision


A society which provides both equity and maximum opportunity to participate for all people.

Mission statement


To enhance and dignify the lives of people with disabilities.

Philosophy


People with disabilities must have the equal right and opportunity to:

DPA provides:

DPA Goals 2006/2007:

Goal 1: Have a growing and politically aware grass-roots organisation of disabled people.
Goal 2: Provide a co-ordinated, informed disability perspective at all levels of government policy and decision-making.
Goal 3: Provide a vehicle for the promotion of the rights, social value and citizenship of all disabled people.
Goal 4: Eliminate the discrimination and devaluation experiences by disabled people in New Zealand.

Contents

Vision, Mission, Philosophy and Goals
Acknowledgements
President's Report
Chief Executive Officer's Report
DPA National Executive Committee & Secretariat
Goal 1: Have a growing and politically aware grass-roots
organisation of disabled people.
Goal 2: Provide a co-ordinated, informed disability perspective
at all levels of government policy and decision-making.
Goal 3: Provide a vehicle for the promotion of the rights, social
value and citizenship of all disabled people.
Goal 4: Eliminate the discrimination and devaluation experiences
by disabled people in New Zealand.
Auditors report and financial statements

Acknowledgements

DPA (New Zealand) acknowledges the generous support received from the New Zealand Lottery Grants Board for general operating costs, the production costs of DPA Bites (our newsletter), help with the 2006 AGM and Conference and the Youth Mentoring Programme.

We also thank the Ministry of Health for supporting our international involvement and policy and information advice and the J R McKenzie Trust for supporting us to ensure disabled people made submissions to the Select Committee Inquiry into Disability Services. They also contributed to our administration costs and AGM.

We acknowledge the Rehabilitation Welfare Trust for funding a support person to assist our president at the United Nations.

The continued successful Regional Forums benefited from funding by the Ministry of Social Development's Office of Disability Issues. We also thank Workbridge Inc for funding participation expenses so that DPA can have a presence at events.

Telecom New Zealand Ltd has provided four telephone lines at reduced commercial rates and we have received donations from members and Wellington DPA. Funding was also received with thanks from Scottwood Trust to buy office equipment. We are fortunate, too, with thanks to Century City Ltd, for a reduced market rent charge in Century City Towers.

DPA also acknowledges the generosity of the companies and organisations who helped make our 2006 National Assembly and Conference so successful, especially Waitakere City Council, Auckland City Council, Auckland District Health Board and Sprint International NZ Ltd.

Our thanks to you all.

President's Report


Mike Gourley,
DPA President

Our organisation continues to remain in good heart. This does not mean we can be complacent. We continue to face challenges as we put effort into remaining relevant in the 21st century.

A peak event for us happened earlier this year when our Chief Executive, Gary Williams, was invited to accompany Ruth Dyson to the United Nations (UN) in New York, to sign the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities on behalf of New Zealand. Gary's participation was the subject of TV news, and he was able to witness at first hand the acclaim New Zealand received. Gary's presence reflects both the personal respect he has earned as a key non-governmental organisation (NGO) participant, and the organisational respect DPA has nationally and internationally.

UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities
The UN Convention has remained in front of mind over the last year. We have seen it as providing an exciting opportunity to consolidate partnerships with other like-minded advocacy organisations, principally People First and CCS (recently re-branded as CCS Disability Action). We have met with the CCS Disability Action change team and with People First, specifically to see how we can work together to advance awareness of the Convention as we move into the ratification and implementation stages.

At the beginning of the year, we contracted DPA member Norman Knox, who has a background in marketing and communications, to put in place a communications strategy around the UN Convention. Norman and his team have been beavering away to make sure we can capitalise on the ratification of the Convention by New Zealand. The delay in ratification (with no date set at time of writing) has set the strategy back, but the upside is that we have more time to work on it. The strategy so far devised has three stages:

Why is it a good idea to make so much of the Convention? For a number of reasons:

Let us not forget either, that the UN Convention will give much needed weight to the NZ Disability Strategy.

Review of NZ Disability Strategy
The Government completed its review of the NZDS, much later than it first anticipated. The review was not available at time of writing, so I will report on it at the AGM. Suffice to say, that the review process was done in a rush and left many people feeling left out or unhappy. DPA worked hard with the research agency, to make sure they interviewed the right people in the right way, but we have to appreciate that everyone was working to a tight timeframe.

In conjunction with CCS Disability Action, DPA decided it was important to conduct a ‘shadow' review. That review is yet to be completed, so I will report verbally on it at the AGM.

Regional capacity building forums
Once again, these forums proved successful. They were proof that getting people from across regions together is a wonderful opportunity to share ideas and experiences. It helps build a sense of common purpose. It was particularly pleasing to see a strong presence from newer regions like Gisborne and Rotorua.

Strategic review of DPA
This has taken longer than first anticipated. But through the regional forums, and special meetings of members in the Hawkes Bay, Taranaki, Wellington, Christchurch and Southland regions, members have been able to discuss in more detail the findings and suggestions in Pat Hanley's report. As a result, a working group of the NEC, made up of myself, Bev Grammer, David Tamatea together with the Chief Executive, has been able to present recommendations to the full NEC. Those recommendations form a separate paper to members for decision at the AGM. However, in essence the recommendations point to three priority areas for action:

Acknowledgements
I'd like to thank my NEC team for their contribution to a successful year, the national secretariat for their continuing efforts to keep the organisation in good heart and working well, and to you the members for keeping the profile of DPA alive and well in your local communities.

Mike Gourley

Chief Executive Officer's Report


Gary Williams
Chief Executive Officer

The past year has been very active for DPA (NZ) and it has been my privilege to be part of some pretty momentous events in the history of disabled people both here and overseas.

My personal highlight was witnessing our government sign the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

It represented years and years of hard work done both here and overseas by lots and lots of people.

Before we focus our attention to turning the intentions contained in the Convention into meaningful outcomes, I think it's worth pausing for a moment to reflect on the process to create the Convention. We must do this because it will clarify how we must work in partnership with our government and society to implement and monitor the Convention.

For disabled people to be involved in the process to develop the Convention, that very bureaucratic of bureaucracies, the United Nations, had to change the way it worked. Instead of us looking in helplessly, we, disabled people, were central to the process and therefore able to influence it in a meaningful way.

Our considered and constructive contributions are reflected in the text. It draws together the many diverse perspectives that make up our global village into an action plan that is universally applicable.

The one thing that will stay with me from the Signature Ceremony was the obvious recognition and goodwill that was accorded our country. We owe much of this to our Ambassador, Don MacKay, who guided us all to completion when it all looked lost. I know that Ambassador MacKay deserves all the accolades the world accords him because it was his skill and determination that saw us through.

Our government has signed the Convention but now we must have the legal commitment that ratification affords.

Our country removed an impediment to ratification by repealing the mis-named Disabled Persons Employment Promotion Act. This had been one of DPA's longest outstanding advocacy issues and most DPA Conferences discussed its unjustness.

I think we can look to the future with some optimism.

An opportunity exists, at the conclusion of the review that DPA is doing on itself, to make the organisation more relevant in the 21st century.

Last year, the World President of Rehabilitation International, Michael Fox, visited DPA. During his visit, he praised us for the way we went about things and has invited us to present the DPA story to the RI World Assembly next year. Sometimes we need to take a step back to really see the way we do things, a way that is envied elsewhere in the world. And by learning from our past, we look to the future.

Like the NZ Disability Strategy, the Convention needs our active involvement to turn its intentions into meaningful outcomes. Our collective activism is vitally important now because we have tools available to us to construct a good future.

