sign in sign up
<<
Home , Athenium Theatre, Ballina Shire, Balranald Shire, Bangalow, Bayside Council, Bega Valley Shire

DISABILITY INCLUSION ACTION PLANS

NSW Local Councils 2018-2019

1 ACTION PLAN 2020-2022 2 Inclusion Planningmailbox. the Communities andJustice Disability progress updates provided directly via or from theattached DIAP, orfrom either inthebodyof AnnualReport extracted from Council AnnualReports, Council progress updates have been Council Burwood Council Broken HillCityCouncil Council Council Council Blue MountainsCityCouncil Council Council Blacktown CityCouncil Council Council Council Bathurst Regional Council Shire Council Council Armidale Regional Council CityCouncil Contents Council Federation Council Council Edward Council Council Regional Council Cumberland Council Shire Council Regional Council - Council Council Coffs HarbourCityCouncil Council Cessnock CityCouncil Central DarlingCouncil Central Coast Council Shire Council (City ofCanadaBay) Council Canterbury-Bankstown Council Campbelltown CityCouncil Camden Council Cabonne Shire Council

26 23 22 22 21 21 1 17 16 16 15 14 12 1 9 9 8 6 6 47 47 46 44 44 44 43 42 4 40 39 38 37 36 34 33 32 32 31 31 30 29 28 28 9 1 1 Council 49 Council 104 Council 51 104 Glenn Innes Severn Shire Council 52 Orange City Council 104 Goulburn Mulwaree Council 53 Council 106 Greater Shire Council 53 Council 1 () 107 Griffith City Council 53 Penrith City Council 108 Shire Council 54 – Hasting Council 110 Council 57 110 Hawkesbury City Council 58 -Palerang Council 58 Regional Council 111 60 Randwick City Council 111 Hornsby Council (The Council 113 of the Shire of Hornsby) 61 Council 114 Hunters Hill Council (The Council of the of Hunters Hill) 63 Council 114 Council 65 Shellharbour City Council 116 Shire Council 67 Shoalhaven City Council 116 Shire Council 70 117 Council 70 Snowy Monaro Regional Council 118 Kiama Council 71 118 Kur-ring-gai Council 72 Strathfield Municipal Council 120 Council 74 Council 121 Council 76 Council (Council of the ) 122 Lake Macquarie City Council 76 Tamworth Regional Council 123 Lane Cove Municipal Council 77 Council 123 Council 78 Council 124 Lismore City Council 79 Council 127 Lithgow City Council 79 Council 128 Liverpool City Council 80 Council 129 Shire Council 82 Council 131 Council 83 City Council 131 Maitland City Council 83 Walcha Council 133 Mid Coast Council 87 Council 134 Mid-Western Regional Council 91 Council 134 Council 91 Council 135 Mosman Municipal Council 92 135 Council 92 Council 139 96 Wentworth Council 140 Council 96 Willoughby City Council 140 Nambucca Shire Council 97 Council 143 Shire Council 99 Council 144 Shire Council 100 City Council 145 Council 100 Woollahra Municipal Council 147 Newcastle City Council 101 147 103

3 4 The NSW Government’s commitment to inclusion is reflected in the Disability Inclusion Act 2014, NSW Disability Inclusion Plan and Disability Inclusion Action Plans. CONTEXT

The NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014

The NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014 replaced the Disability Services Act 1993. The change marks an important cognitive shift, from governments simply providing services toward taking action to include people with disabilities in our communities. The Disability Inclusion Act takes a human rights-based approach to disability inclusion based on the principals of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. It aims to promote the social and economic inclusion of people with disability, provide choice and control, and implement safeguards. It also provides a set of processes for the stewardship of disability services as the NDIS is implemented in NSW.

The NSW Disability Inclusion Plan

The NSW Disability Inclusion Plan (“NSW DIP”) is the NSW Government’s guiding document for building inclusion for people with disability in NSW. The NSW DIP provides a set of goals under four priorities, which were developed in consultation with relevant communities: • Priority 1: Developing positive community attitudes and behaviours. • Priority 2: Creating liveable communities. • Priority 3: Supporting access to meaningful employment. • Priority 4: Improving access to mainstream services through better systems and processes.

Local Disability Inclusion Action Plans (DIAPs)

The NSW DIP is operationalised through the development of Disability Inclusion Action Plans (DIAPs). Disability Inclusion Action Plans provide a public statement of the commitment to accessibility and inclusion among public authorities and put the principles of the NSW Disability Inclusion Act into practice. These plans build disability inclusion into day-to-day operations across state and local government.

5 Albury City Council Armidale Regional Council

The Disability Inclusion Act 2014 (DIA) Building positive attitudes demonstrates the ongoing commitment of the NSW Government to building an Lead a social reform agenda to enhance inclusive community and requires the social integration of people living with government to produce a Disability Inclusion disabilities and continue to remove barriers Plan. The NSW Disability Inclusion Plan preventing them from fully participating in supports the DIA and provides a strategy community life. to implement the Act’s objectives and principles across government and the community”. Armidale Regional Council has adopted a set of values across the organisation that “Disability Inclusion Action Plans also promote the principles of inclusion for all mandated by the DIA, play a critical role in the community. These are Wellbeing, in promoting the ethos of inclusion and Achievement, Agile, Resilient, Limitless and provide the practical measures by which Unity. intent is transformed into action by agencies and local government. Action Plans will Increase staff awareness of disability issues outline the practical steps NSW Government in order to provide responsive services for agencies will put in place to break down customers with a disability. barriers and promote access to services, During the past 12-24 months, staff have information and employment and promote been required to attend training based on the rights of people with disability”. (NSW appropriate code of conduct which includes DIAP Guidelines) best-practice processes for engagement with Under the requirements of the NSW people from across the community. In addition, Disability Inclusion Act 2014, Albury City has all staff are required to undertake the LGNSW completed the following: online code of conduct training modules. • Council staff continued to participate in Frontline staff are peer trained within their the Access Committee meetings and its departments on appropriate engagement activities. There is ongoing participation and interactions with people with disabilities. in the Capability Network meetings In the central administration library and which are held bi-monthly for Albury, primary library, customer service desks Wodonga and surrounds. are designed with wheelchair-appropriate • The Albury Access Committee has heights. continued the collaboration with the Continue to support the Access Advisory Access and Advisory Committee (AAC) and their advocacy role. Committee. An end-of-year function is planned as part of the International Day The Access Advisory Committee was of Disability. absorbed into a greater committee looking holistically at issues within the community. In addition to this, two joint meetings of the This committee, the Community Wellbeing Albury Access and City of Wodonga Access Advisory Committee, reports directly to and Advisory committee took place during Council on all issues of wellbeing impacting the year. residents within the Council’s LGA. In late 2019, it was identified with the revision and redevelopment of the DIAP in 2020 that a working party focusing on issues of disability should be established. This was endorsed at the November ARC meeting and the Council is currently recruiting members interested in assisting with issues of access. Create community awareness around the needs and issues facing people living with disability.

6 in conjunction with it’s restructure. All positions advertised include elements of ARC is an advocate for inclusion of people inclusion and diversity, as do our interview with disabilities. The Council ensures panel questions. events planned by staff actively engage A the community to provide awareness ARC has a zero-tolerance on discrimination of appropriate access. ARC also hosts a and has set policies and procedures for webpage that provides specific information investigating and dealing with breaches of for people living with disabilities including conduct. the DIAP, a list of accessible accommodation and a mobility map. Audit Council’s capacity to support a diverse workforce. Creating liveable communities The People and Culture department has recently audited internal processes and Continuously upgrade Council assets to procedures in line with social justice meet the requirements of the Disability principles. Discrimination Act. ‘ARC, through the facilities management Improving access to services through team, constantly monitor assets to ensure better systems and processes any accessibility issues are rectified. For example, Nicoli House in Guyra, which hosts Ensure all promotions and the website are a number of community programs and accessible. events, is in the process of having their rear ARC has reviewed and revised its online access rebuilt into an accessible ramp. content and presence and developed a ARC is also working with State Rail to uniform means of creating online content to improve access to the rail station in ensure that all materials are accessible. Armidale. A further planning meeting ARC has a policy of responding to enquiries is scheduled in January 2020 to further and complaints within a ten day period. Any consider upgrades. feedback from community around issues of Ensure community programs and events are access are dealt with within those parameters. inclusive and accessible. Members of the Community Wellbeing Advisory Committee are charged with the Through the various departments of Council, task of gathering feedback from community such as events management, community members to raise issues and concerns at the services and the executive office, all committee level, and any recommendations reasonable steps are taken to ensure that are fed to Council for decision. events are accessible to all members of the public. This includes selection of locations As mentioned earlier, a working party with adequate accessible infrastructure such was endorsed to be established in late as bathrooms and parking. 2019 and advertising for members will commenced in January 2020. The creation Be a strong advocate for people living with of a new DIAP from 2020 will link directly disabilities. to the Community Strategy plan and seek comment and direct consultation in the The Community Wellbeing Advisory community around issues of access and Committee provides a strong conduit disability. for information to and from Council and community on issues of access. Supporting access to meaningful employment

Develop employment and volunteering opportunities for people living with disability.

ARC has a robust process for recruitment and selection that has been developed and improved over the last four years

7 Ballina Shire Council • Council is continuing the process of expanding the shared pathway network. Council’s Disability Inclusion Action Plan • Ongoing audits of pathways. (DIAP) has been prepared to meet the requirements of the NSW Disability Inclusion • Redevelopment of Shaw’s Bay included Act 2014. The DIAP has been developed accessible features such as accessible by listening to people with disabilities and seating areas, drinking fountains, access their families and carers, as well as local ramp into the water and extended organisations that work with people with pathway. disabilities. Creating liveable communities A Disability Access Reference Group has also operated in Ballina Shire Council • Continue to support the employment for over 20 years. The group includes of the individuals with low to medium individuals with a range of abilities and lived physical and intellectual disabilities experiences that provide Council with advice within Council’s Open Spaces section on development applications, proposed redevelopments and a broad range of access • Gain accreditation as an employment and inclusion issues. provider under the NDIS Council has undertaken a range of projects • Recruitment methods provide people and implemented actions that directly with a disability the opportunity to support the needs of people with disability. apply for positions with Council. The aim is to ensure access and inclusion are key considerations across all areas of the Improving access to services through Council’s services. better systems and processes Recent projects delivered under the four key • Planning for new website to ensure it is areas as identified by the NSW Government compliant with WCAG 2.0 AA. and in Council’s DIAP include: • Auslan interpreter at Council meetings Building positive community and community consultations as attitudes and behaviours requested. • Council information and brochure • Access Reference Group meets Bi- stands accessible to people who use monthly and provides advice to Council mobility aids. on disability access issues. • Council design engineers are • Members of Access Reference Group incorporating accessible design features recognised at the annual Volunteer into public space designs. Recognition Morning Tea. Creating liveable communities

• Installed accessible transfer hoist at Ballina War Memorial pool. • MLAK keys given to residents free of charge. • Accessible toilets remain unlocked throughout the day, access afterhours via use of MLAK. • Maintains network of accessible toilets. • Installed push button door openers for the accessible toilets at Ballina Airport and Ballina Indoor Sports Centre.

8 Council Bathurst Regional Council

The Balranald Shire Council has a number of Council has developed its first Disability ongoing objectives in relation to improving Inclusion Action Plan 2017-2021 (DIAP). B access and inclusion for people with Actions identified in the plan have ensured disabilities within the shire. These include: that Council will assist in making Bathurst a more welcoming and accessible region, • Review the number of Disabled Parks in provide a framework for the four-year delivery Balranald Shire and providing additional program, to progress aims, objectives and bays where required. A review has been support People with Disability. completed for Market Street Balranald as part of the revitalisation works, The Disability Inclusion Action Plan 2017- however a Shire-wide review is still in 2021 (DIAP) was adopted by Council at progress its Ordinary Meeting held Wednesday 21 June 2017. It endorsed actions contained in • Source funding for all play equipment the Plan, to provide meaningful outcomes to improve playgrounds throughout for People with Disability in the Bathurst the shire, with Council actively seeking Regional Council Local Government Area. grant funding for play equipment. Council currently has an application to Disability inclusion initiatives undertaken in the upgrade Lions Park, for an estimated 2018/2019 financial year include: cost of $650,000. The provision of a range of programs • Develop and review Council’s Workforce and activities: Management Strategy to include best- practice guidelines for inclusion. Council • The Bathurst Library All Ability Lego Club. has a workforce plan, but it does need to be reviewed. Not reviewed in 2018/19 • Bathurst Regional Art Galley Teacher year. Networking event to promote BRAG education programs for all students. • Review recruitment processes, forms and language for accessibility. No • Winter Festival Live Better Accessibility review of forms done in 2018/19. Day on the ice rink. • Develop a fact sheet to assist Balranald • Glenray, OCTEC, Live Better and Shire Council customer service staff Bathurst Seymour Centre participation respond to queries regarding services in the 2018 Bathurst Jobs Expo with for people with disabilities. No fact a number of Disability Employment sheet for customer service staff done in providers invited to the 2019 Expo. 2018/19 year. Promotion of disability services and • Investigate technologies to enhance access to Council information: the accessibility of customer service experience. No investigation done in • NDIS promoted on the Bathurst 2018/19. Business Hub facebook page including the $2million Disability Sector Scale- Up (DSSU) Program and information regarding positive outcomes for employing People with a Disability. • All Council websites provide Readspeaker function including an enlarge font button. • Disability providers listing included on Council’s business database.

9 Recruitment practices and training: • Bathurst Access Improvement for Small Business Grants continues to be • Hosting of work experience students provided with the assistance of the with a disability during the Winter Bathurst Regional Access Committee Festival as well as throughout the year (BRAC). at the Bathurst Library. • Council continues to advocate • Human Resources have commenced for improved access to shops and enquiries to develop a formal work businesses through the BCA and DACC experience framework for People assessment processes. with a Disability including volunteer • A hearing loop has been installed in opportunities. Council’s Chamber. • The provision of employment opportunities for two Live Better clients Bathurst Regional Access Committee during the Winter Festival. Council continued to support the activities • Training provided to Council staff of the Bathurst Regional Access Committee. regarding the Disability Inclusion Action The Committee meets monthly to promote Plan at induction and ongoing training awareness of the challenges faced by those to create awareness of employment with a disability in accessing local services opportunities for People with a and businesses. It participates in Council’s Disability (PwD). development, planning and policy processes and also provides information on access • Council’s recruitment process requests issues and lobbies for improvement. applicants to specify what additional requirements they need to assist them Council provides: during the application process.

Accessible Built Environments: • A venue for the Committee to hold its meetings; • Continuing to implement strategies in • Bathurst Access Improvement for Small the Bathurst Regional Council Access Business Grants totalling $15,000 on an and Cycling Plan 2011, with a focus annual basis and administrative support on the width of footpaths, access in for the grant; and around playgrounds and parks, maintenance of existing pathways and • Assistance to the Committee via development of further pathways. provision of a Councillor delegate. • Investigation into the provision of charge stations for motorised wheelchairs in the Library/Gallery forecourt and Visitor Information Centre. • Access and inclusion audits undertaken at selected Council facilities. • An item regarding reviewing and monitoring the appropriateness of accessible parking spaces in the CBD included in the brief for Bathurst Integrated Transport Plan. • The development of sensory/garden/ water play areas, in consultation with PwD, was identified to the consultants for the Bathurst 2040 Open Space Strategy for inclusion at the Bathurst Adventure Playground.

10 Bayside Council All front line staff have completed disability training. Policy drafted and adopted for planning and The Bayside Home Library Service visits implementing accessible and inclusive events. residents in their own home, nursing homes B or other assisted care facilities on a monthly • Arncliffe, Bexley North, Eastgardens, basis. People using this service may have Mascot, Rockdale and Sans Souci a disability, be frail aged, elderly, or have a Libraries are fully accessible. temporary illness. • Planned lift and accessibility upgrades in Botany Town hall. Council provides resources to enable clients to access library materials and • Mascot and Rockdale Libraries have some specific aids for people with sight lifts. impairment. Resources include Audio Read navigators, MP3 players and Daisy players, • All library locations, with the exception and headphones. People can tailor personal of Brighton, have been retrofitted with devices to increase volume or magnification automatic sliding doors. Council has to suit their individual access issues whether ambulant toilets at all locations (except it be a sight or hearing impairment. Brighton) fitted with emergency alarms. • Library Staff are trained in the use of • Bexley Pool is accessible. Botany Pool assistive devices and aides. redevelopment will ensure accessibility within the next few years. • Library members enjoy 24/7 access to a broad range of e-resources (both • $50,000 grant funding received to recreational and informational needs). improve inclusiveness of the planned Chapel Street Playground, Rockdale. • Council’s community engagement website, “Have Your Say”, meets WCAG 2.0 • Additional seating at Seaforth Park, standards. Content is written to ensure it Bexley has provided back and arm can be used with a screen reader. rests to increase park visitation by all members of the general community. All The Bayside Council DIAP Working Party designs have maximised inclusiveness. comprises representatives from across Council to coordinate implementation of the • All community engagement activities DIAP strategies. include a standard question about whether respondents identify as having • Council community grants funded a disability. For projects such as the a project for young men with an development of the Arncliffe Youth intellectual disability. Centre, findings will contribute to the creation of an accessible venue. • An interactive exhibit for young people with sensory processing issues was • A database has been developed to included at Bayside 2019 Youth Week. ensure services are provided and people with disability are invited to • The Sculptures at Bayside exhibition large consultations. includes planned visits by organisations supporting people with disabilities and Council continues to provide employment to the elderly. a number of staff with disabilities. • Council regularly runs a story-time • Council continues to provide workplace program for St George Special School adjustments as required for a variety at Rockdale Library. of staff needs, both permanent and temporary. • Council hosted an exhibition of art works by a young disabled resident at • A flexible working policy was Rockdale Library. implemented 1 July 2018 in partnership with a variety of agencies working with • Council provides space for Ability Links people with disabilities and people who to hold information sessions with the are disadvantaged. community. This also includes space for NDIS.

11 Bega Valley Shire Council • Several external training program opportunities have been provided to Councillors through their Personal Building positive attitudes and Development Plans. Councillors have behaviours also worked one-on-one with senior staff members to support and improve • Access and Inclusion Advisory knowledge of disability issues. Committee (AIAC) meetings were held on 27/8/18, 18/2/19, 13/5/19 and 12/11/19. • The Complaints/Compliments There are three sub-committees Procedure includes options for that focus on business, community individuals to have a support person and tourism. The AIAC assisted in when making complaints, and for determining the Community Access Council to be considerate of the Improvement Grant program that complainant’s unique circumstances contributed up to $16,800 to four local such as disability or literacy issues. projects. They also provided feedback on access design to a range of projects. Creating liveable communities

• The AIAC provided general support • Advocacy efforts for affordable for inclusive tourism and supported housing and transport activity updates to Council’s tourism website has been undertaken through the www.sapphirecoast.com.au on Region Joint Organisation accessible tourism opportunities as part of Federal and NSW election with the use of the preferred campaigns. Affordable housing accessibility symbol. Council’s Tourism options were included as part of the Service Provider provides advice to Residential Housing Strategy, which stakeholders on accessible tourism is in development. Council has held initiatives and connects businesses to meetings with social housing providers, appropriate assistance in implementing and potential Council sites have been initiatives. identified for consideration. Staff have also attended a recently established • Council executed a funding deed Affordable Housing Working Group and with Restart NSW for the ‘Destination local homelessness forums. for All’ project, to deliver accessible coastal infrastructure. This will see • The Bega Valley Local Traffic approximately $2 million invested in a Committee (LTC) actively considers range of projects. A further $50,000 requests for additional accessible in funding was also sourced through parking. However, constraints are the Australian Government’s ‘Drought considerable for on-street parking Communities Programme’. This funding due to the current DDA requirements was for an ambulant toilet, walking which makes additional on-street paths and accessible car park space accessible parking spaces difficult to at Bega Saleyards. The works are deliver to meet compliance. Where underway and due for completion in possible the Bega Valley LTC will 2019/20. improve and add to off-street parking for people with disabilities. The LTC • Access and inclusion continue to have been able to improve and increase be a focus across Council and the the number of accessible parking Communications and Events team have spaces in various locations within the used social media, media releases, Shire. Some examples of these are Councils website and Council’s regular the Bega Netball Courts, Alice Street newsletter Council’s News to promote carpark and Bega River Reserve. The projects and programs. Council representative of the LTC • An updated Induction and Training has undertaken an initial audit of the Program for employees has been existing accessible’Council- controlled’ developed and implemented. The new car spaces within the Shire. program provides identified Customer Service responsibilities and adopts • Council has continued to provide general inclusive service provision techniques. support for inclusive businesses in the Bega Valley Shire. Council’s Economic

12 Development Officer has joined the A new Employee Handbook and a new Disability Access Committee. Work Experience Handbook for High School students has been developed • Through the Access Improvement Grants, and implemented.

Council awarded $16,800 to four projects. B The 2019 round was opened in June 2019, • As part of the on-boarding process with $25,000 available to community there is now an opportunity for projects which improve access and employees to hold a meeting with their inclusion in the Bega Valley in 2018. supervisor to discuss opportunities for assistance including manual aids (e.g. • Council has assisted with a range computer screens/IT support). of inclusive and accessible events including Gallery collaboration with • Council has reviewed its volunteering Tulgeen, Light and Sound Bermagui, policy to ensure volunteering Autism Lab Bega, Intergenerational opportunities are accessible and Playgroup and Storytime at Tura and inclusive. A project template and plan Eden libraries. has been completed and is on track for delivery. • Council is seeking to implement a strategic approach to community input Improving access to services through at concept design stage on identified better systems and processes projects in public places. This will be further incorporated into Council’s • Council’s current development Community Engagement Strategy assessment processes address statutory which is currently under development. access requirements. However, with • Accessibility in Council buildings is a focus on continuous improvement, being reviewed by the Property team Council is reviewing its Public Land and plans are progressing to address Use Policy to incorporate footpath identified areas of improvement. accessibility requirements.. Further advocacy action regarding access to • Scoping has been undertaken for the existing commercial premises is being redesign of Council’s entrance and considered by the Access Improvement customer service desks in Zingel Place Advisory Committee. to improve access to Council offices and customer service. • All current projects consider access and inclusion design elements in line with • Council has sought to prioritise access project scope and budgets. outcomes in renewals and upgrades of Airport terminal has been designed community assets. These include the to ensure compliance with all relevant Tathra Everyone Can Play Playspace, DDA and BCA requirements. design work for the Tathra headland walk and replacement of fire-damaged Determining how to meet the needs viewing platform, application of of people with disability Everyone Can Play guidelines for access improvements for rural village • Council has implemented a range of playgrounds (Wyndham, , actions to meet the needs of people Cobargo, Mogareeka), Coastal with a disability, including through the Accessibility projects (Pambula, Short improvement of communication and Point, Bruce Steer pool) and ‘path and engagement strategies; local and State furniture’ improvements at Beauty Point advocacy on disability issues; and asset boat ramp upgrade. improvements that offer increased accessibility for people with a disability. Supporting access to meaningful employment Challenges and successes in delivering the DIAP • Council has undertaken an audit of its Conditions of Employment procedures • The allocation of responsibilities for to ensure it is compliant with current actions arising from the DIAP across legislation. A review of the Workforce a range of Council teams has ensured Strategic Plan will commence shortly. that the whole organisation commits

13 to and is accountable for improving Bellingen Shire Council access and inclusion for people with a disability. Managers and responsible • The Bellingen Youth Hub has continued officers have regularly attended AIAC its focus on inclusivity with all programs meetings, collaborated to achieve being delivered through the Hub done improved outcomes, and taken on the within this framework. The Hub is fully advice of the AIAC to improve their accessible physically and continues project delivery. to provide space for two employment • One major challenge in delivering service providers which support people the DIAP this year has been meeting with disabilities to access the Centre. compliance with DDA requirements in • Coordinate an event to showcase order to increase additional on street nominees and winners and encourage accessible parking. Where possible the creative inclusive strategies for more Bega Valley Local Traffic Committee groups in the community: Ian J Cooper has aimed to improve and add to off- Award Event held 4 December 2018. street parking numbers for people with disabilities. • Improve footpaths in the Bellingen Shire: Handrail installed on Church A number of proposals and commitments Street. were in place for the 2018/19 year to improve outcomes for people with a • Improve access to Council buildings disability. These include: and facilities: Ramp access and accessible toilet investigated and • Adoption of the Community costed. A grant application has been Engagement Plan and development of submitted for this work for 2019-20 the Community Engagement Toolkit or beyond. Taps replaced at Bellingen which will guide Council Staff in Swimming Pool with lever style for planning and delivering engagement. easy access. Investigating funding for The toolkit will specifically identify ways all abilities children’s playground has in which Council engagement strategies been undertaken. Investigations into the are accessible and inclusive. provision of a handrail at the tidal pool • Development of an inclusive playground in Mylestrom have commenced. in Bermagui. • Improve access to designed disability • New event management procedures parking in Bellingen Shire: Accessible which will include access and inclusion parking space in Myrtle St Dorrigo requirements. improved. Wider, signposting and improved line marking. • A Transport Vision Strategy which will be presented to Council encompassing • Improve crossings for all users including active mobility strategies for all users, those using assisted mobility aids and including those with a disability. visually impaired: New pedestrian crossings installed with Tactile Ground • Modifications to the Bermagui Surface Indicators in Bellingen. masterplan to improve disability access and car parking. • Increase knowledge of and expand available transport options: • Delivery of all of the Coastal Modifications have been installed to the Accessibility Plan ‘Destination for All’ Dorrigo Neighbourhood Bus. projects. • EEO, Anti-bullying, anti-harassment and Workplace Equity and Diversity Plan: The Bellingen Shire Council Workforce Management Plan 2017-21 makes reference to workplace diversity which includes employing those with a known disability. • Make equity and access key criteria for decisions about physical infrastructure.

14 Advocacy for the need to consider • Extension of accessible path network. people of all abilities has occurred during a recent review of seating • Construction of family-friendly and fully arrangements. accessible Splash Park, . B • Investigate the re-establishment of • Redevelopment of Tocumwal Library – a Bellingen Shire Access Committee: extension increased accessibility of the No plans to establish the Bellingen Library. Shire Access Committee as it was • Installation of new fully accessible part of Council’s advisory committee public toilets – Railway Park, Finley and model of consultation. A Councillor local cemeteries. workshop delivered in December 2018 profiled other methods of engagement Supporting access to meaningful considered more effective by Council to employment use in the future. • Ensure feedback mechanisms are fully Commenced review of human resource accessible for community and staff: operations. Website is designed to meet Web • Continued liaison with workplace Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.0 AA. insurer on improving access to • Improve the knowledge of businesses meaningful employment for workers wanting to consider installing ramp injured at work or outside of work. access: The Missed Business brochure Improving access to services through was distributed to businesses in better systems and processes Bellingen which includes ways of being more user friendly. • Upgrade of the Council’s website to meet • to people of all abilities including W3C Guidelines. providing better physical access. • Colour and descriptive text used for infographics on Council Progress Reporting. • Based on community feedback, high gloss paper not used for Council publications (Annual Community Report) Berrigan Shire Council

Building positive attitudes and behaviours

• Access at a Glance Project Terms of Reference agreed and Advisory Group established as a Partnership with Intereach Ability Links. Peer assessors were trained in assessing venues. • Successful application with Cobram- Tourism and Goulburn Valley Sports (VIC) for hosting of Tri-State Games 2020 and 2021 (Social Games: An event for Disabled Athletes representing NSW, and South .). Creating liveable communities actions

Continued implementation of Berrigan Shire Pedestrian Access and Mobility Plans including:

15 Bland Shire Council

Annual Transport Forum was held on 29 Creating liveable communities November 2018. • Council processes have been reviewed • Accessible Bus Policy was updated. to ensure new builds and renovations align with best practice access building • An assessment of all bus stops in the standards and codes. city was undertaken with all bus stops complying with the Disability Standards • Ramps installed to ensure easier access for Accessible Public Transport (2002). for staff to buildings. • Asset Planning inspected all footpaths • A lift is available for the use of Council and car parks. Once notified staff and the community. of damaged assets, Civil Asset Maintenance repair where possible. • Bland Shire Council worked with Eastern Arts to bring • BCM designs all new buildings to the Platform project to centenary comply with the National Building celebrations. This ensured the event Code which addresses the Disability was fully accessible for 2000 visitors Discrimination Act. and incorporated a sensory space for attendees. • There is a system used for recruitment by staff which is transparent for those • The Mobility Access Map is available on conducting recruitment programs to Council’s website and will be promoted ensure merit selection. on social media throughout the year. • According to current systems data • Information on Australian access design there are 12 people who identify as requirements and compliance standards having a disability and are employed by is readily available on Council’s website. Council. • Council’s Access Incentive Scheme • Recruitment process includes standard Grant fund was promoted twice across questions on applications about EEO social and print media. data collection and any requirement for support during the recruitment process. • Council installed ramps next to steps to make access easier for wheelchairs. • Access awareness and Disability Council has an elevator, enabling people awareness courses have been delivered. with a disability to access the first floor. • Mobility Maps are a work in progress. • Installation of new accessible public toilets in the villages of Ungarie and Weethalle. • Support and assistance provided to Intereach, Royal Far West, Relationships Australia, the National Disability Coordination Program and numerous other organisations who work with and advocate for people with disabilities. Supporting access to meaningful employment

• Special provisions are made for people with disabilities when undergoing the recruitment process as required. • All Council position descriptions have been updated and are compiled to accord with document accessibility standards.

16 Building positive attitudes and Blayney Shire Council behaviours • Free Mental Health First Aid Training • Plans are in place to offer disability

provided for interagency members, B awareness training to senior staff as attended by two staff. required. • Disability Awareness training conducted • The DIAP has been discussed, reviewed in August 2018. at a Council meeting and made available to all staff throughout the • Quarterly Blayney Interagency Meeting organisation with staff encouraged held at Community Centre. to familiarise themselves with the document. • Engagement with event organisers through event management approval • People with disabilities and their carers process to raise awareness to make encouraged to provide feedback to events more accessible. Council in the development of the DIAP. • Event management guidelines updated • International Day of People with to promote making events more Disability event held in 2018 and 2019. accessible In 2019, blind motivational speaker, Ben Pettingill addressed all high school • In April 2019, 4 businesses were the aged residents across the shire about first beneficiaries of Councils new his experiences and participated in a Access Consulting Support Program. local colour run with 130 residents. The program provides businesses with preliminary accessibility compliance • Information regarding Council’s advice triggered when a Construction Access Incentive Scheme Grant stream Certificate is lodged. published in Council Notices. Active Movement Strategy Improving access to services through better systems and processes • Works completed: Montgomery Street, Millthorpe Ewin/Tucker Street, Blayney • Council has recently moved to a new, Lindsay Street, Blayney. more user-friendly website ensuring greater access for our residents. • Renewals completed: Olive Street, Mandurama Montgomery Street, • Available technology is promoted on Millthorpe Ogilvy Street between Farm Council’s website and across social Lane and the new walk media. path completed. • Meetings held with local disability service • Free Mental Health First Aid Training providers to improve understanding of provided for interagency members, the needs of people with a disability and attended by two staff. their carers. • Disability Awareness training conducted • Council utilises user-friendly fonts and in August 2018. colours in all outgoing documentation. Council works to ensure all documents • Media and Publications inclusive. are compatible with Adobe Reader. • All Construction Certificate applications • Community forums held in villages are assessed in accordance with during 2018/2019. Community Reference the Building Code of Australia and Group meetings are held bi-monthly with the Disability (Access to Premises - community members encouraged to Buildings) Standards 2010. voice any access issues or concerns. • New compliant public toilets completed • Event accessibility checklist and site in Mandurama, Lyndhurst and Neville, audits conducted during event planning. including accessible parking and pathways. • Internal processes are adopted on an individual basis as required.

17 • Shared pathways completed in Blayney • Program of work experience with Blayney and Lyndhurst. High School undertaken in May 2019. • Wheelchair-friendly pathway provided • Website review being undertaken across historic Naylor Street timber to determine features to cater for bridge in Carcoar. the hearing and visually impaired. Quotation obtained for inclusion into • As part of the CentrePoint Major 2019/20 Operational Plan. Upgrade, the existing amenities have been reconfigured to now include six • Introduction of program proposed for accessible bathrooms plus ambulant 2018/19 to assist business. Council has toilets. included $5k in its Operational Plan to be used as a contribution to assist • Two new accessible car spaces were businesses if they require an access completed in Ogilvy Street for use by consultant report when lodging a DA CentrePoint patrons. and/or CC. Three businesses utilised • Several new doors were installed this service in 2018/19. at CentrePoint, of which the, swing • Council projects including CentrePoint direction, weight and width of all doors major project have been referred to specifically considered accessibility Access Committee on an as-needs basis. compliance. A 20mm lip was also removed through tiling on the Scout • Design staff have undertaken Hall entrance. accessibility training. • Consultant engaged to facilitate • Construction staff routinely reminded community engagement for future to maintain vigilance when preparing inclusive playground in Blayney. works for construction, and direct concerns to design staff for potential • Event organisers informed on disability changes. inclusion, including suggestions on considerations with Council’s Event Management approval process. • Conducting an event guidelines updated to include information on making events more accessible. • “Tips for making your event more accessible” brochure available on Council’s website. • The Access at a Glance project will be creating a digital online map identifying all facilities and businesses that are accessible. • Through event management approval process, event organisers are asked to consider accessible facilities and parking with event planning. • Accessible parking provided for Newbridge Winter Solstice event. • Council website updated to include available options for transport. Refer website link: http://www.blayney.nsw.gov. au/business-andtourism/transport/public- transport-in-layneyshire • Modifications made to ground floor of administrative office to accommodate people with disabilities.

18 Blue Mountains City Council Creating liveable communities

Action: Provide automatic doors at the Building positive attitudes and Culture Centre in Katoomba. Automatic doors behaviours now provided to the concourse viewing B area of the Cultural Centre, so people with a Action: Coordination and facilitation disability and their carers can now view the of Mobility Consultation report in the concourse area with relative ease. town centres of Blackheath, Springwood and Winmalee. This report identified Action: Conduct a public audit of Council’s the key barriers for people living with a Accessible toilet facilities. Audit conducted disability in these three town centres and and priority rating completed for facilities actions to address the identified issues. in need of an upgrade. Priority listing now In terms of progress this report has now imbedded in capital works program. Key fed into Council’s Active Transport Links toilets upgraded per priority listing. and Pedestrian Access Mobility Study (PAMP) works, of which several action Action: Provide Lift and Change facility recommendations have now been actioned at the Blue Mountains Theatre Hub e.g. new footpath works. People with a Springwood. Facility provided and launched disability now have a more positive attitude with Access Advisory Committee, residents about Council’s role in providing equal with a disability, and service providers. access and in turn Council has a blueprint for Action: Provide accessible seating in town how to best consult with people with people centres for equal access per Council’s a disability to improve its facilities. Mobility Consultation Plan. Key seating Action: Provide Disability Awareness provided in the three townships of Training for Council staff via the Guide Springwood, Blackheath and Winmalee per Dog NSW/ACT on the key access issues for the Mobility Consultation Study. people with a vision impairment accessing Action: Provide accessible pathways of the town centres and community facilities travel and handrails over a range of sites as that Council provides. Staff from all branches identified in Council’s DIAP & Assets Work of Council now have a more positive plan. Pathways of travel provided in key approach and a better understanding of how recreational areas, townships, natural areas best to meet the needs of people with and residential streets. a vision impairment. Action: Conduct access audit of Council Action: Creation of the EASY Read DIAP caravan sites for easy access. Audit to assist people with a disability to have conducted, priority works identified for a better understanding of how Council is completion for improvements in access. proposing to improve access in the LGA. Access Works placed on Capital Works This has been produced and distributed Program. to service clientele with a disability, via the Community Care Forum and Access Supporting access to meaningful Advisory Committee. employment Action: Updating of Council’s Master Lock Access Key Brochure (MLAK) to advise Action: Provide trainee program for people people with a disability and their carers with a disability at Council. ‘Progress to date: of the accessible toilet facilities available the trainee program is in place and a person fitted with the MLAK key system. The MLAK with a disability has been working with brochure has been updated and distributed Council for two years. to libraries, Council Customer service Action: Develop and review Workplace centres, and the community via forums/ Participation Strategy. Strategy has now meetings. been developed and reviewed, with Council Action: Updating of Council’s Community committed to publicly stating in its job Care Guide for the frail aged, disabled and descriptions that people with a disability are their carers. This guide has been invaluable encouraged to apply per EEO policy & DDA in assisting people with a disability and their policies. carers be aware of services and facilities Action: Develop and implement “Are You provided to address their needs. Inclusive” project for local businesses to be 19 more inclusive of people with an intellectual through these channels. This has been disability and/or autism accessing their incorporated into Council’s Master business.Progress to date: a partnership planning statements, future Capital has been developed with Blue Mountains Works Program and PAMP Projects to Economic Enterprise and DARE Enterprises, ensure we are meeting some of the resulting in 103 businesses registered for needs of people with a disability and “Are you Inclusive” training to make their their carers. local business more inclusive for people with a disability. Challenges and successes in delivering the DIAP Improving access to services through better systems and processes • The key challenge in delivering parts of the DIAP is acquiring a commitment Action: Provide Easy Read DIAP for from other Branches of Council to better understanding, Easy Read DIAP actively take ownership of the DIAP. developed and distributed to people with a disability. People with a disability now • Whilst there has been some take-up have a better understanding of Council’s from other sections of Council, it is still DIAP and are more actively involved in DIAP viewed as the Aged and Disability role implementation. to implement the plan. Action: Improve website accessibility for • Other challenges have been creating an members of the public including people with awareness by other staff of Council that a disability. Council’s Information Services this is not only a legislative requirement Team reviewing various programs to to develop and implement the DIAP but purchase for improved website accessibility. also a good structure to adopt to assist with meeting the needs of our residents Action: Actively participate in Master and providing best practice. Planning and Liveability Capital Works projects via Council’s Access Advisory • Whilst there have been challenges, Committee. This has now happened over those individual staff who have been a number of projects including Wentworth directly involved in the delivery of Falls Lake Master plan, Mt Blackheath and projects, e.g. the Adult Change Tables Echo Point. and the Liveability projects, have now seen the benefits for everyone including Action: Improve processes for review and people with a disability by providing provision of Access works via the Capital best practice in terms of access Works Program and PAMP. Processes both from a design perspective and reviewed with Assets Works section, SV2 monetary perspective. funding now secured over four years for DIAP improvements. Planning greater outcomes for the future Determining how to meet the needs of people with disability • Council will continue to undertake future Mobility Consultation Studies What engagement or feedback have with people with a disability for the you had from people with disability? townships of Leura, Wentworth Falls and Katoomba as identified through • Council has determined that it is consultation with people with a disability meeting some of the needs of people via Councils Access Advisory Committee with a disability through community and Community Forum. There is a view consultations via Council’s Access to implement the recommendations Advisory Committee, which meets for improvement in disabled access via monthly; Community Care Forum, Councils PAMP, Active Transport Links informal consultations with people and Master Planning upgrades for these with a disability and interactive Online town centres. Council Survey for each project • Council will continue via its Access undertaken titled “Have Your Say”. Advisory Committee to be actively • Council will continue to ascertain involved in the Liveability Projects the needs of people with a disability to ensure the needs of people with 20 a disability are incorporated into the Supporting access to meaningful projects delivered. employment. • Council will also be conducting • Council has ensured its recruitment Disability Awareness Training and B forms and processes are easy to Mental Health Awareness Training for understand by all. Council staff in 20/21 to re-”echo” the needs of people with a disability. • Council has established relationships with local disability employment organisations Further information and comments and schools, and work experience is offered where appropriate. • Implementation of the DIAP has been a difficult task on top of other work Improving access to services through load commitments. Whilst it has been better systems and processes embedded in everyday tasks of the Aged and Disability Services Officer, • Council has ensured its forms and it has in itself been a momentous task processes are easy to understand by all. to complete. There is a need for Local Councils to be made more aware of the • Council has made information available is benefits/incentives of implementing the different formats to be accessible to all. DIAP (e.g. best practice in design for Council and monetary savings) not just meeting legislative requirements. Bogan Shire Council Bourke Shire Council Building positive attitudes and behaviours Council recognises its obligation in respect of the NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014 • Council recognises International Day and on the 20 June 2017 adopted a of People with Disability. Disability Inclusion Plan consistent with the • Council has made all of its events requirements of that Act. Council in the disability accessible. undertaking of planning for the construction and/or upgrade of facilities gives • Council representatives attend consideration to ensuring that the facilities Interagency meetings to ensure disability are able to be utilised by all members of opportunity remains on the agenda. the community. Council has developed a Pedestrian Access Management Plan (PAMP) • Council liaises with Interagency in association with the Roads and Maritime and community groups for ways to Services. In the planning of the upgrade of provide opportunities for people with the CBD, the provisions of the PAMP have disabilities. been considered. Creating liveable communities

• Council has increased disabled car parking in the Nyngan CBD. • Council has increased the number of public accessible toilets and change facilities. • Council has installed shade over its accessible play equipment (including the Liberty Swing). • Council has ensured all of its events are accessible.

