The proposed skill standards for the New Zealand Certificate in Disability Support (Level 3) are now ready for national review and feedback. 

These proposed standards respond to the evolving needs of the disability sector and aim to strengthen the capability and development of the workforce. They focus on foundational areas essential for delivering high-quality, person-directed support to disabled people in Aotearoa 

About the standards 

These standards are primarily knowledge-based, supporting learners to build foundational understanding across a diverse range of support needs. Learners can select the standards most relevant to the people they support, enabling flexibility and relevance in their learning journey. 

The knowledge gained through these standards will underpin effective, respectful, and inclusive disability support practice. They are designed to be integrated into the upcoming New Zealand Certificate in Disability Support (Level 3) and may also be used in other Health and Wellbeing programmes, or grouped into micro-credentials, offering focused pathways to recognise specific areas of disability knowledge and practice. 

3.1 Recognise the lived experiences and support considerations of people with physical disabilities 
3.2 Recognise the lived experiences and support considerations of people with sensory disabilities
3.3 Recognise the lived experiences and support considerations of people with intellectual disabilities
3.4 Recognise the lived experiences and support considerations of people with learning disabilities
3.5 Recognise the lived experiences and support considerations of neurodivergent people
3.6 Apply rights-based and person-directed approaches to support a disabled person 
3.7 Identify the principles and practice of Enabling Good Lives 

These standards have been developed in partnership with the disability community, service providers, and the wider sector. They reflect the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and promote equity, accessibility, and inclusion. This work is part of Toitū te Waiora’s commitment to ensuring vocational qualifications are responsive to the aspirations of disabled people, tāngata whaikaha Māori, and the workforce that supports them. 

We want your feedback

We are seeking feedback from the sector, including disability support workers, employers, disabled people, whānau, and other stakeholders. Your insights will help ensure these standards reflect the diverse needs and values of Aotearoa’s communities. 

Feedback can be provided via the feedback form [here] or alternatively email us at [email protected] 

Please send your feedback by Monday 18 August 2025. 

 To keep-up-to-date with the Disability Support project, visit New qualifications and skill standards in Disability Support – Toitū te Waiora.

Alternate formats 

You can request information from us in your preferred format at: [email protected]  

Alternate formats available:   

• Easy Read  

• New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL)  

• audio  

• large print  

• HTML.  

We will do our best to provide it as quickly as possible, but there may be some delay with accessibility services.