Finally, you will note from the accounts in the back of this Annual Report that DPA has recorded a deficit for this financial year. As before, this just means that we've used some of our reserves so that we can continue our extensive range of activities.

Gary Williams

DPA National Executive Committee as at 30 June 2007

DPA National Secretariat as at 30 June 2007

Goal 1: Have a growing and politically aware grassroots organisation of disabled people.

Conference 2006, Auckland Leading Change Together


Ruth Dyson
Minister for Disability Issues

Five years on
Minister for Disability Issues, the Hon Ruth Dyson, was the keynote speaker at the opening session of the 2006 Conference. In her speech, she referred to the ‘good and enduring changes' occurring since the launch of the NZ Disability Strategy five years ago. But, she warned it takes time to turn around a century and more of discrimination and disadvantage. Government departments are on notice to improve their services to people with disabilities, she said, and one which is making an effort is the Electoral Office, which administers elections.

Making disabled people visible is an important part of community acceptance, the Minister said, as she announced the establishment of a Nominations Service to be run by the Office of Disability Issues. ‘This service recommends people for appointment by Cabinet, to government boards. Information on nominees is kept on a data base which is used to match people's skills and experiences to those required to fill a vacancy.'

Application forms are on the Office of Disability Issues website.

UN Convention
New Zealand has been very active in developing this international treaty, said Ms Dyson, congratulating Mike Gourley and Gary Williams on their significant part in the process.

'The Convention sets out a code of practice that is consistent with New Zealand's own Disability Strategy, and covers a full range of issues from access to justice, liberty of movement, education, health, living independently in the community, and participation in society generally.

'During the negotiation process, we made efforts to ensure that legislation and policy developed in New Zealand were consistent with the directions coming from the Convention.

'Some current policy and practice will require more attention, like making independent living work better for disabled people, and ensuring disability supports are available when needed.'

Legislation
Ms Dyson said one of her highlights this year was making New Zealand Sign Language an official language of the country. ‘I am confident that this work will significantly improve the world in which today's Deaf children grow up. It will assist our society to become a place where the culture and contribution of Deaf New Zealanders are more openly valued.

The next step for us now is to increase the access to interpreters and ensure recognition of the profession of NZSL interpreting.'

Other action
Review of disability supports. Ten agencies provide disability supports, but the Minister noted there are inconsistencies in the way they do this.

Payment for family care-givers. Most family members don't get paid for supporting their own family. The Minister said she understood the frustration of people who provide support as an unpaid family member, where if a neighbour did the same work, they would be paid. But she said family members are not always the most appropriate paid caregivers.

Implementation of recommendations of An Ordinary Life continues, as does the implementation of the recommendations of the Human Rights Commission Accessible Public Transport inquiry.

Building social capacity
In his civic welcome to the DPA Conference, Auckland City Mayor Dick Hubbard outlined his goal of building the city's ‘social infrastructure'. ‘Building the social capacity of the city is as important as the four Rs (roads, rates, rubbish and recreation) of physical capacity-building,' he said. ‘It's not easy but doesn't cost as much as a stadium.

‘If we're not open to the changing world of social needs, we run the risk of being left behind,' he said. ‘The trick is to predict the future and work with local authorities to make New Zealand a better place for everyone, including yourselves.'

No more high-floor buses


Mark Bagshaw
Conference keynote speaker
‘For the last 25 years, people with disabilities have been trying to get a very simple message across,' said Mark Bagshaw, Conference keynote speaker and Australia/New Zealand director of accessibility for the multi-national firm IBM. ‘If everybody had to deal with the issues we do, then nobody would get anything done.'

Twenty-five years ago, Mark had a diving accident that left him quadriplegic. When he first started working in disability awareness, he said he thought people would just ‘get it' from the evidence before them. ‘It's taken nearly a quarter of a century, but finally they have,' he said. ‘Did you know it's now not possible to purchase a new high-floor bus? They're just not made any more.

‘In New York, they get an extra $27,000 per week from people with disabilities using accessible public transport. Even though they had to be forced by the Supreme Court to do it. Yet it's just so obvious.'

Mark's message is that bringing people with disabilities into the work force would bring huge benefits for everyone. ‘Ninety-five percent of working age New Zealanders with disabilities could be working, rather than just the 30 percent who are. New Zealand is short of skilled workers by 60-70,000. Research shows that the employment cost of a disabled employee is less than that of an ordinary worker.'

He sees opportunities for disability reform in the business sector, such as the quest for a universal design of a safe accessible taxi, to be built from the ground up rather than modified. Similarly installing lifts in new buildings such as railway stations would help everyone. We have to get the business sector engaged and demonstrate that this should be core business. ‘This is a change agenda, not just tweaking,' he said. ‘Disability reform is the most important economic and social change faced by society - and the most achievable.'

As well as the usual reports and elections, Conference business included granting life membership to Pauline Angus and passing a remit to ensure that people without the power of speech be accorded the right for regular contact with a named representative of their choice. Discussion included the possibility of DPA setting up a Maori group or nominating a kaumatua to relate to other national Maori groups.

Life membership for a life of service


Quentin and
Pauline Angus
Pauline Angus of Wellington, who was made a life member of DPA at the 2006 annual meeting, says she valued the honour very much, and was humbled by it. In nominating Pauline, Rehabilitation International President-Elect Anne Hawker said that Pauline has provided, through her experience working at the Wilson Home, being a physiotherapist, and living with people with disabilities (husband and daughter), first-hand experience of the challenges and needs for equal opportunity.

In her recommendation, Anne Hawker stressed the importance of families and supporters in enabling people with disabilities. ‘Quentin [Angus] played a significant role in furthering opportunities for people with disabilities through his legal input. Much of this would not have been possible had it not been for the support he had, both emotionally and physically. This has often been at Pauline's own personal expense. ‘She has continued to contribute to DPA both regionally and nationally.'

More on Leading Change Together can be found at http://www.point.net.nz/events/lct06/


Scenes from the 2006 National Assembly

Regional Assemblies

DPA believes that the Assembly's strength lies in the effectiveness of its Regional Assemblies, which monitor issues relevant to people with disabilities and ensure that they are addressed at regional and, when appropriate, national level.

Regional capacity building
In order for DPA to better equip regional assemblies to advocate on local issues in their regions, a series of capacity building sessions were held in Hamilton, Palmerston North and Christchurch.

Issues covered this year included:
- The history of disability in New Zealand;
- How DPA is structured;
- Strategies for increasing our membership;
- Networking with and supporting People First and
- The DPA review.

Planning is already underway for the next series.

Regional Assembly Reports

DPA has an extensive network of regional assemblies. We acknowledge the hard work of those regional assemblies including North Shore, Auckland, Waikato, Rotorua/Taupo, Tairawhiti, Wanganui, Wairarapa, Hutt Valley, Wellington and Ashburton.

We also highlight the following regional reports that demonstrate the diverse range of activities in which DPA regional assemblies are involved in their local areas.

DPA Aoraki

A reflection on the last 12 months shows a number of positive developments:

Lionel Wilson
(President, DPA Aoraki)

DPA Christchurch and Districts

We have again strengthened existing links with other disability organisations and service providers. Recently we have become part of the Canterbury District Health Board planning board, which, for the first time, has included a wide cross section of consumers. We are renewing a good working relationship with Canterbury University who approached us to request future support from DPA for students with disabilities.

The networking and dialogue with Christchurch City Council, continues to grow. Through our submissions, discussions and working alongside the Council's Disability Advisory Group, we are playing a greater role in advocating for local people with disabilities.
We ran a lobbying workshop early this year to assist us with our two main lobbying issues: transport and care services. Forming alliances with other disability organisations has given us a louder voice. A good example was our campaign to have better policing of the misuse of mobility car parks in malls, supermarkets and other privately owned retail outlets. The positive response has led to ongoing dialogue with them.