21 Brewarrina Shire Council • Reviewing the current community consultation procedures to include a checklist on inclusive consultation. Positive attitudes and behaviour

• Continued to audit website to ensure that images include people with disabilities and that language is appropriate. Broken Hill City Council • Included Disability Awareness Training in staff HR policies and induction. Building positive attitudes Creating liveable communities and behaviours

• Continued to provide opportunities for • Customer Service Framework community connection by facilitating incorporates inclusion and accessibility and promoting International Day of awareness and effective methods for People with Disability (International Day communication with customers who of People with Disability). may have a disability. • Promoted universal design practices to home • Staff attended autism awareness owners, house designers and builders. training. • Audited events run by Council for • Inclusion awareness campaigns Accessibility. conducted with the Library holding Storytime during Hearing Awareness • Undertook footpath inspections. Week and the GeoCentre hosting the • Investigated and actioned pedestrian Annual Lifeline Art Exhibition. crossing improvements in the main • Supported the NDIS information street. and preplanning hubs, National • Reviewed seating in the main street. Reconciliation Week, Positive Partnerships Autism Awareness, • The Community Development Officer Inclusive Tourism Online Learning provides pathway referrals to access NDIS. (internal promotion), Stress Down Day and International Day of People with a • Disability ramp at Youth Centre, as well as Disability community event. disabled access to the shower and toilets in the Youth Centre and at the Brewarrina • Hosted programs/events with War Memorial Pool. disability and inclusion as part of human experience at the Library and Supporting access to meaningful workshops for Marri Ma Health group employment clients at the Gallery.

• HR policies and induction reviewed and Creating liveable communities amended to enhance employment of people with a disability within Council. • Funding received from Roads and Maritime Services to develop a city- Improving access to services through wide Pedestrian Access and Mobility better systems and processes Plan; the Plan upgraded to an Active Transport Plan which also incorporates • Developing a fact sheet to assist a bike plan. Consultation and progress customer service staff with responding of the footpath works to be reported to to queries regarding services for people the DIAP Monitoring group. with disabilities. • Patton Park Refurbishment Project • Investigating technologies to enhance including state-of-the-art amenities the accessibility of customer service unit that is fully accessible to Australian experience across Council. Standards and Legislation. The amenities block construction was completed in April 2019. 22 • Civic events included a disability plan. • Recruitment service review undertaken. • Advertising and marketing information • IT strategy review undertaken with introduced for the Art Gallery and workshops and fact-finding exercise.

GeoCentre. Information uploaded to B Council webpage. • The Library established the following for ATSI people, a collection of Early Literacy resources; a collection of resources in the library for reluctant Burwood Council readers; engagement with Aboriginal community in holding NAIDOC Storytime session in Library; engaged Building positive attitudes and with Community Hub 123, mini library behaviours and planning future program at centre. Developing positive community attitudes • The Library supported the community towards disability: to access the Library through the provision of accessible furniture • Burwood Council continues to celebrate installation, software and library International Day of People with resources and engagement with the Disability through an event called local community. “Groovability Festival”. Held the first • Collection of resources in the Library Thursday of December since 2010, for reluctant readers and purchase of previously in Burwood Park and books, such as braille. recently at Burwood RSL, the event attracts between 400-500 people from • The Art Gallery hosted workshops for the Inner West region. Financial support Maari Ma health group clients. The comes from local clubs, in particular Gallery and Museum make regular Burwood RSL and Campsie RSL. adjustments to programs for people Burwood Council coordinates this event with disability to attend. Gallery in partnership with other disability exhibitions are increasingly becoming service providers. The event aims to a lot more interactive, including sound raise community awareness of disability elements with recorded stories. and celebrates the achievements of people living with a disability. • Civic Centre access features completed with lift, accessible toilet, hearing loop • With regards to increasing community and theatre area suitable for people understanding of the diversity of people who use wheelchairs. with a disability, Council continues to support and coordinate the Inner West Disability Forum that meets four Improving access to services through times a year. It has a membership base better systems and processes of more than 200 disability services that operate in the Inner West region. • Website accessibility audit of brokenhill. This forum provides a solid network nsw.gov.au completed and findings for agencies and groups that work in used in the scope for new website. the disability sector. This forum plays a vital role in information exchange • Business case completed and new and promoting disability programs and Council website deployed. services. • Complaints management policy adopted. • Council has initiated partnership Supporting access to meaningful projects with disability groups such as employment Ability Links and Ethnic Community Services Co-operative to hold workshops/information sessions for • Membership of the Australian Network CALD individuals and families who are on Disability. yet to access services from NDIS. These sessions were held in Burwood using

23 Council facilities, including the Library one-off dance program for adults with and Woodstock Community Centre. mobility restrictions. Half of those who It is also important to note that all of attended the eight-week course were Council facilities are accessible, making younger and had an intellectual and them preferred venues. Examples moto disability. This was a very well- include: “Celebrate Community received program, but was only funded Inclusion 2018”, an expo showcasing for a one-off implementation. talents and abilities of clients and some samples of clients who are now • Council continues to improve and gainfully employed or have a small enhance its facilities and services. business; “Everyone’s Café - A Good • Starting in June 2019, Council had a Life” a workshop that included general joint partnership with Access Sydney information on the NDIS which was held Community Transport to run bus twice in 2018 with the aim of drawing outings for seniors 60 years and older. in more families who are experiencing One of the features of the monthly difficulties in accessing services. bus trip is to provide two assisted bus outings during the six months program. Creating liveable communities The assisted bus outing involved having the coach pick up the person from Council continues to support accessible and home and return them afterwards. This inclusive community events and activities for type of bus outing is for older residents people with disability. who are experiencing mobility issues that makes it difficult for them to take • For the past two years during public transport. The project ran from Groovability, event organisers provided June to November 2019 and may be accessible/portable-for-hire toilets. This repeated in the future. is important in enabling more people with a disability to participate. • Council continues to provide quality footpaths, pram ramps and bus stops, • Council continues to provide high and undertakes regular upgrades when quality activities that support active needed. This ensures the “continuous and healthy lives. Ongoing support path of travel” for all people including is given to exercise providers in the people with a disability is guaranteed form of free use of Council facilities in and increases accessibility along all exchange for lower fees for participants streets, bus stops and parking areas in and people living with a disability are Burwood. encouraged to join these activities. Supporting access to meaningful • In partnership with NSW Health’s employment Sydney Local Health District, Council delivered four workshops in 2018 and • “Celebrate Community Inclusion 2019 on falls prevention (Stepping On), 2018 Expo” was for people from a course that ran for seven consecutive a multicultural background with a weeks for two hours each session disability. A select number of speakers for seniors from a Chinese-speaking shared their experiences growing up background. There was a similar with a disability and provided training program called “Stay Standing” run by for skills in opening a business or a physiotherapist who was originally working for others. The aim was to with the Stepping On program. Stay inspire people to strive higher and Standing was done in English and four overcome any limitations from their workshops delivered. disability that may be hindering them • In conjunction with the Sydney Local from achieving their dreams. Health District, a seven-day “Mental Health First Aid” course was organised Improving access to services through in late October to mid-December 2019 better systems and processes with a group of seniors from a Chinese background. • Council has planned disability awareness sessions for all staff. The aim • In early July 2018 Council partnered will be awareness-raising to prepare with Sydney Dance Company for a 24 the whole of Council to be more support the community, including knowledgeable and compassionate to joint partnership activities. A recent people with a disability. Implementation example is a joint partnership between will be in 2020. Burwood Council and Sydney Access Community Transport. This partnership B Building positive attitudes and saw Council provide transport for bus behaviours outings for a wider cross-section of the community. Traditionally, those • For big events and when there are other aged 65 and older have access to services assisting, an evaluation survey aged care funded services. Burwood is made and usually at least 10% of Council has developed a transport those attending complete the survey. program which extends itself to those The feedback has been overwhelmingly aged 65 and under who are transport positive to hold this event again next challenged, which has further allowed year. us to meet the needs of people with a disability, based on feedback from the • Being part of the Inner West Disability community. Forum provides Burwood Council with current information on what is • Access and inclusion are part of happening around disability in terms the planning process for Council’s of new disability services available upcoming Burwood Public Parking in the community. The Forum also Strategy which recognises the needs provides information on needs and of people with a disability. Part of the issues confronting people living with a strategy is to ensure that the design disability and whether some solutions of parking areas meets the needs of have been introduced. Overall the people with a disability as well as those Forum attendees would like to continue of other users such as pedestrians and with the way the Forum is set up. The cyclists. Forum has also provided attendees with the opportunity to give suggestions Challenges and successes in regarding future speakers, agencies and delivering on the DIAP projects. • Running big events such as • One of the recent issues raised at “Groovability Festival” takes several the Inner West Disability Forum was months and uses extensive resources, limitations for clients to preparing their including staff time. The uncertainty NDIS plans, particularly for Culturally around funding of disability providers in and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) 2019 had a big impact on the ability of families. This is mainly due to the these key service providers to commit process being lengthy, and requiring their time in organising the event. not only translation but explanation which is not always available depending • Most of the disability service providers on services. are only able to take their clients/ consumers on the day of the Festival • Furthermore, limitations have also and do not have the capacity to existed regarding access to clients network or assist the events in other during the day as they’re often ways. occupied i.e. at school, work or engaged in an activity. As such, most • Groovability relies on external funding opportunities to engage with people provided by local clubs which is not with a disability would be through guaranteed. Luckily, Groovability programs in partnership with other has enjoyed the support of a few providers or Council-run events, limiting local clubs. Each year members of our ability to further engage/consult on the organising committee who are a regular basis. from not-for-profit agencies can only contribute their staff time but no How has this been incorporated into financial contribution. Burwood Council your current and future planning? contributes staff time and funding, but does not have the resources to fully • The above information provides Council fund this regional event. with ideas for projects that can better 25 • Groovability began as an initiative of day however funding to run this event is the Ageing, Disability and Home Care, getting increasingly difficult to source however for the past two years there each year. has been no participation in terms of running the event from a state-level government agency. Planning greater outcomes for the future Byron Shire Council • Burwood Council has received funding from Sport Australia to deliver an This is the second annual report of progress “Obstacle Course” in Grant Park. in the implementation of Council’s Disability The key target groups are children Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) 2017 – 2021. aged 10 years up, girls and boys with The DIAP details the steps Council will special focus on girls/young women, take to increase accessibility and promote disengaged youth and people living inclusion both within its organisation and the with a disability. Careful planning and local community. consultation with various disability groups have gone into the initial phase There are four focus areas for the NSW with conscious emphasis given on how Disability Inclusion Plan. Key achievements a young person with a disability can under the focus areas include: best use all or parts of the obstacle course. Consideration has also been Building positive attitudes and given to how a particular section behaviours of the obstacle course could be modified where possible. Attention on • Sponsored the Byron Community accessibility of the venue for spectators Centre to deliver the Byron Shire including persons with a disability was Seniors Festival and Expo. an important part of the process. This • Supported events that encouraged involved close coordination with the broad community participation and design architect and consultation with inclusion. various disability groups. • Completed the Customer Service • Council is looking to work more closely Strategy with the participation and with local Chamber of Commerce to expertise of the Access Consultative raise their disability awareness and Working Group (ACWG), including introduce the idea of employing people design of new accessible office. with a disability in local businesses. • Screened the Wide Angle Film Festival, • Council is in the process of updating an accessible festival of films that its Burwood Public Parking Strategy. reflect the lived experience of people Part of the strategy is to ensure that with disability. the design of parking areas meets the needs of people with a disability as • Delivered training to Section 355 well as those of other users such as Management Committee volunteers on pedestrians and cyclists. access and inclusion strategies. Further information and comments Creating liveable communities

• The Council seeks to know if NDIA is Council has undertaken the following still interested in regional events such infrastructure projects to increase access to as Groovability taking place and in what public spaces, and recreational and cultural ways they can assist. Examples include activities enabling greater participation in being a sponsor of the event or sponsor community life: of a segment of the event. This annual event is very popular, particularly • Upgraded Waterlily Park and installed amongst other day programs because an all-abilities flying fox, an accessible it is a free, fun and easily accessible two storey tree-house, two new event to take their clients to for half a accessible carparks and accessible

26 pathways that link the playground, Assessment Plan that identifies amenities and parking area. opportunities to maintain and build upon the diversity of recreation services • Improved access to several Council- and facilities for residents and visitors

owned community buildings including B a new access ramp at • Reviewed Infrastructure Services Risk Neighbourhood Centre, accessible Management Plan to ensure access toilet upgrades at Marvell Hall, new considerations access ramp and accessible parking at Durrumbul Hall and accessible toilet Supporting access to meaningful upgrades at Suffolk Park Hall. employment

• Repaired 32 footpaths. • Delivered mental health first aid training • Drafted Residential Strategy including to 30 Council staff members. planning for accessible housing . • Facilitated Wellness Expo for 150 • Completed renewal works at Clarkes Council staff contributing to a culture of Beach to meet Australian Standards wellbeing. Design for access & mobility (AS1428). • Awarded inclusive employment contract • Obtained funding for 14 bus stops to Aruma (formerly House with No under the Bus Stop Accessible Steps). Improvement Program. Improving access to services through Council wants to co-create a community better systems and processes that is accessible and inclusive to everyone. To help make this happen, Council has Council has worked to increase access to an Access Consultative Working Group services and engage in decision-making (ACWG). The ACWG includes people living through the following activities: with disability as well as service providers and Council representatives. The group • Partnered with Byron Shire Access provides a link between the community Consultative Working Group (ACWG) to and Council for issues relating to disability provide advice on access and inclusion access and inclusion in the Byron Shire. matters. Involving people with disability, their families • Updated Council website to comply and carers in decision-making processes with Web Content Accessibility and planning values the diverse and unique Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1. perspectives and experiences of people with lived experience. • Developed an events checklist ensuring all Council-approved events consider • Completed one new accessible bus accessibility and inclusion in the shelter at Suffolk Park program design. • Unlocked Master Locksmith Access • Provided early childhood education and Key (MLAK) restroom facilities at care in-line with the National Quality six Council-owned buildings during Framework access standards. daylight hours ensuring facilities are accessible to all • Designated educator appointed to facilitate Quality Improvement Plan. • Drafted Council’s ten-year Pedestrian and Access Mobility Plan (PAMP) • Quality Improvement Plan training delivered and policy review process in • Installed one new accessible car park, place. an accessible BBQ, new shelter and accessible pathway at Parklands What is working well? • Completed access audit inspections of 261 Council buildings, identifying access The DIAP guides Council to meet its barriers requirements under the NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014. Council is working • Delivered the Recreation Needs towards creating a community that is

27 accessible and inclusive of everyone. The Cabonne Shire Council areas of work Council is performing well in include: Outcomes achieved through the DIAP • Flexible work practices. include: • Staff working together with Council’s • Improved and new footpaths, including Access Consultative Working Group. widening, handrails and ramps for ease of access. • Providing individualised advice for the Development Application process. • Fortnightly and monthly bus trips from small villages to allow community • Requiring adaptable housing provisions members who may otherwise be for multi-dwelling developments of isolated from access to Orange. three or more dwellings. • Cabonne Daroo Business awards has • Sustainable housing initiatives that a category specifically for recognising incorporate Universal Design. businesses that foster disability inclusion. The Voice of Lived Experience • Council’s communications use language and formats that promote inclusion. Council wants to co-create a community that is accessible and inclusive to everyone. To help make this happen, Council has an Access Consultative Working Group (ACWG). The ACWG includes people living with disability as well as service providers and Council representatives. The group Camden Council provides a link between the community and Council for issues relating to disability Creating liveable communities access and inclusion in the Byron Shire. Involving people with disability, their families • Accessibility improvements made to and carers in decision-making processes existing buildings, signage, seating and and planning values the diverse and unique equipment as a direct result of access audit perspectives and experiences of people with recommendations. lived experience. • New amenities in parks and open spaces that take the needs of people with disability into account, including accessible BBQs, picnic tables and play equipment. • Providing accessible change facilities with an adult change table and hoist, shower, toilet and ample room for two carer supports at Curry Reserve Water Play space. • Providing quiet zone tents with sensory play at community events. • Providing a series of sensory walks and activities at Mount Annan Botanic Gardens for children with special needs and people living with dementia.

Supporting access to meaningful employment

Establish and strengthen existing partnerships with local service providers that support access to employment

28 • Working in partnership with local Campbelltown City Council disability employment services to provide information in a variety of formats including monthly Café Building positive attitudes and Connect initiative, Carer Week projects behaviours C and International Day of People with Disability. • Council’s Disability Inclusion Action Plan Advisory Group continues to meet • Providing hospitality and event training quarterly to guide implementation. work experience opportunities for local Mater Dei students in partnership with a • Council provided training to staff workplace learning service. on deafness awareness, supporting people with autism, and mental health Building positive attitudes and awareness behaviours • Council libraries continue to deliver inclusive activities with regular Promote and encourage people with captioned movies, provision of disability to actively participate in various Auslan interpreters where needed, community groups, activities and projects implementation of autism-specific not just disability specific. music programs and programs to • Delivering a series of monthly health, support people with disability to access wellbeing and social connection the library in quiet out-of-hours periods. activities for all abilities; approximately • Council celebrated 2018 International 20% of participants are people with Day for People with Disability with disability. internal lunch and learns, craft programs • Providing Wet Wheel Chairs for people in libraries and launching the MLAK with disability for inclusive play and access initiative. Council is partnering access to Curry Reserve water play with Disability Services Australia for a space. picnic in the park for 2019. • Provided Disability Awareness training • Companion Cards have been promoted to Leisure Centre staff to support the with information available at Council facilitation of their dance programs for facilities and on the Council website. all abilities. • Free Quiet Hour sessions were • Provided Child Safe Training for the trialled at Festival of Fishers Ghost in Disability Sector – Creating safe November 2018 with more than 250 environments for children and young participants, and have since become people with disability. standard practice for major events. Council’s Water Wonderland event in Improving access to services through January attracted 250 bookings and the better systems and processes recent Winter Wonderland served more than 330 people from the region. Improve access to services through better systems and process. Creating liveable communities

• Provide information in a variety • Soft launch of Councils recharge stations of formats including one-on-one at libraries across the LGA. conversations, large print, information pathways to technology support and • Council is partnering with the Touched by easy-read resources available through Olivia Foundation and Variety to develop Council’s connection projects which inclusive playgrounds in Glenfield include monthly Connection Cafes, all (completion late 2020) and facilitating abilities health and wellbeing activities, delivery of another facility by Stockland Carers Week and International Day of at East Leppington. people with Disability events. • Updated locations of all Council toilets and facilities with MLAK key access on the website.

29 • On International Day of People with Canterbury-Bankstown Council Disability, launched a simplified MLAK access process online though Council and supported with an awareness Zero Barriers campaign including brochures to GPs and service providers, adverts at bus Council’s efforts in 2018-19 to be proud and shelters, Facebook, disability networks inclusive included: and on the website. • Hosting the Zero Barriers Awards to • Identified opportunity to integrate recognise local businesses that are adaptable housing requirements into inclusive of people with disability. the Sustainable City DCP. • Providing training for parents to • Worked with Western Sydney University assist their children with disability in students to draft an accessibility independently navigating the public checklist for high pedestrian traffic transport system. precincts. • Training to Council’s Children Services • Continued to implement Council’s staff in better services provision for Pedestrian and Mobility Plan. children with autism. • Drafted a brochure to inform designers • Providing student and work experience and developers of their access placements for people living with obligations under the Disability disability. Discrimination Act. Council expanded a 2018 AUSLAN program • Continue to provide support for in 2019 to offer free training to young people and grow the Little Orange Project, aged 12-24 years. The seven-week course ran including commissioning Little Orange from Belmore Youth Resource Centre and artist for Council public murals. helped 15 young people learn the alphabet, numbers, simple phrases and greetings, and Supporting access to meaningful how to sign amounts of money. Also held in employment 2018-19 was the International Day of People Disability Gala, led entirely by people living • Council’s Campbelltown Arts Centre with disability. participated in the Create Ability Internship Program, interviewing three With the support of Council and other local candidates and taking on one intern organisations, over 160 people attended the from the Little Orange Project. gala night which not only raised awareness about local achievements of people • Council’s 2019 traineeship program living with disability but also celebrated includes one identified Trainee with a them. All speakers and performers were disability, and one further trainee who people living with disability including the identifies as having a disability. Acknowledgement to Country, the MC, the DJ and all the musicians and singers. These projects were part of Council’s practical approach to promote equal rights and improve opportunities for residents living with disability.

30 Canada Bay Council • Final drafts were developed of the Human Resources policy and () procedures for Reasonable Workplace Adjustment.

Council progressed implementation of the C Disability Inclusion Action Plan with: • Wellbank Children’s Centre was rated by the Department of Education and • Delivery of an all abilities carpet bowls Communities as exceeding the national program at Five Dock Leisure Centre. standard for provision of inclusive accessible early learning and education. • Upgrade of bus stop at Concord Hospital as part of the Accessible Bus • Victoria Avenue Children’s Centre was Stops Program. rated by the Department of Education and Communities as a Centre of • Re-establishment of the DA Sub Excellence demonstrating exceptional Committee of the Access and Inclusion practice within the national standard for Committee of Council to ensure provision of inclusive accessible early opportunities are available for people learning and education. with a disability to provide feedback on public facilities and infrastructure. • Advocacy for improved public transport An education session was held with within the LGA. Council consulted and all Committee members to review the worked in collaboration with BRIDJ Bus Access and Inclusion Committee’s Company to collect data demonstrating Charter, Code of Meeting Practice and the need for a specific bus to Concord Code of Conduct. Hospital from Five Dock to address the needs of less-abled residents to access • The Bay Connection Program for direct public transport to the hospital. residents requiring assistance to engage with the community operated at capacity two days per week, providing trips for 30 residents weekly. • Delivery of four specific disability programs/events, funded by the Council Community Grants Program. This included Disability Dance Classes in Building positive attitudes and Concord, Friendship Luncheon for behaviours Disability in Five Dock, Autism Specific Resources for Concord West Preschool, • Support and advice have been given and a Basketball Program for young to businesses wishing to improve people with intellectual disabilities in accessibility to their businesses. No Five Dock. changes have been made due to the • The Bay Rider bus service, in adverse economic conditions prevailing partnership with Drummoyne due to the drought. Community Centre, provided bus • Council has encouraged the adoption of transport to 15 seniors or residents with inclusion guidelines for sporting clubs, a disability once a week. community groups and organisations. • Commencement of improved While some interest has been shown no accessibility to Cabarita Pool with the formal adoption by the organisations construction an internal accessible ramp has been made. to allow greater movement between the • Council has supported the HACC entry foyer and pool deck. This project services to the community and the commenced in late May 2019. transition to home care packages. • Phasing in of the recommendations HACC services are stretched in the by Physical Disability Australia to community and a review of services and remove Master Locksmith Access Key available providers is underway. (MLAK) toilet key systems from publicly provided disabled bathroom facilities.

31 Creating liveable communities Central Coast Council

• Draft Footpath master plan has been prepared Creating liveable communities • Problem areas for wheelchair access • A community report was released has been identified in Council’s kerb detailing the implementation progress and guttering and footpath network. of the Disability Inclusion Action Some work has started in improving Plan (DIAP). Over the last 12 months access and placing footpaths for easier a number of actions have been access. implemented to improve inclusiveness and accessibility on the Coast. • Council has reviewed its offices, halls, toilets and other community buildings • To create liveable communities, some to determine accessibility and problem of the implemented actions include areas that need remediation. Budgets the completion of access audits for are in the planning stages for allocation 72 Council-owned assets, purchase next financial year. of new beach wheelchairs, building a new accessible waterway pontoon Supporting access to meaningful and pathways to fishing platforms, employment installation of wheelchair-accessible picnic facilities, preparation of a draft • Council encourages flexible work Pedestrian and Access Mobility Plan, practices to encourage an inclusive the continued delivery of inclusive work environment. Council’s EEO policy and accessible playgrounds and was reviewed and training provided to participation in the working group for staff. the NSW Government’s “Everyone Can Play” initiative. Improving access to services through better systems and processes • A number of delivered actions developed positive attitudes and • Upgrade and improve systems and behaviours both within Council and processes and provide accessible the broader community. These include information to the community through the introduction of awareness and a variety of different formats. Council educational staff training programs and is in the process of reviewing and Council partnerships with local groups updating its website to incorporate the to run awareness campaigns through web content accessibility guidelines 2.0 art initiatives and exhibitions. where practical. • Council has improved access to service and information by creating better system and processes. • A new website compatible to Web Content Accessibility Guidelines has been prepared with Vision Australia engaged to test content including listing of accessible playgrounds. • New hearing loops have been installed at both Council chambers to improve accessibility. • Council is an equal opportunity employer and now includes accessibility statements in job vacancy advertisements and provides reasonable adjustment needs for job applicants whilst continuing to support staff living with disabilities.

32 Central Darling Council Council has undertaken an analysis on staff diversity and benchmarked the percentage of people in Council’s workforce that identify Nil response as having a disability. This data has been included in the 2018/19 Annual Report. C Improving access to services through better systems and processes

Cessnock City Council Action: Council to investigate becoming relay Service Friendly. Building positive attitudes and Progress: Council introduced the National behaviours Relay Service (NRS) as a contact option for Council’s customer service team. Action: Develop a practice guideline outlining and encouraging the host of Determining how to meet the needs community activities to provide activities of people with disability that are accessible. The practice guideline would be issued to stakeholders in planning Council has continued to use the ‘Including for Seniors Week, NAIDOC Week and Youth You’ activity tent at its major events, which Week programs. aims to support people with disability to attend and participate in community events. Progress: The Accessible & Inclusive Event The feedback, especially from families, has Practice Guide was developed in April 2019. continued to be positive and Council have The practice guide assists organisers to plan made sure to promote the tent in the leadup inclusive events for people with disability to events to assist people in their planning. and provides an overview of some of the access measures and considerations that Challenges and successes in can be implemented to ensure people with delivering on the DIAP disability can participate. The practice guide has been made available to local Changes in local service provision has organisations and is available on Council’s been a challenge in engaging with local website service providers. A number of established disability organisations who contributed Creating liveable communities to the development of the DIAP ceased operating in the 2018-19 financial year, Action: Council’s website will include a with new operators now coming in to webpage that lists the infrastructure in place deliver local services. Council is attempting that supports people to access Council- to establish relationships with the new owned facilities. operators and invite them to be involved in the development of the next DIAP. Progress: Council’s website now includes a dedicated page for Access and Inclusion. It has been good to see some access and The page provides information on initiatives, inclusion measures embedded into standard programs and measures that support access Council practices. Examples of this include: and inclusion for Council services and Council-owned and/or managed community • Upgrades to community and recreation and recreation facilities. facilities (ramps, braille signage, bathrooms, lifts, BBQs and picnic Supporting access to meaningful settings). employment • The increased use of the International Symbol of Access on event promotion Action: Undertake an analysis to determine material as well as encouraging a benchmark for the number of people individuals to contact Council with any employed at Council with disability and specific requirements. assess if it is reflective of the demographics for the Cessnock local government area. Progress: As part of a review of Human Resource policies, practices and processes, 33 Planning greater outcomes for the disability related service, for example future home maintenance and modifications. • Is currently organising a large carers’ Council aims to deliver a new website in the forum for the community with 2019/20 financial year that complies with information about NDIS coordination of the Web Content accessibility Guidelines support and plan management. 2.0 at AA level. The website will include an engagement module. This will be beneficial • Is creating a Facebook page to in future engagement with people with exchange information on disability disability. services available in the area with community members. • In relation to Social Inclusion Week 2017 - 24 November 2017 – We “R” one event – an inclusive family event as part of Social Inclusion week, Council provided Clarence Valley Council funding for the outdoor cinema and provided in-kind support for planning the event and running it on the day. Building positive attitudes and behaviour Creating liveable communities

Council facilitates the Access Committee Council has undertaken a number of and refers relevant work being undertaken consultations and infrastructure projects to to the Access Committee for comment increase access to the built environment for and advice. The committee, which people with disability. These include: meets monthly and is comprised of two Councillors, nine community members (one • Upgrading footpaths to meet Disability of them an Occupational Therapist, one a Discrimination Act (DDA) standards guide dog Orientation & Mobility Specialist): and considering continuous accessible paths. Also discussing this aspect • Provides advice to Council on access with Roads and Maritime Services and matters. the Contractor in the development of • Provides feedback on draft planning aspects of the new Grafton bridge and documents. path connectivity. • Lobbied Rotary Yamba to install a • Upgrading five bus stops and bench seat at a Taxi Pick up and Drop connecting footpaths, which will meet off area in Yamba. DDA requirements. • Is preparing mobility maps. • Commencing a review of the condition of Council’s footpaths which will include • Advocates for safer pedestrian an assessment of access related issues. crossings. • Liaising with public utilities so that their In relation to the Clarence Area Disability infrastructure is not installed along Network, Council staff provide a liaison building shore lines. role, organising the meeting venue, guest speakers, agendas and minutes. The • New accessible parking spaces to be Network: installed in new car park as part of the new Grafton Bridge at the instigation of • Meets quarterly informing the Council. community on latest service update and providing a venue for information Ordinary Council Meeting 26 March exchange. 2019 This is page 211 of the Minutes of the • Has a membership including the Clarence Valley Council Ordinary Meeting majority of disability employment held 26 March 2019 agencies, disability service providers, disability advocacy services, Centrelink • Inclusion of accessible features in and some businesses providing a amenities in Wooli Street Yamba,

34 McLachlan Park Maclean, with works • Has an ongoing commitment to EEO in progress for amenities next to Wooli Committee forming part of Joint Hall, and planning for Pippie Beach Consultative Committee. Yamba.

• Is undertaking a review of its C • MLAK keys available across key facilities recruitment and selection protocol, in main towns and urban areas. which includes whether the online recruitment tool meets accessibility • Planning for shared pedestrian/cycle requirements. pathway extension at Iluka is underway. • Under the Equal Employment • Accessible furniture and support Opportunity Action Plan all staff are facilities being used in parks design and required to attend training every three projects – e.g. McLachlan Park. years. Mental Health Awareness training • Playgrounds at Regional and District is under development for supervisors level being designed to include inclusive and Senior Field Officers. elements – Jacaranda Park, Lions Park, Brooms Head playgrounds. Improving access to services through better systems and processes • Sports facilities being designed to be all accessible and inclusive – e.g. Rushforth Council: Park Redevelopment, Ngayundi Yamba Sports Complex sports amenities, • Is in the early stages of developing Rushforth Park sports amenities. a style guide to go towards meeting disability inclusion action plan. • Master plan upgrades for pools at Grafton and Maclean include improved • Has continued to provide and promote access. new accessible technologies for customers to communicate with Council • Promotion of beach access for including web chat. wheelchairs undertaken through Facebook. • Is working towards full compliance with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines • Review of accessible access to beaches with the inclusion of easy-read versions. across the local government area completed and reported to Council. • Continues to stream Council’s ordinary meetings. • Redevelopment plans for Calypso Yamba, and Brooms Head have been adopted. Wooli and Minnie Water parks redevelopment in planning stages and all will include improved and all- accessible design. Supporting access to meaningful employment

Council is an equal opportunity employer (EEO) and has worked to increase employment opportunities for people with disability. Council: • Considers the needs of EEO groups in work re-organisation or structural changes. • Reviews position descriptions to ensure that essential and desirable criteria and position conditions are non- discriminatory.

35 Cobar Shire Council • Audit line-marking in disability car parking spots and repaint where needed (completed). Creating liveable communities • Improve disability access to Council • Identify and prioritise public buildings buildings and facilities to improve their that require access audits in accordance accessibility by older people and people with standards (completed). with a disability. • Review the Pedestrian Access and • Install disability access to Council Mobility Plan (PAMP) and progressively buildings as funding becomes available. upgrade high priority areas to improve • New projects are currently being access as funding becomes available designed to incorporate means of (completed). compliant access into buildings. • Develop a procedure for including community input into the design Building positive attitudes and process (completed). behaviours

• Assess key community infrastructure to • Include disability awareness training in identify and prioritise design, delivery staff inductions (ongoing) and management of accessible toilet and change facilities (completed). • Partner with community organizations to deliver projects and programs that • Install accessible toilet facilities and support inclusion in Council activities change facilities at the Cobar Youth and (completed). Fitness Centre (completed). • Work with the Mental Health Network • Install storage for wheelchairs at to promote strong mental health in the Cobar Youth and Fitness Centre the community and provide education (completed). around mental health (completed). • Accessible playground equipment • Hold at least one consultation installed into Drummond Park meeting with key stakeholders on the (completed). implementation and updating of the DIAP annually (completed). • Make gym equipment more accessible to all users (moved downstairs). • Implement Disability Action Plan. The DIAP was implemented throughout • New public buildings all meet universal the year and the plan was updated and design principles (completed). adopted by Council on 28 June 2019. • Free pool admission for aged and disabled pensioners incorporated into Supporting access to meaningful the adopted Fees and Charges for employment 2019/20. • Work with organization to target • Promote to shop keepers access issues funding where appropriate to employ faced in the central business district people with a disability into roles and how this limits their ability to reach designed to suit them and Council. customers and make sales (ongoing). • Consider issues of disability, access • Coordinate community groups to and inclusion when updating Council’s determine the feasibility of introducing policies and procedures. public transport options for those with wheelchairs and mobility impairments (ongoing). • Investigate if there is adequate community transport available for the community and advocate for additional transport if needed (completed).

36 City Council • Social media and web pages promoting access to beach wheelchairs. Creating liveable communities • Completion of the project to upgrade

the Coffs Coast Tourism website to C Council has undertaken the following allow people to filter accommodation projects to increase access to the built for disability access. environment for people with a disability: • Inclusion of junior fiction titles in a print • Accessibility upgrades to public toilets format for young people with dyslexia. at Woolgoolga Lakeside, Hills Beach, Council is investing in training to build skills Korora, Saltwater Park, Harbour Drive, and knowledge to support access including: Coffs Harbour and Urara Park, Elizabeth Street and Coffs Harbour. Mental health first aid and awareness Council continues to be committed to consulting • Adult Change Place planned for with people with a disability: Woolgoolga Beach Reserve upgrade. • Council’s Disability Inclusion and Access • The Stadium upgrade has incorporated Advisory Committee continues to meet many accessible and inclusive features monthly and regularly engages with with input from the Disability Inclusion Council staff. and Access Committee. • The Disability Inclusion and Access • Significant footpath upgrades at the Advisory Committee also provided Curacoa Street, Coffs Harbour, Market extensive input into the International Street, Woolgoolga and Werambie and Stadium accessibility upgrades and the Wirrabilla Streets, Toormina. City Centre redevelopment. • New accessible bus shelters introduced. Building positive attitudes and • New all abilities playgrounds at Pearce behaviour Drive and the West Coffs Regional Playground, designed on the NSW Council has worked towards promoting Government Everyone Can Play positive community attitudes and Guidelines. behaviours toward people with disability through: • The application of accessible design principles and consultation with • Celebration of International Day of the Disability Inclusion and Access People with Disability. Committee for the City Centre upgrade. • Showcasing an all-abilities theatre Council is working toward greater access production. across the LGA and has allocated funding in the 2019/20 budget for: • Producing social media celebrating the achievements of people with a disability • A $1.2 million footpath construction including Scott Doolan who was the program. first paraplegic to climb to Base Camp of Mount Everest. • Even more new accessible bus shelters. • Promotion of library services to • Development of an Integrated Transport community members with a disability as Strategy which will consider accessible a key audience. parking across the Coffs Harbour City and connection to accessible pathways. • The inclusion of community members with a disability and the sharing of Improving access to services through better information about disability services on systems and processes Council has worked the MyCoffs Connect Facebook page. to increase access to information including: Council has worked to increase opportunities • Improvements to Council’s website to for people with disability to participate in increase accessibility with the inclusion community activities. This included: of ‘Readspeak’ technology. • Promoting the accessibility of venues for Seniors Week.

37 • The provision of a ‘chill-out’ space for Progress Report: people with autism at the Harmony Festival. Council has undertaken ongoing actions to ensure that positive community attitudes • Partnering with Sport NSW to provide and behaviours are being developed opportunities for inclusive sport and maintained relating to people with a including an annual Inclusion Sports disability. These actions have included the Day held at Sportz Central. provision of information to Councillors, • Development of an Inclusive Beach staff and the general community regarding Access Issues and Options Paper, the Disability Inclusion Action Plan which endorses Jetty Beach as a via Council’s website and newsletters priority location for the development of and Council’s employee and volunteer inclusive beach facilities such as a Mobi- induction programs. matt and the provision of two additional Hippocampe beach wheelchairs. Creating liveable communities

Supporting access to meaningful • Council services, facilities and activities employment are accessible.

