A strategy addressing barriers to inclusion for people living with disability in Lake Macquarie was recommended for public exhibition at tonight's Council meeting.
The draft Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) 2026-2030 is a four-year strategic direction outlining how Council can improve access, participation and inclusion for people with disability across Council services, infrastructure, employment and decision-making.
With about 15,388 people (7.27% of total population) in Lake Macquarie requiring assistance with core activities, well above the NSW average (5.75%), Mayor Adam Shultz said disability inclusion was a significant and growing issue for Lake Macquarie.
"This draft Disability Inclusion Action Plan is about building a safer, more inclusive community where people living with disability, as well as their families and carers, can fully participate in community life," he said.
"It sets a clear direction for how Council will continue to improve access and inclusion across Lake Macquarie, while ensuring our services are accessible to everyone.
"A key focus of this plan is recognising the importance of lived experience in shaping programs, services and infrastructure so they truly reflect the needs of people living with disability."
The plan meets legislative requirements of the Disability Inclusion Act 2014 and was developed in line with the NSW Disability Inclusion Action Planning Guidelines.
In other agenda items, councillors recommended 15 projects for financial support under two funding programs.
Five community projects were recommended for a total of $20,115 in funding under the Community Environment Grants program, while 10 events were earmarked for support under the Events Funding Program to the tune of $47,000.
The full agenda and reports are available at meeting agendas and minutes.
The stream of tonight's meeting will be available online at lakemac.com.au within 48 hours.