Care Services
After a number of problems and complaints from members and the general public, we met several care providers, CCS Disability Action and other agencies. This prompted a workshop where those attending were asked questions to ascertain the main weaknesses and strengths in their current service provision. Information from this meeting was collated and sent to the Ministry of Health and the Disability Issues Minister Ruth Dyson. The Minister addressed a public meeting early this year, and responded to a large number of questions about respite care, training of caregivers, general and individualised funding.

Transport
Before making our submissions we held several meetings and presentations. These included discussions before the local Public Passenger Transport Review and the Metro Draft Strategy for more accessible buses. We are also involved with advocating for accessible transport in our rural areas.

We have been assisting the Human Rights Commission in setting up a national Transport Enquiry Steering Group to ensure implementation of the recommendations from the 2005 Accessible Journey by the Human Rights Commission.

Rural Areas
Our hopes for moving into rural areas are now reality. We are now part of Selwyn District Council's Health and Well Being Strategy and also have regular representation on the Waimakariri District Council's access committee.

General Access
The Access Forum, which we have in partnership with CCS, was reviewed earlier this year to avoid replicating work on access matters, and to plan future meetings. The forum now has better representation from the wider community, other than disability organisations.

We are also pleased to be part of the Accessible Christchurch Project, an initiative between Humanware, NZ Trade and Enterprise, Christchurch City Council and Canterbury University. Its vision is to make Christchurch the most accessible city in New Zealand.

Funding
We continue to receive funding from Christchurch City Council and the Canterbury Community Trust, as well as national grant-giving agencies, and have increased sources for our project funding. Several months ago, we were successful in receiving enough funds to cover New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) interpreters for our Regional Committee meetings and public forums.

Submissions
These include making submissions to Christchurch City Council's and Environment Canterbury's Regional Long Term Council Community Plans, the Community Development Strategy, the Older Persons Strategy and several transport submissions. National submissions were made to the NZ Building Code Review and the Social Services Select Committee.

We have also been advocating the return of recently withdrawn discounted bus fares for people with disabilities, and for the introduction of a New Zealand Sign Language qualifying course in Christchurch. This will probably begin in 2009.

We recognised ‘Disability Pride' month in 2006 and 2007 by having a window display at Christchurch Community House, and will make this an annual awareness event.

In December, we celebrated the 25th anniversary of International Year of Disabled Persons, to recognise the removal of barriers and discrimination. Our celebration included performances from Jolt, a company of mixed ability dancers, Different Light drama and movement group, and our own poet, Leigh Montford.

Regional Committee
Our strong regional committee has formed subcommittees to deal with specific issues and these have introduced more social activity for our members.

At our Regional Executive Committee meetings, we have used simulated translation for our deaf member by operating a laptop computer when there is no (or only one) NZSL interpreter available. This has also been successful at public meetings.

Improving networks with groups supporting older people, families and children has been another way of improving our advocacy role.

Ann Taylor
(President, DPA Christchurch and Districts)

DPA Dunedin and Districts

Being vigorous in our activities over the past year has given our local assembly a relatively high community profile, and membership remains reasonably stable.

Helping the Dunedin City Council (DCC) prepare its Draft Disability Strategy, which draws on the New Zealand Disability Strategy, was a highlight. When passed and implemented, it will help to improve the lives of local disabled people.

But progress with the Otago Regional Council has been disappointing. Despite public statements regarding improved transport accessibility, very little (except an improved website) has come to pass. Through our ongoing involvement with the Transport Action Group (TAG), we will continue to clamour with both the Otago Regional Council and DCC on this issue.

Other highlights from this past year include:

Chris Ford
(Secretary, DPA Dunedin and Districts)

DPA Eastern Bay of Plenty

This has been an extremely busy and productive year. Projects undertaken have required a lot of time and money and we thank our funders (Lotteries Grants Board, Whakatane District Council) and volunteers for assisting us to achieve our goals.

The opportunity for disabled people to submit to the Select Committee Inquiry into the Quality of Disability Support Services in New Zealand was a pivotal time for our region. We held public forums to assist individuals and agencies to understand the select committee process and how to make a submission. Over 40 agencies participated in these forums and a multitude of submissions went forward.

We held a Great Debate with guest debaters Ginette McDonald and Phil Gifford alongside local dignitaries. This was a fabulous opportunity to promote DPA and its members alongside providing a mainstream entertainment event for the general public. Thanks goes to Pohutukawa Lions, Whakatane Rotary, Disabilities Resource Centre Trust, Mann Printing, 1XX and The Beacon who worked with us on making this a success.

Work with the local District and Regional Council has seen this committee make submissions to the 10-year plans and other annual planning processes. Whakatane District Council continues to support the extremely useful Eastern Bay of Plenty Access Committee in implementing and funding access upgrading in the community.

Accessible transport continues to be a battle, with little progress made to date despite Regional Council's commitment statement of all buses to be accessible by 2008.

Mobility parking is a recurrent item on our agenda, so we contracted Barrier Free Auditor Max Hollis to undertake an audit of all disability parks in the Whakatane area. Only one park met all standards, so we made recommendations to the Council on how to make these compliant. We thank Paula Chapman, Whakatane District Council, for her acceptance of this and leadership in having changes made.

Remembering our motto ‘Nothing about us without us', I hope in the coming year we can continue to join with other agencies and individuals to achieve change.

Beverley Grammer
(President, DPA Eastern Bay of Plenty)

DPA Napier

Funding rounds have come again; it is very hard to get funding after spending hours filling in applications. We don't ask for much, but that little bit we do get is essential if we are to survive.

Earlier this year we decided to move our monthly meetings to a residential home for people with disabilities in an endeavour to involve new members. So far this has been a positive measure.

We had a good attendance at our meeting looking at issues such as changing government policies, changing communities and changing the world. It certainly is a great challenge.
Our move to our new office 15 months ago has had some difficulties with telephones. Our phone number is (06) 835-8768. Our lift poses some problems, as it is not wheelchair friendly.

From a community of like groups working together in harmony.

Verona Moynihan
(Secretary, DPA Napier)

DPA Northland
Hunga Haua o Te Tai Tokerau

As disabled advisers on the Disabled Services Reference Group, with the support of the Whangarei District Council the following has been introduced: The disabled working persons parking permit which is a first for New Zealand! Then just in time for Christmas, the District Council brought in clamping. Buses can now get alongside the kerb and provide a much better service. We now have 6 low rider buses in the district. A Liberty swing for children with disabilities has been installed in a local park and we can also offer an electric mobility scooter for hire for those visiting the city centre. We have started to work with the Far North District Council.

Tiaho Trust (www.tiaho.org.nz) is a "for disabled - by disabled organisation" Our joint project for 2006 was "A Different Mojo" film festival and this year we are going to do a photographic exhibition.

Consultation is starting to be the buzzword for us and I am pleased to report that more and more organisations are doing just that with us on issues that affect disabled people.

Jeni Claris
(President, DPA Northland)

DPA Palmerston North

Our partnership with the City Council has led the city to take responsibility to enable disabled people's contributions and participation in its work and we make progress in this. It is great getting public and community organisation feedback.

High points for this year are design work with the walking and cycling strategy, pedestrian and recreation cycle and walkways to developing a new framework along with Land Transport New Zealand.

We also had strong input into the Housing Strategy for elderly and disability, along with other disability agencies.

We hear from the public regularly with their concerns.

In May 2007, we were still waiting to hear if the Wheel Clamping NZ is placed in the Manawatu. This forum had a lot of interest with many disabled people inquiring if it is starting its monitoring of car parks.