Council has worked to increase employment • Events and Council activities are opportunities for people with a disability accessible. including: • Provide community access to Council • The implementation of new flexible facilities, infrastructure and buildings, work arrangements that support and raising awareness to local employment of people with a disability businesses. and carers of people with a disability. • Develop and maintain the Coolamon • Improvements to the level of Shire Council’s website and intranet accessibility of Council’s recruitment to meet best practice and improve pages on the website. information access for people with disabilities. • Maintain staff awareness of accessible information needs and how people with disability can obtain information in other formats. Coolamon Shire Council Progress Report:

This is the second year of reporting relating Council has undertaken a number of to the Disability Inclusion Action Plan 2017- actions to ensure that the Coolamon 2021 (DIAP) for the Coolamon Shire Council. Shire is a liveable community during the The plan was adopted by Council in June 2017 reporting period including: and listed four focus areas with strategies and actions to achieve those areas. • are Zoom-enabled and have options for Building positive attitudes and font resizing. behaviours • The construction of disability amenities at the Council Chambers, Coolamon • Improve awareness of access issues for Visitor Information Centre, Redgrave people with a disability to Councillors, Park, Coolamon, Hall and staff and community members. Marrar Memorial Hall. • Improve staff and community • Ongoing implementation of Council’s understanding and attitudes towards Active Transport Plan including the people with disability and frequently construction of a path in Beckom promote where possible. linking the park to the hall and kerb blisters and ramps in . • Raise awareness of Council’s DIAP and accessibility issues with contractors and • Council continues to undertake facilitators. 38 assessments of its public facilities to Coonamble Shire Council ensure that accessibility issues are considered as part of future upgrades. Coonamble Library now hosts a new

• Council awarded funding under the “Sensational Area” featuring tactile panels C Local Heritage Places program to and sensory equipment. The library also contribute to improved access to the serves as a meeting place for Breakthru Coolamon Post Office. Disability Employment Service and their clients. They use the internet, watch DVDS Supporting access to meaningful and use the board games and colour in. employment The Words on Wheels housebound delivery service offers fortnightly deliveries to local • People with disability have the same housebound patrons and residents of opportunities as other people to be Koonambil Aged Care Facility. employed by Coolamon Shire Council. • Support staff with disability within the Leverage the skills and knowledge workplace. in our community to promote social interaction and facilitate knowledge Progress Report: sharing

Council’s Equal Employment Opportunity • Ensure Disability Access specific award Plan and related recruitment process is included in local business awards ensures that everyone has access to (completed). meaningful employment and that all staff are supported within the workplace with • Collaborate with Government, NGOs appropriate adjustments. and community in facilitation of activities that build social capital (completed). Improving access to services through better systems and processes • Coordinate appropriate Community Development Worker recruitment, as • Ensure accessible and inclusive required (completed). community engagement. Support and promote healthy Progress Report: lifestyles

Council’s policies and procedures relating • Source funding for additional accessible to community engagement allow everyone public toilets (progressing). the same rights to participate in the decision making of Council, regardless of • Supporting ageing and disability disability. services in the changing climate of the NDIS (completed). • Activities and events managed by Council are accessible by all groups (completed). • Participate in International Day of People with Disability (completed). Improve interaction across social cultural and age groups

• Review accessible parking spaces at key recreational facilities (progressing).

• Review Council’s current communications mechanisms to ensure compliance with accessibility standards (completed).

39 • New and refurbished Council facilities • Ensure the needs of all stakeholders are are designed and constructed to meet considered on all Council committees access standards (completed). (ongoing). • Prioritise Pedestrian Access and • Ensure the Council’s Community Mobility Plan (PAMP) recommendations Strategic Plan considers barriers to an and prepare a three-year budget and inclusive community and any issues plan (completed). raised (ongoing). • Routinely inspect paving for defects or • Provide appropriate information on the trip hazards (completed). available access in promotional material for community and tourism events Encourage broader involvement in (ongoing). community activities • Provide opportunities for stakeholders • Develop and utilise an Access and to easily report access concerns Inclusion Reference Group when (ongoing). developing Council plans (completed). • Provide support to community • Utilise broad methods of community organisations in seeking funding for consultation (completed). accessibility and inclusion projects (ongoing). Encourage and promote a high level • Review Council documents to make of leadership in the community them easy to complete for people of all abilities. All forms to include • Audit Council library equipment how people can access assistance in and resources for height and reach completion (in progress). accessibility (completed). • Update existing Council channels to • Facilitate Disability Awareness Training ensure that they have the ability to for staff (completed). include access information and other stakeholder requirements and that this is collected (in progress). • When updating mapping and websites, include access information on facilities and activities. Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council

• Advocate for access to respite services for carers of disabled children (in progress). • Advocate for the allocation of more resources for education, early intervention and childcare for children with a disability (in progress). • Conduct a triennial survey of service providers to garner information on access issues in the area (completed). • Ensure information concerning accessible public transport including Community Transport is readily available (completed). • Ensure signage on Council buildings is clear and easy to read (completed).

40 Council • Improved inclusion and access to recreational activities Building positive attitudes and • Resurfacing and the inclusion of a cover behaviours of the basketball courts at Twigg Oval. C The cover is scheduled for construction • Continue to support and improve in September 2020 however works have representation by people with commenced and resurfacing will occur disabilities on the Cowra Council in March 2020. Access Advisory Committee. There are • A grant application has been submitted members of the Access Committee who for fencing around River Park have identified as having a disability. Playground under the “Everyone Can All of the members either have a family Play” grant for fencing. member with disabilities or work in the health sector. • Cowra Nature Based Adventure Playground has installed a flying fox • Continue to support and improve that can be used by disabled people. representation by people with a disability with ongoing support for the • Council has included universal design Access Incentive Fund – Cowra Tennis criteria in the Development Control Plan Club has been funded ramp access into for development in the Shire. the club room. • Increase the use of the bus service for • Increase the visibility of people people with disability. Contact has been with disabilities in Cowra Council made with the Bus and they offer the publications. Communications, websites following advices to residents of Cowra: and social media – all communications for the Council facilities have the • They currently run an 18 seater disability required symbols which demonstrate access bus on the hail and ride service – access for disabled people where this is not popular. appropriate and Council has an up-to- • They have a TFNSW funded 12.5mlow date health service listing available. floor disability bus (new). • Council is working on a new website • Develop a safety strategy for users of which will comply with the WCAG 2.0. mobility scooters. • Council has access to a Translating and • Encourage an increase in the level of Interpreting Service as required. accessible housing stock in Cowra – • Improvements in the CBD main street DCP has not yet been reviewed likely in works (commenced) will increase 2020. disabled access to existing shops. • Promote the Companion Card – which is Creating liveable communities accepted at the Aquatic Centre and the Civic Centre for functions. • Continue to improve physical access to • Promote Cowra as an accessible tourist all Cowra Council buildings (ongoing). destination – tourism is not controlled by Cowra Council and is a separate • Audit accessible toilets facilities to entity. ensure they meet community needs and expectations and are easily located. Supporting access to meaningful • At the Croquet Club, toil was upgraded employment to be ambulant compliant. Several public toilets have been identified for • Subscribe to the Australian Network on upgrade works and are subject to grant Disability – being considered. funding. • Create pathways for people with • Improved public seating – as part of disability to undertake work experience the CBD refurbishment works is the and apply for jobs at the Council – this inclusions of sheltered and safe public is in operation. seating (currently under construction).

41 Improving access to services through Cumberland Council better systems and processes Some of the key highlighters from the • Implement a workplace wellbeing implementation of the DIAP over the last program for staff – this is in place and two years include: expanding. • Two regional all abilities playgrounds • Provide information on accessibility at Central Gardens and Auburn Botanic and disability, mental health and aged Gardens funded and are currently in the services on the Cowra Council website. planning stages (Action 2.1.6). This is part of the Council’s website and the ‘New Residence Pack’ and is • The introduction of ‘Quiet Zones’ at all updated as necessary. major Council events to create more inclusive event spaces and encourage • Ensure that all venues for voting are the participation of people with accessible – Council will ensure that this disabilities (Action 2.3). occurs. • Cumberland Disability Inclusion Plan Determining how to meet the needs Progress Report (Years 1&2). of people with disability • Access and Inclusion has been placed Council believes in continuous improvement on the agenda at all Council’s corporate and therefore the Council can always induction sessions to inform all Council improve services and facilities. Feedback employees of Council’s commitment to is given to Council through the Access access and inclusion and what it means committee as a conduit regularly and for them and their role (Action 1.1.2). amendments are made as necessary. • Access Audits have been introduced Challenges and successes in to identify major access barriers which delivering on the DIAP Council can resolve to improve access for all in Town Centres (Action 2.1). The challenge is the costly upgrades • Zoom text and JAWS accessibility required for existing infrastructure, for software has been installed at a example, public toilets and without building minimum of one public PC across new infrastructure it is very difficult to all Council libraries which allows five get existing structures to comply with concurrent users (Action 2.3.1 & 4.1). requirements. Council will continue to apply for grant funding to ensure that facilities are • The development of an ‘Access and upgraded and Cowra provides the facilities Inclusion Events Guiding’ checklist to required for residents and visitors. increase access and inclusion at Council events. This is supported by a toolkit Further information and comments comprising a personal hearing loop kit, 2 x 10m access mats and a quiet zone/ Community transport continues to be a sensory equipment kit (Action 4.3.4). difficult topic for Cowra because of the large • The Cumberland Access and Inclusion distances for people to travel to medication Panel was established in 2017 to provide facilities and services in the Central West community representation, advice and NSW. input to Council on the views, needs NDIS issues have been raised by the Access and interests of people with disability Committee, specifically related to regional and to assist in the guidance and and remote areas and these, in turn, have implementation of the DIAP (Action been discussed with the relevant people and 1.2.1). some progress has been made. • The establishment of the Cumberland Access Committee in 2018 to act as an advisory body to Council on the views and interests of people with disability on areas such as policies, strategies, access works and community infrastructure projects (Action 4.2).

42 • Council has been proactive in being part of a new pilot program which begins in early 2020 with an ‘out of hours service’ Building positive attitudes and which allows for increased access to behaviours accessible transport. This program is D called LIFT and is funded through the • Council has been committed to icare Foundation. achieving its objectives In DIAP. Supporting access to meaningful • Changing Council Organisational employment structure to have a position dedicated to access issues. • Council has engaged with Westhaven to • Very proactive and CEO who support the School Leaver Employment chair and sit on access committees. Support Program. A position has been made available at the Dubbo Aquatic • Proactive in applying for funding and and Leisure Centre. applying Council funds to build and improve facilities. • Council has restructured its human resources division with a focus on • Working with NSW Sport to provide wellbeing for its new and existing facilities each year for the Active employees. Inclusion Sports Days. • Council’s economic division is linked • Highlighting and promoting with the range of business chambers International Day of People with a across our region and promotes Disability. the benefits and positive changes businesses can make within this area. • Promoting funding opportunities for many local organisations and services Improving access to services through to increase their services or improve better systems and processes infrastructure. Creating liveable communities • In 2018 Council has committed $2 million to the area of access and disability for the Dubbo Region over a • Council has engaged the services of four-year period. an independent access consultant to complete depth access audits in both • In 2018/2019 Council established a Wellington and Dubbo. Disability Inclusion Technical Panel which consisted of community • Actioning each of those items detailed members with lived experience, plus in the access reports, across various service representatives to educate sections of Council to improve Council on the correct path to take on accessibility within our CBDs. many different issues and objectives. • Construction of several accessible This committee has been chaired by toilets in high pedestrian density areas the Mayor of the Dubbo Region and the within the region. CEO of Dubbo Regional Council has also been a panel member. • Creation and upgrading of parks and ovals across the LGA, with a focus of • The new role of Community inclusion. Development Officer (CDO) – seniors and people with a disability allows • Promotion and support of accessible for greater communication and residential buildings, through changes education between service providers in zoning. and participants. Increased access to information on Council website, • Creation of the draft Health, Education publications produced by Council and and Wellbeing Masterplan for Dubbo, workshops and expos facilitated by which will increase access to services officer. and accessible housing for our increasing population.

43 Dungog Shire Council Eurobodalla Shire Council

Building positive attitudes and Building positive attitudes and behaviour behaviour

• Inclusion tent provided at three Shire In 2018-19 Council set out to address 14 events. actions under the focus area of attitudes and behaviours. The following is a summary of Creating liveable communities activities and actions achieved:

• Extended linkage paths of travel within • The design and construction of new the public school precinct. Visitor Centre and Pavilion at the Eurobodalla Regional Botanic Garden • Path linkage to accessible parking. has incorporated facilities and features for people with disabilities to assist • Improvements to accessible parking future events such as an accessible car spaces. space adjacent to the new building. • Two pedestrian crossings in Dowling • Council’s Youth committee had a Street upgraded. member with a disability. He was • Employment. supported to participate fully. • Provision of resources or equipment to • An informal program of celebrating support area of need. champions of inclusion and access has been realised in 2018-19 to support Improving access to services through the generation of a culture of inclusion better systems and processes across the organisation and the idea that disability is everyone’s business. • Investigating resource options. Council created films and issued media releases around key projects that celebrate disability improvements, including the Changing Places toilet installed at the Variety Inclusive Playground , which featured a project engineer talking Council about the features. Further activities include advocacy around disability as • Incorporate kerb ramps and crossings part of the Batemans Bay Bridge and that have been identified as high risk foreshore project and the inclusion of and high use into works programs. an access award in the Eurobodalla Provided two kerb ramps and crossings business awards. in George Street (between Hardinge • Inclusion initiatives this year included and Napier Streets). ‘Dementia Friendly community’ • Review and audit access and facilities promotions. at the Swimming Pool and • Council has worked across the develop a plan for upgrades to ensure community with services that support best possible access by all people people with a disability as well as with within four years. Audit of access individual artists with a disability. These for the 50m pool at the Deniliquin include the Disability Trust, the Dr Swimming Pool facility and preparation Mackay Centre’s School of Possibilities of designs for ramp access into this and South East Arts through the Swell pool. program. In the last 12 months, art exhibitions have been presented by artists with a disability. All creative arts programs are continually assessed for accessibility and inclusion for audience and participants. This includes sightlines, wheelchair and toilet access

44 as well as the provision of assistance exist and are also identified on Council’s for artists with a disability wishing to website page relating to community enter art prizes and exhibitions. Council halls. has purchased three works by artists with a disability for the permanent art • A hierarchy of standards of parks was E collection. developed and is described in the Recreation and Open Space Strategy • Council continues to work to deliver adopted by Council in February 2018. disability and mental health awareness training to the creative arts industry • As a result of ongoing improvements through their partnership with South of accessibility at most of Council’s East Arts. Information about disability facilities, Council has not received any and mental health has been distributed Customer Service Requests in relation through the arts networking sessions to specific accessibility issues during and disability and mental health this year. awareness training has been provided. • All new and park renewal projects • All Chambers of Commerce have been and associated furniture designs provided with Good Access means are now assessed for how they can Good Business training and resources include physical access for people and are encouraged to promote using mobility aids. Recent examples inclusion principles to their members. of projects include the renewal of the Tuross playground and planning for • Images of people with disability were the Mogo John Street Park accessible featured in Living in Eurobodalla and amenities block. Council News during the year and distributed to media for promotions • All upgrades and renewal projects are on International Day of People with based around the Australian Standard Disability, volunteering opportunities series 1428 “Design for access and and photography exhibition. Mobility”. All new works and designs incorporate accessibility as a mandatory • Council’s Facebook and Instagram criteria for the designers. pages also continue to feature images of people with disability throughout • Youth cafes are open to all young the year. The new Changing Places people in the community. Currently Fully Accessible toilet was promoted there are three young people with by media release, and a video of the disabilities attending. Attendance is facility was put on our social media and impacted by carer availability at times. YouTube channels. One of the cafe volunteers is on the National Disability Insurance Scheme • Council staff continue to consider the and they are supported and encouraged best method to reach people with to participate actively in the day-to- disability and utilise the Disability day running of café activities. Council’s Inclusion Advisory Committee’s youth cafes are accessible places with expertise as a first step. wheelchair access and accessible toilets. • ‘Tips for inclusive engagement’ and ‘Communicating with people • Young people with disabilities are with disability’ are included in the encouraged to participate in the Ydrive Community Engagement staff toolkit. program. Three young people with disabilities were registered with and Creating liveable communities participating in the program during the year. In 2018-19 Council set out to address 20 actions under the focus area of Liveable • More than 150 people with a disability communities. The following is a summary of were provided with National Disability activities and actions achieved: Insurance Scheme (NDIS) supports through Council’s Community Care • The availability of hearing loops services (Involve Eurobodalla). This in community facilities and halls is includes 12 participants residing in three currently promoted by signage in Specialist Disability Accommodation Council’s facilities where hearing loops

45 services. Additional direct support staff a person with a disability and two of have been recruited to meet increased these trainees recruited have identified demand for service as on average over as being persons with a disability. 1,500 direct services are provided to NDIS participants by Community Care staff each month, plus more than 500 services arranged each month from third party providers. • The merits of a free access audit Fairfield City Council program were considered during the year, however there is currently no The NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014 funding to progress. replaced the Disability Services Act 1993 and • The benefits of improved access, increases the rights, protections, inclusions particularly from a business perspective, and safeguards for people with disabilities. have been promoted via the 2019 The Disability Inclusion Act 2014 requires Eurobodalla Business Awards, Good local government to put in place a Disability Access category. Inclusion Action Plan to promote the inclusion of people with disability. In response to the • An audit template has been developed requirements under the Disability Inclusion and used to conduct an access audit Act 2014, Fairfield City Council adopted the of library buildings across a range of Fairfield Disability Inclusion Action Plan 2017 categories. Data will inform actions to (DIAP) on 13 June 2017 and submitted it to the be included in the Library strategic plan NSW Disability Council and the Minister for in 2019-20. Disability Services. The key focus of the DIAP this year was around planning and integrating • Moruya library has improved access in DIAP into Council’s corporate plans, workforce the recent refurbishment by providing culture and services. Some key highlights that an accessible computer terminal and were identified during the 2018-2019 financial large print keyboard, adjustable desk, year included: varied height reception desk, new accessible toilet and have included an Building positive attitudes and access ramp in the construction plan at behaviour the rear of the building. • All youth week activities were inclusive. • Held a number of events celebrating people with disabilities and carers. • The scope of Batemans Bay Visioning project is to review accessibility for the • Hosted the Sport NSW Activate town, across all modes of transport Inclusion Sport Day. including cars, pedestrians, cyclists and • Provided early intervention for public transport. children with disability and promoted Supporting access to meaningful partnerships with local services to employment support inclusion of children with disability. In 2018-19 Council set out to address two • Provided visual abilities classes at the actions under the focus area of Employment. Museum and Gallery for people with The following is a summary of activities and disability. actions achieved: Creating liveable communities • Council’s Tourism website is to be improved to promote inclusive tourism • Provided inclusive classes and products. purchased assistive equipment at • Youth disability employment initiatives Council’s leisure centres. in place. Council is currently hosting • Provided inclusive activities in the Gyms seven youth trainees and has in Parks program. commenced recruitment for a further seven to commence in early 2020. One • Audited Fairfield Town Centre and traineeship has been designated for Council facilities for accessibility.

46 Supporting access to meaningful continues to work towards ensuring that employment residents and visitors to the Federation Council area have equal opportunities • Promoted Council as an Equal through accessibility and mobility Employment Opportunity (EEO) improvements. F employer. • Developed the Fairfield City Council Disability Work Experience Program. Improving access to services through better systems and processes Forbes Shire Council

• Provided educational sessions to Building positive attitudes and community leaders and businesses on behaviours the importance of access and inclusion. • Conducted Easy English training to • Hosted International Day of People Council Staff. with Disability Pool Party – numbers increased by 250%. Councillors • Conducted inclusive events training attended and presented participation to Council Staff to raise awareness of certificates to all attendees. Clients from the needs at events for all types of Currajong Disability Services invited to disabilities, not just physical. all Council events. Anecdotal evidence • Developed and implemented an online suggests participation by people with and Corporate Induction, which makes a disability at all Council events was up staff aware of what Council has in place from 2017/18 FY. for people with disabilities. • Supported the efforts of various • A training module for all staff has been service providers through participation rolled out so that staff will be better in the Forbes Interagency Network. equipped to manage their interactions Presented the Forbes Services Expo with people with disabilities. in October with 20+ service providers in attendance including three who specialise in the disability sector. • CRO continued involvement in Forbes Interagency Group. Key partnerships strengthened with community Federation Council organisations and advocacy groups including Currajong Disability Services, House with No Steps and Special Unit Council continued to meet and seek at both high school in the district. guidance from the Federation Disability Access Committee to identify and remove • Promoted availability of MLAK key and barriers preventing the participation of accessible toilets within the Shire. people with a disability in programs, services • Promoted ongoing accessibility and facilities. improvements (new or upgraded Federation Council partnered with Intereach accessible toilets and ongoing footpath - Ability Links to deliver the Access at replacement program) on social media. a Glance Sticker Program across the Federation Council. The Project aimed to Creating liveable communities engage and educate communities and businesses on the value of the inclusion • All developments in the 2018-19 FY for both societal and commercial reasons. complied with Australian Standards. Future projects such as the All • FSC secured funding and completed Abilities Play- ground, the public toilet construction of an accessible fishing upgrade and Play Space at Bangerang Park, pontoon within Lions Park (one of our and the lift implementation at the most popular event venues and utilised Civic Centre demonstrate how Council year-round by many families, residents

47 and visitors). Additional opportunities including change table. continue to be investigated. • Plans underway for upgrade of parking • Annual rental subsidy to Home and facilities at Forbes Aquatic Centre (ski Community Care continues and number dam). of service providers located in the centre is stable. • Lions Park Masterplan recently received funding, plan includes construction of • Traditional public transport options disabled parking. are limited within the Shire however Neighbourhood Central’s Community • Town Hall continues to be accessible Transport has been identified during for people with disability through Interagency meetings as being able access ramp and automatic door. to fulfil the need for better mobility Budget required to make second floor access. Further promotion of the accessible not available this FY. availability of this service is required • New paths and access points moving into the new financial year. constructed at ski dam and Lion’s Park. • Council participates fully in the MLAK Bridge. Funding secured construction scheme and the National Public Toilet of accessible fishing platform on Lake Map. Several accessible facilities within Forbes on now completed. the Shire are available 24 hours a day. • CRO continued involvement in Forbes • Subsidy to Forbes Medical Centre Interagency Group. Mayor continues to continues and Forbes Medical Centre lobby higher levels of government on continues to provide excellent service behalf of the community to our community. • Mayor and Councillors remain vocal • Council continues to develop and members of the representation on implement a forward works plan for Parkes Forbes Community Housing. construction or upgrade of a public • Audit to improve access to the Forbes toilet facility each year. Council has Visitor Information Centre completed upgraded and replacing three toilets and options investigated however no this year. Council has upgraded and budget available this FY to complete repairing Unisex Disabled Facilities upgrades. at Apex Caravan Park and Forbes Pool with Victoria Park toilets to be Supporting access to meaningful upgraded shortly after the new year. employment Council maintains a budget for these ongoing improvements each year. • Full objective assessment implemented • New intersection ramps were added to in all recruitment and selection footpaths for all kerb gutter renewals processes. Ongoing support for those and where new footpaths were staff who have identified as having installed. This includes the Spring Street a disability - with an investment of footpath upgrade and the new footpath over $2000 in functional equipment in Johnson and Farnell Street. to continue delivering work with a disability. In the process of being set • Community consultation on the design up as a Job Access Provider to further and development of new infrastructure facilitate and support disability inclusion is broad and attempts to capture the and adaptive technologies. Access to all entire community, including people with Council areas is restricted (ie. Upstairs a disability. at Town Hall) and this is in the plan for a future fix. • Audits conducted of the Visitor Information Centre and Forbes Town • Council continues to work with the Hall. Accessibility needs identified Forbes Business Chamber on a number however no budget available this FY to of initiatives. undertake improvements • Key partnerships with House with No • New accessible toilet and change room Steps, Currajong Disability Services constructed at Forbes Olympic Pool strengthened.

48 • CRO continues to be an active member Business Expo and have been provided of the Forbes Interagency Network. information on accessibility to attract customers. Links were also made at • Council presented the Forbes Services the Business After 5 network meeting Expo in October with 20+ service working closely with the Economic G providers in attendance including three Development team to promote inclusive who specialise in the disability sector. and accessible businesses. Improving access to services through • Council has provided information better systems and processes sessions in partnership with community groups, including the Chinese Disability • Relevant upgrades to cater for the Support Group, Post School Expo, and needs of disabled members of the NDIS workshops. These sessions have community completed on time and provided an opportunity for people under budget with great feedback. with disability and their families to meet Accessibility audit completed as part local disability service providers, and of each individual events’ evaluation learn about available services in our process. Learnings carried forward to area. planning for next FY and beyond. • Georges River Libraries ran the • Website due for complete overhaul Harmony Day Living Library in March within the next 12 months. 2019, a program designed to build a positive framework for difficult • New website will conform to Web conversations. This event featured the Content Accessibility Guidelines. Paralympian swimmer, Ben Austin, who shared his story about his struggle with discrimination due to his disability and his journey to becoming a motivational speaker who shares his inspiring journey with others. • Council has continued to support Jubilee Arts for Mental Health (JAMH), Building positive attitudes and an art skills program offered each term behaviours for 12 to 14 people with mental illness. Community participants with mental • Council has partnered with local illness are selected for paid employment community groups to showcase the as assistant tutors on each program. contribution people with disability make • Unplugged and Live & Local highlighted in our community. Local community two youth music events during NSW groups run by people with disability Youth Week in April, an accessible for people with disability have been program that actively encouraged supported financially through Council people with disability to perform in a grants programs to continue their work public venue in Hurstville Plaza. as well as staffing resources to support, advocate and raise their profile and Creating liveable communities work in the community. • Council’s community grants have • An accessibility audit has been supported 13 local community services completed on six of Council’s most and providers to deliver programs in regularly used community centres, the community. These have included outlining recommendations to grant funding for epilepsy training meet relevant accessibility codes in community languages; a sensory and standards. Upgrade works are sanctuary garden through Learning scheduled for August 2019, with Links and the Shepherd Centre’s ‘In the Council’s remaining community centres Shoes of a Deaf Child’ school readiness to be audited by the end of 2019. A program. mobility map has been developed for the Hurstville Town Centre. The • Representatives from over 30 local information for the Mobility Map businesses attended the Winning

49 was developed and reviewed in Supporting access to meaningful consultation with the Access & Inclusion employment Reference Group, and will be available electronically on Council’s website and • Staff at People & Culture Team have in hard copy printed versions, including started to implement a recurrent a tactile format. A rolling schedule of Disability Awareness – Train the Trainer Mobility Maps has been recommended program, which has been delivered by the Reference Group, with the to managers and coordinators across next town centre to be completed by the organisation. All staff across the October 2019 in Mortdale. organisation will undertake Disability Awareness training through their teams • Council has completed 14 major in 2019-20. capital projects which are inclusive and all-abilities accessible. These • Council has worked in partnership have included toilet facilities at Carss with Disability Employment Agency, Park, Oatley Memorial and Pole Depot Nova Employment, as well as a local Public Amenities Building Penshurst. high school support unit to offer work All Inclusive playgrounds have been experience placements across the completed at Connells Point Reserve, organisation, including the Libraries, McCraes Park and Meade Park, Allawah. Museum and Gallery, Customer Service The all-inclusive playgrounds are and Children’s Services. This year designed to provide play and learning Council has provided work experience areas for children of all abilities, to 21 students. providing access and opportunity for children to interact with the equipment. Improving access to services through A public adult change room facility has better systems and processes been constructed at and also Charles Pirie Reserve, Kogarah • The Access & Inclusion Reference Group Bay for the all-abilities sporting clubs has continued to meet on a bi-monthly who play there. These adult change basis. The Reference Group was integral room facilities have been identified as a in the planning and development of the key need by the community members Missed Business Expo which Council with access requirements who utilise held for the local business community. these areas. The Reference Group members presented on their lived experience, • Council has also completed a detailed and also their professional knowledge footpath audit on its 417km footpath on accessibility and inclusiveness of network. This audit captured Council’s accessing local businesses. compliant and non-compliant kerb cut outs (pram ramps). The audit identified • Departments within Council such as 301 trip hazards greater than 35mm. All Events, Community Development, and 301 trip hazards were repaired by 30 the Museum & Gallery teams have been June 2019. Civil works funding has been undertaking accessibility assessments allocated for disability specific projects. for events they have been hosting through the year, in line with Event • Hurstville Museum & Gallery’s in-house Strategy commitments to increasing designed exhibition Keep in Touch event accessibility for performers and created a multisensory experience for audiences. visitors: some content of the exhibition was made available via sound and • Work is currently underway to meet the tactile experience; the communication Web Content Accessibility Guidelines methods of Braille and Auslan were WCAG2.0 for Council’s website. As of incorporated in the exhibition concept 31 June 2019, the website has achieved to be inclusive of the different ways 92.91% accessibility compliance, an people communicate; and the exhibition increase of 12.5% on the original audited opening night was interpreted in benchmark. Auslan. Tactile tours are available and promoted for temporary and permanent • Four key Council documents as exhibitions and gallery spaces within identified by the Customer Experience the Museum & Gallery. team as the most frequently used by

50 the community have been translated Council assets to meet the requirements into Easy English and have been of the Disability Discrimination Act. uploaded to the Council’s website.

Determining how to meet the needs G of people with disability

• Council has set up a Have Your say feedback page at the end of each Gilgandra Shire Council financial year using the same questions that were used for the original Council has implemented the following consultation of the DIAP. The response actions: has been poor. This was only promoted through disability networks and a few Building positive attitudes and social media posts at the time. behaviours • There has been lots of feedback from • Liaison with local businesses has the Access & Inclusion Reference Group resulted in work experience for that goals are being met and achieved. Living clients at 2WAR FM Community Approximately half of the reference Radio; Australia Post, Rohr’s Timber & group members are local residents with Hardware. disability. • Orana Living clients undertook, with • Feedback is rolled out the same way support, Meals on Wheels deliveries, each financial year, however there operation of Swimming Pool turnstiles could be room for improvement on the and delivery of Council’s internal mail. way it is completed. Same questions areas were incorporated as the initial • Needs of people with a disability consultations to ensure consistent considered in all planning projects and feedback but by using Have Your Say developments undertaken by Council. limits part of the community. Possibly best to look at other ways in future to • Orana Living celebrated International gather feedback. Day of People with Disabilities with another organisation. Challenges and successes in delivering on the DIAP Creating liveable communities

• Challenges: Working with other • Consideration given to accessibility departments in a timely manner, time when planning activities and events run constraints as the role of the Disability by Council Services Officer is part time, to follow • Creation of additional footpaths to link up and keep on top of their deliverable key facilities requirements. • Council promotes the availability of • Successes: Working across departments community transport options on the disability portfolio and raising awareness within the whole • Commenced planning for new specialist organisation about the target group so disability accommodation for up to 13 Council is contributing through DIAP to people build a capable organisation. Improving access to services through Planning greater outcomes for the better systems and processes future • Communications policy developed to • Continue with raising awareness complement Council’s Communication about the contribution people with Engagement Strategy disability make to the community through planned events and programs, organise more autism workshops in the community, and continue to upgrade

51 Glenn Innes Severn Shire and display the business phone number to call if barriers to access are Council encountered.

Council continues to progress the actions Supporting access to meaningful in the Disability Inclusion Action Plan 2017- employment 21 and much has been achieved during the 2018-19 financial year. The achievements are • An employment skills and tips session listed below under the four key focus areas: was conducted in November 2018 and Aimbig (a Disability Employment Building positive attitudes and Services provider) took part in this behaviours initiative. Aimbig also spoke to our MyTime group on employment • Funding was approved by Council to initiatives and assistance for school assist in producing a film featuring leavers. locals with a focus on inclusion and ability, which was an inspirational Improving access to services through experience for all involved. A public better systems and processes screening was held on 3 December 2018. The guide to speaking about • Feedback from the community disability in a more inclusive and residents that are blind continues to respectful manner was also released at be positive in relation to accessing this event. Council’s information. • Council staff continue to provide • Positive feedback on the progress administrative support to the of Council’s initiatives has been Community Access Committee which gained through individual feedback, is regularly attended by people with a both to Council staff and through disability to have valuable input. the Community Access Committee members. • People with a disability featured prominently among the models in the fashion parade to celebrate International Women’s Day on 8 March 2019 and were the most popular. • Liaison with the Police and monitoring Goulburn Mulwaree Council by Community Access Committee members continues to achieve compliance with only eligible people Development and implementation of parking in accessible parking zones. Disability Inclusion Action Plan – Plan Developed. Creating liveable communities Status: Ongoing. No other information provided. • Construction on a new ablution facility has commenced at Melling Park and will be fully accessible with left and right- handed toilets. • The Mobility Brochure (including the document link) is promoted on Council’s website and positive feedback has been received from locals and visitors. A guide to accessible places to visit has been developed and is available on Council’s website for the benefit of local residents and tourists to Glen Innes. • Stickers remain in use in businesses to welcome people of all abilities,

52 Greater Council Griffith City Council

Building positive attitudes and Griffith City Council’s Disability Inclusion behaviours Action Plan outlines Council’s commitment G to improving accessibility and inclusion • Update and inclusion of DIAP in Greater opportunities for people of all ages who live Hume Health and Wellbeing Alliance with a disability. This ensures access to the meetings across service providers full range of services and activities available with ongoing inclusion on DIAP at all in the community. meetings. The Plan was developed by listening to • Partnership with Intereach’s Access @A people with disabilities, their families, carers Glance program with successful audits and local organisations who work with of , Holbrook and Henty Council people with disability. offices and promotion of program Council’s Disability Inclusion & Access through community newsletters. Committee includes individuals with a range of abilities and first-hand experiences that Supporting access to meaningful provide Council with valuable advice on a employment broad range of access and inclusion issues. Council implemented a number of new • Update customer service training actions that directly support the needs of to meet needs of people with vision people with a disability during 2018/19. impairment. Some notable improvements include: • Greater awareness across all departments of access requirements, • Memorial Park Griffith upgrade to e.g. parking, new childcare centre include disabled toilet facility and construction, footpaths. change rooms, accessible community event stage and drinking fountain • Council hosted two work experience students with disability. • Skate Park redevelopment to be disabled-friendly • Functional assessments of new employees identify additional supports • Increased the number of disabled needed to assist new employees. parking spaces in the CBD Creating liveable communities • Additional footpath and shared pathways across the community and • Celebration of International Day villages of People with Disability with local • Enticknap Park is inclusive including presentation and morning tea at accessible playground equipment, Culcairn. BBQs, seating, ramps and access • Youth Sportsability Day in Henty in • Inaugural Wide Angle Film Festival partnership with Intereach. • Streaming of Council meetings with Improving access to services through audio available on Council’s website better systems and processes

• Events planning process implemented. • Planning and Engineering Departments continue to embed accessibility guidelines into projects. • New and compliant website meeting accessibility guidelines.

53 Council way in and around local infrastructure and encourage a focus on exceeding best practice. Building positive attitudes and behaviours • Access Working Group delivered the ‘Laziness is not a Disability’ initiative • Establishment of the Access Working which saw six wheelchairs placed in Group, an advisory group of Council parking bays in the main street on comprised of a range of internal and a weekend with signs highlighting external stakeholders. The group meets the excuses that people use to park quarterly to discuss ideas, projects in access bays without a permit and initiatives of Council relevant (“I’ll only be five minutes”, “I am just to enhancing access and cultivating popping to the post office”, etc.) and inclusion including those focused on the challenges that using those bays parking, transport, infrastructure, events without a permit presents to legitimate etc. The group is solution focused users. and seeks to be a change agent while • The Missed Business Guide has broadening the mindset of internal been disseminated to businesses stakeholders around inclusive design. within the CBD and electronically to • Commenced the development of a the Gunnedah District Chamber of shared library of appropriate and Commerce and Industry and delivered positive images featuring people with a myriad presentations to clubs and disability for use in publications. organisations on the benefits of enhancing access to increase economy. Creating liveable communities • Access and inclusion has been incorporated as a category in Council’s • Incorporated principles of inclusive annual Section 356 Community and design in the development of Council’s Sports Small Grants round. new branding strategy. • A number of disability organisations • Maintaining the currency of the Shire’s including Riding for the Disabled were access information in the National successful in obtaining grants under Public Toilets Accessibility Map. the program to enhance access and • Council subscribed to Grant Guru and safety and to increase participation and has made available on its website the membership. Gunnedah Shire Funding Finder which • Additional equipment and infrastructure has enhanced the community’s capacity projects were funded to support to access funding that supports access volunteers with mobility challenges initiatives and infrastructure projects. and to enable them to remain as active • Council has implemented the Access at volunteers. a Glance Initiative in the Gunnedah CBD • Access Working Group has reviewed and surrounds. the location and number of designated • Six staff across the organisation access parking bays throughout the completed Dementia Friendly Shire and is currently developing an Communities Training and Council is access parking map for community use. investigating the progression of the • Implementation of an online booking Shire towards Dementia Friendly status. and ticketing system for events within • Access Working Group delivered the Council’s Cultural Precinct and cinema. ‘From their Perspective’ initiative • Council continues to maintain the where staff and elected representatives currency of National Public Accessibility utilised a variety of mobility and vision Toilet Map in relation to Gunnedah aids to navigate their way throughout Shire. the CBD. The initiative was aimed at raising awareness at the challenges • The Working Group applied for a grant that people with disability and mobility of $5,000 for implementation of Master challenges have when navigating their Locksmith Access Key system to all

54 accessible public toilets throughout · Annual Performance Review process the Shire in 2020/2021 under the Drought Resilience Funding. Outcome is · Toolbox/safety talks program (e.g. pending. Bullying, Harassment) G • Council applied for the inaugural • Strategies to attract and retain Everyone Can Play in NSW Grant for employees from diversity groups are the upgrade of an existing playspace referenced in our Workforce Plan to enhance inclusion, however was (under review). unsuccessful. Future grant opportunities • People and Culture team maintains a will be taken. diversity register to identify Indigenous • Council’s Open Spaces Strategy staff and staff with disability. The Brief includes a requirement for the potential to grow that register to successful contractor to undertake include staff from a culturally and Everyone Can Play in NSW Access linguistically diverse background, staff Audits of existing playspaces within the with Auslan skills and multi-lingual staff Shire. has been identified for progression in 2020/2021. Supporting access to meaningful • Staff exit interviews (cessations, employment resignations and terminations) capture emergency patterns and issues. • Employment is an identified action in Council’s Disability Inclusion Action • Council investigated a number of Plan 2017-2023 (DIAP) which is a living options for traineeships for people with document. disability and, through consultations with potential placement departments, • Council fully supports and implements have identified inclusion-focused its Equal Employment Opportunity awareness and sensitivity training (EEO) Plan and reports on progress priorities. Developing partnerships as part of the Integrated Planning and and collaborations with schools and Review process. employment focused community • Recruitment policies, procedures and organisations has also been flagged practices are reviewed on an ongoing as an opportunity to grow a diverse basis to ensure a best practice and workforce and discussions with those integrated approach to workforce and potential partners has commenced. diversity planning. Improving access to services through • Induction and onboarding programs better systems and processes are also under review to strengthen references to access and inclusion • Council’s website is compliant with the obligations and responsibilities and Web Content Accessibility Guidelines to foster a supportive, diverse and (WCAG) 2.0A welcoming workforce. • Council is committed to making its • Principles are reinforced in: website as accessible as possible to all visitors, including those using its site · Staff position descriptions and with: employment contracts · Mobile devices · Council Employee Handbook · Assistive technologies such as screen · Council Code of Conduct readers · Council Customer Service Standards · Various browsers Management Directive · Slower internet connections. · Council’s Complaints and Grievance policy • Council’s website features Access and Inclusion portal to direct customers to · Council’s Induction and On Boarding key information which includes DIAP, Program Access Working Group, National Relay

55 Service, Companion Card, National • Council has a robust complaints policy Public Toilet Map, Spinal Cord Injuries and feedback on access issues is Australia and Tips for Accessible encouraged. Information on how to Complaint Handling. make complaints or provide feedback is provided in the access and inclusion • Education around accessibility portal of Council’s website. principles and formatting for marketing and promotions collateral has been • Council has adopted the Everyone Can steady and is ongoing. Play (ECP) in NSW Planning Guidelines for its playspaces and has featured • Council’s new brand guide incorporates ECP Access Audits in the Open Spaces access principles and features strategic planning process. Moving references to the (WCAG) 2.0 Level A forward, this will enable Council to guidelines. determine if existing playspaces meet the needs of people with disability. Determining how to meet the needs of people with disability Challenges and successes in delivering on the DIAP • No specific DIAP-focused engagement activity has been delivered within the • Attitudinal changes around the training report period however engagement commitment needed for employing efforts are incorporated in the delivery people with disability is a barrier that of strategic planning processes has been identified. This has been designed to capture the views identified both internally and externally and aspirations of our community in discussions with local businesses over a broad range of topic areas already struggling economically in i.e. Community Participation Plan, ongoing drought conditions. These Local Strategic Planning Statement, challenges are not insurmountable Community Strategic Plan, upgrades to and the delivery of the Access at a open space infrastructure, urban design Glance initiative has created a higher processes, etc. level of awareness and conversation • Council routinely seeks the views around engaging with customers and of the community in its planning employees with disability. processes and does so using a range • Despite this, and since the DIAP was of engagement methods, i.e. surveys, introduced, conversations around social pinpoint mapping, social media, access enhancements are becoming forums, and the public exhibition of more common in the workplace. The plans and strategies. DIAP has been used as leverage for • Access Working Group is comprised office space redesign and on several of key stakeholders and parents of occasions been championed by staff as children with disability. This group an opportunity to lead by example. advises Council on matters around access and inclusion enhancement, and provides feedback on infrastructure design where appropriate. In 2019, the concept design of Livvi’s Place Inclusive Playground was submitted to Kidsafe for an independent assessment to ensure it met access and inclusion principles, to identify safety issues and to seek any recommendations for improvement. The findings were both positive and encouraging. Recommendations made by Kidsafe were considered and incorporated into the Concept Plan prior to the release of the Construct Brief.

