Petition request

That the House of Representatives urge the Government to enter into negotiations with journal publishers to broaden access to academic journals.

Petition reason

I consider that most New Zealanders would like to see the country become more knowledge-based, and that restricted access to scientific and professional research is a barrier to this aim. I feel NZ’s well-educated workforce cannot keep up to date as research is now published electronically and not widely accessible in libraries. I feel universities alone cannot provide full journal access to alumni and graduates, and that the Government should negotiate with journal publishers to broaden access.

Petition progress

  • Open for signatures
  • Closed for signatures
  • Select Committee
  • Reported
  • Referred to Minister
Number of signatures: 174
Date presented: 29 Jul 2025
Considered by: Petitions
Presenting member: Dr Vanessa Weenink
Closing date: 10 Jul 2025