You don’t need to be an expert or a politician to influence laws in Aotearoa.
Making a submission is one of the clearest, most direct ways to speak up about legislation that affects you, your whānau, and your hauora.
What is a submission?
A submission is your chance to tell the Government what you think about a proposed law – whether it’s a brand-new law or a change to an existing one.
Share your views in writing – a short statement, a letter, or a detailed document.
Ask to speak to the select committee in person or online and explain your views directly.
Submissions help select committees – small groups of MPs – understand public opinion. They don’t vote on the final law, but their recommendations can strongly shape what a bill looks like.
How it works: step-by-step
- Bill introduced and first reading
A bill is introduced and has its first reading in Parliament. If it passes, it's sent to a select committee that focuses on that topic, such as justice, health, or the environment.
Example: A Treaty Principles Bill might go to the Justice Committee. A Fast-Track Bill might go to the Environment Committee.
- Public submissions open
This is your chance to have your say. You can submit online in English or te reo Māori. Tamariki can submit too, with support.
- Expert advice is gathered
Government departments provide advice to help the committee understand the potential impacts of the bill.
- The committee reviews submissions
Clerks and advisers summarise submissions and highlight key themes. Most MPs won't read every submission themselves, but the main points are captured in a report.
- A report is published
The committee's report includes what they heard from the public and what changes they recommend for the bill.
- Parliament holds a second reading
MPs debate the bill again, using the report as a guide, and vote on whether it should continue.
- More changes can still happen
Even after this stage, significant changes can still be made. Persistent public pressure can keep shaping the bill.
Why submissions matter
Submissions can genuinely shift the course of legislation – especially when they show:
Stories from whānau and communities show how a bill will affect people's everyday lives.
Submissions can highlight impacts on Māori rights, te Tiriti, and hauora that might otherwise be missed.
Template submissions show how widespread concern is. Personal kōrero often leave the deepest impression.
Your voice counts
Democracy doesn’t stop at the ballot box. Submissions help keep decision-makers accountable all year round. If you care about Māori rights, te Tiriti, health, housing, the environment, or the future of Aotearoa – this is one way to speak up.
Visit parliament.nz/en/pb/sc/make-a-submission to see open bills and send in your thoughts.
Don’t leave it to politicians alone. Speak up. Submit. Help shape a future that reflects us, protects our whenua, and uplifts our whānau.
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