56 Gwydir Shire Council • Continue to work with disability employment organisations and schools to identify opportunities for Building positive attitudes and employment and work experience behaviours (ongoing). G

• Audit website to ensure that images • Continue to conduct and respond include people with disabilities and that to staff disability inclusion survey language is appropriate (complete). (ongoing). • Utilise International Day of People with • Develop a guide to assist Gwydir Disabilities to promote inclusion to the Shire Council staff respond to queries general community (ongoing). regarding services for people with disabilities (in development). • Develop and facilitate Disability Awareness Training for staff (other than • Review current communication induction training) (ongoing). mechanisms to ensure compliance with accessibility standards (complete). Creating liveable communities • Develop plan for website content compliance with disability standards (in • Develop shared pathways education development). campaign to reduce conflict between pedestrians and mobility aid users • Include the National Relay Service (ongoing). contact details in all generic Council publicity and advertising materials • Provide opportunities for community and information provided to the public connection by facilitating and (complete). promoting International Day of People with Disabilities event (in development). Improving access to services through • Audit activities and events run by better systems and processes Council for accessibility (ongoing). • Investigate, develop and implement • Review seating provision in main streets options to consider adopting better of Bingara and (complete). layouts, plain English and alternative accessible formats for Council • Source funding for all abilities play documents including rates notices, equipment to improve playgrounds in dog registrations, planning documents the Shire (ongoing). and applications, Council agendas and • Audit Council buildings and facilities minutes (ongoing). to ensure accessibility compliance • Review the current community (complete). engagement strategy to include a • Audit Council libraries equipment and checklist on inclusive consultation (in resources in terms of height and reach development). accessibility (complete). Determining how to meet the needs Supporting access to meaningful of people with disability employment • Engagement and inclusion is embedded • Develop Council’s Workforce Plan to in the practice of all Gwydir Shire include best practice guidelines for Council services. The Council is inclusion (ongoing) committed to providing the appropriate level of service to all staff and residents. • Review recruitment processes, forms and language (complete). • The Council consults on a regular basis with community groups regarding • Provide information and training for access and inclusion. As the Shire’s Council supervisors/managers to overall population is quite elderly it is in increase their knowledge and skill the best interests of Council to engage (complete). the community in best practice at every

57 opportunity given the additional needs • Establishment of project to provide of this group. outreach access to mental health services. • Gwydir Shire Council provides for access and inclusion within the • Provision of Auslan interpretation and Community Engagement Strategy and accessible transport options to Council ensures that specialised services are consultations. available to facilitate consultation. • Convened sector-wide interagencies to • The DIAP has enabled Gwydir Shire improve access to services for people Council to be aware of the needs of all with disabilities. members of the community. Through this process staff and residents have been able to develop meaningful relationships around access and inclusion. This has made for a much more cohesive approach to planning for the future. Hay Shire Council

Council regularly meets with health services, schools and Intereach through meetings such as the Local Emergency Management Committee Meeting and the Community Safety Precinct Meeting where information Hawkesbury City Council is shared and issues identified. The Hay Multi Service Outlet (formerly HACC) also hold The Hawkesbury Disability Inclusion Action meetings at Council where information is Plan was developed following broad shared and issues identified. consultation with people with disabilities, details of which have been provided Council promotes available services through to the Disability Council NSW. Actions its website, Facebook and community and strategies within the Hawkesbury newsletter. Any other relevant information Disability Action Plan support the goals is also promoted through these forms of of the Disability Inclusion Act 2014. media, such as workshops and information Council’s Access and Inclusion Advisory sessions. Examples of these that were held Committee comprises of seven community in Hay include mental health workshops, representatives including people with mobility scooter information session and disabilities and the Committee oversees and LGBTI Inclusive Practice training. monitors implementation of the Plan at bi- Working with Transport for NSW on the monthly meetings. ‘Look Out Before You Step Out’ program, Of the 30 Year Two actions in the adopted and putting stickers on the footpath at each Plan, 28 actions have been achieved. ramp that approaches the road. Our Plan says Council will endeavour to promote Activities included: the safe use of sidewalks and footpaths by gophers, which this plays a part in (as well • Training library staff in use of assistive as workshop that was held above). technology. • Events to raise profile of access and Creating liveable communities inclusion. • Council supported the Rainbow on the • Development of play-spaces to meet Plains Festival (Hay Mardi Gras) with expressed needs of people with in-kind support, road closures, event disabilities. promotion, and also having a stall at the end of the parade. Council helped • Delivery of partnership project to promote the LGBTI training that was increase employment opportunities for held in conjunction with the event, with people with disabilities. some staff also attending the training. • Submission of CCTV application for • Council incorporates inclusiveness North Richmond shopping precinct. in all its projects where it can and

58 incorporates it into all future planning. free of charge during business hours for Projects either completed or started those who were disadvantaged. in this financial year include: a new playground at Hay Park which • Hay Multi Service Outlet (formerly includes wheelchair accessibility HACC) still provide transport for out- H and several inclusive play equipment of-town medical appointments for their pieces (grant through Everyone clients, and also provide taxi vouchers Can Play in NSW Program); The Hay for in town. Library Redevelopment incorporated • Council ran a Community Satisfaction wheelchair access and a reading Survey which was accessible through garden; Hay Showgrounds and Maude the Council website, Facebook page received new and/or upgraded and hard copy community newsletter amenities including disabled amenities that is delivered to each address in and improved access. Hay and to ratepayers that live out of • Cycleway/walkway was extended, Hay. Some of the questions related also through the Hay Park which was to whether people had found issues identified in our Plan as needing better finding employment in Hay, about the wheelchair access in wet weather. health services available, how safe people feel in the community, the • Two new disabled parks were installed level of service at Hay Multi Service in the town, and two more were Outlet (formerly HACC) and access to upgraded (better access from the information. Council used the responses footpath etc.) to improve and incorporate any suggestions into future planning. • Up to 16 bench seats were placed around town that have armrests to Determining how to meet the needs assist users in getting up from the seat. of people with disability

Supporting access to meaningful The Hay Park Playground and Hay Library employment Redevelopment projects had official openings when they were completed, • Some employees attended the LGBTI where schools and relevant groups were training, and all staff attended mental invited to attend. All verbal feedback was health and wellbeing workshops very positive, and continued well after the organised through Council. openings. • Council had a high school student with The Community Satisfaction Surveys a disability undertake work placement provided some feedback in these areas, over 10 months in 2019, in the Parks and as well as the consultation held when Gardens section. He is now employed as developing the Disability Action Plan. a casual employee. Council incorporated the feedback above Improving access to services through into its Operation Plan. For example, the better systems and processes 2019/2020 Delivery & Operation Plan identifies that Council will: • Council’s website, Facebook and community newsletter are regularly • Provide accessible transport to the updated, with the newsletter often community and incorporate inclusion incorporating news and programs from principles in works program. Intereach and local health services. • Maintain streets and supporting • Hay’s only taxi service finished a couple infrastructure, making it safe and of years ago. Council lobbied for over accessible. 12 months to encourage someone to • Promote local employment and training start up a taxi service, and were finally opportunities. successful. Council assisted this person in setting up their business, and also • Work with local health agencies to promoted the taxi service. During the address health issues in the community. time Hay did not have a taxi service, Council provided a taxi-type service • Work with community partners in

59 providing and promoting programs Hilltops Council that contribute to community pride, inclusion and wellbeing. Supporting access to meaningful • Promote and develop an inclusive local employment community culture. Hilltops Council participates in work • Extend the use of community facilities experience programs with local high schools. by incorporating strategies from Council hosted work experience students in the disability and inclusion plan and the areas of: support inclusive initiatives and events. • Parks and Gardens • Expand e-business and internet services to improve accessibility. • Water and Sewer Challenges and successes in • Ranger delivering on the DIAP • Business Administration Challenges involve funding, resource • Engineering availability, and time constraints. • Public Relations There have been many successes from the Disability Inclusion Action Plan since it was Our Work Placement program for students developed, from the infrastructure list: with a disability from years 9-12 has been very successful in previous years in helping • Council Office/Chambers has been students to familiarize themselves with refurbished, the layout of the Chambers opportunities available in the workforce. The improved for wheelchair accessibility, program encourages students out of their new front counter and entrance comfort zone which can be challenging for established. them but also rewarding. • Visitor Information Centre disabled Throughout this year Hilltops have had amenities fixed, and plans have been three students from Young High School developed for the refurbishment of the participate within this program, in both entrance, which will incorporate better indoor and outdoor workplaces across accessibility (application in process). Hilltops branches. These programs have been highly beneficial to the students and • Library access incorporated into their mentors who have enjoyed the time Redeployment Project. spent and teaching experience with these • Oval access at Hay Park improved with students. pathways upgraded. Students have gained a great insight into the • Walking tracks continuing to be workplace, by working in teams to achieve upgrading as funding becomes a common goal and working on projects available. throughout their ten-week block at Hilltops. • Lachlan Street has seen the installation During the reporting period one Charles of two new disabled parks and the Sturt Bachelor of Public Relations University refurbishment of two others, as well as student undertook work placement with the installation of around sixteen bench Council. seats with arm rests. The Lachlan Street Redevelopment project is in its planning Building positive attitudes and stages and will incorporate accessibility behaviours changes and improvements to the paving. • A range of community wellbeing and support programs have been • The Hay Park Playground Project promoted, including for suicide involved accessible pathways, toddler prevention, dementia, and disability play for younger children and also access. Hilltops Wellbeing Action inclusive equipment for people of all Group have implemented a youth abilities mentoring program through the Local Health Advisory Committee. A Mental

60 Health and Wellness Program has been as mobility maps with easy-to-read instigated within Hilltops Council to signage and accessible toilets. support staff wellbeing. • Planning for accessibility for events

• Hilltops Wellbeing Action Group and such as outdoor movies with providing H Access Committees meetings are held wheelchair viewing spaces. regularly. A Community Partners Forum was held in February at the Young Creating liveable communities Services and Citizens Club. • Council maintains dedicated Access • Accessibility improvements included and Inclusion and Living with Disability in all community facilities upgrades pages on its website. Information including Showground, includes useful links to information and sporting and playground infrastructure services, and a list of accessible public improvements across Boorowa, Young toilet locations. Accessible facilities are and Harden. also included in project and location- • Accessible toilets audit being specific pages, for example parks and conducted in conjunction with update gardens. Council is currently developing of Asset Management Plans. Data new playground website pages that will provided to Asset Manager. include information on accessible and inclusive play equipment. • A region-wide Community Services list is being considered as part of the Supporting access to meaningful Canberra Region Joint Organisation employment approach to streamline promotion and awareness on available facilities and • In the past, Council has been able to services for the aged and disabled provide work placement opportunities across the region. for people with disabilities. Whilst Council has not been in a position to host placements in 2018/19, discussions of their importance both internally and externally are currently on the table and hopes to offer them once again in 2019/20. Hornsby Council (The Council • Council has mandatory Equal of the Shire of Hornsby) Employment Opportunity online learning for all staff. Council’s Disability Inclusion Action Plan 2017-2020 outlines Council’s Improving access to services through commitment to improving opportunities for better systems and processes people of all ages who live with disabilities to access the full range of services and • Council uses the Monsido platform activities available in the community. Below to monitor website accessibility is a report on the outcomes achieved during compliance to WCAG 2.0 AA (currently 2018/19: 73 percent compliant). Council lists all events run by the Community Services Building positive attitudes and branch of Council on the Council behaviours website, and additionally via other channels including monthly eNewsletter, • Council-organised events, programs Facebook, What’s On publication and and events submitted by community print advertisements. Council includes groups and organisations have been promotion of community-run events promoted via our channels (website, where appropriate. The types of events monthly eNewsletter, Facebook, What’s are wide-ranging and include accessible On publication, print advertisements) and inclusive topics. where appropriate. • Council’s Community Directory is • Council’s inclusive approach to all regularly updated. The community can events ensures they are wheelchair easily access information on local NDIS accessible, have drop off zones as well providers and services. 61 Planning greater outcomes for the E-audio files and loaned to customers future with a print disability or vision impairment. Customers are also able • Commitment to Hornsby Shire to receive assistance with accessing becoming a dementia friendly the OPAC or receive 1:1 assistance with community — there are dementia E-devices, including computers. awareness events being held, as well • Providing inclusive and accessible as skills-based workshops and staff spaces such as Hornsby Aquatic training. Centre and Galston Aquatic Centre • The refurbishment of Hornsby Library with appropriate signage, adult change will be accessible for all the community table, waterproof wheelchair, disability with new accessible toilets and spaces. hoist and/or ramps into pools. Updates Council has commenced preparation to several playgrounds with inclusive of Public Domain Guidelines to apply play spaces, including Fagan Park, to redevelopment areas in Asquith, Lessing Park and Waitara Park. Waitara, Thornleigh, West Pennant Hills and Beecroft, with the goal of Challenges and successes in improving accessibility for active delivering on the DIAP transport including pedestrians, cyclists and persons with disabilities. The • The opening of Waitara Park in April brief makes reference to the need to 2019 was a great success with hundreds incorporate dementia friendly design. of community members attending. Draft concept designs will be exhibited It was Council’s goal to provide a widely. playground with a diverse range of innovative play equipment suitable • Council sources a range of images as for children of all ages and abilities required from stock image websites, including a play tower, in-ground including pictures that represent trampolines, accessible carousels and diversity, inclusiveness and disability in inclusive swings. the community. • The play space incorporates universal Determining how to meet the needs design principles and includes an of people with disability extensive range of play equipment, providing a place where “everyone can • Opportunities for people with play”. Jungle-themed structure includes disabilities to seek information climbing and sliding challenges, sensory and engage with service providers and visual elements. The playground through Hornsby Library Community also features stunning artwork from Connections desk were provided the local artists from Studio Artes – an 18 times throughout the year. art centre initiative for people with Three community information talks disabilities – alongside new garden beds were held on the NDIS, Aged Care and trees. including Dementia Services, Macular • The installation of pathways and Degeneration, Diabetes, Financial accessible safety surfacing was carefully Help and Wesley Mission. BeConnect considered to allow for safe and easy online courses and other courses were access throughout the play space and available in partnership with Tech Savvy to the play equipment. Multiple seating Seniors in the library. Twice per week options and plenty of shade ensures a one-on-one technical assistance was comfortable place for everyone to play available to help people with access to and relax together. information. • Increased access to library resources to residents with 204 active home library customers being loaned 21,015 items over the 2018/19 period. • Introduced a new navigator service — E-audio devices are loaded with

62 Hunters Hill Council providing a mentally healthy workplace for all our employees. The Mental (The Council of the Municipality Health Awareness training session of Hunters Hill) has been designed and conducted by Norm Turkington in Council (April H 2019). The program helps to equip Building positive attitudes and Council employees to better understand behaviours mental health and work and how best to respond when a staff member is • The new Northern Districts Inclusion experiencing a mental health issue. Award “Good for my Business, Good for my Community” was established. The • A business-driven campaign wines of the 2019 Northern Districts commenced with the launch and Local Business Awards were announced promotion of the ‘Benefiting the Whole during a gala presentation dinner at Community Award’, established within The Epping Club. The Award’s impact the Northern Districts Inclusion Award. has created an excellent community Promotion of the award was delivered foundation for future DIAP initiatives, through a cross-Council collaboration, with four businesses from Hunters Hill which engaged a diverse network of nominated, amongst the 16 nominated disability and community organisations, across the region. and with a strategic campaign to every registered business across the three • Hunter’s Hill Council hosted the Thank . You Morning Tea for volunteers in November. It is an opportunity to thank Creating liveable communities those selfless people who contribute their time to Council’s community • Bedlam at the Bay is a mental health events. awareness event in partnership with • Council had its first school leavers WayAhead Mental Health NSW. ‘A complete three sessions as a Festival of Wellbeing’ event was Community Service volunteer in conducted on 21 October 2018 at September 2018. There were also 25 Bedlam Bay. Council has collaborated enthusiastic volunteers engaged in the with The Happy Hens organisation, annual Moocooboola event. Beyond Blue and mental health experts to celebrate wellbeing, building • Local resident Dean Walk was invited connections and raising awareness for to share his stories in the Council’s better mental health in our community. Community newsletter in 2018. Stryder Community Transport offered their wonderful service for event guests • A community education campaign on through the day. inclusion of people with disability has been delivered, through engagement • Council supported the pilot session of key organisations and business in of the new government initiative ‘Be nominating the new ‘Inclusion’ award. Connected’ 2018 program with Sydney Community Services and Homecare • The ‘chill-out’ inclusion tent was Heroes. It aimed to empower seniors run successfully at Carols in the to thrive in a digital world. Thank Park and Moocooboola events in you to trainers, Mat and Joanne, who 2018. There was a variety of free worked enthusiastically with the wonderful performances on the day, Senior Women’s Wellness and English a visit from Santa and a spectacular Conversation Groups, along with Clem fireworks display. Both events were and Tina from Sydney Community promoted as inclusive events and in Services. collaboration with key disability support organisations: NDIS/Uniting and Ability • Council continued to support Stryder, Links. The latter group promoted the a community transport group through event through links-member and carer grants to maximise the services networks. provided for people with limited mobility. Stryder also offered shuttle • Hunter’s Hill Council is committed to

63 bus services throughout Council’s Training has been offered to all staff mental health awareness event. in July/August 2018. Training module and tools have also been supplied by • Council has reviewed and updated the the trainer for future staff updates. The accessible parking requirements, the training aimed to encourage employees’ new yellow edge lines to indicate no preconception of disability and face stopping zones. A resident parking their fears when interacting with people permit entitles residents to unlimited with disability. parking in the Clarkes Point Reserve and Buffalo Creek Reserve. The review • Council continues to provide a referral of parks and playgrounds has been process through its customer service undertaken and Council is revising and areas to direct people who are seeking updating the Plan of Management for assistance to relevant local community Boronia Park and Riverglade Reserve to service organisations. improve accessibility. • Staff recruitment and advertising • As part of this process, access approach is advancing to reflect the provisions will be considered. Council principles of the updated EEO plan. was also successful in attracting a grant of $200,000 from the State • Council promotes and offers flexible Government through the ‘Everyone working arrangements for all staff Can Play’ program to contribute and this policy will continue to evolve funding towards an all-abilities, all-ages according to employee needs. playspace. Improving access to services through • Council also commenced work on better systems and processes a housing strategy; tasks include investigating affordable housing and • A portal and direct links of people develop targets for new housing with disability has been established on development and investigate ways to Council’s website to identify available support ageing in place, and this is services for people with disability. A an ongoing process to be completed style guide with a protocol for the in 2019-20. This strategy will include use of plain, simple language for staff options around increasing options for reference has also been developed. assisted living for people with disability as well as ageing in place. • Council has commenced the online broadcasting of Council meetings at • The ‘Social Diversity and Inclusion the end of 2018, providing access to Checklist’ developed by City of Ryde meetings to a diverse audience. and Macquarie University has rebranded to share as a resource for Hunter’s Hill • Hunter’s Hill Council has established Council. More simplified, single page and participated in regional disability ‘tipsheets’ are currently in development forums to encourage and support as a further collaboration between both joint strategic planning collaboration Councils. between agencies and service providers. The network is working well. • Council has provided regular updates on the inclusive business awards, • The Home Library Service provided via assisted bin service and disability the joint use agreement with City of awareness training. Ryde provides a free delivery service of library material to people with Supporting access to meaningful disabilities the household and frail aged employment persons. • Council has also established a portal • The EEO Policy has been reviewed, the of available services for people with statement of policy was detailed and a disability and provided direct links included as part of the staff induction of Aged Care and NDIS on Council’s module and all job advertisements. website. The EEO protocols were also used to establish and support the interview • Council has built a Tripadvisor-style process. The Disability Awareness one-stop shop website, Wheelseasy,

64 to assist in creating a community for Educational, Recreational and Social people with disability to share the same Inclusion access needs: www.wheeleasy.org.

• An Office of Sport coordinator is I building new inclusion pathways across sporting codes. • New inclusion measures have been identified for the built environment and housing in Council’s Local Strategic Planning Statement. In 2017 Council developed the Inclusion Action Plan 2017-2021 (IAP) for people with • Seniors programs feature accessible a disability. This integrated whole-Council marketing, and are held in accessible strategy outlines the steps Council will take venues. over four years to support and improve the • Program evaluation includes inclusion of people with a disability as part accessibility questions, and the seniors of its core business and to remove barriers Active and Connected directory was to access and participation, including any amended to enhance information and discrimination based on disability. accessibility. The Plan also gives expression to Council’s • Council is collaborating with local commitment to uphold and promote the organisations to deliver Dementia United Nations Convention on the Rights of Awareness forums using bi-lingual Persons with Disabilities. The IAP is aligned interpreters to the Greek, Chinese, to Council’s Community Strategic Plan as Italian and Korean communities. a means of building the strategies into the everyday activities of Council. • Council has established a toolkit of accessible support equipment for use at The IAP is divided into six outcome areas events, projects and activities including with strategies, actions and measures to outdoor matting. chart our achievements and progress. Further information and progress on • A film festival screening a selection of Council’s IAP can be found on the Inner international films by and about people West Council website. Extract is hereunder: with a disability established as part of annual International Day of People with “In 2017 Council developed the Inclusion Disability activities. Action Plan 2017-2021 (IAP) for people with a disability. This integrated, whole of Council, Cultural Inclusion strategy outlines the steps Council will take over 4 years to support and improve the • Council libraries offered multiple inclusion of people with a disability as part events led by people with disability of its core business, and to remove barriers on inclusive design and the lived to access and participation, including any experience of disability including a discrimination based on disability. disability writer’s speaker series. The Plan also gives expression to Council’s • An accessible technology roadmap commitment to uphold and promote the for Council’s libraries has delivered United Nation’s Convention on the Rights of new hearing loops and improved user Persons with Disabilities. The IAP is aligned interface for the library Management to Council’s Community Strategic Plan as System. a means of building the strategies into the everyday activities of Council. • Council library story times were led by people with various disabilities and The IAP is divided into 6 outcome areas with featured Auslan interpretation. strategies, actions and measures to chart our achievements and progress. (do we want • Inclusion features such as audio to add this para as repetitive) descriptions of Newtown ArtSeat artworks were introduced. Highlights during the second year” include: Economic Inclusion

65 • Two Lift and Change facilities with • The IWC Community Access Award ceiling hoists and change tables have was renamed and refocused in 2019 been purchased for installation in the as the Excellence in Access Award and Leichhardt Park and Annette Kellerman presented as part of the Inner West Aquatic Centres. Local Business Awards. • An inclusion business plan was developed for Leichhardt Park Aquatic Creating liveable communities Centre. • Improved access to 2-8 Weston Street • The analysis of the former Council’s including a new lift to Illoura Reserve Pedestrian and Access Mobility Plans and accessibility improvements to (PAMPs) has been completed, audit/ Yurulbin Park Reserve with Transport inspection processes undertaken for NSW upon future wharf upgrade. and outstanding actions still to be completed from these plans have • A major redevelopment of Ashfield been prioritised. The construction of Aquatic Centre and the redevelopment planned works for 2018/19 have been of Dawn Fraser Baths has been completed. approved and will commence shortly enhancing access to these facilities. Civic Inclusion, Engagement and • Accessibility has been maintained to a Information platform at Tempe Station as a result of Council advocacy. • A new system for people with hearing impairment has been installed in the • An audit of public toilets has been Council Chambers using the latest undertaken to inform the Public Toilet infrared technology. Strategy which is under development and will provide strategic direction on • Council’s Business Paper Website accessibility. provides information for adjustments that can be made during Meetings for • An audit of all Council properties people with disability. has been completed including condition, compliance, accessibility • Delivered creating accessible and functionality. This information has documents training to staff. The been utilised to develop the Asset Style Guide was updated to improve Management Plan, featuring a ten-year accessibility. Procurement of program and the scoping of future consultants developing documents projects. on Council’s behalf now includes requirements for accessible versions. • The program to improve accessibility at bus stops continues to be implemented • An accessibility audit of Council’s with programmed works along Grove Your Say Inner West website was Street and Rowntree Street bus route undertaken and a plan for progressive completed during year. improvements established with the content writers and software • A Transport Strategy has been published developers. which identifies improvements in access and inclusion for transport of the next ten • The Access Local Democracy Group years. was reconstituted and is meeting four times per year. • A new Parking Policy has been adopted, which brings all accessible parking policy • Service counters across each of together in one place. Council’s three administrative locations provide access to a lowered desk • Continued safety compliance inspections and Council’s customer service ticket at boarding house. machines are also accessible to those customers who use a wheelchair. • A Recreation Strategy is being developed in 2019 from the 2018 Recreation Needs Improving access to services through Study, and accessibility issues are being promoted in that process.

66 better systems and processes Council

• The Australian Human Rights Commission training package: Building positive attitudes and I Upholding the rights of people with behaviours disability was delivered to forty people in February including senior staff. • Council has supported annual events such as UnstopAbility to celebrate • A staff diversity survey has been ability and inclusion in our community. delivered and employment targets for people with disability have been • Council maintains a strong partnership included in the CEO performance with Inverell Chamber of Commerce agreement. to identify opportunities for training, awareness raising and promotion as • Disability Inclusion Employment well as secure grant funding to assist Practice course available to all staff as with these programs. In 2018, Council e-learning. hosted a week-long consultant’s visit to improve in-store flow and Planning greater outcomes for the merchandising to accommodate all future abilities.

Several important initiatives over the next Creating liveable communities year will enhance the plan’s implementation and foster increased community • Inverell CBD is comprised of Otho participation. Programming to build Street and Byron Street. Early 2018 community capacity, increased promotion saw the renewal of Otho Street to and profiling of disability related issues, increase accessibility to people of all increased accessibility support at events and abilities. Within this renewal, the raised activities to celebrate disability pride and pedestrian crossing with a steep incline diversity will feature in the year ahead: from the footpath to the road was levelled out and is no longer raised. A • An expanded International Day of flat median was also included in the People with Disability Film Festival renewal, providing a wide area for program over two nights incorporating refuge when crossing the road at any a comedy debate, feature film, a series point along the main section of Otho of short films and panel discussion on Street. As of January 2020, parts of film representation. The program will Byron Street are undergoing the same be curated and created by and with refurbishment to increase accessibility. people living with disability, it will model inclusive practice and provide a • Footpaths have also been refurbished platform for the voices and stories of or constructed to link major services those with disability. and facilities such as schools, hospital, TAFE, stores, etc. • Establishing an access equipment library to enable greater inclusion at • Public halls throughout the shire have festivals, events and involving public been recently refurbished to improve art. This will be complemented by access for people of all abilities. All training purposefully developed for public buildings are as accessible as Council by Accessible Arts with the possible with ramps, wide walkways content focused on improving access and tactile surfaces. Inverell Town Hall and inclusion for the whole community has had a lift as well as permanent experiencing art that is produced, and portable ramps installed to ensure sponsored, auspiced and created in access throughout all areas of the hall. partnership with Council. • Walking tracks, cycle ways and • Hosting an Activate Inclusion Day run community facilities have been/are by SportsNSW at PCYC Marrickville. It being designed to exceed building will involve around 300 kids aged 5-18 standards for disability access and with a diverse range of abilities. Over provide equitable access for all ten Sporting Codes will be present community members. providing modified indoor and outdoor sports. 67 • Service providers such as Brighter will greatly improve the availability of Access, McLean Care and IDFS have services to residents of all abilities who been consulted in project designs live in isolated areas between Yetman for Lake Inverell, Copeton Northern and Inverell. Foreshores and the Off Road Recreation Circuit to ensure the projects • Accessibility ramps, lifts and TGSI accommodate all abilities. (tactile ground surface indicators) have been installed on all major infrastructure • Walking tracks, cycle ways and where it is relevant. Service providers community facilities have been/are such as Brighter Access, McLean Care being designed to exceed building and IDFS have been consulted in standards for disability access and project designs for public infrastructure. provide equitable access for all New bus shelters are being installed community members. that are all-abilities accessible, with manoeuvrable space for a wheelchair • Major tourist attractions such as and include TGSI. Pioneer Village, Lake Inverell, Transport Museum, and Art Gallery are accessible Supporting access to meaningful for all abilities. employment • Play areas in major parks are accessible for a range of abilities, namely Victoria • Council works in conjunction with Best Park with designated play equipment Employment as well as Northaven to for wheelchair-bound people. Pathways secure employment for people of all are prevalent throughout major abilities where possible within Council. parks, linking together throughout to • Northaven hold a contract with Council ensure the features of the parks are to operate Council’s Material Recovery experienced by people of all abilities. Facility. Northaven are a leading • Lake Inverell is currently undergoing a employer for people with disabilities renewal (November 2019 to June 2020) throughout the shire. which will increase accessibility. Main • Council holds free youth opportunity features of the renewal project include: programs that focus on up-skilling · Boardwalk over the lake – accessible youth of all abilities. Programs include a to people of all abilities rotation of White Card, Radio Presenter, Computer Aided Design and First Aid · Refurbished walkways throughout courses. reserve • Council accommodates all abilities · Kayak launch – increased accessibility where possible when recruiting for for less mobile people. This will positions. feature hand railing on a pontoon for people to hold while lowering • Inverell Shire Council has a strong focus themselves into the water/floatation on return to work for any physical or devices mental health-related grievances. · Access road for the kayak launch Improving access to services through facility – provides a drop-off point for better systems and processes people with limited mobility. • Council provides information to the • Throughout 2019, Council constructed community in a number of formats. cycle ways throughout Inverell, linking Simple posts on social media are major recreational facilities, as well used with a relevant image for quick as an off-road recreation circuit. deciphering of the subject of the post. These facilities were designed and constructed with the width of 2.4m for • All notices and information on Council’s two wheelchairs to travel side by side. website is imbedded with an audio option for users with vision impairment • Council is in the process of acquiring a and English as a second language. Text community bus for the Yetman region is also able to be enlarged. of the shire through grant funding. The acquisition of this community bus • Any information from the website

68 is available from the Council infrastructure to ensure the designs of Administration Centre – community projects accommodate all abilities. members who are unable to decipher information provided can contact • Community consultation sessions – Council by phone, email, social media positive feedback from residents has I messaging or in person for assistance. been received, stating that Inverell Shire as a rural area is very accessible and • Library services and programs are promotes the use of tactile surfaces accessible to community members of all throughout public areas. abilities. Challenges and successes in • Movies are shown with subtitles, craft delivering on the DIAP activity sessions for adults with a disability are held regularly, free home Challenges include: library services deliver library resources to housebound community members every three weeks or when required by • Promoting awareness of what inclusion the temporarily housebound community means and practical ways to adapt members. “Clearview Spectrum” businesses to be more inclusive at a low machine is utilised by community cost members with visual impairment for • Allowing additional time in grant writing magnifying printed material. Library deadlines to allow for submissions from conduct a regular ‘Tech Savvy Seniors’ service providers program and also offer assistance to anyone who is learning to use their • Council internal staff changes phone/tablet. Planning greater outcomes for the • The Inverell Library is also in the future process of installing new self-service terminals which will be height • Planned renewal of sections of CBD adjustable, have touch screen LED – Byron Street planned to commence panels and can provide audio function January 2020. This renewal program for individuals requiring audio. Library will increase accessibility with a wide, staff will also still be on hand for those flat median section for safe road who prefer face-to-face interaction. crossing throughout the renewed The Library also stocks specialised section, removing the raised marked collections for the needs of community crossing with a flat crossing with a members: lesser incline towards the road. · Autism Spectrum Disorder support • Planned renewal of the Lake Inverell collection – equipment & resources Reserve – November 2019 to June for persons with ASD, their families 2020. This renewal has been planned and carers. in consultation with service providers · Mental health and wellness collection. to ensure requirements of community members of all abilities are met. This · Large print collection. renewal includes: · Audio-book collection. · Boardwalk over the lake accessible to people of all abilities · E-book collection. · Renewed walking tracks with · Literacy collection – to support improved accessibility persons to improve literacy & numeracy. · Kayak launch – offers railings for lowering into kayaks or other Determining how to meet the needs floatation devices for ease of use for of people with disability people with mobility challenges

• Council consults a number of service · Drop off area near kayak launch providers (McLean Care, Brighter • Planned renewal of Copeton Northern Access, IDFS) in the planning of Foreshores reserve – planned in

69 consultation with service providers to • Council employed one school based ensure the reserve will be accessible trainee with disability. and enjoyed by people of all abilities. • Community Transport drivers received • Council’s biennial Careers Expo will training concerning wheelchair be taking place through 2020. This handling. showcases a range of local employment opportunities for people of all abilities. • Met with Business Enterprise Centre and facilitated their further conversation with the Junee Community Centre. • Family Day Care staff received training in Sensory Processing Disorder (linked with autism). Council Improving access to services through better systems and processes Building positive attitudes and behaviours • Hearing loop installed at Athenium Theatre. • Access Advisory Committee meetings. • Accessibility audits conducted in • Participation in Interagency meetings. conjunction with Junee High School. • Community centre collaboration. • Access Advisory Committee meetings. • Event planning considered accessibility. • Investigating “Talking Community Newsletter. • Youth Council membership includes one member with disability (possibly a second in the 2019-20 year). Creating liveable communities

• Two accessibility audits conducted in Kempsey Shire Council conjunction with Junee High School and Access Advisory Committee. Adopted in June 2017, the Kempsey Shire • Dedicated disability parking created at Council Disability Inclusion Action Plan Athenium Theatre and Council offices. (DIAP) aims to provide better access to Council information, services and facilities. It • Traffic islands installed at high traffic seeks to ensure people with disabilities can intersection of Crawley and Broadway fully participate in the community. near Medical Centre. The DIAP follows the four key focus areas • Pathway maps published online. established by the NSW Government Disability Inclusion Plan and was developed • Road safety workshops and information through a community engagement and sessions held. research process. In the first year of • Planning completed for all-accessible implementation Council has worked towards playground. addressing attitudes and behaviours through development of networks and use of • Library auto-door scoped and funded relevant imagery on collateral and planning. for 2019-20. Key initiatives include: • Bathroom modifications completed in Willow Cottage. Building positive attitudes and • RehabCo and Leisure Centre use behaviours Recreation Centre ex. • Promotion of local events, International Supporting access to meaningful Day of Disabilities events, information employment flyers, inclusion and diversity in Council publications (press releases, social 70 media) and working with community including in local businesses and community partnerships such as Community organisations. Disability Group. Actions and outcomes include: Creating liveable communities J • Council’s Access Committee meeting • Providing safe and accessible new bi-monthly to address identified issues assets and improvements when with over 25 issues addressed. upgrades are occurring; construction and development of buildings, • Disability Awareness training delivered Pedestrian Access plans, toilets and to over 100 staff (indoor & outdoor) and new facilities, footpath improvements, Councillors which was very positively including auditing, and working with received by all who attended. neighbouring Councils; improved • Substantial improvements in the employment opportunities through provision of information in an accessible specialist agencies. format on Council communication platforms, included user group testing. Improving access to services through better systems and processes • Community education around raising awareness for the inclusion of people • Progressive improvements to Council’s with disability in all aspects of website, library and customer services community life including employment and signage. and tourism. • Ensuring the national public toilet register is up to date in regards to all of our accessible facilities. • Promoting the benefits of disability Kiama Council (The Council of inclusion by regularly sharing articles on the topic across Council communication the ) platforms including business and tourism networks. Kiama’s Disability Inclusion Action • Having a guest speaker promoting Plan (DIAP) is now in its 2nd year of the benefits of inclusive tourism at a implementation. The plan was developed Tourism After Hours event and at an over an 18-month period, based on a internal Council event. combination of consultations and surveys with people with disability to inform the • Work is currently being undertaken to plan, including consulting with Council’s convert key Council information into Access Committee and utilising the Easy Read formats. results from previous consultations for the 2014 Age-friendly survey and the 2013 • The Dementia-friendly Kiama Project Community Strategic Plan. continues to expand in its impact in making Kiama LGA a very dementia- Based on these consultations, draft friendly community. The most regular strategies were developed that were activity of the project is community allocated to various responsible officers education that is now delivered across Council to implement, with each exclusively by people living with responsible officer consulted to ensure dementia using content created by they agreed with the actions they were to people living with dementia. This implement to ensure ‘buy-in’. The plan was education is now starting to be finalised and endorsed by Council in June delivered outside the LGA on a fee- 2017. for-service basis. One of the highlights for the year was the project being Since the development of the plan, a great invited as the keynote speakers at a deal has been done to improve disability global conference on dementia held in access across the full range of services Singapore last September. and facilities Council provides, and to encourage disability awareness, access • Our library continues to investigate and support across the whole community, 71 options to ensure equitable access to making improvements across all of these facilities and resources for all of our areas. While outcomes are not always community. achievable in a short time frame, over time the improvements will cumulatively have • The Leisure Centre has improved its a substantial impact on making the Kiama brochures by increasing the font size LGA a very accessible community. and looking at including a virtual tour to include accessibility. • A substantial amount of work has been carried out on our playgrounds to include accessible features including refurbishments at Croft Place, James Kur-ring-gai Council Muir Miller Reserve and Reid Park which have incorporated accessible components in the design. The new Building positive attitudes and playground at Hillview Circuit, Kiama is behaviours fully accessible. • Exploration Art Exhibition: In • The completed replacement of the conjunction with Settlement Services North Street Minnamurra amenities Australia and TAFE, Ku-ring-gai Council and refurbishment of the Jones Beach put on Exploration Art Exhibition at the amenities have provided Ku-ring-gai Art Centre. The exhibition fully accessible facilities. Replacement was made up of artists from the local of the Cooke Park, Gerringong community who all had a disability. amenities is partially completed, but will There were 67 artists who entered the also result in fully accessible facilities. exhibition. Many pieces of art were sold, • Ambulant toilet facilities have been there was a People’s Choice award and provided in recently replaced amenities the Mayor opened the exhibition. building at North St, Minnamurra • Carer’s Day: To celebrate Carer’s Week and Jones Beach Kiama Downs. and to recognise the contribution Further quotations are being sought carers make to our community, Ku-ring- for the Kevin Walsh Oval amenities gai Council and Ability Links put on a building extension at which Carer’s Pamper Day. The day included incorporates an adult change facility. free massages, manicures, facials and • New accessible cabin designed and lunch. This included a crèche to look tender awarded for the supply and after dependants so that carers could installation at Surf Beach Holiday Park. relax and enjoy their day. • Council’s website has been revised • Dementia Café: Ku-ring-gai local including user testing to ensure it meets government area has a higher than accessibility standards. average percentage of people living with dementia. People living with • The bi-monthly convening of a dementia and their carers often Disability Consultative Group that experience social isolation and do not brings people with disability together reach out and get the support they with local service providers. need. To help prevent people living with dementia from experiencing • The provision of an accessible viewing social isolation, a Dementia Café was area at the New Year’s Eve Sky Show. started with Ku-ring-gai Council, Rotary Some actions within the DIAP have and Ku-ring-gai Neighbour Aid. The not progressed as planned, but work Dementia Café is run from the Ku- is being undertaken to progress these ring-gai Fitness and Aquatic Centre. actions too. Overall, the plan has been The café includes coffee, socialising, very successful in driving improvements a functional exercise class and a within Council’s provision of services, presentation each week. facilities and information. Council is aware • Sensory Tent: A sensory tent was there are many more improvements to provided at all major Council-run make and is committed to progressively events. The tent aims to reduce sensory