Over the past year we have seen immense improvement in our walkways and recreation pedestrian routes in and around town. The Project Forums have involved people with all types of impairments - physical, sensory and other impairment as well as general public so that we trial ways to achieve a fully accessible and inclusive society. We organised several forums in 2006-7; these covered roading issues and accessible and safe access for pedestrians into and out of our city with traffic lights being placed at Princess Street within the next financial year.

In August 2006, we were involved with the petition to allow the train to stay on and got several thousand signatures. Several of our members use the train as it permits wheelchair users to travel efficiently.

We still need to concentrate on evaluating plans well before buildings are erected or altered, with architects learning to clarify and address areas of mobility access. An ongoing issue is toilet facilities being so different and disabled people finding it hard to do the most fundamental tasks as toileting.

Maps of recreation facilities and accessible routes around town are to be released soon.

Businesses will also be consulted so they are aware of accessibility in their stores. We are continually working on accessibility in and around our city and also looking into accessible accommodation in hotels for more than one or two units. We aim for a fully inclusive society and business area for the likes of hosting wheelchair rugby and disability conferences.

Delysse Kennard (Office Co-ordinator)
DPA Palmerston North

DPA Southland

We have continued to raise our profile and it is heartening when looking back to see the strength of our local networks.

We are a small membership with only a few actively minded. Some come with their own agenda and fail to see the united cause and slowly they fall away. Others join for support and friendship and, if we are lucky, catch the DPA vision. We try to give as many as possible the opportunity - planting seeds, building capacity and it's the sweetest sense of achievement when members gain confidence to speak out and participate.

The Total Mobility Scheme Invercargill model has been picked up with the national guidelines and is held up as an example by the Land Transport New Zealand Implementation Board.

We met with our Deputy Mayor to discuss how to further the development of a Disability Reference Group. What transpired was a frank and honest discussion around agency capture and the disempowerment of those falling into the trap of agency dependency. (It's rare to have this conversation with people outside of the disability sector).

We received an open invitation from the Invercargill City Council Community Services Committee to speak with them any time.

Our submission to the Regional Land Transport Strategy was well received.

The disappearing accessible car parks at the entrance to Ascot Park Hotel and Conference Centre have found their way back!

One of our young members participated in a local Youth Development Forum with Philip Patston.

Carolyn Weston was reappointed for another term to the Ethics Committee.

Two members attended the DPA Regional Forum in Christchurch.

Six attended the Governance Training facilitated by Carol Searle.

We have a large voice giving advice to the Southland District Health Board via the Disability Services Advisory Council. This is encouraging to elected member Dot Wilson.

Rhiannan Suter from the United Kingdom Employers Forum undertook some project work for Workbridge. As she was based in Invercargill the opportunity was seized to meet with her.

And as yet we do not have a Council Disability Reference Group, but a start has been made with a Combined Disabilities Network that has recently entered into a memorandum of understanding with the Invercargill City Council. This is seen as an information-sharing vehicle.

We are ever vigilant, raising our profile and building up membership.

Dot Wilson
(Secretary, DPA Southland)

DPA Taranaki

We had a very successful joint forum with People First and DPA Taranaki on the Quality and Care of Service Provision for Disabled People.

Monthly meetings have been held this year, but a decision has been made to return to bi-monthly ones.

Our DPA involvement with the Forum Partnership in North Taranaki continues with New Plymouth District Council, Tui Ora, Access Ability, Taranaki APEPSI (Advocacy, Promotion, Education, Prevention, Support, Information) Trust, Taranaki Disability Information Centre, Access Ability.

A successful Total Mobility Forum was addressed by Bruce Coleman of the Human Rights Commission.

DPA Taranaki member Shirley Hazlewood received a Queen's Service Medal and the video of her investiture was very well received.

Three Waitara Community Forums have been hosted by DPA Taranaki and Clive Pryme of the Waitara Community Development Trust.

We provided an Information Table at Puke Ariki Museum on Disability Day, 3rd December.

Our Total Mobility Co-ordinators attended a Transport Review meeting Wellington.

We have worked with the Department of Conservation on the Poetama Track - a 500 metre walk on the Stratford side of the mountain - and had its access checked by Heather Jack, President Taranaki, and Shirley & Tony Hazlewood.

Rachel Trubnick appeared on television - Channel Seven - Parafed Camp Programme.

The successful Capacity Building Forum at Palmerston North was attended by five from Taranaki, and two members attended the very informative DPA Conference in Auckland.

Two members of People First are on our Committee.

Showing wide community coverage with a disability focus, committee members are represented on the following:

Hauora Taranaki PHO (Primary Health Organisation), Pinnacle PHO, Disability Services Advisory Committee of the District Health Board, New Plymouth District Council Disabilities Issues Working Party, Post Polio Taranaki, Taranaki Disabilities Information Centre Trust, Office for Disability Issues, Total Mobility Co-ordinator Taranaki Region, Idea Services Advocate, Head Injury Organisation, Amputee Society Taranaki, Te Kaweora Opunake, CCS South Taranaki, and many others.

Marion Wellington
(Secretary, DPA Taranaki)

Goal 2: Provide a co-ordinated, informed disability perspective at all levels of government policy and decision-making


Dot Wilson

Workbridge Inc

DPA has a seat on Workbridge's governance Council. It is currently held by Dot Wilson. She reports:

Workbridge's Vision is that every person with a disability has the same value as any other person and will contribute positively in the workplace. Its Mission is to enable people with disabilities to participate and experience equal opportunities in the labour market.

Values include

The relationship between DPA and Workbridge continues to be strengthened with much collaboration occurring at both the national and local levels.

The Council continues its work to:

Funding has been allocated to complete accessibility audits of all Workbridge centres. Its intellectual disability new service model has been introduced to all Workbridge centres. The pictorial and plain language format, curriculum vitae, letters, templates and manual resources benefit jobseekers with low literacy skills and/or intellectual impairment.

A learning and development programme has been developed for staff to help with understanding the needs of clients who experience mental illness.

Although Job Clubs have been wound down, Workbridge has been able to redeploy some Job Club Trainers to Employment Consultants, thus retaining their skills.

DPA needs to remain vigilant regarding funding levels particularly as Ministry of Social Development (MSD) contracts do not include an inflation adjustment. It should be noted that Disability Issues Minister, Ruth Dyson, who is proud of the level of uptake of support funds, is not the Minister of MSD.

Association of Supported Employment New Zealand (ASENZ)


David Corner

DPA has a seat on the ASENZ Board and David Corner has been our representative for the past two years. He reports:

It has been a busy year for ASENZ. A representative from IDEA Services who manages a supported employment service from Tauranga has joined the board. At our conference in Wellington last year, awards were given to employers and businesses that support supported employment.

In February, the Board attended the Phoenix Awards dinner in Palmerston North. Guest speaker was TV journalist Rob Harley. Both the Prime Minister, Helen Clark, and local MP and Minister, Steve Maharey, turned up. Helen Clark updated us on the repeal of the Disabled Persons Employment Promotions(DPEP) Act.

At the Palmerston North Forum, interesting speakers included Vanessa Blignort and two others from Wanganui Enterprises. They explained how Wanganui Enterprises changed from a sheltered workshop to a supported employment service in the community.

DPA National President Mike Gourley spoke as well as Cindy Johns from IHC Advocacy. It was interesting to hear their views on the repeal of the DPEP Act.

ASENZ did a presentation at the Ministry of Social Development Forums held around the country. Ian Harper, ASENZ's Executive Officer, presented at the 8th conference of the European Union of Supported Employment in Ireland.

