We're updating our Disability Inclusion Action Plan and that's why we're checking in with the community to make sure we're on track with plans to make our City more accessible and inclusive.
A Disability Inclusion Action Plan provides Council with a framework to guide us in creating a more inclusive and accessible place to live. Its purpose is to ensure we're supporting people with disability to be involved in community life.
Our initial Plan was developed in 2016 and it identified four areas - attitudes and behaviour, liveable communities, meaningful employment, and systems and processes - where we could break down the barriers which prevent people with disability from enjoying the same opportunities and choices as everyone else.
"We're very focused on providing the best for our whole community and ensuring people can participate in opportunities equally,'' Wollongong Lord Mayor Councillor Gordon Bradbery AM said.
"For instance, we've improved accessibility at our ever-popular community celebrations for New Year's Eve and Australia Day by having a dedicated area that allows people with disability, along with their families and carers a space to watch the fireworks.
"However, we didn't just stop at a dedicated space, we also set up a drop-off and pick-up zone which makes it easier for people with disability to navigate transport and the crowds our celebrations attract.''
It's not just the big events that have a renewed accessibility focus, either. Connectivity around the City and within parks and playgrounds has also been improved under the existing plan.
"We've celebrated a number of achievements as a result of the framework and focus the Disability Inclusion Action Plan has provided," Cr Bradbery said.
"For example, we've written a Beach and Foreshore Access Strategy that's looking at meaningful and practical ways we can make enjoying our beaches easier for everyone. We've also built new accessible cabins at our tourist parks and seen Corrimal Library recognised as an Autism Friendly space.
"These are just a few examples of the steps we've taken in three short years. And, believe me when I say, these steps can make a big difference to those living with disability, their families, carers and their friends.''
With one in five people in Australia living with some form of disability we're looking to hear from as many people as possible about their experiences using Council services, facilities and activities.
"It's important this Plan reflects our community's needs and expectations and that's why we're seeking feedback from people with disability along with their family members, carers and friends,'' Cr Bradbery said.
"We want to do our best for disability inclusion in the range of responsibilities and opportunities that we have. We can't do everything and meet all expectations because there are other levels of government involved, but what we do should be targeted for the best outcome for those with disabilities. This is where we need help and feedback.
"The more people who can tell us about their experiences - good and bad - the better this updated Plan will be and we'll be able to ensure our strategic direction focuses on the best options for services, facilities, activities and information.''
Feedback can be provided through a survey that's open until 26 August. It's available online through Council's website, in hard copy through Council's libraries. People can also register their interest to participate in a community workshop that'll be held later in the year by calling Customer Service (02) 4227 7111.
