Burnett Foundation Aotearoa is deeply disappointed by the Government's decision to progress the Legislation (Definitions of Woman and Man) Amendment Bill.

If passed, this Bill would introduce narrow legal definitions of "woman" and "man" that risk excluding and harming transgender, non-binary and intersex people in Aotearoa. We believe everyone deserves to be treated with dignity, respect and fairness, and that our laws should reflect and protect the diversity of our communities.

We have made a submission opposing this Bill. Now, we're encouraging our communities and allies to have their say too.

Submissions are one of the most important ways New Zealanders can participate in our democracy. Whether you have lived experience, work alongside rainbow communities, or simply believe in inclusion and fairness, your voice matters.

How to make a submission

You don't need to be an expert or write a long document. The most effective submissions are often personal, honest and grounded in your own experiences and values.

1. Read about the Bill

• Legislation (Definitions of Woman and Man) Amendment Bill
• Legislation Act 2019 (the Act being amended)

2. Use a guide to help write your submission

ActionPoint has developed a helpful guide.

3. Write your submission

You may wish to include:

• Why you oppose the Bill.
• How the proposed definitions could impact transgender, non-binary and intersex people.
• Why inclusion, dignity and safety matter to you.
• Any personal or professional experiences that shape your perspective.
• Recommendations for what Parliament should do instead.

Example introduction

Dear Justice Select Committee,

I believe this Amendment Bill should not be passed because it will cause significant harm to transgender, non-binary and intersex people across Aotearoa New Zealand. It reduces complex human identities to narrow legal definitions and risks increasing exclusion and discrimination.

I strongly oppose the proposed legislation and urge the Committee to recommend that the Bill not proceed.

Points you may wish to raise

The Bill:

• Is discriminatory and transphobic.
• Harms, marginalises and stigmatises already vulnerable communities.
• Does not improve the lives of New Zealanders.
• Creates confusion and uncertainty across other areas of legislation.
• Fails to support social cohesion, inclusion and wellbeing.

You may also wish to respond to the Bill's stated purpose and explain why you disagree with its rationale or believe its purpose is unclear.

Recommendations you could include

• Reject the Legislation (Definitions of Woman and Man) Amendment Bill.
• Prioritise policies and legislation that promote inclusion, safety, dignity and equitable health outcomes.
• Engage meaningfully with affected communities before proposing legislation.
• Continue investing in initiatives that reduce discrimination and strengthen social cohesion.

4. Submit to Parliament