It was great to see that the DPEP Act has finally been repealed. It has been talked about for ages and many people have put a lot of effort into its repeal so it was good to see that both a goal and dream have been reached.

The ASENZ Conference is to be held in Wellington in November. The theme is Pathways to Highways, following on from Pathways to Inclusion.

Barrier Free New Zealand Trust


Bill Wrightson

Bill Wrightson is Access Adviser to DPA and the DPA Representative on the Barrier Free NZ Trust (BFNZT). He reports:

DPA is the member agent for Rehabilitation International (RI) in New Zealand and is responsible for oversight of use of RI's symbol of access. It delegates this to BFNZT. DPA is also keen to ensure that the Trust, in its education and training roles, adequately represents the interests of persons with disabilities through using NZ Standard 4121:2001 as a legal minimum level of access compliance that cannot be ignored.

As part of the BFNZT's Constitution, DPA has a permanent trustee position on the Trust. This is to ensure the symbol of access is responsibly administered and there is no duplication of the advocacy role of DPA on matters of access to and use of the built environment.

During the year, Barrier Free NZ Trust underwent several changes in personnel. Founding Trustee Alexia Pickering along with Chris Orr and Tony Gemmell stood down. Two new Trustees, Ross Livingstone and Carina Duke (from the Foundation of the Blind), were appointed. Jim Bowler took over from Ann Maddox as Chairperson. Staff also changed, with a new office administrator taking over some of the functions of the previous executive director and office administrator.

The Trust continued its role of administering the International Symbol of Access for DPA. It also maintained its well-established series of seminars on access and its network of Barrier Free Advisers. A revamp of the seminars is underway with a wider range of course options to be offered.

The Trust and DPA have continued to co-ordinate their lobbying, advisory and educative roles and DPA looks forward to sustaining its complementary role with the Barrier Free NZ Trust during next year.

DPA submissions on access during the year included:

July 2006 Meeting with Department of Building and Housing (DBH) and Michael Fox, RI World President and an architect
August 2006 DBH (Building Code Review - Discussion Document 1)
August 2006 DBH (Proposed amendments to the Building Act 2004)
October 2006 DBH (Determination on lift to upper level of a two storey office building)
November 2006 Ministry of Justice (Consultation Document : Improving Access to General Elections for People with Disabilities)
February 2007 DBH (Proposed amendment to the Project Information Memoranda requirements of the Building Act 2004)
May 2007 Land Transport NZ (Review of Road & Traffic Standards 14: Guidelines for Facilities for Blind and Vision Impaired Pedestrians)

Disability Advisory Council, Office for Disability Issues


Marion Wellington

Marion Wellington is the DPA-appointed representative for people whose impairment is caused by injury. She writes:

The two-day quarterly meetings are interesting and informative. Guest speakers have included representatives from Work and Income New Zealand, the Centre for Housing Research Aotearoa New Zealand (CHRANZ), the Families Commission, New Zealand Relay Service, Ministry of Transport, and many more.

The seven policy priority areas for the Office for Disability Issues are
Built Environment - Transport - Education - Health - Broadcasting, Recreation and Sport - Employment - Disability Supports.

The Ministry of Social Development's decision to focus on separate appointments of health and disability advisors in the Working New Zealand initiative is a recent example of our voice being heard.

Regional initiatives include a report about the New Plymouth District Council that allocated funding for disability projects in its 10-year Community Plan 2006-2016. As members of the local Council's Disabilities Issues Working Party, John Major and I told our Council of the need for a disability strategy to be to be developed with our involvement. This will help raise disability awareness in our area.

The Office for Disability Issues Nominations Service for disabled people was launched at the DPA Conference November 2006. It aims to increase the numbers of skilled disabled people appointed to Crown Boards and Committees. More people with disabilities may then be able to influence decisions while using their professional and leadership skills. People with a disability are invited to make an application to the Office for Disability Issues. When the government calls for appointments to health boards it is hoped there will be enough people registered on the nominations service to be nominated for these positions, and any other positions that may be made available on Crown Boards and Committees. Judy Small is the Convenor of this service.

The Office funded DPA's regional capacity building forums that have proved very successful in their third year. These help foster leadership skills and follow the Disability Strategy objectives.

I was so very proud to be a member of DPA and the Office for Disability Issues Advisory Council when, in March 2007, the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities was signed in New York, with our CEO, Gary Williams, Jan Scown, Director of the Office for Disability Issues, and the Minister, Hon. Ruth Dyson, Minister for Disability Issues, there for the actual signing.

My time with the Office for Disability Issues Advisory Council has been an important learning curve, a privilege, a responsibility, and best of all there is the opportunity to effect change for people with disabilities.

Goal 3: Provide a vehicle for the promotion of rights, social value and citizenship of all disabled people

Social Commission Report 2007


Anne Hawker

Anne Hawker is the President-Elect of Rehabilitation International (RI) and chairs its Social Commission.

Rehabilitation International, with its New Zealand member DPA, has been working on a proposal for implementing of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in the Pacific region. This has involved setting up effective networks and links with the Pacific Disability Forum based in Fiji. The New Zealand Government has established, as a priority, New Zealand's leadership role in effectively implementing the UN Convention in the Pacific regions. Rehabilitation International (RI) is able to have a credible role in working with the Pacific Disability Forum because of the work undertaken by both the International Commission on Technology and Accessibility (ICTA) and the Education Commission in the region.

Another important leadership task for DPA has been the effective development of RI's changed vision and mission, which will be presented to the Tunisia Conference in October for sign off.

Vision


"Persons with disabilities enjoy equal rights and are included in all aspects of society."

Mission statement


RI is a global and diverse organisation promoting the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities in education, employment and community life through advocacy, habilitation, rehabilitation and accessibility and social participation.

Strategic objectives to 2012

External Goals

1. Effective and comprehensive implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities at the national, regional and international levels.
Specific objectives:

2. Promotion of equal opportunity and inclusion of persons with disabilities, particularly in less developed countries.
Specific objectives:

Internal Goals

3. A stronger global, regional and national network of persons with disabilities, advocates and professionals, who work collaboratively as RI experts through our Regions and Commissions.
Specific objectives:

4. An organisation with an appropriate structure and adequate funding, enabling Regions, Commissions and members to achieve the Vision and Mission of RI.
Specific Objectives:

A clearly defined Strategic Plan assists in targeting resources both people and dollars, and ensures members and supporters have a clear understanding of the purpose and priorities of the organisation This has been an important journey for RI and now the RI Secretariat, Regions and Commission must turn this plan into action. DPA has important role within the Pacific Region and within New Zealand as we strive to achieve our collective goals.

The Social Commission has continued to work on:

A new focus is realising the UN Convention's significance for women with disabilities especially where there are the greatest barriers.

The Social Commission will be holding two key sessions at the Tunisia Conference. These are:

The Social Commission, in conjunction with the Health and Function Commission, is holding a session on the link between the World Health Organisation's International Classification of Health, Disability and Functioning (ICF) and the UN Convention, and how ICF can assist in the effective implementation of the UN Convention.

New Zealand should be proud of the leadership role it plays within Rehabilitation International and the role in plays within the Social Commission. Gary and Mike have played valuable roles in furthering a number of debates within RI.

R I Work and Employment Commission


Wendy Neilson
As a member of Rehabilitation International, DPA has appointed Wendy Neilson to be the New Zealand contact for the RI Work and Employment Commission. She reports:

The signing of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities has been an amazing focus internationally this year with 101 countries signed by August 2007. It is hoped through better awareness and understanding that work and employment for people with disabilities all over the world will become a reality and an option.