72 input, remove distractions and provide access auditor on the concept plans. a safe and non-stimulating space for Inclusion of handrails, more frequent people to calm down. The tent also seating and the installation of tactile provides equipment for people to use ground indicators were included/ at the event such as a wheelchair and changed as a result of the access audit. K noise cancelling headphones. The tent was hired throughout the year by other • Morona Avenue Park Upgrade: Morona community organisations including Avenue was upgraded and now has Hornsby Council. improved access which includes accessible paths to and around the play • Shoreshocked: Each year Ku-ring-gai equipment, inclusive play equipment Council with surrounding Councils puts and accessible parking. on an all-ages youth rock concert. This year, Ku-ring-gai Council provided a • St Ives regional playground: The sign language interpreter to sign the upgrade of St Ives regional inclusive music to the party goers. It was hoped playground is underway. The play space that the interpreter would interpret the design’s main objective is inclusion. music to people who have a hearing The playground will feature a changing impairment and also provide inclusion places bathroom that will have a hoist- awareness to every participant. In and-height-adjustable change table addition, the sensory tent was provided to allow people who have significant at the event physical disabilities to go to the toilet whilst in the community. • Discobility: Each year a disco is held for young people who have a disability. This Improving access to services through year the disco had a Hawaiian theme. better systems and processes The disco was held at the St Ives youth hall and was well attended. • Web Accessibility Training: Web accessibility training was held for Creating liveable communities people who write content or upload information to the Ku-ring-gai Council • Access and Inclusion Training: A trainer website. The training educated staff on from Access Institute provided training how to make the information they are to Council staff on access in the built putting on the website accessible for environment and access in parks and people who have a disability. Training outdoor spaces. The training was included how to write in plain English, provided to staff members who were how to use readers, colour contrast and required to provide advice to others formatting. regarding designing new buildings, upgrading existing buildings and Review of the Disability Inclusion and redesigning or upgrading outdoor Action Plan spaces. The training reviewed current The Disability Inclusion and Action plan was legislation, standards and building reviewed by taking the following steps: codes. • Relevant departments reviewed their • Inclusion Training for Vacation Care: actions in the DIAP and new actions The National Disability Insurance were agreed upon. Scheme has been referring people who have disabilities to use local mainstream • Local services reviewed the DIAP and services such as Vacation Care. As provided feedback. a result there has been an increased number of people who have a disability • Local residents reviewed the DIAP and using Ku-ring-gai Council’s vacation provided feedback. care. As a result inclusion training was • Reviewed DIAP presented to relevant provided to all vacation care staff to departments. ensure the service is accessible and inclusive. • Awaiting adoption from Council. • Access Audit of St John’s Street: St John’s Street is being upgraded and an access audit was completed by an

73 accommodation development for older people and people with disability through Developer Contributions Building positive attitudes and discounts. behaviours • Commissioned a report looking at • Utilising the ‘Inclusiveness Module’ for aged and disability housing options Induction Training of Council staff. for as a case study by working in partnership with the • Ensured all disability inclusion actions Woodenbong Progress Association and have an awareness and account for broader community. Aboriginal cultural sensitivities that may affect opportunity for interaction or • Developed social inclusion programs in participation. partnership with third parties (such as Abilitylinks) to ensure older people and • Delivered Inclusiveness Training people with disability needs continue during all Council Inductions for new to participate as valued community employees. members. • Included representative imagery of • Continued to support the local people with disability in Council’s Transport Working Group for local publications. community transport planning purposes. • Recognised and incorporated disability inclusion requirements as part of • In partnership with the Transport Council’s contractor procurement Working Group developed and processes through distribution of “The promoted a transport information tradies guide to good access”. resource kit for community distribution within Kyogle Council area via links to • Developed public messages and the “Going Places” website. campaigns highlighting disability inclusion requirements and benefits to • In partnership with the Transport the community through the outdoor Working Group identified options and gym project. implemented strategies to improve bus transport services within Kyogle Council • Actively involved people living with area such as putting in new bus shelters disability in Council’s communication in locations identified by the local campaigns around specific projects. community. • Consistent with social equity principles, • Advocated improved access to key planned for the inclusion of people buildings and businesses within the with disability service needs in guiding LGA through partnership with local community development. businesses and Abilitylinks. Creating liveable communities • Planning for the review of the Council’s Pedestrian Access and Mobility Plan • Identified indicative housing options (PAMP) with an extended focus on that may be suited to people living disability inclusion and mobility issues with a disability or for older people by as identified through the Visions of the reviewing LEP provisions, developer Village planning process in 2019-2020. contributions and working with the Village communities through the Visions • Ensured disability inclusion remained of the Villages Master Planning process. a key part of Council’s village planning and projects. • Market-tested housing options best suited to the needs of people living Supporting access to meaningful with disability in conjunction with employment service providers and the development industry. • Promoted the benefits of a diverse workforce, including people living with • Investigated options for short and long a disability, to Council’s organisation as term incentives to accelerate housing a whole.

74 • Reduced procedural barriers to Council processes such as payments. recruiting people from diverse backgrounds, including those living • Providing accessibility options with a disability, without compromising information for builders and developers any existing qualification, professional interested in developing within the LGA K registration or Australian Standards by distributing ”The tradies guide to requirements. good access”. • Facilitated succession planning, where Determining how to meet the needs practicable, for older employees or of people with disability those that may develop a disability during their work life with Council by • Continued participation and implementing phased retirement plans. engagement with third parties including Employees looking to retire take on Ability Links, Hammond Group and trainees and apprentices to ensure Transport Working Group members the transfer of skills and corporate (HART services, Social Futures, Ability knowledge whilst enabling the Links, bus companies, taxi services) employee to reduce hours of work over ensures that Kyogle Council is able time. to develop and enhance partnership opportunities – including placement of • Encouraging people with a disability bus shelters and pick-up points for the to apply for Council positions through weekly shopping bus. statement on job advertisements . • The de-funding of state government • Providing an explicit diversity support services to the disability sector commitment, including people with has resulted in a limited ability to a disability, in job advertisements by service outlying communities. including the words “Council is an equal opportunity employer and encourages • Council has prepared and adopted a applications from people with diverse DIAP as a standalone plan as it had backgrounds, people living with already finalised and adopted its disabilities and indigenous ”. Community Strategic Plan (CSP) in late 2016 and it was not practicable to • Pro-actively sought a diverse range include the DIAP within the CSP. of applicants, including appropriately qualified/experienced people with • The DIAP is consistent with and disability, for employment shortlists by complements the Council’s CSP. It encouraging people with a disability is expected that the DIAP may be to apply for Council positions through fully integrated into the CSP subject statement on job advertisements. to the review and monitoring of its performance and any subsequent Improving access to services through Council resolutions to review its CSP as better systems and processes required under the Local Government Act 1993. • Council news and information is provided in a variety of accessible • Council is progressively actioning the formats, including distribution of Disability Inclusion Action Plan. free hard copies throughout the local government area and electronic forms available on Council’s website. • Hearing Loop facilities are provided during formal Council Meetings. • Provision of information through accessible platforms such as the web, Facebook, Twitter and Council’s newsletter. • Continuing to implement e-Business initiatives to enable electronic access to development application and other

75 Lachlan Shire Council • After consultation with participants, the Me2 program will change from a one-month program to a ten-month • Advocate for visiting specialist health program to run between February to services to the shire: Preliminary June. This program continues to build research completed on the need networks and skills of participants. for a dialysis service. Some contact During the reporting period, 13 established and issues discussed. sessions were organised, covering a • Improved mental health services: range of activities including cooking Council has supported the demonstrations, art, sports, theatre and implementation of a suicide prevention dance classes. In total, 198 participants officer funded by Western Primary attended, with support from 68 care Health Network. workers. • Recreational and learning facilities • Presented a ‘breakdown the barriers’ for people with disabilities: Sensory exercise to Councillors and staff Playground installed in Condobolin in Council’s compliance and asset management departments to raise • Implementing the DIAP: Installation awareness of the issues faced by people of disabled parking and pedestrian with disability. ramps in Lachlan Street Condobolin. Additional footpaths and laybacks • Developed a procedure for the supply completed through Lachlan Shire. of one free master locksmiths access Develop disabled parking zones in all key to eligible residents. main towns: Completed at Condobolin • Followed up on nine access complaints library, Condobolin Memorial Park. from the community and liaised with Disabled parking included in design for appropriate Council departments to Foster Street, pending funding. resolve identified issues. • Attended relevant networks and forums, including an annual school leavers’ expo for children transitioning to disability programs and employment. Lake Macquarie City Council • Facilitated five meetings of Council’s Ageing and Disability Advisory Panel. Building positive attitudes and Creating liveable communities behaviours To create more liveable communities, To build positive attitudes about disability, Council: Council: • Commenced works on the changing • Conducted disability awareness training place at Toronto Swim Centre. for Council’s Holiday Park managers. • Completed works on the changing • Continued to provide the Including YOU place and accessible family room at tent at Council’s major events, with five Caves Beach as part of construction of events attended. new toilet amenities. • Conducted an induction on the • Upgraded the pathways, BBQ and Including YOU tent to the sponsors of picnic facilities at Caves Beach. the project, Alpha Care. • Completed works on a ramp at • Provided training to Red Cross Redhead Beach to allow non- Emergency Services volunteers. discriminatory access from the carpark • Partnered with Ability Links to to the sand. introduce a sensory pack for Red Cross • Purchased an aquatic floating Emergency Services volunteers. The wheelchair to be stored onsite at pack will be used at evacuation centres. Belmont Baths. Developed a condition of use checklist for users and carers, as

76 the chair will be used independently by been upgraded with some inclusive play carers. equipment. The raised logs at the small Kimberly Avenue park were removed • Investigated matting options to improve to allow access to a bird’s nest swing beach access over soft sand and met which is surrounded by rubber rather L with organisation Total Beach Access. than wood chips. It is not possible to • Completed a design for walkways and make the park fully accessible due to viewing platform to improve access at the steep terrain. Blacksmiths Beach. • A new toilet facility in Helen Street • Conducted 17 audits for recreation Reserve has been completed and it is facilities within the City, and developed fully DDA compliant. a list of works required. • A new path has been built at Hughes • Completed ten non-discriminatory Park to allow residents from the referrals for master plans and adjacent residential units access to development applications for recreation the park without steps. Due to the facilities. terrain it is not fully DDA compliant but is suitable for people using walkers, • Monitored the forward capital works frames and prams. program, resulting in improvements in non-discriminatory access to existing • A new ‘Everyone Can Play’ playground facilities including public toilet facilities was launched in February at Mindarie and community halls. Park. The playground, access paths, BBQ, picnic area and toilets are fully DDA compliant. • Plans have been amended to ensure there is an accessible community path of travel from the street to the bushland Lane Cove Municipal Council track below at the proposed new aged care development at 266 Longueville Road. The new Blackman Park Dog • Lane Cove’s Different Degrees Theatre Park, opened in May 2019, is accessible. Ensemble were out and about in the community trying new things such as a • The plans for rebuilding the outdoor theatre workshop with Theatre Brama pool, grandstand and Youth Centre from Poland, performing in the Library are DDA compliant and includes a and the Lane Cove Plaza and attending Changing Places facility. an evening performance in the city by • Council’s Pedestrian Access and Milk Crate Theatre. They are planning Mobility Plan (PAMP) was updated a performance for the 2020 Sydney on 1 August 2018. The PAMP is a Fringe Festival. comprehensive strategic action plan • An Activate Inclusion Sports Day was which allows Council to prioritise held on 3 December in the Ku-Ring-Gai its improvements to the pedestrian Council area in conjunction with North network – it caters for the needs of Sydney and Hornsby Councils. Students all pedestrian groups including older from Lane Cove West Public attended people and people with disability. from the Lane Cove area. Information • Council-runs a Safety Audit in the on disability services and organisations village centre twice each year, in winter was displayed in the Library during and summer. A range of disciplines are December and similar information was involved with these audits, including included in the Lane Cove Connection, the Crime Prevention Officer from NSW a senior’s newsletter distributed to Police, the Development Assessment 1,400 people as well as copies taken to Manager, Traffic Manager, Civic Services doctors’ surgeries, retirement homes Coordinator, Youth Development and aged care facilities. Officer and the Seniors and Disability • The basketball court at Kingsford Smith Community Development Officer. The Oval has been upgraded to be more Safety Audit identifies potential safety accessible, and the playground has 77 issues to help keep the high pedestrian Creating liveable communities area safe for all. • All new footpaths include compliant • A footbridge has been provided from kerb ramps – a total of eight new ramps. the Little Street Car Park to the Aquatic Centre to increase accessibility and • PAMP adopted June 2019 to provide pedestrian safety. a framework for existing pedestrian needs, future management, use and • A new east/west pedestrian corridor enhancement for pedestrians of all ages has been built to connect The Canopy and mobility. Development (currently under construction) with people living on the • Roxy Theatre renovation design western side of Rosenthal Avenue. As provides for full accessibility, including part of The Canopy a footbridge and lift the entrance to the Heritage building. will be built to enhance inclusion and pedestrian safety. • Wade Avenue redevelopment design includes more accessible car parking • Council has implemented a new spaces. Customer Experience Program that looks at the various ways our customers • Swimming pool upgrade design includes want to communicate with Council. an access ramp for both 50m pool and new This feedback is being used to guide program pool. how our customer service is provided. • Waipukurau Park renovated playground Included in this program is the opened June 2019 – as a minimum promotion of the systems customers accessibility improvement, softfall play areas can use to raise awareness and safety have a perimeter path instead of a barrier. concerns. • Staff have been working on the finalised Supporting access to meaningful design of a new adult change room employment facility in The Canopy. • Statements regarding the principles of • AUSLAN interpreters were present at Access and Equity have been integrated the Shoreshocked Youth Festival, to into Council policies, strategy plans and interpret the announcements and the position descriptions. words of the songs, and they were also at the opening of Mindarie Park. • Council has long-term employees with a disability and is welcoming and supportive of new employees and volunteers. Determining how to meet the needs of people with disability Leeton Shire Council • As above, consultations have been conducted, and are ongoing, with Building positive attitudes and people with disability and disability behaviours service providers regarding major infrastructure projects. • Consultations regarding accessibility were undertaken with representatives Challenges and successes in from service providers and community delivering on the DIAP members for major development projects: Roxy Theatre Renovation, • There was not a driver of the DIAP for swimming pool, and Wade Avenue the first 15 months of implementation, redevelopment. and it was not embedded across the • The Library hosted a Storytime with organisation. guest reader, morning tea and poetry • Council conducted an event to celebrate reading by a poet with cerebral palsy in International Day for People with a Council’s first celebration of International Disability for the first time in 2018. Day for People with a Disability.

78 Lismore City Council • A hoist was installed next to the 50m outdoor pool to enable patrons in wheelchairs to be lifted safely into the Council’s Disability Inclusion Action Plan pool.

(DIAP) promotes equal rights for all in the L community. It also recognises Council’s • The National Public Toilet Map was responsibility to support people with updated. disabilities to access the same human rights as everyone else in the community. • A total of 15 infringements were issued for non-compliant use of disability Key achievements in 2018-19 in parking spaces. implementing the DIAP include: • Footpath was constructed along • Bimonthly meetings of the Disability Wolgan Road Lidsale from Skelly Road Access and Inclusion Advisory to Maddox Lane. Committee held to provide advice to Council on disability access and • Footpath and pedestrian refuge were inclusion. constructed in Wallerawang in the vicinity of Barton Avenue and the rail • Continued provision of a hearing loop in overbridge. Council Chambers and live streaming of Council’s ordinary meetings and events. • One new accessible bus shelter was installed at the intersection of Willis • Provision of funding for AUSLAN Street and Sutcliff Street. Existing interpreters for meetings. shelters were improved to meet the needs of the community. • Release of an updated Missed Business Guide in July 2018, which helps • An adventure program was completed, businesses with hints, tips and simple including a number of universal access ways to improve accessibility. features and equipment. • Installation of Read Speaker technology • Council attended the Community on Council’s website, which provides Interagency on a quarterly basis text to speech services enabling people to maintain partnerships with key who are vision impaired to have website providers in town, including disability content read aloud at the click of a providers. button. • A total of 5,513 large print books and • Release of an updated Tradies Guide 2,990 audio books were loaned out to Good Access in May 2019, which from the inclusive collection. A large provides builders with a quick reference amount of these loans are distributed guide to Australian standards for via the Home Library Service to accessibility. residents of local nursing homes and private homes for people with mobility • AUSLAN-led tours of the Archibald issues. Furthermore a total of 1,580 Prize at Lismore Regional Gallery in May eResources were loaned including and June 2019 (thanks to support from eBooks, eAudio, eMagazines & eFilms. local Quota Clubs) to allow members of the deaf community to form a deeper • Maker Space was made available during understanding and connection with the library operating hours. During the year, artworks. pilot programs were run to meet the needs of children with special needs including Sensory Storytime and Maths is Fun. Lithgow City Council • Salvaged Sounds used storytelling and musical instruments to explore ideas Creating liveable communities around waste and reusing materials in creative ways. With funding from Country Arts Support Program, Lithgow • Council commenced upgrade of City Council partnered with Mitchell the Union Theatre which includes Conservatorium to deliver workshops installation of a lift and accessible toilet.

79 with local disability service providers. diverse and broad actions that Council has The participants worked with Mitchell committed to deliver. Highlights from the Conservatorium facilitators over a implementation of the plan are summarised ten-week period to make their own below. instruments, write a narrative piece and devise a performance. The performance, Building positive attitudes and “Rainy Night” was presented to friends, behaviours family, carers and the community at Eskbank House Museum. • Support and promotion was provided for the South West Disability Expo Supporting access to meaningful held on 3 April 2019 at Whitlam Leisure employment Centre. On 10 April 2019, the Mayor’s Message, featured in the Liverpool • An investigation was undertaken of the Leader, focused on the South West Hartley Building and based on the age Disability Expo. of the building it was determined that accessible upgrades were not feasible. • Council’s website has a page dedicated to people with disability. • Accessible tourism workshop and audits were conducted by Melissa James – • An internal event was held to Access consultant – and offered free of acknowledge International Day of charge to Lithgow businesses. People with Disability in December 2018. This event included guest Building positive attitudes and speakers who spoke of their lived behaviours experience of disability, access and inclusion. • Images of people with disability • Recruitment was undertaken for the were included in publications and Liverpool Access Committee members. promotional material for events. This process included people with • Council hosted the second Lithgow disability, their families and carers, and Ability Awards. The event highlighted organisations who work with people and recognised the contributions made with disability to ensure this group has to our community by people with a voice in the Liverpool community. disability and other groups that work This group discusses issues of access, to improve the lives of people with inclusion and disability support disability. in Liverpool. A number of Council departments have participated in • The Mental Health Taskforce Access Committee meetings. worked with a number of community organisations to improve the mental • An Auslan interpreter is available on health and wellbeing of the community. request for Council meetings. • The Missed Business Guide was Improving access to services through developed for local business owners to better systems and processes support increased access and inclusion in shops and businesses for people with • Council continues to improve how it disability. The guide was developed and communicates with the community. distributed to local business owners and made available in Council’s Customer Service Centre. Creating liveable communities

Liverpool City Council • Council offers a range of visual arts, drama, music and dance workshops to people with disability through regular Liverpool City Council adopted the Disability weekly arts and health programming. Inclusion Action Plan in June 2017 as a whole Weekly programming includes Art Council response to access and inclusion provision across the city. This incorporates

80 Adventures, Can Do Clay, Magic Council. Mondays, Showtime Tuesdays and Creative Connections. Group workshop • Discussions were held with stakeholders bookings include dedicated ceramics regarding convening an employment and art workshops. Annual events forum for not-for-profit organisations L include International Day of People with and local employers to support people Disability festival at Casula Powerhouse with disability to transition to the Arts Centre. workforce. • Informal audits of the CBD were • Council held discussions with Civic, conducted following reports from the a support agency for people with Liverpool Access Committee regarding disability, regarding Civic Crew, a labour issues such as cracked footpaths, lack hire program which links people with of accessible toilets and wheelchair disability looking for work with local access to Council facilities. employers. • All of Council’s community facilities Improving access to services through currently meet legislative accessibility better systems and processes requirements, except Chipping Norton Lakes Boatshed. A review is • The Infirm Service provides a wheel-in- underway to assess all sites and identify wheel-out service for residents who are opportunities to improve community unable to bring their bins to the kerb outcomes and address community for collection. There are currently 23 needs. households in Liverpool that use this service, three of which began in the • Accessible amenities in Council’s 2018-19 financial year. The Infirm Service Voyager Point Community Facility were is documented in the Domestic Waste completed. Management Policy, which is available • Accessibility and inclusion is considered on Council’s website. as part of any functional brief for new • Council continues to patrol and enforce Council facilities, and upgrades to illegal parking of vehicles impeding existing facilities. access or illegally occupying accessible • Inclusive play equipment has been parking spaces. installed at Carnes Hill Community • A flyer promoting Council’s outdoor and Recreation Precinct and Casula fitness equipment was developed in Parklands. consultation with Disability South West and distributed to disability services Supporting access to meaningful across the Liverpool local government employment area. • Council’s internet Careers page outlines • Seven keys were distributed to Council’s commitment to encouraging community members, providing access diversity in the workplace and to accessible bathrooms throughout the developing a workplace culture that Liverpool local government area. is inclusive, respectful and promotes diversity. • South West Sydney Ageing and Disability Forum co-convened in • Investigation is underway on ways of partnership with Fairfield City Council creating employment opportunities for and the City of Canterbury-Bankstown. people with disability in the workforce. • An external provider conducted an • Council is working on a whole-of- accessibility audit of Council’s website Council talent engagement framework and findings were shared internally that integrates traineeships, graduates, to ensure compliance with access work experience, diversity and labour standards. hire through different talent pathways. As part of this engagement process, • An Assistive Technology Space was there will be targeted advertising of established at Liverpool Library, which vacant positions to encourage and includes large screens and keyboards, promote career opportunities within and voice-activated computers to

81 ensure library facilities are accessible Supporting access to meaningful for people with disability. employment

• Space has been provided, free of charge, to employment agencies to help and educate the local community how to apply for positions, looking for Council positions available and assisting in the employment process. Building positive attitudes and behaviours Improving access to services through better systems and processes • Community awareness-raising of the importance of inclusion by disabled • Both libraries located at persons via media releases and and have access to free internet associated campaigns. and WIFI where there is assistance to all community members at any time for • Showcasing community facility the use of these computers. upgrades. • Target initiatives are also pursued via Creating liveable communities Council’s involvement in the Central Northern Regional Libraries (CNRL) • In November 2018 a new disability toilet group as opportunities arise. and access ramp was installed at Werris Creek pool. Determining how to meet the needs of people with disability • In October 2018 a wheelchair access ramp was installed at the Railway Engagement is routinely undertaken via Institute in Werris Creek. Council’s community networks. These include Council’s Community Advisory • June 2019 saw disability toilets installed Group and Local Advisory Groups at the George Street, Quirindi toilets (precinct committees). Community input with new disability access ramps is actively sought in decision-making directly from the street. processes in respect to disability inclusion • King George V Park in Will Tree has a matters and associated priorities. Local new toilet constructed with disabled priorities (particularly in relation to access. the upgrade of community facilities such as halls) are actively established • In July 2019, Premer public amenities in consultation with the local Advisory were completely upgraded. Groups and incorporated into Council’s forward budget and strategic planning • In August 2019 the Hall processes. had a new disabled access ramp installed. Challenges and successes in • In October 2019 at the Quirindi delivering on the DIAP? showgrounds, there was a new toilet block guilt in the centre of the arena The primary challenge for a small, with disabled access. rural-based Council like Liverpool Plains Shire Council is achieving • Re-marked existing disabled parking adequate funding for the upgrades of patches and updated parking community facilities. However, Council associated signage throughout the has been actively pursuing and applying Quirindi CBD. for any applicable grants that help to deliver the outcomes the community • Constructed 300m of paved 2m wide requires and as detailed in the DIAP. footpath in Werris Creek – with ramps, linking shopping precinct to sports Additional challenges include internal staff oval/facilities, thus completing Council’s resourcing limitations, particularly during aim of a paved footway from CBD to the current protracted drought conditions major sporting facilities area. and associated bushfire events, to deliver

82 plan priorities. Access to specialist main street upgrade was adopted by technical assistance in rural areas is also Council. somewhat limited. • Council is working with a service

provider to convert a Council-owned L building into housing for the physically and intellectually disabled. Improving access to services through Lockhart Shire Council better systems and processes

• Upgrade Council’s website to ensure Building positive attitudes and compliance with relevant standards behaviours (ongoing)

• Financial support was provided • Incorporate access and inclusion to community/volunteer-based principles in event management plans committees including section 355 approved by Councils (ongoing) management committees, Men’s Shed • Provide disability awareness training to organisation, etc. to support access to staff (ongoing) programs and events. • Council continues to advocate for • Incorporated access and inclusion improved internet access across the principles in event management plans Shire. approved by Council. • Incorporated access and inclusion principles in Council’s development application assessment process. Creating liveable communities Maitland City Council • All abilities access has been incorporated in all new community Building positive attitudes and infrastructure projects including: behaviours · Lockhart swimming pool refurbishment Council has worked in partnership with various service providers to encourage · The Rock swimming pool and support initiatives that promote refurbishment inclusion awareness in the LGA. There were 14 initiatives encouraged or delivered, · Lockhart recreation ground amenities including: building upgrade • Continued offering of the Including · The Rock recreation ground You Event Tent at Maitland’s many amenities building upgrade flagship events to ensure all community • Council parks are maintained and members feel included by offering improved to allow access to all. a range of aids for use at the events such as noise-cancelling headphones, • Include all abilities access to local small tepees with sensory tools and businesses in the Consultant’s Brief wheelchairs. for the preparation of concept plans for the Lockhart main street upgrade • Providing administrative support which formed the basis of consultation and guidance on local area priorities with local businesses and the broader to applicants of Community Grants, community. Council liaised with shop ClubGRANTS, and Youth Week grants. owners on the benefits of investing in Each year, Council advocates for all abilities access to their premises. projects to be funded that meet local area priorities including initiatives that • Following extensive consultation over a support social participation for people six month period a masterplan for the with disability.

83 • Coordination and review of the live or work in and around the Maitland Aged Persons, Younger Persons region. The group was born out of with a Disability and Carers forum, a Octapod’s professional development regular forum for service providers, program supported by Accessible Arts stakeholders, and citizens. and Ability Links NSW. Creating liveable communities • Developed Sensational Sensory Art Trail as part of Hunter Red exhibitions across the art gallery to provide a sensory Public facilities interpretation of selected artworks especially for people who benefit from • Works have now been completed diverse types of engagement. This to update accessible facilities and program continued until August 2018. amenities at Maitland Aquatics Centre including the provision of a mobile sling • Reported a 70% increase in hoist, mobile shower trolley/change participation in Journeys: Creative table, and an upgrade of the indoor Connections monthly workshops pool sling hoist to support patrons with for adults with a lived mental health complex disabilities access the indoor experience. Workshops are delivered pool. The existing Unisex Accessible in partnership with Flourish Australia amenities have also been updated to and Aftercare, both NDIS agencies, meet current Australian Standards. and are facilitated by health workers These resources will be available at all and professional artists to extend times for pool patrons. professional skills and build resilience and confidence in a public art gallery • New accessible amenities are now also environment. available at the Lawes Street Shopping Precinct in East Maitland. • Continued very successful Conversations: Art & Dementia with up • Council has now provided accessible to 60 separate free sessions presented slab boarding points to 82% of eligible across 2018/19. The program intention is bus stops, and Tactical Ground Surface to improve well-being and quality of life Indicators (TGSIs) to 61% of eligible bus for people living with memory loss and stops. Works are on track to achieve their carers through engagement with 100% standardisation by the end of the visual arts and sensory experiences. 2022. • Continued discussions with Ability Links Maitland Regional Art Gallery and Accessible Arts on other initiatives to increase inclusion for all gallery • Maitland Regional Art Gallery (MRAG) events and programs. Throughout has continued to support access and 2018/19, Council and Accessible Arts inclusion initiatives by encouraging further improved accessibility and inclusive exhibition openings and opportunities for artists with a disability. events through provision of Auslan A key outcome from this collaboration interpretation at four MRAG Openings has been the planning of a behind-the- and on request at one MRAG workshop, scenes tour for a member of the public accessible seating and quiet space. of the Art Gallery collection, with MRAG The Art Gallery stocks a range of artful paying for an Auslan interpreter. sensory products, proving invaluable for teachers and parents to support Library learning and anxiety both in the classroom and in the home. MRAG also • Maitland City Library has continued provides sensory processing assistance to support access and inclusion bags to visitors located at two locations initiatives by offering sensory packs at in the art gallery to pick up if needed, as all library branches, hosting a monthly well as a wheelchair for gallery patrons. book club for teenagers with complex communication needs at East Maitland Maitland Regional Art Gallery also: Library (AGOSCI), expanding their • Provides ongoing support of INSIDE digital audio collection available to OUT - an inclusive group of artists who people who have low vision or who are blind and offering a Home Library 84 service. Staff have been working on Improving access to services through expanding the accessibility of Maitland better systems and processes Library’s collection, and have started building a collection of books printed Access and Inclusion Reference Group in open dyslexic font. The collection M of these books, as well as several Braille books, will be built on over time. A particular highlight for the 2018/19 Adult Literacy tutoring is also offered financial year was the establishment as a service to the community via of the Access and Inclusion Reference staff members who have undertaken Group (AIRG), comprising a Councillor, volunteer level tutoring training. 14 community representatives and two Council Officers. The AIRG will provide Walka Water Works advice to Council on access and inclusion matters and act as an information resource • A social story template has been to: developed to help parents and carers plan and prepare for a visit to • Provide input into the development Walka Water Works. The template is and implementation of Council policies, modifiable and includes descriptions strategies and action plans relating to of the popular activities that many access and inclusion (particularly the children and young adults enjoy when Disability Inclusion Action Plan) and they visit as well as photos to ensure deliver actions as appropriate. a visit to the site is not required in • Assist Council to identify and make advance. recommendations on issues of access and inclusion affecting residents of the Maitland Local Government Area. • A self-guided tour is now available • Provide advice to Council on inclusive for the deaf and hearing impaired in and accessible community engagement either Auslan / Captions or Audio / methods. Captions at Maitland Gaol. This tour is available using a smartphone app • Provide advice and recommendations called OpenAccess Tours that can be on major projects being undertaken downloaded in advance or alternatively by Council that impact on access and is available on site through the use of inclusion matters. the gaol’s iPods. • Support Council in providing leadership Open Space for the broader community to achieve the social inclusion of people with disability. • Council was successful in receiving $65,000 for a new playground through Events the Everyone Can Play Grant Program in Willow Drive, Metford. The playground • Council continues to provide design integrates the new Everyone accessibility information for each Can Play Guidelines and increases flagship event on relevant webpages, in accessibility features of the playground addition to integrating inclusion into the such as the installation of accessible event planning process. This enables picnic tables, seating to encourage and people with disability, their families enable children and families to stay for and carers to plan their day in advance longer, improved pathways, removal and know they will be included in the of barriers to access, and integration celebrations. of technology to assist play-based learning and development of motor • Council now accepts the Companion skills. The guidelines have also been Card for our ticketed flagship event applied to other areas such as Norm Bitter & Twisted Boutique Beer Chapman Oval, with the planned works Festival and are currently working to include accessible pathways to the on formalising this with the NSW playground and accessible picnic tables Government Companion Card Program. with shade. The NSW Companion Card program

85 is for people with significant and (MLAK) procedure to ensure fair and permanent disability who have a equitable access to toilets in Maitland, lifelong need for a high level of care the Walka Water Works Interpretation to participate in community events Plan project, the Maitland Destination and activities. The Companion Card Management Plan, and the Accessible allows a person’s carer free entry into Equipment at Maitland Pool. participating venues and events. Challenges and successes in Employment delivering the DIAP

• The corporate training plan has been A key success of the DIAP was the completed for the 2019/20 financial establishment of the Access and Inclusion year. Further research will be completed Reference Group (AIRG) providing a throughout this year to finalise an positive outlook for ongoing engagement induction module to be used across with people with disability and further Council departments. collaboration opportunities between Council and group members. • There has been increased presence of Maitland City Council at disability The ongoing ability to collaborate across employment services meetings, such Council departments at a greater level has as Community Disability Alliance also been a positive outcome of the DIAP. Hunter forums and the Hunter Disability A particular example of this would be the Employment Advisory Group. successful grant application of the Everyone Can Play grant for a new playground with Meeting the needs of people with greater focus on access and inclusion at disability Willow Drive, Metford.

• Understanding the needs of people Future activities with a disability is vital for Council to contribute to meeting these needs. Future activities to further progress the Council facilitates engagement DIAP will include: through its Maitland Your Say website, which is WCAG 2.0 compliant. The • Finalisation of the Access and Inclusion Maitland Your Say Tent also appears Reference Group (AIRG) Action at Council’s flagship events, enabling Plan incorporating collaborative the community to have face-to-face opportunities with Council, community conversations with Council on issues organisations and residents to that are important to them. encourage people with disability to not only be more engaged with Council, • Council’s networks relating to people but actively play a part in delivering on with disability are also frequently used Council’s commitment to people with to distribute information on how people disability. can have their say. Through these avenues Council has actively engaged • Construction of the playground at people with a disability to share their Willow Drive, Metford designed using thoughts on services and projects of the Everyone Can Play Guidelines. Council and engagements external to • Exploration of options for developing Council including the Maitland Draft a continuous path of travel between Operational Plan 2019/20 and Customer the car parking area and the accessible Service Review. Skate Park at Lawes Street, East • As a key action from the DIAP, the Maitland. Access and Inclusion Reference Group • Further investigation of access paths provides direct feedback to Council from the car parking to the Walka on projects and initiatives and how Miniature Railway for the accessible they are meeting the needs of people carriage currently under development. with disability. In the 2018/19 year, the Access and Inclusion Reference • A review of the Pedestrian Access and Group were consulted on Council’s Mobility Plan (PAMP) will incorporate current Master Locksmith’s Access Key

86 an access audit of current pedestrian one of five vision impairment effects. Each access, including prioritisation of pair of glasses was branded with the phrase particular areas where there is increased “let’s look at what we do through a disability or growing demand for pedestrian lens” as a constant reminder to employees. access. The PAMP provides a framework M for developing pedestrian routes and In December 2018 Council celebrated infrastructure to cater for the needs of International Day of People with Disability all pedestrians, including people with with a community event outside the Council mobility or visual impairments. The offices in Forster. A free sausage sizzle review of the PAMP will also provide enticed community members to participate. some scope for pursuing initiatives to Entertainment was provided by MidCoast maintain obstruction-free pathways and Assist participants, who sang Christmas kerb ramps. Carols. The Mayor and GM joined the choir in singing for the community. • Commence implementation of the recommendations from the Walka Investigations into the most effective option Water Works Access Report which for a Community Directory progressed identifies twelve accessible destinations during the year, with a decision made on the within the site and recommends further most appropriate option. The Community initiatives to cater for people with Directory will detail service providers in ambulant, non-ambulant, vision, hearing the LGA for people looking for support and intellectual disability within the and assistance and will be rolled out in the destinations. 2019/20 financial year, enabling community members and visitors to find out where they can access support. Council staff hosted the first of a series of “Scoot Aware” information sessions for the Forster Community. The workshops provided information on using a mobility scooter, including: Mid Coast Council • Choosing a scooter that’s right for you.

