Legal Responsibilities of Voluntary Organisations in New Zealand

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This information also appears as Brochure 3. Download a PDF copy (160kb).

Obligations regarding human rights

Human rights laws apply both to your staff and to those who use your services. They cover employment, use of places (including accommodation), access to educational services, and the provision of goods and services.

In addition, organisations that provide health services or work with people with disabilities must comply with the Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers’ Rights and the Health and Disabilities Services (Safety) Act 2001.

Answer the following questions to find out if your organisation meets or could meet the requirements for a trust or charitable trust board. If you answer any of the questions with “No” or “Unsure”, make it a priority to find out the relevant information as soon as possible.

Yes Unsure
/No
Are you and your staff aware of the prohibited grounds of discrimination in the following areas?

  • employment
  • access to places, vehicles and facilities
  • provision of goods and services
  • land, housing and other accommodation
  • educational establishments

Learn more: Human rights and discrimination
Do your policies state your obligations not to discriminate on these grounds?

  • gender
  • marital or family status
  • religious or ethical belief
  • colour, race, or ethnic or national origin
  • physical or mental disability
  • age
  • political opinion
  • employment status
  • sexual orientation

Learn more: Human rights and discrimination
If applicable, does your organisation comply with the Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers’ Rights?

Learn more: Human rights and discrimination
Do you have policies and procedures to facilitate the fair and efficient resolution of complaints?

Learn more: Human rights and discrimination

Remember to print this checklist out once you’ve completed it.