In New Zealand, the repeal of the Disabled Persons Employment Promotion Act (DPEP Act) in March of this year was a significant achievement relating to the employment of people with disabilities. Now basic rights such as minimum wages and holidays are no longer denied to any person who works (whether that be in a sheltered situation or not). Now there is one employment law for everyone

Currently in New Zealand there is very low unemployment and, as a consequence, there is a real need for employees in a wide range of occupations. It is interesting to note that there is talk about the untouched potential of people with disabilities as employees. Statistically, people with disabilities are still the group who are not given the opportunity to show their potential on the labour market, despite their skill base. There is currently a move to recognise and use this resource of people. However, there are many qualified individuals with disabilities still depending on their benefits.

It is interesting to note that Work and Income NZ are offering support through their organisation for placing people with disabilities in employment. This could be a concern when there are organisations such as Workbridge and CCS and IDEA New Zealand who are specialists in this area.

Policy and Advice



Wendi Wicks
DPA's National Policy Researcher, Wendi Wicks, reports:

In August 2006, DPA (NZ) presented its written submission on the inquiry into disability services that was undertaken by the Social Services Select Committee. Oral submissions did not begin until May 2007, and in September 2007 the select committee had just begun the process of formulating its report.

The length of time over which this project has taken and is taking place can be seen to show how complex disability policy issues are. It can equally be seen that disability policy is still firmly in the control of non-disabled people who need more time to become conversant with disability issues. Disabled people largely react to their priorities and initiatives.

Overall, government processes are not usually given to fast change, but many of the policy issues with which DPA has been concerned over the last year have been around for many years. The DPEP Act has been repealed but policy issues about productivity and fair wages for disabled people are still at issue. Among last year's policy issues, access into buildings, access to electoral processes, benefits and work policy, employment policy and disability data are all issues that have been previously addressed.

As DPA turns to address the policy challenges of the coming year, we may wish to consider how we can most effectively engage in and lead policy change that reflects our priorities. This is much more likely to be timely, enduring and satisfying.

DPA in the Media


Disabled Persons Employment Promotion Act

In November 2006, DPA called for the National Party to review its position on the repeal of the Disabled Persons Employment Promotion (DPEP) Act.
‘Since this Act was passed, 46 years ago, disabled people have been advocating for its repeal,' said CEO Gary Williams. ‘We remain offended by the outdated assumption that disabled people's work is inherently worth less, which is what the sheltered workshop system allows.
‘We utterly reject the implicit assumption that disabled people who remain in sheltered workshops are there because they want to be there. Research shows that disabled people want the same conditions of employment as anyone else.'
Many providers supported the repeal of the DPEP Act and were ready to provide services in the new environment, but there were a few who wanted to retain the status quo. Gary Williams said he was concerned that the National disability spokesman Paul Hutchison had been captured by those people who want to maintain the discriminatory practices that are enshrined in the DPEP Act.
New Zealand had taken a leadership position in developing the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. ‘One of the key elements of the Convention is that the world no longer sees a place for institutional arrangements - education, work or living - for us. The non-repeal of the DPEP Act would be a rich irony to the international community,' he said.

Treatment is anatomical terrorism
In January 2007, CEO Gary Williams described children being surgically and chemically prevented from maturing into adults, as "anatomical terrorism".
He was reacting to US reports that the parents of ‘Ashley', a six-year-old disabled girl, have had their daughter's healthy uterus and appendix removed in a range of measures to stop her from maturing into an adult.
Article 17 of the newly adopted UN International Convention of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities says every person with disabilities has a right to respect for his or her physical and mental integrity on an equal basis with others. We must ensure that disabled kids are especially protected by this law.
Gary Williams' other concern is the implication of this treatment for current and future generations of disabled children, and that it might become the "other" choice offered to parents who do not choose pregnancy termination.
Rather than offering parents options that perpetuate negative attitudes, they need early and ongoing support so that they can have positive and rewarding parenting experiences to nurture their children into adulthood, he said.

At last - repeal of the Disabled Persons Employment Promotion Act
In March, the repeal of the DPEP Act represented the end of nearly fifty years of legalised discrimination against disabled people, according to DPA President Mike Gourley.
‘Until now, basic rights such as minimum wages and holidays were denied to those who were in sheltered workshops,' he said. ‘Any money paid to workers or time off was at the discretion of workshop bosses.' Thankfully that day has finally passed. We are thrilled to have achieved one employment law for all.

Convention signing acclaimed
New Zealand's signing of the Disability Convention in New York in March 2007 was hailed as a red-letter day by DPA president Mike Gourley.
Because of the role played by disabled people, the Convention is a landmark. Disabled people's organisations and governments worked out the wording together, which is a first.
Mike Gourley applauded the leading role New Zealand played in the Convention. "The Government ensured disabled people were always active members of the official NZ delegation", he said. "We were active in all of the negotiations, showing a commitment to our participation. However, this is not the end, as after this we'll be there to ensure it's well monitored ".

Goal 4: Eliminate the discrimination and devaluation experiences by disabled people in New Zealand

Landmark Convention signed

New Zealand was well represented at the first signature session of the International Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities at the United Nations New York headquarters in early April. It was adopted in December 2006 and is the first human rights treaty of the 21st century.

Gary Williams of DPA was there as the Hon Ruth Dyson signed on behalf of New Zealand, one of 81 countries to do so on the first day. She has pledged to work with disabled people's organisations as New Zealand prepares to ratify and implement the Convention.


NZ delegation at the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Signing Ceremony


The New Zealand Government and its delegation provided leadership throughout the drafting of the Convention. New Zealand's UN Ambassador Don MacKay was widely praised for his work in chairing the ad-hoc committee that drew the final draft together.

The work is far from over. The next step is ratification, which countries do after they have enacted laws and other measures to improve disability rights, and the repeal of the Disabled Persons Employment Promotion Act is in line with this process. Countries are also obliged to combat negative stereotypes and promote an awareness of people's abilities and contribution to society.

Repeal of discriminatory legislation
Nearly fifty years of legalised discrimination against disabled New Zealanders ended in March 2007 with the repeal of the Disabled Persons Employment Promotion Act. This legislation had enabled workshops and employers to pay their disabled workers rates far short of those received by able-bodied workers doing the same tasks, and to deny them the same conditions such as sick leave and holidays.
This Bill also extended the Minimum Wage Act 1983 so that under-rate workers' permits also applied to sheltered workshops, and changed their name to minimum wage exemption permits.
Workers who are significantly and demonstrably limited in their work because of a disability can now be issued with a minimum wage exemption permit. But unlike previous blanket exemptions, these permits reflect the individual contribution and skills of the worker.

Telling our story to the world


Michael Fox
During a two-day visit to Wellington in August 2006, the World President of Rehabilitation International (RI), Michael Fox, invited DPA to showcase its unique way of doing things to the rest of the world. DPA is the only advocacy organisation worldwide that has a partnership between disabled people and their support organisations, resulting in a national, co-ordinated approach to disability in lobbying and political relationships.

During his brief visit, Mr Fox met the Chief Executive Officer of the Department of Building & Housing, officials from the Office for Disability Issues and Disability Issues Minister, Ruth Dyson.

Discussions with DPA covered ways of working more closely with RI, implementing the International Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, building co-operation and collaboration between DPA, RI and Disabled Persons International in the South Pacific, and having disability included as an integral part of project funding from the World Bank.

 

AUDIT REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF DISABLED PERSONS ASSEMBLY (NEW ZEALAND) INC

We have audited the financial report on pages 1 to 17. The financial report provides information about the past financial performance of Disabled Persons Assembly (New Zealand) Inc and its financial position as at 30 June 2007. This information is stated in accordance with the accounting policies set out in Note 1 to the Financial Statements.

