Help us to shape change – we are advocating for caregivers to have access to legal aid
Make your voice heard – submissions close on 1 August 2025
Right now, the New Zealand government is reviewing the legal aid system – it’s time to have your say!
We often hear from caregivers – whether grandparents, extended whānau, or non-family members – who have taken on the care of a child informally, without any legal guidance or financial support. They are left to navigate complex and costly legal processes on their own, just to secure guardianship and ensure the child’s safety.
We need a fairer, more supportive legal aid system for those stepping up to care for tamariki. Decision makers need to hear from us now.
To make this quick and easy for you, we’ve created a ready-to-use script.
You can copy, or adapt it for your submission, adding your personal experience. It highlights why access to legal aid matters so much for non-statutory caregivers, in particular. The more caregivers who speak up, the stronger our message: we need a fairer, more supportive legal aid system for those stepping up to care for tamariki.
Click here to make your submission
- Fill out the “Personal Details” section.
- Complete Part 1: Overarching Questions only.
- Use our caregiver script to guide your answers.
- Submit!
Click the button below to download, use or adapt our caregiver script.