We heard from hundreds of local voices about how we can ensure Wollongong grows as an inclusive city and be a better place for people with disability.
This feedback helped shape the draft Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) 2026 – 2030, and on Monday night (20 April), it was endorsed to go on public exhibition. This will give residents an opportunity to do a review and share their thoughts before Council finalises the Plan.
"From the very start of the planning process, people with lived experience of disability have been at the forefront," Lord Mayor of Wollongong Councillor Tania Brown said.
"Through every story, reflection and aspiration shared, we gained honest insights into what it means to live in Wollongong with disability. Our community shared what is currently working well in our city, their priorities and where there are opportunities to improve.
"They also shared what the barriers are for accessibility and inclusion, reminding us that they're not all physical barriers, but are also in attitudes, communication, connection and representation.
"It's important that the plan reflects the real needs and wants of our community, and through these discussions, we're pleased to present a plan that can do this."
The draft Plan will guide Council's work in the next four years. It sets out actions that are focussed on improving experiences for people with disability and supporting equitable access to Council information, services, facilities and public spaces. It also supports broader community benefit, including older people, parents with young children and people with temporary or chronic illness.
This work is addressed in four mandated focus areas:
- Creating liveable communities: liveable communities are places people can move about easily to access services and facilities and participate in community life.
- Promoting positive community attitudes and behaviours: people's attitudes influence every part of community life. When communities are supportive and welcoming for people with disability, it helps everyone feel included and able to take part.
- Supporting access to meaningful employment: having a job can help people feel good about themselves and stay connected with others. Earning an income also helps people feel more secure. Work can give people more choice and control over the decisions they make in their lives.
- Improving access to Council's systems and processes: easy to use systems, clear information and different ways to communicate help remove barriers. They make it easier for people to take part in the community and live independently.
"I'd like to give a sincere thank you to every voice that we heard from. Whether it was at a workshop, information stall, meeting or survey, it makes an impact," Cr Brown said.
"Let's continue these conversations. Please have a read over the draft plan and let us know if this is the right roadmap for Wollongong."
The draft Plan has been developed based on research findings, a review of progress against the DIAP 2020–2025 and the outcomes of a comprehensive engagement strategy. A dedicated Disability Inclusion Action Plan Community Advisory Group, made up of eight members, was also established to guide the development of the Plan.
The Plan recognises that one in five Australians have a disability, with 7% of people in Wollongong needing assistance due to severe or profound disability.
Wollongong City Council General Manager Greg Doyle said that Council is committed to building on the work from the two previous DIAP to support people with disability, their families and carers.
"We have made great progress since our first plan in 2016. There are many changes that are now part of our everyday work, and we have completed projects that have made a positive impact on the liveability of our city," he said.
"It shows that this is not a set and forget document. We're committed in delivering these improvements and initiatives and raising the standard of our services.
"Thank you to everyone that shared their personal experiences with us, it strengthens what we do here. This includes our staff whose input ensures that we instil an inclusive workplace culture.
"Supporting the inclusion of people with disability is key to creating an extraordinary Wollongong – but we know we can't do this alone. We all can contribute to making our city an inclusive place that is built on community and understanding."
Engagement is open from Tuesday 22 April until Wednesday 20 May 2026. Information will be available on the Our Wollongong website and at Council libraries.
Community are invited to read the draft Plan and provide feedback in the following ways:
- Complete the online survey at our.wollongong.nsw.gov.au/diap
- Attend the online information session on Tues 28 April 5.30pm. Please register for this session at our.wollongong.nsw.gov.au/diap and a Teams meeting link will be emailed to the registrant.
