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Unlock the power of inclusivity and discover the potential of the disabled workforce.

Let’s level up

Let’s level up

Realising the potential of disabled workers in construction, infrastructure, manufacturing, engineering, and logistics.

This groundbreaking research reveals the hidden potential of Aotearoa New Zealand’s disabled workforce. Commissioned from All is for All by Waihanga Ara Rau and Hanga-Aro-Rau, Let’s level up delivers crucial insights for employers looking to boost productivity and foster inclusivity in the construction, infrastructure, manufacturing, engineering, and logistics sectors. By addressing the challenges and identifying opportunities to support disabled workers, the report empowers businesses to attract and retain untapped talent. Implementing these findings will not only close skill gaps but also create a more innovative, engaged, and diverse workforce.

Developed through a collaborative effort of industry leaders, disabled workers, and experts, this research is a comprehensive guide to building a more equitable workplace. It offers clear, actionable steps to break down barriers and unlock the full potential of disabled people in Aotearoa New Zealand.

“It is about seeing the potential of disabled people, and we are not doing this routinely in Aotearoa, New Zealand.” - Employer

“This report and the research behind it is so important because it was led by disabled people. It helps us to understand the barriers that prevent the full realisation of our right to work on an equal basis with others in open, inclusive and accessible work environments.”

- Prudence Walker, Disability Rights Commissioner, Te Kāhui Tika Tangata Human Rights Commission.

“These reports serve as powerful tools for analysing current social realities faced by disabled people in accessing meaningful workforce opportunities. By drawing on lived expertise, they help address entrenched workforce inequities for disabled individuals, including tāngata whaikaha Māori. Additionally, they contribute to shaping the discourse on the future of work and industry.”

- Tracey McIntosh, Professor in Indigenous Studies, Wānanga o Waipapa | Faculty of Arts University of Auckland, Chief Science Advisor, Ministry of Social Development.

“Recent changes to disability funding will be positive if they align with the direction indicated by this report. The needs and aspirations of people with disabilities are diverse, and the supports that significantly impact their lives can’t be predetermined by policy. The disability workforce recognises this, and the report outlines how to help them become more responsive, skilled, and aspirational.”

- The Rt. Hon Sir Bill English, KNZM.

“It’s vital to have industry-specific research into disabled people’s employment in New Zealand. The more we know about what helps, or hinders, disabled people to get into all types of work, the better we know what to do to change attitudes and remove barriers. This report illustrates the role employers can play and the kind of systems we need for disabled people to have the chance to contribute in such key industries as construction, infrastructure, manufacturing, engineering and logistics.”

- Paula Tesoriero, Chief Executive, Whaikaha Ministry of Disabled People.

Download the full report now, and lead your industry into a more productive and inclusive future

Download the key findings Get the industry takeout Full report coming soon!