In 2017 Community Services prepared an • Scooter users’ rights and internal education program for rollout to responsibilities. staff in 2018 and 19 to raise awareness of • Road rules. the needs of people with disabilities. The program follows on from the successful • Staying safe. ‘What is MidCoast?’ campaign which was rolled out in the year after the merger. ‘Who The workshop was well attended and is MidCoast?’ is a 3- phase project: plans are now in place to rollout similar information sessions in other areas of the • Phase 1: raising general awareness of LGA. the demographics of the LGA; The following missing footpath links • Phase 2: providing more detail of the were completed: people with disability demographic and prevalence of different disabilities; and • Along Blackhead Road – linking • Phase 3: raising awareness of the Diamond Beach Road to the shopping particular needs of people with village. disabilities. Partnerships with agencies • Along Old Bar Road – connecting Old like Vision Australia and Alzheimer’s Bar Public School to the Surf Club/ Australia will enhance staff awareness recreation area. of particular disabilities. • Along Drive to . During the period under review, Phase 2 was implemented, with Council staff attending an Consultants were engaged to develop information session to launch the program, a Pedestrian Access and Mobility Plan, and receiving a ‘goodie bag’ containing including a Bike Plan. The Plan will provide a useful information and statistics about prioritised work plan, which will be used to various disabilities and, in partnership with source funding. Vision Australia, a pair of glasses simulating

87 A new car parking area was constructed library for Forster, and will be compliant with around the Manning Art Gallery, improving the requirements of the Building Code of access for visitors to the Gallery. Australia and relevant parts of accessibility requirements of AS 1428.1 Design for access Plans were completed for a footpath wide and mobility - Part 1 General requirements, enough for mobility scooter use, in Tea including: Gardens, opposite the shopping area. • Open, inclusive spaces from street, Strategic Planning has been developing a continuing throughout all public and Housing Strategy, with a raft expected to staff areas; be available on public exhibition early 2020. The draft strategy has been informed by • All floor and pavement grades, consultation with housing service providers thresholds, doorways, stairs, etc; in order to ensure opportunities for the provision of different types of housing to • Circulation space to all doorways; suit the community’s needs. The draft will • Lift access to library and carpark. also incorporate the need for accessible All access stairs include contrasting design principles to be included in medium- nosings, tactile indicators and compliant density developments. hand rails; Work to upgrade the Manning Aquatic & • All public and staff areas accessible Leisure Centre amenities will commence in including public interface counters; 2019-20. • Public accessible facilities on ground Funding was secured for works to floor including unisex accessible toilet the Forster Community Centre (the and both male and female ambulant headquarters of MidCoast Assist). The toilets; and upgrade will include improved access. • Accessible facilities for staff on both The Gloucester Library has been levels. fully refurbished. Key features of the enhanced facility are: Planning commenced for the installation of an elevator at the Wingham library. • Electronic doors; Council worked with community • Lower shelving; groups to secure funding and implement improvements at the • Wider access pathways; following premises which are not • Diversity of seating and relaxation owned or managed by Council: furniture options; • Upper Lansdowne Hall: toilet upgrade • Relocatable shelving to enhance access to improve access. pathways as required and enhanced access for all-purpose events; • Coopernook Hall: toilet upgrade to improve access. • Accessible door handles; • Cundletown Hall: improved access. • A meeting room/quiet space; and • Dundaloo Services: accessible • Lower returns slot and bag counter. recreation facilities for people with disabilities and their families. Works are in progress to upgrade the Nabiac Library and will include: • Valley Industries: amenities upgrade funding applications submitted for an • More accessible shelving; upgrade to the Senior Citizens hall in Gloucester including upgrade flooring • Additional seating options; and and a hearing loop integration. Senior Citizens, Gloucester Arts and Cultural • Repair of floor and replacement of Council Inc (GACCI) and U3A are all carpet to enhance mobility. major users of the facility. Council Construction commenced for Council areas moved forward with plans to move to within the civic precinct, including a new

88 a centralised office location, at Biripi accessible amenities block with lift and Way in Taree. Attention is being paid change facilities, funded by Department to ensure the design is practical and of Family & Community Services accessible for employees and visitors. (administered by LGNSW). M • Planning on the MC1 Project (Council • Works are under way for the accessible software upgrades) progressed. The play space in Fotheringham Park, Taree. project will include a building inspection results section which will allow for Accessible toilets were installed at needs-based priority list to be created. • Allen Park (Stroud). • The use of beach matting was investigated during the year. Plans to • Stroud Showground. implement the use of beach matting were unable to be implemented at some • Little Street River Baths. beaches due to the steep gradient of • Croki Reserve (works also included those beaches. Investigations continue retaining walls with improved access). for other beaches. • Coopernook toilet block near the river • Two pontoons at Tea Gardens have Allen Park. been upgraded to provide easier access from boat to jetty at Ogden Street and An upgrade to Tea Gardens Hawks Nest the Ferry wharf. Surf Life Saving Club is about to commence to provide five cubicles, one of which is • Fish-cleaning tables were upgraded accessible. at Forster Breakwater, Manning Point, Endeavour Place and Crowdy The following plans were progressed: Head. Works include the provision of accessible tables. • Planning for upgrades to amenities at • Works commenced in 2018/19 to Pebbly Beach (Forster) and Forster upgrade Billabong Park in Gloucester to Ocean Baths was completed with work improve access, were completed. to commence shortly. • Nabiac parks were upgraded with • Planning for the demolition and improved shared access. rebuilding of amenities in Little Street (Forster) was completed, and • Works commenced and are almost construction to commence early in the complete to upgrade the children’s 2019/20 financial year. playground including an accessible toddler area, and accessible pathways • Funding was secured for upgrades to all round, at Providence Bay Park in Gloucester Recreation Ground. Hawks Nest. • Funding was received and design work • Additional funding was sourced for commenced for upgrades to facilities Variety Livvi’s Place – an inclusive at Boronia Park (Forster), Aub Ferris play space in Fotheringham Park in Oval Clubhouse in Nabiac (canteen and Taree, and construction commenced amenities) and Harrington Dog Park at the end of June 2019. This project and Foreshore (replace the BBQ shelter involves partnerships with the and seating). Touched by Olivia Foundation, NSW • Planning for the upgrade of pathways Department of Premier and Cabinet, at Blackhead was completed. The works NSW Department of Planning and will connect existing pathways and will Environment, Foundation for Rural and also include some outdoor exercise Regional Renewal, Dundaloo Services equipment and a number of Council departments (Community Services, Property and • Funding was secured for concrete Commercial Services and Community pathways at Second Head. Reserve Spaces Recreation and Trades) in (Forster), to improve access for all order to provide a play space to suit users. people of all abilities. The project Implementation of Council’s Equal includes accessible parking and a new,

89 Employment Opportunity Management Plan Mid-Western Regional Council commenced. Planning for a staff census commenced – in order to better understand • Volunteer opportunities exist within the composition of our workforce and how Council’s Meals on Wheels and the organisation can assist those who need Community Transport services. In the it. past, people with disability have opted Readspeaker is fully functional on Council’s to volunteer with the Meals on Wheels website, enabling customers to listen to a service and continue to be welcome to page in audio, or highlight any section of do so. text on any page to listen to the selected • The Recruitment and Selection text. Procedure is due for review this Council’s website continues to be improved calendar year. The Procedure is in terms of quality and streamlining of forms designed to ensure that recruitment on our website. Information on road projects standards are consistent, appropriate, has been greatly improved. inclusive and free from discrimination or bias. A wheel in/out service is offered for a fee, for customers who don’t have ability to • Council teams work with local wheel their bins out for weekly collection. disability service providers in terms of negotiating supported employment Residents can report illegal dumping online, opportunities and access to Council eliminating the need to visit a Council office, auspiced Community Services. or make a phone call. • Council’s Anti-Discrimination and Equal The mobile Community Recycling Centre Employment Opportunity Policy was continued to visit remote communities to reviewed and adopted by Council at assist them with disposal of problematic its May 2019 meeting. Staff receive waste such as paint, gas bottles, oil and regular training on anti-discrimination. batteries. Library Services continues to Specific training is also provided invest in and enhance its other services, to staff involved in recruitment on including: Council’s Recruitment and Selection • A significant collection of large-print Procedure with a focus on merit based and audio books; recruitment. • Home library lending service, delivering • The Access Committee Terms of books to people who have difficulty Reference were updated and endorsed leaving their homes; by Council at its September 2018 meeting. • Substantial dyslexic and literacy collections; • Council now has a single Access Committee that meets monthly to • A significantly expanding collection of discuss and provide advice to Council eBooks and eAudio; on operational and strategic issues affecting physical access and inclusion • A wide variety of online databases and for all residents and visitors to the other resources; and region. The Committee has ongoing • Availability of 24/7 online services, interactions with Council staff across including access to the catalogue and various fields of responsibility. membership details. • Events and facilities facilitated by Council’s Community Development and Youth Service Officers welcome participation by a broad range of community members and does not discriminate against people with disability. Council’s libraries work with local disability services and provide regular study support for people with disability. Council has also provided workshops to people with disability

90 for annual community art competition updates its listings on the National and exhibitions. Regular interagency Public Toilet register, which notes meetings and communications also accessible facilities. Accessibility is promote disability awareness and always considered when updating or opportunities (such as grant funding constructing new Council facilities. M and access to the NDIS) for people with disability. Four Pedestrian Access and Mobility Plan (PAMP) projects were completed: • Internal staff training includes topics such as anti-discrimination and • Footpath (Jaques Street, western side). disability inclusion. • Kandos/Rylstone bike path reseal. • Council delivered an integrated • Holyoake Pedestrian Bridge. advertising campaign promoting supported and disability workers in • Angus Avenue footpath replacement the region. This included television (sections between Jaques Street and advertising, PR activities, web content Dbee Road). and social media. Council’s building network comprises over • Frontline Community Services and 200 buildings and its Assets Management Customer Service staff are provided Plan establishes condition inspection with training about accessibility program. awareness and have developed a good understanding of ways to increase Council’s Asset Management Plan participation and inclusion for people acknowledges greater demand for with disability. accessibility and services for an ageing cohort. It also notes that renewal plans are • Council proudly supports initiatives to include increased access at facilities. such as annual Disability Inclusion Sports Awards, which includes the Council’s Community Grants Program category ‘Junior Athlete with a closely aligns with its Towards 2030 Disability Sportsmanship Award’. Community Plan, including strategies on providing equitable access to a range of • Increased options of Council places and spaces for all in the community, communications, such as Facebook providing infrastructure and services to videos with spoken narrative to increase cater for the current and future needs of the accessibility. community and maintaining the provision of high quality, accessible community services • Council is a proud supporter of local that meet the needs of the community. business ‘Clock Awards’, which includes awards for excellence in community services and disability access. • Council also proudly supports initiatives Moree Plains Shire Council such as annual Disability Inclusion Sports Awards, which includes the Creating livable communities categories ‘Disability Inclusive Sports Club Award’ and ‘Disability Inclusive All Council projects take into consideration, Sports Volunteer Award’. as a matter of course, the special needs • Council has a broad range of accessible of people with disabilities. Since the facilities and services, including local adoption of the Disability Inclusion Action swimming pools with accessibility Plan (“DIAP”) in 2017, Council has been ramps and accessible change facilities, actively working through the DIAP to and accessible parks and playgrounds. achieve the desired outcomes to enhance inclusive activities and accessibility. • Accessible services for which Council Infrastructure works, such as mobility- is responsible are listed on Council’s friendly roundabouts, have been installed website, including Meals on Wheels and and the formation of the Disability Network Community Transport Services, and Group continues to make improvements to accessible playground and bathroom the shire. These accomplishments display facilities. Council also regularly

91 Council’s commitment to the DIAP and its employment services. goal to provide an inclusive environment for community members of all abilities • Interactive map of accessible parks established on MyMosman app. Council recognises and celebrates the achievements made by people with a • A local disability service, Fighting disability through the provision of financial Chance, are regular market stallholders support to a local disability group to co- and are supported by Council in their host the International Day of People with participation. Disability. • A hot-desk was trialled Feburary to The Disability Action Plan was completed in June 2018 to give service providers the 2017 and a committee has been formed from opportunity to discuss their services services and consumers for the purpose of with residents. NDIS LAC discontinued providing ongoing information around needs after trial. to Council. • Complaints policy and systems substantially reviewed to ensure accessibility.

Mosman Municipal Council

• Disability Awareness Training provided in May 2018. 52% of Council staff. Content covered in staff induction. 28 Provide direct support for the “One & All new staff trained. Inclusion Project” projects through: • International Day of People with • An annual financial contribution to Disability was held on 22 November the projects carried out by One & All 2018 with 137 students from five local Inclusion Project. schools participating in Wheelchair Basketball, Mouth Painting, Deaf • Participation in and promotion of One & Soccer, Music Therapy, Blind Cricket All Inclusion Project activities including and Disability Drama Workshop. wearing orange on Inclusion Day. All surveyed participants reported improved knowledge. Council has: • AbilityLinks participated in two • Budgeted for a financial contribution to community forums held in March and the One & All Inclusion Project May 2019. • Made resources available to participate • Positive stories for International Day and promote this event of People with Disability and image Review approval process and criteria for included in Council’s Volunteer’s Council Community Grants. handbook and other positive stories being developed for 2019/20. Applicants to identify how their project will enhance inclusion and contribute to • Chamber of Commerce participated in participation in everyday life. a community forum in May 2019 which included disability providers. Action: Complete • All sporting clubs advised on how Council Community Grants process has been they can increase access and inclusion reviewed and the following actions taken: through biannual user group meetings. • Implemented Smarty Grants system to • On-ground improvements made at support the application process. Balmoral Baths. • Incorporated a mandatory field • Advice provided to the Chamber in the application process on the of Commerce on local disability consideration given to equality and

92 social inclusion for people with Ensure customer service staff receive disability. training to communication with people with disability, including the use of • Incorporated and rated “HIGH” communication aids/boards.

equality and social inclusion into the M assessment criteria. The same approach Action: Started applies to the development of events run by Council and other organisers Council has: applying to hold an event in the local • Commenced a review of Customer government area. Service and included this action. Facilitate the creation of a S355 Access Appoint a staff member as an Inclusion and Inclusion Committee with membership Officer who can undertake training and including: provide information throughout Council on • Councillor representative. improving inclusion • Representative from Engineering • Funding the preparation and Department. distribution of information packs to businesses regarding inclusion. • Community representatives including people with disability. • Providing venues for business meetings. Note: Terms of reference for Access & • Support activities that provide Inclusion Committee will include but are not education about inclusion to businesses. limited to: • Providing information and advice to Action: Started Council on access and inclusion issues Council has: as needed. • Re-submitted to fund the Community • Developing short (annual) and long Inclusion Officer position in the 2020/21 term (four years) goals to address budget process. inclusion priorities. • Promote inclusion within the broader Creating liveable communities community through support for relevant inclusion activities and events. Facilitate an annual transport forum to identify and respond to transport issues • Encourage inclusion with the which limit opportunities for people development of an ‘inclusion audit’ tool with disability or who are transport- to help organisations, businesses or disadvantaged to participate in everyday other groups measure their progress. activities, employment or social events, which will include representatives from: Action: Started • Local transport operators. Council has: • Adjacent Councils (Campaspe and • Commenced a review of S355 Edward River). Committees and recommend this action be included. • Community transport services. Undertake to provide Council-wide • Transport for NSW. education in relation to the Disability Inclusion Action Plan and its goals and • Victorian Public Transport. outcomes • Users of public transport. Action: Started Action: Started In partnership with Intereach Council has: Council has: • Agreed to participate in the “Access at • Attended quarterly regional transport Glance initiative” to review access to forums at Wagga Wagga. Council buildings.

93 • Hosted two regional sub-forums • Commenced implementation of the at , with attendees from recommendations contained in the surrounding LGAs. Welcoming Business Audit. 2016 at the and Council Offices • Conducted quarterly “Meet the Council” and MVBC. sessions where community can raise transport matters for people with Council to seek feedback from Access various access needs. and Inclusion Committee when planning infrastructure, or prioritising maintenance Review the use of Community Transport particularly in the areas of: funding to ensure maximum outputs for social connection and participation for • Kerb ramps, crossings, footpaths. transport disadvantaged, including people with disability and frail older people. • Access to recreational and public spaces such as parks and river walks. Action: Started • Playgrounds and sporting fields. Council has: Action: Started • Signed a memorandum of understanding with Campaspe Council has: Shire Council to identify areas for • An Asset Revaluation Program schedule improvement including transport. that will assist in identifying assets • Fitted wheel chair hoists to three requiring disability inclusion access as a people-mover vehicles. priority. • Purchased fit for purpose vehicles • Reviewed its major projects protocols based on Community Services to include the requirement for disability specification. inclusion in the design scope and specifications, tender evaluation and • Fully inducted and trained community grant funding applications. transport drivers to meet the needs of people with various access needs. • Captured community feedback during the major projects consultation phase. Train customer service staff and volunteers including those who work in the Visitor • Developed playgrounds and sporting Centre, in the availability of disability access fields aligned with relevant Australian to local tourist spots, accommodation and Standards, NSW Department of other local venues or special events, so that Planning, Industry and Environment accurate information can be provided. -”Everyone Can Play” guideline. Action: Started Review recruitment processes, HR policies Echuca Moama Tourism, funded jointly by and job design to facilitate employment Council, has: of people with disability, whether through employment agencies, or external • Commenced a campaign to promote advertising of positions. accessible accommodation, hospitality businesses and attraction to our region. Action: Started • Undertaken to improve understanding Council has: and implementation of accessibility and • A robust recruitment and selection inclusion best practice. policy based on merit and equal Review and identify priorities recommended opportunity in the Welcoming Business Audit 2016 of the • Undertaken a business process mapping Moama Council Office, Mathoura Visitor and and organisational review program, Business Centre (MVBC) and Council Offices which will include this action in Mathoura. Liaise with employment agencies, Action: Started particularly those who support open Council has: employment of people with disability to identify work opportunities with Council.

94 Action: Started appropriately maintained information sites such as Intereach Service Directory Council has: and CLRS to ensure information is • Developed strong connections with provided in a variety of formats to meet M local employment and rehabilitation the needs of people with disability. agencies who specialise in the Action: Complete placement of special needs applicants. Council has: • Attended an annual forum for discussion on employment growth and • Embedded links on the MRC web pages improvement opportunities in the area. to Intereach, CLRS and other relevant sites to ensure currency of information. Improving access to services through better systems and processes https://www.murrayriver.nsw.gov.au/ community/support/people-with-disability Work with Campaspe Library Services and Determining how to meet the needs CLRS to ensure that the information they of people with disability provide within the MRC area is in accordance with MRC service provision. Community Services engage with customers Action: Started and receive feedback on disability inclusion requirements when developing their Council has: individual care plans. The individual care • Signed a memorandum of plans are reviewed periodically or as required understanding with Campaspe Shire depending on individual needs. Council to improve collaboration on In delivering the Stronger Community Funds – shared services including library. major infrastructure program, Council engaged • Relevant Council staff attend Network a consultant to conduct community consultation of Disability Services (NoDS) meetings on the proposed program of works for the to maintain an awareness of service respective local areas. The consultant’s report provision in the area. informed the allocation of funds and design inclusions based on community feedback. An Action: Started example of this is the Mensforth Park Upgrade that included an accessible toilet block Council has: based on community feedback captured in the • Joined the Network of Disability report. Services (NoDS) and made provision to The information from the report has supported attend in 2020. additional grant applications to expand on • Ensure Council website is compliant this program of work and the staged delivery with Web Content Accessibility of existing Master Plans in place for locations Guidelines 2.0 (WCAG2.0). across the LGA. The community representatives as key stakeholders are involved in each stage Action: Complete of the project delivery where further feedback is gathered, inclusions considered and scope Council has: refined. • Ensured that the live website design, meets WCAG2.0 AA standards in Challenges and successes in accordance with Australian Government delivering on the DIAP accessibility policy. Non-compliance to the AA standards is reported by the As a newly amalgamated Council our key web service provider for corrective challenges were: action by MRC https://www.murrayriver. • Competing priorities within LGA area. nsw.gov.au/accessibility. • Competing priorities to action DIAP Next steps to seek additional funds to while performing BAU. implement items listed on the AA guideline checklist. • Resource availability. • Ensure Council website has links to • Budget.

95 Planning greater outcomes for the future delivery of existing employment, community events and activities that provide improved • Offering meeting room space. liveability services and facilities that support • Encouraging and enabling networking people of all abilities, families and older and information sharing opportunities. residents as they move towards retirement. • Sharing general demographic Most residents in our Shire are engaged, feel information to assist employment a sense of pride in their communities and agencies to develop their services. feel safe and secure in their homes. • Offering supported employment However, there are still a number of people work experience and employment who have indicated that they are seeking opportunities to persons with a more Youth services facilities and services disability. for older people along with a desire for support for local communities are areas of • Seek funding to implement remaining priority. items listed on the WCAG2.0 AA guideline checklist to upgrade the web Residents from across the Shire and our visitors already have access to a wide range • Incorporate DIAP into future of community, government agency and Community Strategic Plan, Delivery Council services appropriate to their age Program and associated operational and needs. plans and reference actions to CSP objectives. Council also works with health, welfare and educational organisation from the Murray River Council is not an NDIS Service government and non-government sector Provider, and does not have direct contact to improve outcomes for individuals and with NDIS clients, however continues to our community. This occurs through liaison, survey the whole community to become advisory support, assistance with the use aware and plan to advocate for disability of Council premises and provision for services, social support and other opportunities for networking. community goals, interests or needs. The Disability Inclusion strategies, plans and actions in Muswellbrook Shire are monitored by an internal access audit committee, which meets as required. This committee focuses on ensuring that all community service requests that involve issues of physical and Murrumbidgee Council digital access for people with disabilities are prioritised. The committee’s terms of • Additional foothpaths and shared reference focus on; pathways. • Adapting existing services to ensure • PAMP crossings. that they meet the needs of people with disabilities • Update of toilet facilities to include disabled access. • Ensuring that physical access to public buildings and facilities is improved • Providing information to our community that is in formats which meet the communication requirements of people with disabilities Muswellbrook Shire Council • Delivering training to staff as required to ensure that advice and services that In May 2017 Muswellbrook Shire Council relevant to the needs of people with adopted a Disability and Social Inclusion disabilities Strategy. This strategy requires a continued • Partnering with other service providers focus on policies and actions that promote to support the participation of people social inclusion and participation in with disabilities in civic activities and Muswellbrook Shire. This includes the public spaces that are appropriate.

96 promoting accessible businesses firstly with an assessment of an operator’s response to providing for people with disability then Nambucca Shire Council with a view to providing recognition. M Support the Access Committee to continue The Nambucca History Walk along the river its advisory and promotional work on foreshore (ANZAC Park to V-Wall) was inclusion and access (monthly meetings). developed early 2019 utilising accessible pathways and will incorporate the new 2018-2019 Result jetty walkway which is being widened for improved access. History Walk brochures Meetings have been held monthly except contain access information so that people for December and January due to holidays. with disability are better informed about All meetings have attracted a quorum and what to expect and where to find accessible over the period membership has remained amenities. strong and has grown to 15 members. Monthly minutes are presented to Council Implement a program to improve accessible for its information or endorsement of formal public toilets (annual). recommendations for action. 2018-2019 Result The Committee has provided planning input into projects such as Highlighting Our No new toilet facilities were completed Heritage (Macksville Bridge) and the Adult during the reporting period, however a Lift and Change Facility as well as provide review of amenities has commenced so advocacy for improvements to public spaces that a more comprehensive plan can be e.g. Nambucca Plaza near Cinema complex. developed. Conduct meetings of Council within the Construct new accessible toilet facilities in community at accessible venues with Gordon Park and CBD Nambucca Heads. accessible facilities (ongoing practice). (2019) 2018-2019 Result 2018-2019 Result Achieved. A portable PA is available for on- Toilets at Gordon Park were completed in site or outdoor meetings. 2017-2018, with some additional pathways installed over the past year. Further work is Increase visibility of people with disability in planned in the Park including development publications and online. of an inclusive playground. 2018-2019 Result Toilets in Ridge Street Nambucca Heads remain in need of upgrading. A proposed Some improvement with a small increase redevelopment of the Library and in images being used. A photoshoot during Community Arts precinct is likely to include early 2019 undertaken for Council’s tourism new compliant public toilets. Estimated functions has resulted in professional timing 2021-2022. images of local people in local environments including older people, people using Maintain information on the National Public mobility scooters and wheelchairs. These Toilet Map (annual). will be used across Council documents. 2018-2019 Result Promote accessible business and tourism (via Tourism Strategy). Achieved. The map has the following: Valla Beach (3), Nambucca Heads (15), Macksville 2018-2019 Result (5), Bowraville (3), Taylors Arm (1), Scotts Head (2). All Council owned public toilets The Access Committee completed an are listed. Listings for new amenities include online training course on inclusive tourism, photographs. Everyone’s Business, as an advocacy and education project to encourage the business Review/implement the Pedestrian Access community to identify missed business Management Plan (2019). opportunities due to poor access for people with disability. During the reporting period, the Committee also commenced a project

97 2018-2019 Result RUOK and encourage inclusion. A footpath link between Hennessy-Tape Oval • Code of Conduct training. and the shopping centre through to schools was completed in Bowraville. • Core corporate values of ethical conduct and teamwork are included in “Pram” ramps were installed in Nambucca every Position Description. Heads at Liston and Hallidise Streets, at Liston and Bellinger Streets (2), at Back and Recruitment website meets access Nelson Street at the supermarket turn, and standards (annual). in Nelson Street near the Bowling Club (4). 2018-2019 Result There was one new ramp in River Street Macksville. Achieved. Applicants for vacant positions are given the option of requesting special A rearrangement of the carpark in Winifred assistance via a standard question which Street together with a relocation of the prompts the need for consideration by accessible car parking space in River Human Resources. Street (west) in Macksville, have improved accessible parking options. Work spaces meet the access needs of employees (as needed). Planning for improved access between foreshore levels – at Macksville Bridge has 2018-2019 Result been completed. A number of items of equipment were Installation of LED street lighting across the purchased and changes to the workplace Shire and at the V-Wall Nambucca Heads were made during the past year e.g. has improved night-time pedestrian access – prescription safety glasses, specialised ear now more user friendly. protection, reading lamp, stand-up desks in response to employees specific disability Completion of a link between Scotts Head needs. Primary School and the local oval. An Employee Assistance Program is in Install accessible play elements in at least 1 place to assist people with health and well- children’s playground (2020). being and an Employee Engagement Day 2018-2019 Result was conducted on 27 March 2019 which showcased a range of services available to Design work has commenced or been support staff and their families eg Black Dog completed for 2 projects under the Everyone Institute, Attune Hearing, NSW Health. Can Play guidelines. Playgrounds at Gordon Park Nambucca Heads and Coronation The Nambucca Shire Council has work Street Bowraville have been identified with a practices which provide for carer’s leave construction tender being let in mid-2019 for and flexible leave for people requiring long- the latter. term recovery or rehabilitation. There is also a Return to Work program and Ergonomic Implement the Workplace Equity and Assessments to assist people with special Diversity Strategy (annual). needs, to re-engage in the work place. 2018-2019 Result Resilience Training was conducted during the reporting period. Whilst the Strategy has not recently been reviewed it is being implemented. One Location of accessible facilities, parking and example is the following objective: toilets will be available online (2018). Create a harmonious and supportive work 2018-2019 Result environment and an organisational culture that values and promotes equity, fairness Completed. Location of public toilets is and diversity. available on the National Public Toilet website. The response to this has been a range of activities such as the following: A print brochure and its online equivalent “Access for Visitors with Disability” were • Special events – BBQ, morning teas, produced and are being distributed. theme days to promote causes such as This contains lists of accessible parking

98 spaces and toilet facilities, together with community representation. After contact points for people with disability calling for Expressions of Interest, regarding transport, health care, recreation, Council appointed the Community equipment hire and scooter recharge. representatives for the committee in November 2018. In March 2019, M Local images were used in the brochure. Council held its first Access and Council’s website will meet WCAG (Web Inclusion Advisory Committee meeting. Content Accessibility Guidelines). (Annual) Once established, the Committee, in conjunction with Council’s Community 2018-2019 Result Development Officer, drafted an ‘Easy Read / Plain English’ version of the Achieved. Disability Inclusion and Access Plan Develop a new Tourism website which will 2017-2021 to be launched in 2019/20. meet WCAG (2017). The Advisory Committee meetings occur quarterly and momentum and 2018-2019 Result interest is growing. Website complies with WCAG. • A Council representative attends and participates in the Narrabri Interagency Improved access to Library Services. monthly meeting. As there is a variety Whilst not listed in the key actions, two of service provider participation this initiatives during 2018-2019 have improved enables Council to maintain working access to services at Nambucca Shire relationships and networks with Libraries: installation of RFID and use of important community groups and QR codes to connect to Wi-Fi. The Radio government organisations. Together Frequency Identification System or RFID has they participate and assist with local numerous benefits key library operations, events as well as identifying gaps for however within the context of this report services in the area. a notable difference for people with • Council’s Community Development communication or anxiety issues, as they Officer attends the monthly Narrabri now have the opportunity to self-check Dementia Friendly Community Steering items for loan and return. This allows them Committee meetings. The committee independent access to resources at Libraries is working to establish Dementia without the need for staff assistance unless Friendly towns across the Shire. Council they require it. The use of a QR code to is committed to having all front- access Library Wi-Fi allows people to scan line staff complete online Dementia and connect – convenient for people who Awareness training to assist when have difficulty negotiating conventional dealing with customers who may be computer hardware. affected. Council in conjunction with the committee is working to establish a ‘Dementia Friendly Café’ at one of Council’s facilities. • The Access and Inclusion Advisory committee has identified a collaborative Council project called ‘Access at a Glance’ that undertakes individual assessments of Implementation of the Disability Inclusion businesses to determine accessibility Action Plan under section 13(1) of the Dis- for all members of the community. It ability Inclusion Act 2014: is Council’s intention, with agreement from businesses, to carry out the • In 2017/18 Council adopted its first assessments in 2019/2020. Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) 2017-2021. • One of the highest priority actions identified within the DIAP was 1.1 - Facilitate the creation of an Access and Inclusion Committee, Council incorporating Councillor and 99 Building positive attitudes and Supporting access to Meaningful behaviours Employment

• Elevate the profile and importance • Investigate student placements, work of people with a disability in our experience and volunteering roles community – Council has placed items for people with a disability. Special in the media highlighting funding needs students are welcomed and opportunities, local businesses have undertaken work placements at increasing access for people with a the Narrandera Shire Library. Council disability and therefore potentially currently provides volunteer work increasing customer opportunities opportunities for disabled persons for sales as part of the NSW business through the Home and Community Care chamber initiative. office and the Narrandera Shire Library. A section of Council’s Administration • Promote disability awareness across the Centre was recently remodeled to community – staff regularly participate provide disabled access for a current and contribute to meetings that and potentially future members of staff share disability resource information to access an office space and amenities. to Council. Relevant information for people with a disability and their carers • Council has a program of implementing is disseminated where possible either adaptive office furnishings to provide through social media or traditional a better working environment for print. Where possible Council staff disabled persons. participate in appropriate forums. The Road Safety Officer presented • Improving access to services through the community safety section of the provision of better systems and Stepping On program to two groups. processes. The presentation focused on pedestrian • Council is nearing the completion of a safety for people with reduced mobility new website project. The new layout is and included information for mobility engaging, easy to use and the technical scooter users. requirements will be WCAG2.0AA compliant. Creating liveable communities • Ensure that Council events comply • Ensure safety of pedestrians within the with best practice – The Economic CBD. Install tactile indicators at laneway Development Manager assisted CVGT entrances and around posts and poles to Australia to negotiate a new lease with assist vision impaired. As footpath projects Council that included the installation are undertaken and/or Pedestrian Access of a disability access ramp at the front & Mobility Plan projects are constructed, of the premises and an automated they will be assessed for tactile indicators opening door. against current standards. • Ensure safety of pedestrians within the CBD. Undertake regular safety audits to identify uneven paths and other hazards and assistive measures to be actioned. Council annually undertakes repair works Narromine Shire Council to the footpath network to reduce risk and hazards. Building positive attitudes and • Provide businesses with an information behaviours package on the advantages and importance of enabling access to people • Strategic actions implemented as per of all abilities. The Economic Development Disability Inclusion Action Plan. Manager facilitates business survey for new websites to enable Narrandera businesses • Ongoing inspections held and to register their disabled persons’ access improvements done as funds became arrangements. available. • Consultation with residents, disability

100 service providers, disability access toilet and children’s toilet. home solutions providers to gain a greater understanding of how the shire • Other improvements include new can increase access for our residents access ramps, seating and landscaping and visitors to facilities or use of around the lifeguard tower. N pathways and parking areas. Library and lifelong learning Creating liveable communities programming

• Narromine Shire has committed to • Our Newcastle Libraries curated 2,292 a focused approach in identifying learning and cultural experiences which facilities in the Shire that require engaged with 77,169 participants in upgrade, improvement and/or provision total. of additional facilities to meet the needs • In total the Libraries delivered 2,285 of our community and visitors to the library and lifelong learning programs Shire. which had 53,909 participants. The • DIAP works have been finalised in the programs included: Narromine Library and Administration · 1,342 targeted children’s and youth building toilets commenced. programs, which attracted 35,695 participants, a 31% increase in community uptake; Supporting access to meaningful · 427 targeted small group and employment individual digital inclusion programs which attracted 534 participants, • Disability Inclusion Action Plan is 408 of which were individual tech considered in all workforce activity. All help sessions; Council recruitment encourages people · 80 targeted local history programs, with a disability to apply. Council has which attracted 766 participants, also teamed up with BreakThru to assist many of which were individual community members with a disability to sessions; gain valuable work experience. · 18 targeted local Aboriginal Improving access to services through communities, which attracted 145 better systems and processes participants; and

• Access to community transport locally · 11 targeted culturally and linguistically and to Dubbo has been maintained, diverse (CALD) communities, which with advocacy continuing for this attracted 367 participants. service. • Libraries developed 35 active • Accessibility Audit conducted in both partnerships, collaborating to create Narromine and Trangie CBDs to identify new learning and cultural experiences buildings that are not mobility friendly. across our ten service points. These partnerships enable the Libraries to grow the service offering within the existing resourcing. Providing for inclusive communities

Newcastle City Council CN’s Disability Inclusion Action Plan is Council’s way of defining how the organisation will make targeted and • Progress on Nobby’s Project - The new continual effort to reduce the barriers that accessible amenities at Nobbys Beach people face when living, working and visiting are completed. The new amenities the Newcastle LGA. It documents the steps include an assisted change room with CN will take in working towards (with regard toilet, basin, shower and bench, and a to access and inclusion) the Newcastle 2030 separate dual-purpose room for parents Community Strategic Vision. with baby change bench, accessible

101 Some achievements are listed below: Rights Commission Photographic Retrospective exhibition in the Lovett • Delivering building and infrastructure Gallery on 13 December 2018. upgrades to improve accessibility is a key priority especially in relation to • Collaborated with Write Up! to present street crossings and street accessibility. three Word Immersion workshops, an We delivered 38 kerb ramps and in our interplay between art and language pedestrian access and mobility (PAMP) for people of all abilities, on 10, 17, 24 and local area traffic management January as a component of the Home (LATM) we delivered 240m footpath, 33 Dignity Justice - An Australian Human kerb ramps (new and reconstructed), Rights Commission Photographic four kerb extensions, three raised Retrospective exhibition in the Lovett crossings and one additional pedestrian Gallery on 13 December 2018. leg at traffic lights. • Consulted with St Vincent De Paul • Established a memorandum of (NDIS provider) and Ability Links understanding (MOU) with Write and various community members Up! to meet once a month in our living with disabilities to understand Library community meeting spaces in contemporary community needs. exchange for activation activities and Currently, in collaboration with the advice regarding provision of suitable Hunter Community Legal Service to services and activities for people living establish a program within the Library with a disability (Write Up! is a non- branches to provide People Living with incorporated group of people with Disabilities fortnightly assistance to disabilities which meets in the Lower complete forms (program to commence in a variety of venues 2020). to enhance the literacy, creativity and social agency of people with a disability • Waste collection services also provide and their careers). a service to residents called ‘bin assistance’ where customers (who meet • Developed the Home Dignity the necessary medical requirements) Justice - An Australian Human have their bins placed out on the kerb Rights Commission Photographic and returned after collection. Retrospective exhibition in collaboration with the Australian Human • Engaged with Accessible Arts to Rights Commission in the Newcastle improve services and options for those Library Lovett Gallery from 1 December wishing to access the Theatre. 2018 - 16 February 2019. The exhibition • Provided access to the Playhouse for contained works and stories of people arts-activated workshop. This workshop living with a disability and sought presented knowledge and skills in how to raise awareness and celebrate to improve access to arts venues and human rights. The exhibition was projects. opened by Alastair McEwin, Disability Discrimination Commissioner. Auslan • Engaged a consultant to assist with interpretation was provided at the AUSLAN accessible season shows for exhibition opening event. Civic Theatre. • Collaborated with Community Disability • Four lots of four-week ‘BeConnected’ Alliance Hunter (CDAH) to present the workshops held at City and Wallsend Living Books program ‘I’m more like you Libraries with a total of 87 attendees. than you think. Hunter storytellers with disability as a component of the Home • Booked ‘Possum Magic’ with AUSLAN Dignity Justice - An Australian Human interpreter (28 August). Booked 100+ Rights Commission Photographic seats for children, young people, Retrospective exhibition in the Lovett teachers and families. Gallery on 13 December 2018. • Purchasing customised ramps to • CN presented two screenings of improve wheelchair accessibility. the Wide Angle Film Festival as a These ramps can be utilised across the component of the Home Dignity theatre and increases the number of Justice - An Australian Human wheelchair-accessible spaces.

102 • Established a web chat initiative to North Sydney Council offer a more inclusive access point for those who have a physical and hearing Over the past twelve months Council has disability as it provides a service very

continued to deliver on actions identified N similar to a conversation with a CSO in the DIAP. Under the above-mentioned (community services organisations), just categories some of the key achievements over the web, and is fast and effective. include: • Individual Tech help drop-in sessions held across multiple locations and Creating liveable communities digital literacy support provided to • Upgrade to Miller Street bus stop, one around 408 people. of the principal access links to Council Chambers. • Seniors Week program held with targeted digital literacy programs - • Upgrade to paths of travel surrounding including 3D printing and augmented Council Chambers. reality. 118 attended the LYNDA online learning platform which was introduced • Upgraded signage in and around in March 2019. 313 learning sessions Council Chamber. have now been accessed. • Refurbishment of Primrose Park Arts • E-resource learning platforms were and Craft Centre. accessed over 30,700 sessions across a range of subjects to promote self- Supporting access to meaningful directed lifelong learning. employment

• Inclusion space provided at NYE event. • Ongoing access to health and wellbeing programs for all staff, including access • Resources and information provided to to EAP Counselling Service. staff and community on how to deliver inclusive events. • Celebration of significant calendar events, such as R U OK? Day and • The delivery of an adult lift and change International Day of People with amenity at Nobbys. Disability . Unity in diversity Improving access to services through The Newcastle Unity in Diversity Festival better systems and processes celebrated the cultural diversity of Newcastle in the spirit of inclusiveness • Ongoing use of software to identify and welcome. The festival coincided with access barriers on Council’s website. National Refugee Week celebrations. • Training to staff who author web Building upon the capacities of the refugee, content on creating accessible content, multicultural and indigenous community, as well as training on producing communities shared their culture through accessible documents. performances, workshops, stalls and food. It was an opportunity for diverse Building positive attitudes and communities to connect with each other. behaviours Gregson Park Hamilton was utilised for the festival. The park is a well-known, safe and • Training provided to Senior Leadership accessible public space with good public Team on Disability Awareness and transport links. This accessibility encouraged Confidence. attendance and provided a safe space to build upon social connections. • Celebration of significant calendar events in the community, including the Lost Bird Found Project and International Day of People with Disability.

