There are six main steps in the application process
Step 1 - Check you are eligible
Check you meet the eligibility criteria in the Who can apply section.
Step 2 - Collect the documents you need to support your application
Before you complete your application, you will need to:
- have your best estimates or get quotes for the equipment, services and supports you are applying to have funded
- read the Budget guidelines and fill in the Budget template. We recommend using the Word or Excel budget form if you are using a screen reader
- send us a copy of either an email or letter to your party secretary saying that you are seeking selection, or your public announcement that you are standing as a candidate, if you are applying for funding for selection activities
- send us evidence of your intention to stand as candidate if you are applying for funding for election activities. This could include a copy of an email or letter to your party, or a copy of your public announcement stating you are standing as candidate.
Step 3 - Apply
You can fill out an application form and email or post it back to us.
Find out more about our application form and guidelines (Link to the application form page)
You can also email the Election Access Fund team at electionaccessfund@elections.govt.nz, or phone us on 0800 36 76 56 to say you want to apply.
If you call or email us, we will send you an application pack and ask if you need any help to put your application together.
If you want to meet with a member of our team, we can meet with you online using Zoom or Microsoft Teams, or by phone. Please let us know:
- what you would like help with
- if a support person, family or whānau member(s) will attend the meeting with you
- if you have any disability-related needs for the meeting - we may be able to arrange and pay for these
- if you have any cultural needs
- if you would like us to contact your political party to seek information about party activities.
Step 4 - Receive funding decision
Your application will be considered by the Applications Panel (the Panel). The Panel has community members on it with lived experience of disability and election experience. Their job is to advise whether they think applications meet the criteria and if costs are fair and reasonable.
To protect your privacy your personal details will be removed before your application goes to the panel.
We will inform you about the outcome of your application usually within two weeks. We will contact you if there are any delays.
If we cannot approve your application, we will contact you to explain why and how to appeal our decision.
Step 5 - Receive and sign formal agreement
If your application is approved, we will prepare a written agreement between you and the Electoral Commission. This will state the amount to be paid, what it is to be used for, and how it will be paid. It will also outline reporting requirements and dates.
This will need to be signed by you and the Electoral Commission.
Step 6 - Receive payment and prepare reporting
We pay you the agreed amount.
You organise the equipment, supports or services you need and pay for them.
Keep a record and collect proof of your spending (for example, receipts and tickets).
We will send you a simple report template for you to complete and return by the due dates in your agreement with your proof of spending.
When your selection or campaign activities are finished, or you are no longer a candidate, you will need to pay back any funding that has not been used.