Submissions

To: Economic Development, Science and Innovation Committee
Date: September 2024

Purpose

This submission’s purpose is to express support for this legislation, which aims to empower consumers, including disabled individuals, by granting them access to their data and facilitating easier switching between service providers to save money. DPA also seeks to raise critical points and recommend amendments concerning the accessibility of data, protection against irresponsible lending, the recognition of Māori data sovereignty, and the persistent issue of the digital divide impacting disabled people.

Summary of DPA submission

DPA is pleased that the Customer and Product Data Bill has been introduced, as it will give all consumers, including disabled consumers, the right to access data held on them by companies. This legislation will enable easier switching, particularly between banks and power companies, helping to reduce charges and save money for disabled people who often live on low and/or fixed incomes. DPA supports the passing of the Customer and Product Data Bill with amendments. DPA also supports the recognition of Māori data sovereignty with respect to Te Tiriti o Waitangi, believing it would benefit tāngata whaikaha Māori in accessing relevant digital information about themselves and their whānau.

However, DPA flags the digital divide that exists between disabled and non-disabled people, noting that the disabled community continues to experience a reduced ability to engage with digital and online services. DPA also raises concerns about the potential for irresponsible lending and other unethical behaviours once consumers have digital data rights. DPA stresses the need for robust safeguards to protect all consumers from being treated merely as business products, and to prevent people from falling into debt they cannot repay.

Key Recommendation:

DPA recommends that the need for data to be made available in accessible formats is laid out in any regulations/standards made under the Act.

Supporting Statement 1:

This includes providing data in electronic formats that support screen readers for blind and low vision people, Easy Read/Plain English for people with learning disabilities, Large Print for low vision users, and New Zealand Sign Language.

Supporting Statement 2:

The disabled community continues to experience a reduced ability to engage with digital and online services compared to non-disabled people, highlighting the necessity for accessible formats.