Executive Committee's Responsibilities
The Executive Committee is responsible for the preparation of a financial report, which fairly reflects the financial position of the Assembly as at 30 June 2007 and the results of operations for the year ended on that date.

Auditors' Responsibilities
It is our responsibility to express to you an independent opinion on the financial report presented by the Executive Committee.

Basis of Opinion
An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence relevant to the amounts and disclosures in the financial report. It also includes assessing:

We conducted our audit in accordance with the New Zealand Auditing Standards except that our work was limited as explained below. We planned and performed our audit so as to obtain all the information and explanations which we considered necessary in order to provide us with sufficient evidence to obtain reasonable assurance that the financial report is free from material misstatements, whether caused by fraud or error. In forming our opinion we also evaluated the overall adequacy of the presentation of information in the financial report.

Other than in our capacity as auditors we have no relationship with, or interests in, the Assembly.

Fundamental Uncertainty
The Assembly is reliant on Government and Grant funding. The financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis, the validity of which is dependent upon continued funding from outside organisations. Should either the Government or Grant funding be withdrawn, the going concern basis may be invalid and provision would have to be made for any possible loss on realisation of the Assembly's assets.

Qualified Opinion
In common with other organisations of a similar nature, control over income prior to its being recorded is limited and there are no practical audit procedures to determine the effect of this limited control.

The Assembly has not consolidated the financial activities of the Regional Executives, its subsidiary company or Disabled Persons Foundation for the year ended 30 June 2007. This is a departure of Financial Reporting Standard 37. The financial report excludes the financial activities of the Assembly's Regional Executives, its subsidiary company and Disabled Persons Foundation and represents the financial activities of the National secretariat only.

In this respect alone we have not obtained all the information and explanations that we have required.

In our opinion except for adjustments that might have been found to be necessary had we been able to obtain sufficient evidence concerning income; and except for the effect of the departure of FRS 37 as outlined above; the financial report on pages 1 to 17 fairly reflects the financial position of the Disabled Persons Assembly (New Zealand) Inc as at 30 June 2007 and the results of its operations for the year ended on that date.

Our audit was completed on 11 August 2007 and our qualified opinion is expressed as at that date.

GRANT THORNTON
CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS
WELLINGTON
15 August 2007

Statement of Financial Position

As at 30 June 2007

Last Year Account Name This Year
CURRENT ASSETS
1,031 B.N.Z. - CURRENT ACCOUNT 2,840
25 PETTY CASH ON HAND 25
14,801 PREPAYMENTS 4,858
23,353 ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE 22,742
39,210 TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS 30,465

FIXED ASSETS
75,201 FIXED ASSETS AT COST 77,269
(64,744) ACCUMULATED DEPRECIATION (69,403)
10,457 FIXED ASSETS BOOK VALUE 7,866

INVESTMENTS
68,300 B.N.Z. - CALL ACCOUNT 37,711
68,300 TOTAL INVESTMENTS 37,711
117,967 TOTAL ASSETS 76,042

LESS CURRENT LIABILITIES
33,307 ACCOUNTS PAYABLE 23,585
160 MEMBERSHIP IN ADVANCE 306
1,394 INCOME RECEIVED IN ADVANCE -
20,859 PROVISION FOR HOLIDAY PAY 22,612
190 E. COOPER SCHOLARSHIP FUND 190
19,169 TRUST FUNDS - DPA REGIONS 19,169
1,898 G.S.T. PAYABLE 4,926
76,977 TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES 70,788
$40,990 NET BOOK VALUE OF ASSETS 5,254

REPRESENTED BY:
ACCUMULATED FUNDS
57,534 ACCUMULATED FUNDS BROUGHT F/WD 40,990
(16,544) CURRENT YEAR SURPLUS/(DEFICIT) (35,736)
$40,990 TOTAL ACCUMULATED FUNDS 5,254


Statement of Financial Performance

For the year ended 30 June 2007
Last Year Account Name This Year
GOAL 1: LEADERSHIP

PROJECT: NATIONAL HUI
LESS EXPENSES
79 TRAVEL AND ACCOMMODATION -
79 TOTAL EXPENSES -
$(79) PROJECT: EXCESS INCOME/(LOSS) $ -

PROJECT: INTERNATIONAL
INCOME
1,500 RI EVENTS INCOME -
- UN EVENTS INCOME 4,600
35,556 DSS DIAS CONTRACT 35,556
37,056 TOTAL INCOME 40,156

LESS EXPENSES
2,217 RI SECRETARIAT 3,816
565 DPI SECRETARIAT 10
9,852 RI EVENTS 4,163
- UN EVENTS 17,609
- GENERAL EXPENSES 150
7,656 SALARIES AND WAGES 7,656
3,000 ADMINISTRATION FEE 4,596
6,700 OFFICE ACCOMMODATION 6,096
1,400 AUDITORS FEES - SHARE 1,000
31,390 TOTAL EXPENSES 45,096
$5,666 PROJECT: EXCESS INCOME/(LOSS) $(4,940)

PROJECT: YOUTH
INCOME
6,000 DPA ADMINISTRATION (TRANSFER) 84
533 REGIONAL ASSEMBLIES -
2,133 PARTICIPANT CONTRIBUTIONS -
5,130 GRANTS AND DONATIONS -
15,640 LOTTERIES 4,000
29,436 TOTAL INCOME 4,084

LESS EXPENSES
125 AUDITORS FEES - SHARE -
624 GENERAL EXPENSES -
14,750 PROJECT COORDINATOR -
570 RECREATION -
6,425 TRAINERS AND MENTORS 851
23,974 TRAVEL AND ACCOMMODATION -
46,468 TOTAL EXPENSES 851
$(17,032) PROJECT: EXCESS INCOME/(LOSS) $3,233

NATIONAL ASSEMBLY/CONFERENCE
INCOME
- DONATIONS AND GRANTS 49,889
5,000 LOTTERIES 5,000
1,880 REGISTRATION FEES 14,351
794 OTHER INCOME -
7,674 TOTAL INCOME 69,240

LESS EXPENSES
287 GENERAL EXPENSES 564
36 POSTAGE AND COURIERS 2,318
5,516 PRINTING AND STATIONERY 14,120
- REFUNDS 213
438 SALARIES AND WAGES 13,471
361 TELECOMMUNICATIONS 5,368
6,936 TRAVEL AND ACCOMMODATION 40,714
13,574 TOTAL EXPENSES 76,768
$(5,900) PROJECT: EXCESS INCOME/(LOSS) $(7,528)
$(17,345) GOAL 1: EXCESS INCOME/(LOSS) $(9,235)

GOAL 2: INFORMATION & ADVICE

PROJECT: NATIONAL SECRETARIAT
INCOME
4,254 INTEREST RECEIVED 2,394
27,559 OTHER INCOME - ADMINISTRATION 37,663
10,637 SUBSCRIPTIONS 9,397
15,757 DONATIONS 16,481
1,301 MAXEQ CONSULTING -
40,000 LOTTERIES 42,000
124,444 DSS DIAS CONTRACT 124,444
21,458 REGIONAL SUPPORT INCOME 35,989
3,000 INTERNATIONAL PROJECT ADMIN 4,596
248,410 TOTAL INCOME 272,964

