Petition request

That the House of Representatives urge the Government to ensure eligibility for the Community Services Card, Disability Allowance, and Supported Living Payment is assessed individually, regardless of partner income, for New Zealanders living with permanent disabilities and chronic illnesses.

Petition reason

I think there is a tax/welfare inconsistency: we're taxed as individuals, yet support is jointly assessed. I feel denying a Community Services Card may force disabled people into costly acute care, and that keeping them "off-the-books" hides the scale of poverty, & that people using their retirement funds to survive will create future state liability. I see the 12-GP-visit requirement for the High Use Health Card as an unaffordable paywall. I think one’s partner shouldn't be a welfare solution.

Petition progress

  • Open for signatures
  • Closed for signatures
  • Select Committee
  • Reported
  • Referred to Minister
Number of signatures: 6504
Date presented: 06 Jul 2026
Considered by: Social Services and Community
Presenting member: Menéndez March, Ricardo
Closing date: 30 Jun 2026