103 Planning greater outcomes for the readability and ease of use. future • Accessibility and inclusion integrated into Council’s project management • Commence DA process for upgrade to methodology and templates. Stanton Library to include an accessible entrance from James Place. • Children’s services support 78 children with high needs as well as programs • Review options for improving input into offered by Library services. the development and implementation of the DIAP (in the absence of a formalised groups such as an access committee or reference group). • Development of a new Disability Inclusion Action Plan. Oberon Council • Secure ongoing funding for the implementation of the existing DIAP • 2018-19 saw the commencement and the new plan that is developed. of a two-year program to upgrade playground equipment and facilities in the Oberon LGA. This program includes access for wheelchairs and prams, new play equipment, toilet facilities and shade. • A program was commenced late in 2018-19 to upgrade and increase Council is now mid-way through footpaths in and around Oberon LGA. implementing the four-year DIAP, and our This program will provide wider paths website contains a full progress report on for prams or walking frames. the disability information page, as well as in • Council commenced the development the Annual Report under statutory returns. of a master plan for The Common which Some 65 actions in the plan were worked will include facilities for disabled, such on in 2018/19 and 12 are now completed. as lower tables and BBQs. Many of the actions have become part of our ongoing efforts across all our services • Council has automatic doors at most to create more inclusive and liveable facilities. The Community Centre communities. doors will be upgraded as part of the development of the Community Hub. • The establishment of a new Inclusion Award as part of the Northern Beaches • Council continues to advocate for Local Business. a taxi service and improved bus services in and around Oberon. Oberon • Awards to recognise businesses Community Transport (LiveBetter) that accommodate the needs of all continue to provide transport services community members regardless of to elderly and disabled. ability. • Council installed two new disabled car • Improved access to Collaroy rock pool parking spots in Oberon. by repairing the ramps and providing accessible toilets. • The opening of accessible playground at Berry Reserve, , and , Balgowlah. • The Council website achieving Orange City Council AA rating under the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines. Orange City Council adopted the Orange, • Online forms are in a range of formats Blayney and Cabonne Disability Inclusion and meet standards for visual content Action Plan 2017-2021. The plan identified

104 actions to build on work currently Mayoral Civic Receptions. undertaken by Council to improve access and inclusion for people with varying levels • Meetings were held with Orange of ability through: Business Chamber, Central NSW

Business HQ, NSW Business Chamber, N • An ongoing dialogue with people with Central West RDA to raise awareness of disability the importance of people with disability. • Improved access to public services and • Recognition for businesses that are facilities active in supporting people with disability was included as part of the • Increased awareness and understanding NSW Small Business Week Program of access and inclusion issues across of events that is attended by local the local government areas businesses. The actions were developed in line with the • Orange Council Future City Project NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014 four focus covers the redevelopment of the areas and Council is pleased to report the Orange CBD and includes how it will following achievements across the 2018- be accessed and utilised in the future 2019 financial year. by all. Community members, visitors and the local business sector have been Building positive attitudes and included in various public consultation behaviours phases and feedback recorded by Council. Access for all is integral to this • Positive images of people with disability project. All development involving the in general promotional material have issue of a Construction Certificate must been included in recent publications, provide compliant access to and within an example being the Community buildings. Council ensures all Council- Strategic Plan. This has also been a issued Construction Certificates have requirement when engaging external compliant access provided. photographers. • Orange Aquatic Centre has received • Inclusive language is promoted across funding for a portable pool side hoist all divisions of Council. Managers have and base plates. This hoist will be inclusive reporting requirements in purchased and installed before end delegations. of 2018. This hoist will ensure that all • Upgraded Council website uses people with a mobility disability are inclusive language and includes positive able to access either the 25m or the images of people with disability. toddlers pool for recreational or therapy purposes. • Council has partnered with a number of organisations to provide events • Orange360 tourism organisation now and projects that raise awareness of finalised and in place. A Destination and promote inclusion. These include Management Plan covering the LGAs annual Disability Expo; celebrations of Blayney, Cabonne and Orange for International Day of People with Councils to be developed. The DMP will Disability; Community Garden for include improvement and assessment of people with disability; Orange Men’s tourism infrastructure. Council facilities Shed and Women’s Shed in partnership now accessible are Orange Visitor with a disability organisation; Information Centre, Orange Regional Employment Expo. Museum, Orange Regional Gallery, Orange Regional Gallery, Orange Creating liveable communities Theatre, Orange Function Centre and sporting grounds. • Opportunities for partnerships with • Changing Places amenity at Orange disability organisations were identified Aquatic Centre. for Council-run events, including Christmas Carols, New Resident • Council provides residential care for 11 Welcome Luncheon, , adults with intellectual disability. Australian Citizenship Ceremonies and • Council provides after school and

105 vacation care for young people with • An upgraded Orange City Council disability. website meets Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0 • Council provides community services of the World Wide Web Consortium for people with disability – Meals on (W3C) working toward Level A and AA. Wheels, social activities including transport. • Council provide a Disability Directory for the region. Supporting access to meaningful employment • Council provide a Community Development office to support • Human Resources Induction includes partnerships and community programs disability inclusion and awareness. for people with disability. • E-learning module for ongoing training Parkes Shire Council for front line staff in development. • The Learning and Development policy Building positive attitudes and was reviewed in the period and includes behaviours access to training for all staff. Council also has a Learning and Development • Parkes Shire Council Access Committee Officer who can provide career was re-established in 2017/18 and development advice and support where continues to function. Council funds required. the administration of Interagency and ensures a representative of Council is in • Council has reviewed the recruitment attendance at meetings. process and has changed the recruitment application forms to include Creating liveable communities specific optional questions around identification and whether they require • Council strives to make all community reasonable adjustments to participate in events and facilities as inclusive the recruitment process. as resources currently permit. It is • Council provided employment and estimated over 62% of its events volunteer opportunities for people with provide accessibility options for disability throughout the organisation. wheelchair attendees. New wheelchair- accessible amenities have been • Council provided support for access constructed in Lions Park during for people with disability at the Orange the year and tourist maps that Employment Expo. Council provide in places such as the Destination Guide and Town Map signs Improving access to services through include information on accessible better systems and processes parking and toilet facilities.

• Conditions of hirer/user agreement • 2018/19 saw the completion of the of events on Council-owned and/ shared footpath in Hooley Street with or controlled land/buildings includes new fencing and the planting of mature controls for improvement to access trees along Keast Park. This project events. Major events, such as Food and completed the network linkage with Wine Night Markets - are improving to Southern Cross Retirement Village meet the needs of all participants and and west of the town centre to the implementing change where possible. CBD. Further shared footpaths were constructed in Bushman, Alexandra • An inclusive approach to engagement and Wentworth Streets in Parkes and has been an increasing focus for Whitton Park Road Peak Hill. All aim to Council. An example of this has been assist mobility for residents. the development of the current Community Strategic Plan. • The Parkes Little Theatre was refurbished to improve accessibility to • Council provides an Orange Regional the facility. Disability Services Director and Mobility Map. • Accessibility and inclusion were

106 supported at the Parkes Elvis Festival future with designated accessible “drop off zones” and viewing areas at the Main • The Parkes Library is currently being Stage in Cooke Park to allow for good upgraded. The building will be visibility for disabled festival goers. accessible on completion. O Supporting access to meaningful • A new Multipurpose Centre is currently employment being constructed in Cooke Park. On completion, this building will • Council facilitates work experience be accessible for everyone in the opportunities for disabled people in community. areas such as Family Day Care, the library and events. Council recruited a disabled person to a role in 2017 and has continued to actively support this person in the role and progress to a more senior position. Council is currently developing its policies/ Parramatta Council procedures to be in line with the (City of Parramatta) Australian Network on Disability Guidelines. In keeping with Council’s Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP), the City of Parramatta Improving access to services through Council has made significant progress better systems and processes increasing disability access and inclusion within its LGA this financial year. Moving • Parkes Shire Council Website is WCAG into the second half of the DIAP’s four- 2.0 Level A compliant. Its use of year term, Council aims to embed disability fonts and colour in documents and access and inclusion as business as usual publications are considered to be in across our organisation. This means that our “easy read” format. A CMS upgrade and services, spaces and information will work redesign of the Visit Parkes Website to for everyone living, working and visiting the these standards was also undertaken in LGA – including people with disability. We March 2018. understand the work in favour of inclusion is Determining how to meet the needs vital to the success of Sydney’s Central City. of people with disability Here are some highlights of the progress made against the DIAP’s four key focus • Council attends quarterly interagency areas in the 2018-2019 financial year: meetings where people with disabilities and disability advocates have the Building positive attitudes and opportunity to provide Council with behaviours both formal and informal feedback, and also have input into Council’s programs, • Over 180 Council staff, managers and initiatives and events. Six meetings were Councillors have attended Disability attended by Council representatives Awareness Training delivered by during the reporting period. people with disability. Since attending the training, staff have been taking Challenges and successes in steps to increase inclusion and reduce delivering on the DIAP access barriers in their areas of work. For example, staff at the Parramatta • In 2018/2019, Council had the most Customer Contact Centre organised success in delivering projects in the signage to let people know of the Liveable Communities Focus Area, availability of communication aids such providing people with disability and as a portable hearing device and the their families and supporters greater National Relay Service. access to community places, buildings and events. • Access Guidelines for Small Business are available on the City of Parramatta’s Planning greater outcomes for the website and have been distributed to

107 over 160 small businesses across the • Activities offered in the City of LGA. These Guidelines highlight the Parramatta’s School Holiday Program advantages for businesses that are are increasingly being delivered by accessible to people with disability. facilitators who are trained to deliver activities that respond to children Creating liveable communities with a range of needs. As a result, participation by children with disability Physical spaces is rising and children with a range of abilities are sharing experiences and • In February 2019, the Lord Mayor fun. opened Parramatta’s first fully inclusive playground at Ollie Webb Reserve. Supporting access to meaningful Designed and delivered in consultation employment with people with disability and a range of local community organisations, • The City Of Parramatta’s Disability the playground features playground Employment Strategy is now in place. equipment that can be used by people The Strategy guides actions aimed at of all abilities as well as water play, increasing the recruitment and retention accessible toilets and adult change of employees with disability. As a result facilities. With the addition of extra of related advocacy, our Church Street accessible parking for cars and larger office building has been upgraded to vehicles, the playground provides a provide accessible lifts, more accessible truly inclusive space where children and toilets and a new accessible kitchen. adults of all abilities can be together, play and have fun! Improving access to services through improved systems and processes Events • Council has focused strongly on • Major Events held in the City of adjusting its systems to increase Parramatta LGA have become accessibility and inclusion of people increasingly accessible thanks to an with disability. For instance, Council Access Audit carried out this year. meetings are webcast and held in The audit resulted in a Major Events accessible venues with hearing loops Checklist, which is now being used to available as mandated by internal ensure major events like New Year’s Eve policies. The City of Parramatta’s and Australia Day celebrations can be Intranet site now includes a Disability enjoyed by people of all abilities. Our Inclusion page – making resources that 2018 New Year’s Eve event included support inclusive communication and accessible viewing platforms, bookable recruitment and increase disability accessible parking and maps of awareness available to all staff. Key accessible paths of travel for the event marketing and communications staff space. received training in creating accessible documents this year and are now • Parramatta’s Riverside Theatre supporting the creation of accessible continues to deliver a range of documents more broadly across the responses to increase accessibility organisation. including braille signage on the doors, relaxed performances, audio- description, open captioning and Auslan interpreters.

Information Penrith City Council • The Parramatta Pulse Newsletter and the Libraries’ Calendar of Events are Access initiatives undertaken this past year now being produced as accessible have included upgrading the hearing loops PDFs. at Penrith and St Marys Libraries, increasing accessible seating provision at the Joan Services and improving access to the Cook Park

108 playground in St Marys. It is a priority to: Council also continues to support • Facilitate accessible and adaptable organisations working in the aged and housing in future housing and disability sector through the regular Penrith development strategies. P Community Care Forum. This has been particularly important as the sector adapts • Review accessibility elements within to changes related to the implementation of Council’s Development Control Plan. National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). • Implement the adopted programme The Nepean Jobs For All project concluded for the roll out bus shelters that in September 2018 with a small business are compliant with the Disability incubator course, attended by 11 people with Discrimination Act. disability. Information about this project • Ensure the adopted PATHS strategy is and resources to support the employment implemented (subject to funding). of people with disability are available on Council’s website. • FInalise and implement the Pedestrian Accessibility Mobility Plan (PAMP) (subject The two-day Nepean Disability Expo held to RMS funding). in September 2018 provided a fantastic opportunity for local people with disability • Improve accessibility to the river at Tench to find out about the latest products, Reserve. services, technology, aids and equipment. It also provided an opportunity for product • Identify opportunities in Council’s Sport, and service providers to connect with each Recreation, Open Space and Play strategy other; and more importantly, to connect for provision of access and participation with people with disability, their families that is inclusive and accessible. and carers. International Day of People with • Accessible infrastructure improvements are Disability, celebrated in December, also incorporated into asset management plans. provided opportunities for service providers to gather alongside people with disability, Improving access to services through their families and carers at the Council-led better systems and processes event in The Mondo civic space. It is a priority to: Additionally, within the Annual Report, a table presents a summary of the focus areas, • Ensure that the community is aware of the priority actions and progress on them Council’s Access Committee. in 2018-29, as well as the Delivery Program • Review the accessibility of Council’s Strategy and Activities that Council will front counter. deliver between 2017 and 2021. • Improve the accessibility of Council’s (Note deadlines, progress or current status website. is not captured in the DIAP) • Provide training about accessible Building positive attitudes and documents and access to information behaviour across relevant Council services.

It is a priority to: Supporting access to meaningful employment • Promote diversity and inclusion through media stories and positive Council It is a priority to: imagery. • Undertake projects that support local • Develop and implement creative business to increase employment of projects that are inclusive of people people with disabilities. with disability. • Council’s “Equal Employment • Provide training to staff in quality Opportunity” (EEO) management plan service and responding to individual includes an objective to increase the customer needs. number of people employed by Council with disability. Creating liveable communities

109 Port Macquarie – Hasting We established an Independent Citizens Car Parking Panel, which considered Council traffic and parking in the town centre. A number of actions have been delivered as part of the Disability Inclusion Action Plan, • The Panel report made some of which include: recommendations on the availability and location of disability parking in Nelson Bay and access to public • Hosting two Autism and Emergency transport options. Service Workshops. Council successfully applied for grant • Co-ordination of the Access Committee funding to improve inclusion and Meetings. The committee undertook accessibility through the following projects: a review of the ‘Charlie Uptin Walk’ accessible viewing platform. • Safety fencing and soft-fall rubber at • Delivery of a Prevention of Elder Abuse Bernie Thompson playground, Shoal presentation with the NSW Trustee Bay. and Guardian, Seniors Rights Services, • Accessible amenities building at Lionel NSW Fair Trading and Community Legal Morten Oval, Karuah. Centre. • Accessible toilets at Mallabula Tennis • Providing assistance to the Long Club, Tennis Club, Flat Community Centre with a grant Raymond Terrace Athletics Club and application for an accessible (disability) Port Stephens Netball Club. toilet. • Shared pathway through Boomerang • Developing an app for accessible Park. (disabled) car parking spaces. • New bus boarding ramps and accessible bus shelters. • Accessible amenities, all abilities playground, accessible lookout and pathways at Birubi Point Aboriginal Port Stephens Council Place. Council has undertaken the following Creating liveable communities community and recreation projects to improve accessibility and inclusiveness: • During NSW Seniors Week 2018, Council hosted two sessions delivered • Accessible amenities and all abilities by Cochlear Implant Australia to provide playground at Caswell Reserve. information and awareness of hearing • Extended accessible parking area loss. Council held an Accessible Beach at Market Street, Fingal Bay new Day at Fingal Beach on 18 November playground for a range of abilities at 2018 to launch its new Mobi-Mat. Bernie Thompson Reserve, Shoal Bay. • Davinci chair and the Mobi-Chair • Accessible amenities at Bob Cairns Floating Wheelchair. We partnered Reserve, Salamander Bay. with Ability Links, Accessible Beaches Australia and Surf Life Saving NSW • Accessible picnic facility at Little Beach, to make beaches in the area more Nelson Bay. accessible. • Acessible fishing platform and upgrade of • Council continued to provide the decking at Little Beach wharf (disability inclusive event tent throughout 2018 access for swimming), Nelson Bay. to 2019. Through this, it made Australia • Developing a parks performance matrix Day events, NAIDOC Week Family Fun to assess accessibility, asset provisions Day and the Smith Family’s Garden and maintenance and condition. Party more inclusive for the community.

110 • Improving access to services through Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional better systems and processes. Council Improving access to services through better systems and processes • Council continues to be committed to P consulting with people with disability • Council has have completed the on a variety of issues through its Access action in the DIAP to review and audit Committee and interagency groups. Council managed outdoor spaces and buildings to determine areas where • An Accessible Event Checklist was work is required. All works have been created and added to the Event Guide scheduled in Council’s Strategic Asset that is provided to event organisers. Management Plan. • Disability Awareness and Inclusive • In March 2019, an accessibility audit Practice was added to the compulsory was carried out on Council’s website online training for all staff. to ensure that information is accessible • The region’s first adult change table and site provides an inclusive user was installed at the Queanbeyan experience. Council is currently Aquatic Centre, enabling people with implementing the recommendations disability to participate in aquatic of the audit and will continue to make activities. The installation of the height- improvements to the accessibility of its adjustable adult change table will website. complement the existing pool hoist and • Council continues to provide its Blue amphibious wheelchair in the wet play Dot wheel-in wheel-out garbage bin area. service for people with a disability living at home. Council also continued to provide programs for children with additional needs at Outside School Hours Care in Raymond Terrace and Medowie, Family Day Care and the Randwick City Council Mobile Preschool. Supporting access to meaningful Building positive attitudes and employment behaviours

• Council continued to provide Council aims to build community awareness employment opportunities for people of the rights and abilities of people with who have a disability, as outlined in disabilities, and to support the development its Equal Employment Opportunities of attitudes and behaviours towards people activities. It is currently in the process with disabilities. of supporting access to Council volunteering opportunities for people Outcomes: with a disability. • Partnered with City of Sydney and Building positive attitudes and Waverley Councils to hold a Regional behaviours Disability Service Expo. • Coordinated the Advance Care • Council supported the International Planning, Safe Talk Suicide Prevention Day of People with a Disability on 3 Training Seminar, and the Lower back December 2018 with Sailability at the pain information sessions. Grahamstown Aquatic Reserve. • Provided two Disability Awareness training sessions for staff. • Issued 150 infringement notices to persons parking illegally in designated access parking spaces. • Conducted a photo shoot of people

111 with disabilities. These photos are relevant Building Code of Australia now available for use in Council’s (BCA) and Australian Standard access. publications as part of its ongoing goal to create and use images that • Installed an all-access beach mat reflect the diversity of the community, at Malabar Beach. This 60m long, including people with disabilities. speciallydesigned mat, is installed over the sand providing easier access for • Promoted extensively the newly wheelchair users to reach the water’s installed all-access beach mat at edge. Malabar beach through local media and Council’s Scene Magazine, resulting • Provided accessible community in a front page story in the Southern transport to Council events such as Courier. White Ribbon Walk and Eco Living Expo. Council also provides at its events • Convened six Access Advisory meetings accessible entry and exit paths for with attendance averaging 18 persons people using wheelchairs, preferred per meeting, including Councillors, staff, wheelchair seating allocation and and guest speakers. accessible toilets. Creating liveable communities • Installed ‘No Parking’ zones in preference to ‘No Stopping’ zones to Council aims to increase participation allow for persons to drop off and pickup of people with a disability in all aspects persons – which can be helpful for of community life, through targeted persons with limited mobility. approaches to address barriers in housing, • Constructed 5.81km of new concrete learning, transport, health and wellbeing. footpaths, renewed 1.9km of footpaths Outcomes: and constructed 36 new kerb ramps, all designed to the relevant BCA and • Provided 15 designated accessible Standards access requirements. parking spaces for residents with mobility limitations, following an • Provided financial support through assessment of their needs. Information Council’s grants programs and on applying for a designated accessible workshops to assist persons to navigate parking space is available on Council’s the NDIS, and a community dance to website. celebrate International Day of People with a Disability. • Held two National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) information sessions in Supporting access to meaningful partnership with St Paul’s Society NDIS employment Area Coordinators to learn more about their role and how they can help people Council aims to support and improve with disability and their carers, in opportunities for people with a disability understanding and accessing the NDIS. to gain meaningful employment, which will enable them to exercise choice and control • Held two Safe TALK – Suicide over their own lives as a result of financial Prevention Awareness Training security. Seminars in partnership with Lifeline providing suicide prevention training for Outcomes: carers of someone with a mental illness. • Reviewed and amended Council’s • Convened and resourced four Eastern employment policies and practices Sydney Aged and Disability Services to minimise barriers and improve Interagency meetings involving: opportunities for a diverse workforce, Community service providers, State and including persons with a disability. Federal Government officers, and Local Government officers – where regional • Advertised all major procurement issues are raised and opportunities for opportunities in the Sydney Morning joint projects are developed. Herald, the tendering portal, and also on our website to enable opportunities for • Designed and built new and upgraded relevant social enterprises to tender. buildings in accordance with the

112 • Provided two Disability Awareness Richmond Valley Council Training sessions for staff. • Held a regional Disability Information Council’s recruitment processes now include

Expo (with one of the themes being a variety of equal employment opportunity P Employment) in partnership with the questions in its initial job application form, City of Sydney and Waverley Council’s which include: requirements. • Do you identify as male / female / • Rescheduled the promotion of the other? financial benefit of hiring people with • Do you identify as an Aboriginal or disabilities to the 2019-20 financial year Torres Strait Islander? to take advantage of the development of an improved communication strategy • Are there cultural requirements that with local businesses. Council may need to be aware of? Please provide brief details. Improving access to services through better systems and processes • Are you from a non-English speaking background? If yes, what is the primary Council aims to ensure that people with language spoken at home? a disability are able to make informed • Do you have a disability? choices about available services provided by government agencies. Some of the Council has applied for five Elsa Dixon challenges stem from systems and student spaces this financial year to further processes that do not support accessibility encourage school aged Aboriginal and and inclusion and accessible options for Torres Strait Islander students to consider people with a disability to choose when gaining work experience at Council. The communicating, accessing information or roles will vary between administrative and providing input or feedback. field staff. Outcomes: Council also works with ON-Q which is a not-for-profit organisation, providing • Conducted extensive communications Disability Employment Support to enable with the Light Rail contractor to ensure people to realise their full potential through effective links between the light rail meaningful employment. and Council infrastructure (e.g. kerbs and footpaths), using universal design Richmond Valley Council has had a strong principles. year of actions against the Disability Inclusion Action Plan 2017-2021. • Made ongoing improvements to the accessibly of website content by: Highlights have included: ensuring the use of plain English; integrating a greater use of online • Accessible elements included in forms; reviewing the visibility of web all playground upgrades, including pages to ensure plain English is used; delivery of significant works such as the and making changes to the homepage Woodburn Riverside and Stan Payne to make it easier to navigate the Oval playgrounds. website. • Analysis of key events to improve • Rescheduled the production of an accessibility. access map to the 2019-20 financial • Continuous accessible paths of travel year. This is to ensure that the newly included in new master planning constructed access facilities are exercises and continue to increase in included in the access map, once the regular maintenance of current paths. extensive roadwork and the light rail project are finalised. • Further improvements to Council’s website to standardise access. • Promoted local accessible facilities, when opened, for example the • New playground equipment and installation of the new all-access beach increased pathway access have proven mat at Malabar Beach. particularly popular with community

113 members. Council looks forward to City of Ryde Council building on these measures across our services, operation and infrastructure in This is the second year of implementing the the coming year. DIAP with a number of key initiatives helping to support and encourage people with disability in our community. • In partnership with Meadowbank TAFE, Council held an all-inclusive Youth Skills and Jobs Expo, which saw over 200 Rous County Council people attend and opportunities to apply for real jobs on the day. DIAP in Annual Report is a table that outlines basic plan. No progress update is • For prospective employers, presenters provided. on the day highlighted the benefits of employing inclusively and the strengths Activities include: of having a diverse workforce. • Review staff induction process to • Council continued to support include access awareness. community transport organisations through its community grants and • Staff training in access awareness. promoted volunteering opportunities • Promote Council’s DIAP in local through our volunteer referral process. community. • Council is continuing to work with inter- • Promote Council’s services and events agencies and the Ability Links program that are inclusive/accessible. to find participation pathways for people with disability. Social Inclusion • Establish a project team to assess Week showcased a series of events, accessibility reports relating to including the UR Included celebration, Council sites, determine priorities and Mad Pride event and Social Inclusion resourcing for years two to four. Story-time. • Install signs as a result of signage audit. • Internally the City of Ryde hosted Disability Confidence Training for • Administration Centre – Levels 2 and 4 Council staff to help them communicate – foyer upgrade. more effectively with customers, • Inclusion of accessibility requirements community members and colleagues in Recruitment Procedure and related who have a disability. documents. • The City of Ryde, Hunter’s Hill Council • Review Feedback Policy, Procedure and and united to other related documents. introduce an Inclusion Award in the Northern Districts Local Business • Review website to ensure WCAG 2.0 AA Awards that recognises achievements compliance. in embracing inclusion. The Inclusion Award celebrates local businesses that welcome people of all backgrounds and abilities, and can include everything from the attitudes and practices of staff, to how people physically access the business. The 2018 winner was Buffalo Locksmiths & Security. • Council is currently negotiating with Sport NSW to offer a Disability Sport Day within the City of Ryde, and has updated its Children’s Play Implementation Plan to incorporate design principles to identify priority upgrades and make playgrounds more inclusive. Council will also undertake an 114 audit of all park amenities and facilities providers, not-for-profits, businesses and in 2019/20 which will include a review local creatives to address some of the of disability access. concerns raised during its community consultation process. ouncil will also be Challenges developing a Reconciliation Action Plan for Q Home modifications : the city, completing its Halls and Facilities Strategy and completing its Social and Cultural Infrastructure Framework. • Council Home Modification and Maintenance Service (HMMS) relies on Planning greater outcomes for the assessments by occupational therapists future (OTs) to implement home modifications for eligible residents in the local area. Council has planned the following projects However, for several years a shortage of OTs planned for 2019/20: in local public health services has resulted • Centres and Neighbourhood program in a low referral rate for home modifications for aged and other residents requiring • Ryde Heritage Information Centre assistance in the community. Community and Cultural program To improve support for residents in the • Art Project community, Council took action to improve the level of service offered by HMMS. During • Community Ambassador Program the year, through close liaison with State • Community Social Wellbeing Government health services and other OT Implementation Plan fund providers in the area and engaging private OTs, Council has increased the number of • Cultural Plan implementation fund home modifications completed. • North Ryde School of the Arts – facility Council has also actively promoted this upgrade service in the community and expanded the range of services available to eligible • Ryde Hunters Hill Symphony Orchestra clients, which created a 50 percent increase • Ryde Youth Theatre Group in referrals to the service and a greater awareness of the range of services Council • Volunteering webpages provides. • Youth Entrepreneur program Land use The year ahead planning program • Heritage Grants Scheme Library City of Ryde is a friendly, supportive program community with a rich history and diverse background. • Electronic library books The city has a rich range of social networks, community groups and partnerships that help residents and businesses to participate in creative, diverse, voluntary and philanthropic activities that connect neighbourhoods and improve the quality of life for people of all ages, abilities, health and cultures. As the city grows, Council will continue leading the events and activities that support people in the community, help bring people together, strengthen people’s connections with their community and with each other, and celebrate the city’s multicultural diversity. In 2019/20, the Council will be working in partnership with community service

115 Shellharbour City Council your NDIS Plan, and how the law can help with NDIS. Building positive attitudes and Shoalhaven City Council behaviours The DIAP was prepared in accordance with • One of the key ways Council promotes the NSW Disability Inclusion Act (2014). positive community attitudes and behaviours towards people with It is a legal requirement for Council, and was disability is through the support of prepared in consultation with community International Day of People with members living with disability, their Disability. In support of this event, supporters and service providers. Council coordinated the production and The DIAP demonstrates Council’s distribution of the ‘Calendar of Events’. commitment to building an accessible The calendar covered the period of and inclusive community to ensure that 12 November to 7 December 2018 people with disability enjoy the right to live and featured 17 events hosted by nine their lives as they choose and enjoy the organisations. Several hundred people opportunities and benefits of living and attended the range of events on offer. working in the Shoalhaven. Creating liveable communities Aligned with the NSW Disability Inclusion Plan, the plan organises actions into the • Improving access to beaches and following areas of focus that people with waterways is one of the top five ideas disability said were priority areas. in the Plan. This year, Council provided further access improvements at These focus areas are: Shellharbour North Beach by providing • Developing positive community mobi-matting and an additional, fully attitudes towards disability. immersive, beach wheelchair. These facilities build on the previous pathway • Creating liveable communities. improvements and mean wheelchair users can fully access the water and • Improving access to mainstream benefit from the full beach experience. services through improved systems and This is the first beach in Shellharbour to processes. be fully accessible and has been very • Increasing access to meaningful well received by all beach users. employment. Supporting access to meaningful Out of the 52 actions outlined in the DIAP, employment SCC currently have 18 completed actions (35%). 20 actions have commenced (38%), • To ensure community members with however they require further staff resourcing disability have access to all of Council’s or allocation of funds to be completed. 14 information, including information actions (27%) require staff resourcing and/or about job opportunities, Council’s funds before works can be commenced. website has been upgraded to comply with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.0. Improving access to services through better systems and processes

• Council has promoted access to services via the provision of a series of National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) information sessions. These monthly sessions have been held at locations across the City to maximise accessibility and have covered topics such as Navigating NDIS, Implementing

116 Singleton Council • Council has also supported Singleton Track and Field to address accessibility elements at Alroy Oval. The priority areas of the Singleton Council

Accessibility Audit (2017) and Disability Council has created a new website which R Inclusion Action Plan (2017-2021) continue enhances the accessibility of Council to be implemented across the organisation. information to both staff and residents. These plans have been developed in Our website aims to meet the principles collaboration with the Disability Advisory and standards outlined in the Web Content Committee and the community to ensure Accessibility Guidelines 2.0 and includes greater participation for people with a content that is readable and understandable disability in all aspects of life in Singleton. Features include: Priority areas for accessibility to Council properties were completed in partnership • Use of plain English. with Ability Links including the Civic Centre to • Allowing users to change the text improve the visibility on the entrance doors, size and navigate pages using their improvements to identified surfaces and keyboard. automatic access doors to the Youth Venue. • Photo captions. A number of priority access issues have been addressed in the Singleton CBD and • Page design and page structure with streetscapes including: assistant technologies in mind, making it easier for users to see and interact • A new pedestrian refuge on John with content. Street. Council has coordinated a range of • A new footpath link from Wattle Ponds accessible events for the Singleton Road to gym equipment on Bridgman community to encourage as many people Road. as possible to participate fully in the life of • The renewal of the existing footpath on Singleton. Allan Bull Reserve. An accessible events checklist was created • Installation of solar lighting at for all community events which included seventeen bus shelters in the Singleton making provisions for accessible toilets, residential area. signage, seating, public transport, parking and assistance dogs. • In addition, kerb and footpath works including pram ramps have been Accessible events held during 2018/2019 installed in various locations to increase included Christmas on John Street on accessibility. 7 December, Twilight on 25 January, Emergency Services Day on 16 March, • Disability parking has been upgraded at Singleton Festival and Firelight from 27 April all Council facilities to meet Australian to 11 May. Standards. Singleton Council have partnered with • Disability toilets were completed at the Ability Links to include a number of Heights Sports Centre. innovative elements which improve inclusivity at its events and facilities. • The new Rural Fire Service sheds now Elements of Including You Tent including the have designated disabled parking. Teepee with soft toys, weighted pillows and • The Riverside Park development has fidgets are a resource available at the library a completed footpath and cycleway to encourage accessibility. connection. The noise cancelling headphones and vision • The completion of the all-abilities kits are available for use at the Library, playgrounds at Rose Point Park the Visitor Centre, community events and and Riverside Park are significant Council facilities. achievements in providing accessible Singleton Public Library provides resources facilities for the community and have to assist people with vision or hearing been featured in state awards. impairment as well as those residents with

117 reduced mobility. their families/carer. In 2018/2019 the library had 1953 large print Feedback included in planning and delivery books and 779 audio books available for e.g. SCFMPP loan. Access to 1,392 electronic audio books, and 5,000 electronic magazine titles (and Challenges and successes in their back issues) was also offered. delivering on the DIAP

Additionally, the Home Library Service Challenges: provided regular home deliveries to • Staff capacity. residents with reduced mobility, including 668 individual and 102 institutional visits • Keeping up with changing community throughout the year, resulting in a combined expectations and aspirations. total of 10,279 loans delivered. • Cost of infrastructure maintenance and upgrades. Successes: • Acknowledging that many of Council’s existing processes have already got Snowy Monaro Regional Council accessibility/inclusion outcomes. • Working with the Communications Building positive attitudes and team. behaviours • Increased capacity of individual staff and teams – seeing new knowledge and • Successful International Day of People skills being put into practice. with Disability event in including Celebrate Ability Awards. Planning greater outcomes for the future Creating liveable communities • 2020 financial year actions that were • Inclusion of accessible features in identified for implementation were SCFMPP projects and asset upgrades. recommended to Council in September Supporting access to meaningful 2019. employment

• Creation of Inclusive Employment category in 2019 Snowy Monaro Business Awards. Snowy Valleys Council Improving access to services through better systems and processes • Disability inclusion training modules have been sourced and Human • Creation of additional online resources Resources are working to include in for staff to increase awareness and induction process. accessibility. • Council continues to include people • Review of web content for WCAG with disability when constructing compliance. or developing assets. This includes Determining how to meet the needs the shared cycle-ways and building of people with disability renovations undertaken. This is an ongoing action item. • Continued engagement with • Council is taking a leadership role community groups and networks which in removing barriers for people with include people with disability and disability and has a relationship with service providers. Valmar Support Services and other • Consultation with service recipients and disability organisations.

118 • Activities to be held for International Services. People with disabilities Day of People with Disability are employed in Council offices. currently being planned. • Council has NDIS approval and provides

• Council has a functioning Disability NDIS services through Community S Inclusion and Access Reference Group Transport and our Multi Service Outlet. (DIARG). • Opportunities for people with • Council’s website now links with disabilities to volunteer in Council are IDEAS which has a national database being provided through Valmar Support of disability networks and service Services Project. Council is working providers. to ensure people with disabilities and carers are included in the volunteer • The event risk management plan framework documents. To be questions access for people with completed and adopted by June 2020. disability and there are support resources available to use to identify • MOU arrangement with Valmar Support facilities and access for people with a Services are underway for recycling. disability. Improving access to services through • Areas that have been identified as better systems and processes restrictive to movement are improved or targeted for repair and regular • Website is compliant with WCAG 2.0 inspections undertaken. guidelines. • The design and installation of new • DIARG have been providing feedback signage gives consideration to the on projects they are aware of. Through requirements of AS1428. the Community Welfare Committee, • Discussions are currently underway with disability issues with access and Intereach, who has funding to provide design of existing structures have been disability access audits of businesses in forwarded to the DIARG for action. the region. • SVC website is adaptive for hearing • Community Transport has wheelchair- impaired and some sight impairments accessible vehicles. Community and is progressing. Transport bus is available for hire to • The NSW Carers Charter is promoted charitable organisations. through the Multi Service Outlet • Council continues to apply for funding programs and will be highlighted to upgrade playgrounds and recreation during International Day of People with areas for disability access. Rosewood Disability. playground has been refurbished • To assist Customer Service staff in and a ramp is being installed at the responding to queries regarding Pioneer Women’s Hut and the Regional services for people with disabilities, Transaction Centre. A walking track at the Customer Service Coordinator is Adelong has been scoped and surfaced aware of internal services and aware to allow disability access for people that IDEAS organisation has links to all with walkers and wheelchairs. services. Supporting access to meaningful • A register of people interested in employment receiving Council information in alternative formats has been developed • SVC EEO policies refer to people with a and updated. disability, as well as it being covered in the LG Award. • Portable counter hearing loop installed in front counter RHB. • Providing accessible and flexible office and Libraries are now being workplaces is being considered in considered for portable hearing loops upgrades to Council office buildings. upon availability of funding. • Council libraries have work placement • DIARG is prioritising actions of the participants through Valmar Support DIAP and evaluating progress.

119 Strathfield Municipal Council • Develop access plans for all community events to include physical access, parking and toilet arrangements • Inclusion in programs for people (ongoing). with disability and their carers was encouraged through participation in • Ensure that disability groups are the International Day for People with advised of up coming community Disability and Carers Week. events and any potential barriers to participation so that alternate • Council continued implementation arrangements can be made (ongoing). of its Community Access Plan, while preparing and consulting in the new • Provide activities for people with Access Plan. disability (photographing, cataloguing of planting of seedlings on Plan a Tree • Mobility Maps were prepared for day) (ongoing). Strathfield Town Centre and Homebush West Town Centres. • Update Council’s Mobility Maps to reflect current standards (ongoing). • Ensure that all Councilors and staff are aware of their responsibility as service • Regularly trim trees to maintain a providers under the NSW Disability vertical clearance of at least 2000mm Inclusion Act – Council has retained the above the footway for the benefit of services of an Access Specialist who will people who are deaf or blind. conduct quarterly training sessions as per Council’s training plan. • Ensure that all services and facilities provided for visitors to the libraries are • Ensure Council complies with the made equally available to everyone. timeline set for provision of fully accessible bus stops. Approximately • Provide up-to-date assistive technology 270 stops have now been audited and for physical use of computers and for compliance status established. online searches. • Audit of all Council’s premises and • Manage the Disability Parking Permit facilities to determine what works are Scheme in liaison with RMS. required to bring them into line with • Ensure outdoor dining policy enables Disability Standards (audit completed). the safe passage past the leased area • Provide awareness training for existing for people with disability. and new staff. Council has retained the • Ensure that issues which could give services of an Access Specialist who will rise to an Unjustifiable Hardship claim, conduct quarterly training sessions as resulting from the need to provide per Council’s training plan. accessible facilities, are resolved at the • Council is currently re-designing pre-DA stage. website to meet WCAG 2.0 guidelines. • Provide a continuous accessible path Project completion expected March of travel to and within all of Council’s 2020. premises (ongoing). • Identify MLAK-controlled toilet sites • Ensure that advisory and directional (completed). signage is displayed in accessible • Ensure that information provided to locations with unambiguous messages. the National Public Toilet Map indicates • Wherever possible, provide two adjacent which of Council’s public toilets fully unisex accessible toilets with one the comply with Australian Standards and mirror reverse of the other. Erect signage those for which assistance is required to indicate which cubicle provides for (completed). right hand transfer and which provides • Ensure that people with disabilities are for left hand transfer. included in any planning consultations • Ensure that facilities within parks and regarding proposed community plans gardens do not discriminate against (ongoing). visitors with a disability as far as possible.