LESS EXPENSES
551 ACC PREMIUM LEVY 527
1,650 AUDITORS FEES - SHARE 835
163 BAD DEBTS WRITTEN OFF 133
91 BANK CHARGES 67
39,746 COMMITTEE EXPENSES 52,984
4,540 DEPRECIATION 4,659
1,652 GENERAL EXPENSES 2,066
1,594 INSURANCE 1,373
678 LOSS ON DISPOSAL OF ASSETS -
12,017 MOTOR VEHICLE EXPENSES 18,902
3,279 POSTAGE AND COURIERS 5,211
7,800 PRINTING AND STATIONERY 6,882
- PROFESSIONAL FEES 5,729
7,868 PUBLICITY 6,320
2,267 OFFICE ACCOMMODATION 1,697
33,412 REGIONAL SUPPORT 39,250
478 REPAIRS AND MAINTENANCE 455
110,588 SALARIES AND WAGES 136,345
60 STAFF TRAINING 172
1,097 SUBSCRIPTIONS & PUBLICATIONS 999
4,923 TELECOMMUNICATIONS 5,477
2,638 TRAVEL AND ACCOMMODATION 14,547
2,720 TRANSFER - TREATY P/S ADV/SUPP 2,724
1,300 TRANSFER - TREATY P/S MONITOR 1,296
9,250 TRANSFER - SERVICES/LEGISLATION 1,236
6,000 TRANSFER - YOUTH 84
40 WORKING GROUP - WOMENS CAUCUS 360
551 WORKING GROUP - MAXEQ -
256,953 TOTAL EXPENSES 310,330
$(8,543) PROJECT: EXCESS INCOME/(LOSS) $(37,366)

PROJECT: OUR VISION UPDATE
LESS EXPENSES
3,025 PRINTING AND STATIONERY -
893 PROFESSIONAL FEES -
3,918 TOTAL EXPENSES -
$(3,918) PROJECT: EXCESS INCOME/(LOSS) $ -
$(12,461) GOAL 2: EXCESS INCOME/(LOSS) $(37,366)

GOAL 3: ADVOCACY

PROJECT: TREATY PARTNERSHIP - ADVISORY SUPPORT
INCOME
2,720 DPA ADMINISTRATION (TRANSFER) 2,724
2,720 TOTAL INCOME 2,724

LESS EXPENSES
1,055 TRAVEL AND ACCOMMODATION 300
1,055 TOTAL EXPENSES 300
$1,665 PROJECT: EXCESS INCOME/(LOSS) $2,424
$1,665 GOAL 3: EXCESS INCOME/(LOSS) $2,424

GOAL 4: MONITORING

PROJECT: TREATY PARTNERSHIP - MONITORING
INCOME
1,300 DPA ADMINISTRATION (TRANSFER) 1,296
1,300 TOTAL INCOME 1,296
$1,300 PROJECT: EXCESS INCOME/(LOSS) $1,296

PROJECT: SERVICES/ LEGISLATION
INCOME
9,250 DPA ADMINISTRATION (TRANSFER) 1,236
62,222 DSS DIAS CONTRACT 62,222
71,472 TOTAL INCOME 63,458

LESS EXPENSES
275 ACC PREMIUM LEVY 264
1,600 AUDITORS FEES - SHARE 2,500
27 GENERAL EXPENSES -
5,760 OFFICE ACCOMMODATION 9,096
- POSTAGE AND COURIERS 199
184 PRINTING AND STATIONERY 203
- PROFESSIONAL FEES 2,500
51,448 SALARIES AND WAGES 38,541
1,237 TELECOMMUNICATIONS 1,539
644 TRAVEL AND ACCOMMODATION 1,471
61,175 TOTAL EXPENSES 56,313
$10,297 PROJECT: EXCESS INCOME/(LOSS) $7,145
$11,597 GOAL 4: EXCESS INCOME/(LOSS) $8,441

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT

GOAL 1: LEADERSHIP
(79) PROJECT: NATIONAL HUI -
5,666 PROJECT: INTERNATIONAL (4,940)
(17,032) PROJECT: YOUTH 3,233
(5,900) NATIONAL ASSEMBLY/CONFERENCE (7,528)
(17,345) TOTAL SURPLUS/(LOSS) (9,235)

GOAL 2: INFORMATION AND ADVICE
(8,543) PROJECT: NATIONAL SECRETARIAT (37,366)
(3,918) PROJECT: OUR VISION UPDATE -
(12,461) TOTAL SURPLUS/(LOSS) (37,366)

GOAL 3: ADVOCACY
PROJECT: TREATY PARTNERSHIP -
1,665 ADVISORY SUPPORT 2,424
1,665 TOTAL SURPLUS/(LOSS) 2,424

GOAL 4: MONITORING
PROJECT: TREATY PARTNERSHIP -
1,300 MONITORING 1,296
10,297 PROJECT: SERVICES/LEGISLATION 7,145
11,597 TOTAL SURPLUS/(LOSS) 8,441
$(16,544) NET OVERALL SURPLUS/(LOSS) $(35,736)


Statement of Movement in Equity

For the year ended 30 June 2007
57,534 ACCUMULATED FUNDS AS AT 30 JUNE 2006 40,990
(16,544) NET SURPLUS/(DEFICIT) FOR THE YEAR (35,736)
$40,990 ACCUMULATED FUNDS AS AT 30 JUNE 2007 $5,254


Notes to the Financial Statements

For the year ended 30 June 2007


1. STATEMENT OF ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Reporting Entity
Disabled Persons Assembly (NZ) Inc is a registered incorporated society under the Incorporated Societies Act 1908. These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting practice. The report represents the financial position of DPA national secretariat only. It does not include any financial information relating to the activities of DPA’s Regional Assemblies; Disabled Persons Assembly Foundation or Maxeq Investments Limited.

Measurement Base
The general accounting policies recognised as appropriate for the measurement and reporting of results and financial position, and unless stated, is historic cost.

Specific Accounting Policies

2. ACCUMULATED FUNDS

It has been decided, given DPA’s limited capital, that all accumulated funds be grouped together and disclosed as one balance, rather than separated out into core activities.

3. FIXED ASSET SCHEDULE

The following gives detail of the cost or valuation of assets and depreciation written off to date:
Cost Accum
Depn		 Depn
for year		 Book Value
30/06/07
Computer Equipment 56,519 (47,262) (4,167) 5,090
Furniture & Fittings 20,750 (17,482) (492) 2,776
$77,229 $(64,744) $(4,659) $7,866

Cost Accum
Depn		 Depn
for year		 Book Value
30/06/06
Computer Equipment 54,806 (43,723) (3,539) 7,544
Furniture & Fittings 20,395 (16,481) (1,001) 2,913
$75,201 $(60,204) $(4,540) $10,457

4. CONTINGENT LIABILITIES AND COMMITMENTS

No contingent liabilities or commitments existed at 30th June 2007 (2006   nil).

5. OPERATING LEASES

Rent Lease
The commitment at balance date relating to the rent lease, including Good and Services Tax, for the following five years:
2007/2008 2006/2007
Due in less than 1 year $17,113 $16,610
Due between 2 – 5 years $18.540 $35,653
Due in greater than 5 years - -
Total $35,653 $52,263

This represents Disabled Persons Assembly (NZ) Inc lease commitment on property rental via the FAB Partnership. If any party to that partnership defaulted the level of commitment may be adjusted accordingly.

Motor Vehicle Lease
The commitment at balance date relating to the motor vehicle lease and the insurance for the vehicle, including Goods and Services Tax, for the following five years:
2007/2008 2006/2007
Due in less than 1 year $10,712 $7,516
Due between 2 – 5 years $13,123 -
Due in greater than 5 years - -
Total $23,835 $7,516

6. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

Maxeq Investments Limited is a wholly owned by Disabled Persons Assembly (NZ) Inc. As at balance date Maxeq Investments Limited owed to Disabled Persons Asssembly (NZ) Inc $NIL (2005 $96)