The NZSL Strategy 2026-2036 reflects the voices, priorities and aspirations of the Aotearoa New Zealand Deaf and NZSL communities. This action plan is the start of bringing the strategy to life.
Progress relies on government agencies, organisations, educators, the Deaf community, and NZSL users working together.
We look forward to the public sector actively planning for NZSL. This will be a cultural shift that makes a major improvement to the lives of Deaf people and NZSL users.
A strong Deaf and NZSL workforce is essential to supporting Deaf communities and the acquisition, promotion, and maintenance of NZSL. The NZSL Board will start a work programme that focuses on supporting the development of workforce skills and capacity, with a focus on addressing widely recognised issues. A comprehensive workforce strategy will also be developed as well as continuing to progress NZSL interpreter standards.
The board will be checking progress, so we learn from what is working – and what is not. This is the start of a journey for our vison of everyone being aware of, using and accepting NZSL – ‘everyone, everywhere, every day.'
Catherine Greenwood
Chair
