NCWNZ believes that the changes to ACC are in conflict with the governments obligations under CEDAW (Convention of the
Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women).
Women, who are seeking ACC subsidised counselling for experiencing trauma as a result of a sex crime are being
discriminated against through policy that removes access to appropriate assessment and treatment.
“When considering the IPRC Amendment Bill, the scenario is one of ‘damned if you do’ and even ‘more damned if you
don’t’,” says Elizabeth Bang. “The proposed increases in levies for employers, employees and car owners will be
significantly and substantially increased if this legislation does not get accepted by Parliament.”
NCWNZ believes that the community is increasingly concerned that the political agenda is manoeuvring ACC to become a
more saleable commodity. For the last 23 years, NCWNZ has been in opposition to the privatisation of publicly-owned
assets; to date this has included the postal system, the roading system, energy and water systems.
“Groups such as the motorcyclists, the National Foundation for the Deaf, the Mental Health Foundation, NZ Association of
Counsellors, ACC Coalition and many others are all voicing their concerns. But through this diversity of interests, all
share one mutual concern, ACC,” concluded Elizabeth Bang.
ENDS