Valuing access to work: The 2025 update

This report examines the potential macroeconomic benefits of improving employment and educational outcomes for disabled people in New Zealand. 

Commissioned by Whaikaha – the Ministry of Disabled People, the analysis models the impact on GDP of equalising unemployment rates between disabled and non‑disabled people and increasing educational attainment among employed disabled people. Labour market data from 2025 shows significantly lower participation and employment rates for disabled people, alongside an unemployment rate more than twice that of non‑disabled people. 

Modelling indicates that closing this unemployment gap would generate an estimated $578 million increase in GDP in 2025. A second scenario, reflecting improved educational outcomes, would deliver a further $132 million in GDP through higher productivity. 

The findings highlight ongoing structural barriers to participation and underscore the economic and social value of coordinated policies that address educational disparities, improve workplace accessibility, and support more inclusive employment opportunities across New Zealand.

Read the report on Whaikaha - the Ministry of Disabled People's website.