The 2023 General Election will be on Saturday October 14.
The Election Access Fund Te Tomokanga — Pūtea Whakatapoko Pōtitanga supports disabled people who wish to stand as candidates in parliamentary general elections and by-elections – including this year’s election.
The purpose of the Election Access Fund (the Fund) is to reduce the cost barriers disabled people face by covering disability-related costs.
The Fund covers both those seeking selection to be a candidate, and those campaigning as a candidate.
The Electoral Commission is responsible for running the Fund, and it has been accepting applications since 31 October 2022.
The Commission designed the Fund in consultation with disabled people, disabled people’s organisations, political parties, and other interested people and groups.
An independent panel assesses applications, and a dedicated team is available to answer any queries.
If you are interested in applying to the Election Access Fund or want to know more, please visit this page: Election Access Fund | Elections or call 0800 23 76 56.
All information about the Election Access Fund, including in alternate formats, can be found here: Application guidelines in alternate formats | Elections
Nominations for candidates standing in this year’s General Election close at noon, Friday 15 September.
You can find information about becoming a candidate in a General Election on the Electoral Commission’s website here: Becoming a candidate in a general election