Background reading · English

Having your say: how submissions work

Councils and Parliament ask the public what they think before many decisions. Here's how a submission works and what makes one count.

Before many laws and local decisions are made in Aotearoa, the people in charge ask the public for their views. The written response is called a submission. You don't have to be an adult or a voter to make one.

Two places your submission can go

Council consultations: city and district councils ask for feedback on things like speed limits, parks, rubbish collection and their long-term plan. Look for 'Have your say' on your council's website.

Select committees: small groups of MPs study each bill (a proposed law) and call for public submissions. Anyone can write in, in English or te reo Māori, and many submitters also ask to speak to the committee in person or by video.

What makes a submission count

Say clearly whether you support or oppose the proposal, or which parts.

Give your reasons, each with evidence: data, examples or your own experience.

Explain how it affects you and people like you. Decision-makers hear from lots of adults; the view of an 11- or 12-year-old who walks that road every day is rare and useful.

Make a specific recommendation: what exactly should they change?

Keep it clear and polite, even when you strongly disagree.

Children's voices matter

The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, which New Zealand has signed, says children have the right to express their views on matters that affect them, and to have those views taken seriously. Mana Mokopuna, the Children and Young People's Commission, works to make that happen in Aotearoa.

Before you send

Submissions are often published with the submitter's name. Talk with your teacher and whānau about submitting as a class, as a school group, or with your first name only.

Sources and further reading

Written for Kōkiri Learn students in our own words. Check facts against the sources.

Used in: Crafting the Argument