120 • Ensure that all existing and new Supporting access to meaningful sporting facilities provide equivalent employment and dignified participation for people with disability. • A varied range of employment types and employees add diversity S to Council’s makeup. Meaningful employment opportunity is provided, giving a sense of purpose, belonging and value. Sutherland Shire Council • Children’s Services have continued to provide employment and volunteer Community Strategic Plan Strategy – work to support people with a disability. 2018/19 update • Through Council’s annual Community and Inclusion Award, run prior to Improve the design and accessibility International Day of Disability, Shire of spaces and places businesses are motivated to consider access and inclusion and a diverse • Council’s libraries and community workforce as good for business. The services are providing Auslan number of nominations is increasing interpreter services at their key events. annually. • Hearing loops are available at • Support for a Sutherland Shire Disability Sutherland Entertainment Centre. Transition Expo which provides a directory of local services and an • Accessible beaches program including employment expo for people with a a Mobi mat and wheelchair providing disability. access to Cronulla beach for people with a disability. Support and enable all in the community • A ‘planning accessible events’ checklist is included in Council’s events tool kit, • Customers can communicate with available on Council’s website to assist Council via the National Relay Service. event planners. The event application also includes reference to recognition of • Economic and Community the Companion Card. Development staff give advice and guidance regarding issues related • Considerations have been made for to access and inclusion. Role of the design of Fauna Place Playground Community workers specialising in by Children’s Services, to ensure Access and Inclusion is well informed to accessibility for all children regardless all staff. of ability. • Community service staff have been • Sport Services have updated the trained to provide support around website to prove an All Abilities page accessibility to new and upgrades to highlighting inclusive opportunities to infrastructure. play sport. • An inclusion guideline has been • Home library services deliver to any developed within our Children’s community member with disabilities Services to inform daily practices. who requests the service. Format Many children enrolled have and content is tailored to customer diagnosed disabilities and Council preferences and assistance is provided works collaboratively with families to to use technology to access content. support their needs. This link shares • Library purchases dyslexic-friendly information about inclusion: https:// formats and readers/audiobooks, hold www.sutherlandshire.nsw.gov.au/ regular sessions for school groups with Community/Childcare/Early-Education- disabilities and children’s programmes Centres#parentCommunication include content that portrays children • Libraries staff undertook a two-hour of all abilities e.g. books, song sheets.

121 Deaf Awareness training; the course Sydney Council covered the differences and diversity of Deaf/Hard of Hearing people and how (Council of the City of Sydney) to improve interactions with them. A number of staff have also completed A City for All: Inclusion (Disability) training in autism awareness, in order Action Plan 2017–2021 to be able to support participants in children’s programs with special needs. The A City for All: Disability (Inclusion) Opportunities will be fostered that help build Action Plan 2017–2021 enables the City to a sense of community meet its obligations to provide accessible facilities and services under the Disability • Action items from the Access Discrimination Act 1992 and the NSW Committee are investigated and Disability Inclusion Act 2014. The plan outcomes reported back to the includes actions to address barriers faced Committee in a timely manner. The by people with disability and builds on the Committee is resourced and its success of previous plans. recommendations are valued and actioned as required. In line with the NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014, a report detailing progress of the • Access committee collaborating with actions for 2018/19 has been prepared. This disability providers and the community report is at www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au to deliver International Day of People with a Disability events to acknowledge A copy will also be provided to the NSW and celebrate people with a disability. Minister of Family and Community Services and the Disability Council of NSW. The • Council’s Children’s Services staff progress report is overseen by the City’s continue to provide quality inclusive Inclusion (Disability) Advisory Panel, practices so that children’s needs which play a vital role in monitoring the are being met and responded implementation of the plan. to appropriately. Council works collaboratively with the Inclusion Key achievements for the 2018/19 Support program agency to embed year: inclusion strategies and practices, increase knowledge, skills and The City’s draft policy and guidelines for confidence of educators, all centres inclusive and accessible public spaces and have developed a Service Support Plan. events were placed on public exhibition. The policy and guidelines provide a framework • Council facilitated Disability Awareness to apply relevant Australian access Training for staff to explore the standards and best practice approaches concept of disability, its definitions consistently in the design, maintenance and and the myths and facts surrounding management of public domain spaces such it, as well as respectful language and as streets, footpaths, parks and open spaces, communication. and infrastructure including street furniture. • Funding is available through the The event guidelines outline how to ensure NDIS for specialised support for our events are inclusive and accessible. Children’s Services. Council continues to City staff continued to undertake specialist strengthen its connection with disability disability training to build their awareness services in the local area and investigate and confidence. Topics included mental ways it can respond proactively to the health awareness and mental health first aid, NDIS via the Disability Interagency. deaf awareness and dementia awareness. A range of inclusive programming was delivered to foster positive community attitudes toward people with disability. This included Auslan and English storytime at City libraries, and the Take Charge! mental health swimming program and Swim Champs program for children with disability at City aquatic and fitness centres.

122 • In line with the City’s support of the • Finalisation of the Tamworth CBD High 2018 Invictus Games a series of articles Pedestrian Activity Zone, reducing were published to encourage local the speed limit to 40 km/hr and the businesses to be more inclusive of construction/installation of various people with disability. pedestrian improvements such as kerb S blisters, concrete medians, line marking, • Information about the accessibility lighting and signage. of the City’s community centres and venues for hire is now available online. • Tactile markers were installed at the pedestrian crossing outside the City • The City delivered its first Changing Library. Places toilet facility at the Abraham Mott Community Hall. • Construction of six new disabled car parking spaces (on-street), with four of • The City trialled beacon technology for these in the Tamworth CBD and two in the first time at a public event to assist Kootingal. people who are blind or have low vision to better navigate event features and facilities. • All grant applications are now required to outline how their program/project will be disability inclusive. Temora Shire Council

Building positive attitudes and behaviours

• Deliver access and inclusion training to Tamworth Regional Council Council staff and community leaders (ongoing). • The Disability Action Working Group (DAWG) Terms of Reference were • Include access and inclusion criteria in revised in 2018-2019 and the revision Event Application Form and approval was adopted by Council. Regular process (ongoing). reports were presented to Council • Review access to public buildings and about DAWG Meetings. business (ongoing). • A Disability Expo was held on 20 • Review current provision of accessible September 2018 at the Tamworth toilets and change facilities across Regional Sports Dome. There were over public facilities and town centre areas 50 exhibitors and positive feedback (complete). from the public. • Regular ‘Disability Action Working Creating liveable communities Group’ meeting were held. • Instigate accommodation options for • A transport provider is a permanent disability and independent living in member of the Disability Action Temora Shire (ongoing). Working Group • Plan, develop and maintain facilities, • Council approved the development of parks and gardens that respond to the a Disability Transport Hub to provide needs of the community (ongoing). the high needs community with access to state of the art facilities otherwise • Review existing accessible car space unavailable in the CBD. A funding provision (completed). application was submitted for the • Provide mobility car park spaces that construction of a Regional Disability meet the needs of the community. Transport Hub in the Tamworth CBD. Council is awaiting the outcome of the • Ensure level of service for footpath application. provision is based on community service expectations (ongoing).

123 Support access to meaningful disabilities on Council’s website, in employment Council’s newsletter and the online Tenterfield in Touch newsletter when • Establish flexible work practices and where appropriate. to encourage an inclusive working • Annual walk occurred to small environment (completed). businesses within Tenterfield to build • Provide disability awareness training positive attitudes and include service to new and current staff as well as to people with disabilities even if they Councilors (ongoing). cannot negotiate sometimes deep steps into shops. Improve access to services through systems and processes • Parking plans are in place for within the central business district to enhance accessible parking. • Include images of people with disability in Council publications (ongoing). Creating liveable communities • Regularly promote health services (ongoing). Council undertook the following actions: • Extend the hours of operation for • Inclusive events: this is considered for community transport to include all events within the community. weekends and public holidays • Infrastructure projects: planning (completed). occurs to cater for people that may • Continue to maintain health and have disabilities to ensure that the community service levels to meet the community is more liveable. needs of clients (ongoing). • Facilities management: funding • Participate in advancing the agenda of proposals and grant applications the Interagency Network (ongoing). capture considerations for how to best create a liveable community for the • Host an annual carers afternoon tea Shire. (ongoing). • Sport and recreation access – planning • Regularly promote volunteering occurs in regard to access to sport opportunities (ongoing). and recreation opportunities and any ways that Council could do better or Tenterfield Shire Council have better approaches. This is then reflected in access planning. Council Building positive attitudes and is currently seeking a contractor to behaviours upgrade all toilets in our local Shirley Park in Tenterfield. Council undertook the following actions: • Council is also planning to build a • Regular meetings with the Disability new toilet block at the Memorial Hall Inclusion Access Advisory Committee. which will encompass all accessibility requirements in line with Australian • Access consultations and discussions. standards. This Memorial hall is also used as the evacuation centre therefore • Distribution of publications these changes are vital for creating an and resources and any funding accessible place. opportunities. Progress that has been made: • Raising public awareness by doing annual accessibility walk with the • The local cinema is a great example committee in local central business of inclusive events where people with district. disabilities are welcomed and also their carers. Progress that has been made: • All events at the local library are • The library promotes the services accessible by people with disabilities. available for people living with The library also has a public accessible

124 toilet which is commented positively employment opportunity principles and on numerous times with people with is monitored to avoid discrimination. disabilities as to the ease of use. • Flexible arrangements – While there are

• Planning for all events and festivals some positions that require sufficient T including Seniors Week and Youth physical ability to work safely and carry Week considers access needs to ensure out rescue operations involving team that the activities are inclusive of all. members and the public we have very few that limit wheelchair and those with • Partnerships with community similar physical disabilities applying. organisations and services have progressed and enhanced Progress that has been made: communication and sharing of information and available support. • Building upgrades to the local Council chambers and main administration • With State Government grant funding, building are including accessibility Council has constructed an archery requirements. This is also occurring at shelter area, upgraded the Liston Council’s works depot. This will provide community hall toilets, Shirley Park a greater opportunity to employ people amenities upgrade and new toilet block with disabilities and will provide easier enhancements planned for Urbenville, access for community members and Legume, Liston and Jennings villages people with disabilities. to enhance accessibility and create a more liveable community throughout • The Tenterfield Visitors Information the Shire. Centre also requires upgrading and planning proposed will enhance • More disability accessible parking accessibility for visitors, the community situated near the Shire’s medical and meeting attendees. practitioners with a longer length of parking time is also currently being Improving access to services through planned. It is also proposed for these to better systems and processes be covered parking areas. Council undertook the following actions: • Development proposals and planning are in line with Australian standards. • Website accessibility – consultation and planning has occurred on how to • Both the villages of Drake and make our website more accessible and Urbenville now have accessible information that we produce such as toilets to accommodate people with our local Tenterfield in Touch newsletter disabilities. Further accessible toilets more accessible such as larger font and are planned for Urbenville also. colours chosen. Feedback from the Jennings, another village in the Shire, community is reviewed continually to has accessible toilet facilities planned ensure our processes are adopting the and funded. best approaches possible. Supporting access to meaningful • Community transport – is provided employment within the Shire and information is shared between the community Actions we were undertaking: organisations on events happening and services available. • Recruitment practices – Tenterfield Shire Council has a meaningful number • The library offers computers and free of staff with identified disabilities on the access to the internet for all community payroll including audio visual dyslexia, users. The Library also provides a home autism and numeracy and literacy library service for the town area for issues. These have not prevented these those unable to visit the library because employees from gaining employment of illness or disability, including the and assistance. Several employees Shire’s aged care facilities - Millrace, are receiving training with a view Haddington and the hospital as well as to ultimately gain employment. All private homes. recruitment carried out by Council is completed in accordance with equal • The Tenterfield Shire Council library has

125 available for borrowing a wide selection upgrading to ensure safe and easy of large print books and Talking access. books for hearing and sight impaired community members. • Feedback has been received from the community in regard to uneven • Library members are also able to access footpaths, public toilet access and park online databases and the catalogue access in particular. through the Library pages on Council’s website. This includes online access Council has incorporated this into current from anywhere to the Tenterfield Star and future planning with the following: newspaper archives 1900-1955. • Service network planning and sharing • Surveys and feedback – feedback is of information between services as to support through Council’s Disability what support is provided. Inclusion Access Advisory Committee • Future planning in regard to any as to where Council could do better in events or festivals in partnership regard to information and processes. with community organisations and A number of information sharing responding to feedback. processes have been actioned such as regular meetings, emailing of • Tenterfield Shire Council has upgraded information and linking with services. paving in the central business area to ensure accessibility of people with a Progress that has been made: disability. • My Community Directory – new • Feedback and concerns raised by information system to be easily the community in regard to the accessible to all as to what services needs for people living with disability are in Tenterfield Shire. A new website in the Shire has been fed back to for Tenterfield Shire Council is in numerous Council departments for development also which will be more planning considerations. For example user friendly and easily accessible. parking planning, toilet upgrades and • Drinking bowls for companion animals accessibility enhancement planning. are always present at our local Tourism • This has been incorporated into current Information Centre in Tenterfield. and future planning by reporting back • Systems, information and processes to the various departments within are constantly reviewed to ensure Council for action. ease of access. Website planning and information sharing takes into account Challenges and successes in all members of our community to be delivering on the DIAP most inclusive for ease of access. Challenges: Determining how to meet the needs In regard to employment opportunities of people with disability Council has had many community-based assets within the Shire. • Council has received varied feedback on whether it is meeting the needs Council queries how many people with a of people with disability. There has disability actually apply for employment been feedback that some people with and reflects on what could help grow this a disability have found it difficult to opportunity for meaningful employment for access support and consequently are people with disabilities. moving from the area. Council has also had some feedback that, without the People with disability are provided with support provided, the care would fall on equal opportunity to apply for positions the shoulders of elderly family members however some Council buildings have no which would be a heavy burden. provision with people with a disability such as toilet facilities. There is disability access • Feedback from people with a disability: to the library however. Visitors Centre also paving in some areas of the town does not have disability accessible toilets. is bumpy and uneven and needs Things that need to be done to enhance

126 accessibility includes the planned upgrade support people with a disability and to of Council buildings including the chambers provide greater outcomes for recovery and depot to align with requirements and to support during these tough times. enhance access and to provide more success in delivering the DIAP. • The Shire is in a rural regional area and T has an ageing population. This at times More broadly, another challenge relates to comes with its own challenges in regard difficulty with access in regards to hiring to access to services and transport people with disabilities within Tenterfield’s local businesses. Some of the town’s small businesses have toilet facilities down a number of stairs and a lot of entrances into the shops are a big step up. Heritage considerations also apply The Hills Shire Council to many. Planning greater outcomes for the Building positive attitudes and future behaviours

To contribute to greater outcomes for • The Hills Focus community magazine people with disability in the future: contains information for people of all abilities and disability specific • Infrastructure remodelling and planning topics are communicated via Council’s to ensure accessibility is provided print, media and social media outlets so that the necessary facilities are (ongoing). provided. • Community engagement practices • Recovery planning for people with ensure opportunities for participation disabilities in regard to drought and by people with a disability (ongoing). fire recovery. The Shire has just gone through recent bushfires and ongoing Creating liveable communities drought. The recovery planning needs to capture any needs so that there are • Community facilities are inspected greater outcomes for people with a annually as part of the asset assessment disability also. strategy to determine what works are required over the four-year Capital A Youth Advisory Committee is starting Works Program to minimise physical in Tenterfield in 2020. This will provide a barriers re: access to Council locations wonderful opportunity to provide more and facilities by people with a disability information and contribution in regard (ongoing). to young people living with a disability and a forum for contribution and action • Disability access provided on an as to greater outcomes for young people ongoing basis for all new bus stops with a disability. This will also provide an endorsed by the Local Traffic opportunity for inclusive engagement and Committee and approved by Council championing of their best interests. (ongoing). Human Resources representatives are • Work continues on an ongoing basis now planning to be standing attendees to ensure accessible public transport at Council’s Disability Inclusion Advisory standards are complied with (ongoing). Committee so as to contribute to greater • Recreation strategy has been outcomes for people with a disability in completed and includes recognizing regard to supporting access to meaningful need to ensure that facilities reflect employment. inclusive and accessible practice Further information and comments (ongoing). • DDA requirements are satisfied in Additional information: keeping with the National Building Construction Code Standards for • Natural disaster considerations to best

127 new and modified Council buildings referrals and consultation (ongoing). (completed). Improving access to services through • Identify projects that can accommodate better systems and processes access upgrades to amenity buildings (ongoing). • Council’s communications and • Dural Library redesigned and marketing strategies are designed to refurbished with accessibility in mind. include promotion of inclusive practices Wide aisles to accommodate wheelchair for people with a disability (ongoing). access and furniture and fittings to • Council’s plans and strategies include accommodate customers with physical opportunities for people with a disability (ongoing). disability to contribute, engage and • ‘Any Ability’ activity kits designed for make comment (ongoing). use within the Libraries for adults with • Hills disability forum re-established learning difficulties (ongoing). – meeting was held in June 2019 • A Volunteer Develop Officer position (ongoing). has been filled effective 1 July 2019. • Council’s State Emergency Management The officer is working with the Plan regularly updated to include Community Services Team to develop details of vulnerable communities and an initiative to identify opportunities facilities (ongoing). to link clients to Council events and programs, increase participation and awareness of promotion of participation opportunities for people with a disability (ongoing). • Initial discussion with community Tweed Shire Council organisations regarding making “The Mayor’s Christmas parties” more inclusive (ongoing). The following actions are in progress or have been completed for the 2018–2019 year of • On 30 April 2019, Council adopted implementation. amendments to The Hills Development Control Plan to include new controls Building positive attitudes and relating to access and mobility behaviours (completed). • Develop and distribute information on • New controls relating to access appropriate use of DAPBs to influence and mobility now form part of the driver behaviour and compliance. assessment process in addition to the Develop an information tool kit for relevant provisions of the National businesses to better monitor the Construction Code and the Disability appropriate use of DAPBs in their car Standards (ongoing). parks. Supporting access to meaningful • Celebrate International Day of People employment with Disability through awards or similar. • Council’s Recruitment Guidelines incorporate the needs of a diverse • Develop and include a module on workforce and these are considered access for inclusion into corporate in all processes and programs relating orientation. Review training needs of to recruitment and future plans for staff and investigate opportunities for workforce requirements (ongoing). key staff and/or work units. • Council’s business engagement • Continue to strengthen partnership program offers information and with Dementia Australia on Dementia encouragement about ways people Friendly Communities. with a disability can participate in • Register Tweed Regional Art Gallery, the workforce, through data sharing,

128 Tweed Regional Museum and Passenger Transport Grants Scheme. Community Services and Tweed Libraries as Dementia Friendly • Participate in bimonthly Tweed Public Communities sites. and Active Transport Working Group. T • Assist targeted community Highlights organisations to develop Disability Inclusion Action Plans. • Lions Park, Kingscliff upgrade completed including accessible • Work with Uki village on improving pathways, viewing areas and picnic access and inclusion for residents and furniture. visitors. • Access audit completed on nine • Develop guidelines to ensure Council Community Halls. events are accessible and inclusive and provide advice to external event • 20 bus stops upgraded to improve organisers. access and eight new bus stops constructed. • Continue hearing augmentation and Auslan tours at the Museum and the Supporting access to meaningful Gallery. employment • Apply captioning to all newly commissioned video material at Tweed • Develop a social enterprise model for Regional Museum. employment and training opportunities.

Highlights Highlights

• A successful sixth year of the Tweed • Social enterprise model developed and Shire Access and Inclusion Awards held new accessible café designed for Tweed to celebrate International Day of People Civic and Cultural Centre. with Disability. • Dementia Friendly Communities continues to progress with the Tweed Museum and Libraries successfully registering as Dementia Friendly sites. Council commits to Dementia Friends Upper Hunter Shire Council campaign promoting and encouraging all staff become dementia friends • 17 staff participated in the Wheelchair through the Dementia Australia online Sport NSW Roadshow and played a training program. game of wheelchair basketball on 3 December 2018. Creating liveable communities • Council’s Sports Participation Officer • Review the Access and Inclusion Policy attended a SportNSW Activate to incorporate universal design. Inclusion Day where disability sport was showcased and a forum held to discuss • Upgrade Lions Park, Kingscliff. overcoming barriers to inclusion for people with a disability. • Redevelopment plan for Pottsville Environment Centre. • Community Services Officers participated in the Upper Hunter Community Services • Undertake an access audit of all Council Interagency and the Mental Network to owned community halls. enhance knowledge of service availability • Review the Pedestrian Access and in the sector. Mobility Plan. • Two staff participated in Interagency • Audit DAPBs in Pottsville village and mental health training Pink Shirt Day run prioritise recommendations. by Youth Services/Youth Council 15th March 2019. • Upgrade bus stops under the Country

129 • Council provided funding for the • Inclusion & Access Committee working Wheelchair Sport NSW roadshow party met to determine interest (will be in Scone to two local high schools. functioning in year three). Community Students from years 11 and 12 were achievements will be a focus of the given the opportunity to experience committee. playing basketball in a wheelchair and to discuss the barriers to participating • Australia Day nomination and in sport for people with disabilities. The acknowledgement of a local NDIS presenter, who is in a wheelchair, also provider. discussed the difficulties that life in a • Merriwa Family Fun Day – participants, wheelchair presents on a daily basis, with one-on-one advice and info such as uneven footpaths, access to available for parents of children with toilets, shops, etc. hearing challenges, mental disability, • Mental Health First Aid and Emergency challenging behaviours (autism, ADHD) First Aid held at Murrurundi Library 25 included a hearing loop available on day September. 15 in attendance . and sensory tent. • Annual Merriwa Farm Safety Day event • Worked collaboratively with Ability for high school students - mental health Links to provide resources to the awareness, identifying anxiety and Library and Youth Centres to raise depression with local GP as part of awareness of and support people living rotations along with farm safety. with a disability. • A Council representative is a member of • Council’s Sports Participation Officer Transcare Board of Directors to support supported access for people with governance of this local NDIS provider. disabilities to a range of opportunities. • Worked collaboratively with Ability • Council staff supported the Transition to Links to provide resources to the School Seminar, with Children’s Services Library and Youth Centres to raise highlighting local service providers who awareness of and support people living can assist parents who are concerned with a disability. about possible developmental delays of their children. • Council has included inclusiveness as a project aim in the Cultural Activity • Council staff supported the Transition to Grants with funding provided to two School Seminar, with Children’s Services community groups for special needs highlighting local service providers who resources. can assist parents who are concerned about possible developmental delays of • Community services worked their children. collaboratively with the Scone Neighbourhood Centre to consult with • Footpath Audit completed in local families about available services Murrurundi, Council office to southern and activities. town entrance February 2019. • Disability services brochure developed • Participated in the Upper Hunter for Murrurundi area. Transport Workshop facilitated by Dept of Premier & Cabinet to review local • Council subscribed to SportNSW and transport options. is therefore able to access resources from their Disability Sport Inclusion • Bus requirements reviewed with aim Department. to purchase bus with lift action back. Report provided to Merriwa Aged • Community Services Officers Care Committee. Funding application participate in the Upper Hunter submitted to Bengalla Mines, but Community Services Interagency unsuccessful. Waiting on funding and the Mental Network to distribute opportunities. information. • Town Revitalisation Committee are • Regular updates to the Council active in each district. Planning to Community directory. consult with Committee regarding access issues.

130 • New accessible toilet at Murrurundi Wagga Wagga City Council Library completed June 2019. • Merriwa Library upgraded and • The Communication and Engagement

relocated to comply with accessibility team have included images that T requirements. represent the diversity in both publications and online. The team also • Major Council infrastructure projects advocate for the use of inclusive and include consideration and provision diverse images in all Council documents for accessibility and inclusion issues at: and provide photography services to Scone Saleyards, White Park Centre, achieve this where possible. . • The Communication and Engagement • Disabled access toilets for Old Court team have reviewed and amended the Theatre. communication style guide and signage • Disabled access toilet for Murrurundi style guide to meet DIAP requirements. Library. • The Wagga Access Reference Group • Scone Gymnastics Centre – disabled is the primary community network access including toilets. that Council seeks input from on a continuous basis regarding all aspects • Disabled access toilet designed for of disability inclusion and participation. Murrurundi Gold Club – awaiting This reference group meet bi-monthly funding. and a Council representative is in attendance. This working group is made • Disabled access toilet upgrade at up of persons with disabilities, family Wilson Memorial Oval, Murrurundi – members, carers, local business and awaiting funding (SCCF). agencies that work with people with • Disabled access toilet upgrade to disabilities. Merriwa Skate Park – awaiting funding • Customer services have reviewed (SCCF). frequently used forms and provide • Disabled access toilet upgrade to these in large print as requested. Jefferson Park, Aberdeen – awaiting • Council signage style guide has been funding (SCCF). amended to stipulate that all future signage is required to maximise legibility and readability, use of plain English language, to use symbols/ iconography where possible and incorporate braille where possible. Uralla Shire Council Individual business owners are required to adhere to all guidelines.

• Uralla Shire Council undertook internal • A new community directory provider consultation with staff and external was selected and endorsed by Council consultation with local people with during June 2019. This new community disability, their carers, and the services directory planform will be rolled out that support them. Good practice and over the first quarter in 2019/20 (in an priority areas for improvement were accessible format). identified. • Council works in partnership to • Council adopted its Disability Inclusion continue to promote subsidised Action Plan (DIAP) in June 2017 schemes available along with in its annual Delivery Program and community transport options in the Operational Plan to improve access and community. inclusion for people with a disability in • All customer service staff are trained the Uralla Shire community. and have the skills in the use of technological resources to increase accessibility for people with a disability including hearing loops.

131 • Online models of training are inclusive • An audit was completed several years of people with disabilities. ago and is updated as installation occurs. As they arise, requests for • EEO training is provided to all accessibility parking are handled employees as part of the corporate through the Traffic Committee, which training package. is then considered by Council for • During the financial year, the following approval. During the year, six car spaces courses were made available for Council were completed. staff: Building Resilience to Workplace • An audit of high-usage Council-owned Stress, Managing Team Wellbeing, community centres and halls is ongoing. Accidental Counsellor and Suicide A scope for improvements will then be Prevention courses. costed and presented to Council after • Information from the annual employee the finalisation of the audit. opinion survey has been distributed • A review of the Pedestrian Access to Council’s Social Planning Team and Mobility Plan and engineering and Gender Equity Team to support guidelines in line with other relevant decision making including the Council plans to increase connectivity development of Council’s Workplace will be undertaken over the next 12 Equity Strategy. months. • In partnership with the Wagga Access • Council is committed to publicising Reference Group and the Intereach inclusive events through social media Ability Links program, a number of local channels and existing databases. service providers and small business Highlights include the promotion of owners have been contacted to discuss the Disability Dance Party, National how they can plan to make their service Inclusion Day, International Harmony and businesses more accessible. Day and NAIDOC week that celebrate • Council supports funding for culture and inclusion. community groups and services • The Wagga Wagga Local Achievement to improve accessibility and apply Awards has developed a new category principles of universal design in recognising outstanding community buildings and service delivery. 11 contribution towards “Diversity and applications were received, requesting a Inclusion”. These awards are co- total of $38,441 with $30,000 available. presented annually. 9 applications were successful. • Council continued to deliver a diverse range of inclusive programs across Council’s cultural facilities. Council promotes all public programs and events through all digital platforms including website and Facebook and traditional media formats such as Council News. • Program highlights in 2018/2019 that promoted inclusion and participation by people with disabilities included The Art of Healing exhibition – work by local artists living with a disability presented by Museum of the Riverina and delivery of the Home Library Service. The Mardi Gras and Fusion festivals were events that were promoted to services that work with people with a disability. Spring Jam and Lost lanes festivals also included additional provision for mobility parking to ensure inclusion.

132 Walcha Council It is time to reengage and connect with people with disabilities and their carers to update and review the DIAP. In preparing Building positive attitudes and Council’s initial DIAP, the response rate behaviours was quite disappointing. Council has U implemented some of the key items raised • Employing a worker with a disability in the original DIAP, and need to reach out across multiple teams has helped to to the community to seek further input and build his morale, but also seen other direction. Council employees accept and welcome him into their teams. Taking DIAP items to Council’s Community Care advisory group for their input and Creating liveable communities suggestions is also challenging as there are no people with disabilities (or their carers) • Two additional disabled parking spots on the committee at this stage. have been created in key CBD locations. Planning greater outcomes for the • The disabled toilets have been future upgraded in one local park. The replacement of footpaths and • The access into shops has been improvement to shop access will continue improved by removing steps and in the future. The Community Care Advisory replacing of the town footpaths Committee membership will be reviewed (ongoing project). and an advertisement placed encouraging • Signage for disabled toilets has been people with a disability to apply. Funding replaced to be more visible, include has been sought to install an auto-opening braille and to indicate the transfer side. door into the library to assist people with mobility issues. There are future plans in Supporting access to meaningful 2021 to redesign the Council website and to employment include more accessibility features.

• Council has employed a person with a disability who was on a temporary placement, in a permanent part-time position. He has changed his work role and is a valuable and reliable employee. Improving access to services through better systems and processes

• No signification changes have been made to Council website. • Community Care brochures are available in large print and easy to read formats. • Audio and large print books are available at the local library. Determining how to meet the needs of people with disability

• Several items identified in the DIAP have been completed.

• Customer requests regarding access are actioned as soon as is possible. Challenges and successes in delivering on the DIAP

133 Walgett Shire Council Warren Shire Council

During 2018/2019 Walgett Shire Council Building positive attitudes and undertook the following actions in behaviours accordance with its Disability Inclusion Action Plan. • Council has reviewed its villages and • Reconstruction of Walgett footpaths in developed Master Plans that allow main street (improved access for people for full community inclusion to public with a disability – walking frames and areas, footpaths, parks and gardens and motorised scooters). recreational facilities. • Disability toilets erected and • Council has adopted these plans and commissioned at Walgett Showground publicly advertised the outcomes. (new toilet block includes disabled • Council does not specifically identify toilet). user groups or targeted disability users • Annual allocation for emergency as the outcomes are beneficial to all the footpath access initiatives (provide community. access as identified). • Council along with the community • Employment of people with disabilities. are working actively to improve and increase aged and disability services. • Meetings with DIAP Committees. • Council maintains and supports • Library supplies – introduction of large the community-driven interagency print range, magnifying sheets and committee and provides secretarial audio books. services and support. • Capital Works Program reviewed Creating liveable communities annually to ensure projects address the needs of people with disabilities. • Council has developed a Master Plan • Review of recruitment forms for process for its three villages to develop compliance. over a ten-year period, outcomes that support the inclusion of all its residents without targeting any specific group. • Council has redeveloped parks in this 12 months to replace footpaths, change grades of paths to allow easier access, widened footpaths to allow improved mobility, provided lighting along new footpaths to enhance use, changed seating to allow wheel chair or scooter users access to picnic tables, and installed play equipment that is accessible for all and safety fencing to assist families. Supporting access to meaningful employment

• Council does not discriminate and applies its EEO Policy to all persons seeking employment. • Council is redeveloping its administration building to ensure that staff and the public have accessibility to its buildings

134 • Council’s staff turnover is very low and Waverley Council employment availability is minimal. Improving access to services through Building positive attitudes and better systems and processes behaviours W

• Council has improved its • Deliver a community awareness communications through a new website program with partner agencies to and uses social media to provide promote inclusive attitudes and information to the public. increase understanding of hidden disability. • Council’s library maintains a talking book and an eBook service. • Three Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) sessions were held in • Council’s administration building and partnership with South Eastern Sydney library are accessible and assistance is Local Health District, local sporting available by staff. clubs and Bronte and Bondi Surf Life Saving Clubs. YMHFA is designed to skill people who connect frequently with young people with knowledge and skills to identify mental health problems early, and link young people Warrumbungle Shire Council to appropriate treatment and support. • Council worked with the Eastern The 2017 to 2020 DIAP Report had Suburbs Youth Services Network, been developed in late 2017 and read Homeless Coalition by Leadership team and Warrumbungle and Inner City and Eastern Suburbs Council. Initiatives include: Ageing and Disability Interagency to assist providers help people with • Community Expo in October 2018 with mental health and psychosocial community partnerships with several disabilities to access National Disability aged and disability organisations. Insurance Scheme (NDIS) services and mainstream organisations. • Disability Sports Day in November 2018, a collaborative partnership with • Waverley Community Living Program Breakthru. participants are working on a video project to voice their opinions about • Art exhibition as a collaborative inclusive practice and develop skills for partnership with SPACE. self-advocacy. The video will capture • Community Consultations in Coolah, individual personal stories on topics Coonabarabran Baradine, Binnaway, such as bullying, stigmas, relationships Mendooran, Dunedoo. and inclusion and will be used as a promotional tool to educate Council • Use of a hydraulic wheelchair lift at the staff and the community on how to be local swimming pool for a student in more inclusive for people with disability a wheelchair so he could participate in the AUSWIM lessons facilitated by • Increase visibility of people with special needs staff from the local high disability in Waverley Council school. publications, website and promotional materials • A positive image library was created to assist Council to better reflect the diversity of the community in its publications. • An easy-to-read version of the Waverley Disability Inclusion Action plan and Regional Framework was produced to assist all members of the community to

135 understand Council’s inclusion priorities. provided a progress report on their achievements. • Integrate disability awareness training into Council’s Learning and • Waverley Community and Seniors Development Framework for induction Centre developed a Wellness and and ongoing training. Reablement Plan to meet the new requirements of the Australian • Council purchased the Australian Department of Health. More than Network on Disability’s e-learning 100 centre users were consulted to module, Disability Confident identify priorities to inform the plan and Workforces. This will be rolled out in program. The Centre continues to build 2019–20 through Council’s Learning wellness and reablement approaches Hub. into the operations of the Centre. • Provide ongoing opportunities for staff • Council’s family and children’s services to develop knowledge and skills to continue to support children with apply access and inclusion principles additional needs. Families are also and practices within their key job assisted to access specialist services as responsibilities. needed. • 13 staff participated in training to • Council surveyed residents to identify integrate inclusive practices within improvements that could enhance the their work including playground accessibility of Council Service Centres. access audits, NDIS worker orientation, Of the total responses received, 87 per supported decision making and risk cent indicated that Council information enablement and create easy English and services were accessible, however documents. some respondents were not aware of • Continue to award good practice in services such as the Translating and access and inclusion through Council’s Interpreting Service for non-English Local Business Awards. speakers, the National Relay Service for people who are deaf, hard of hearing • Council is currently reviewing the or have speech impairment and the Business Awards to include a stronger discounted Carers Parking Permit. An focus on awarding businesses for action plan was developed to promote inclusive practices. Council services that assist people with specific needs. • Promote the commercial benefits to local business of inclusive business and • Increase the delivery of access and employment practices. inclusion initiatives in the region by working with partner agencies and • Council adopted the Waverley promoting Council’s small grants Sustainable Visitation Strategy 2024. program. A priority action is the development of an Inclusive Tourism Plan to raise • A new Carers Parking Permit provides awareness and assist businesses and a discount to support people who rely tourism operators, to take steps to on a carer for day-to-day support. A improve their services within the review resulted in the expansion of the inclusive tourism market. eligibility criteria and a strategy to target promotions at key Council locations. Creating liveable communities • Council’s Grant Program provided • Develop business models of excellence approximately $400,000 to community for Waverley’s services for older people, organisations to deliver core community people with disability and children. services and innovative projects in the Waverley Local Government Area. • Waverley Community Living Program (WCLP) increased the number of • The small grants supported inclusion of participants accessing the service. people with disability through programs Staff work with participants to such as Sculptures by the Sea – Tactile deliver support and services to meet Tours, Soccajoeys Next Step and positive participants individual goals and ageing initiatives for older people.

136 • Promote information to help people social and cultural programs that are better understand consumer directed inclusive-accessible. care and to exercise choice and control in choosing services. • Fitness classes are run for people

over 50 years at Margaret Whitlam W • A regional Disability Expo was held Recreation Centre and Waverley in June 2019 in partnership with Community and Seniors Centre. The Waverley Council, City of Sydney and Senior Centre caters for varying levels Randwick City Council. 50 stall holders of fitness, provides opportunities for participated with approximately 700 lifelong learning and to socialise. people attending. • Waverley Library’s Home Library • Stall holders included National Program services 155 people and 12,086 Disability Insurance Agency, Local library items were delivered to these Area Coordinators, Councils, disability members. 78 sessions including Seniors providers including employment and Week activities were held for seniors. mental health providers, sporting organisations and mainstream • An Open Space Recreation Strategy is providers. being prepared to inform the long-term planning and development direction • 73 per cent of people said that as a of open space and recreation in the result of the Expo they are more aware Waverley LGA. Universal design is one of community and specialist disability of the key principles that underpins the services available in their area and 93 plan. per cent of people said the information obtained at the Expo was helpful to • An accessible play study is in them. development to provide strategic direction on how to make play spaces • A number of outreach information more inclusive when they are upgraded, services were held at key locations in accordance with the Play Space including Ability Links service desk Strategy. at the library to inform people about NDIS and other mainstream supports • Maintain Waverley’s social housing available to Council’s Customer Service program for older people and people desk at the Waverley Community and with a mild intellectual disability Seniors Centre. and continue to advocate to NSW Government for increased diversity of • Develop and publish access maps for housing stock that is affordable and major centres, detailing continuous accessible. paths of travel, accessible toilets, equipment and mobility parking. • Council’s Housing for Older People Program continues to provide secure • Online maps were developed to show affordable rental housing for 55 the location of mobility parking and older Waverley residents on very low accessible toilet facilities in the area. incomes, with more than half of the An audit was completed on four public tenants being from a non-English toilet sites to inform the National Toilet speaking background. Map. The audit will continue in 2019. • Council also provides accommodation • Review event management processes for nine people with an intellectual and procedures to increase the disability. accessibility and inclusiveness of events held in the region. • An independent survey of tenant satisfaction was carried out by NSW • Council is currently undertaking a Federation of Community Housing review of the Event Policy framework. Providers and Council’s tenants were An Event Management Policy and included for the first time this year. Guidelines form part of the review. 50 per cent of tenants participated and their overall satisfaction rating • Creative art classes are offered to for tenants in Council’s programs people with disability. was 92 per cent, with 89 per cent • Increase and promote recreational, of respondents reporting that their

137 housing provides security and stability design principles in the design and fit in their lives and supports their health out of the Bondi Pavilion Restoration and wellbeing. project. • Explore options to mandate universal • The upgrade of Marks Park commenced housing design standards in Councils in June 2019 and includes a step-free urban planning policy and work with universal pathway that connects the partner agencies to showcase universal amenities block with the playground housing design initiatives. and the accessible lookout. • Council made a submission to the • Continue to provide an annual Capital Australian Building Codes Board Works Program to upgrade footpaths, Accessible Housing Project which is pedestrian crossings, kerb ramps examining options for the inclusion of and bus shelters to universal design minimum accessibility standards for principles. housing in the National Construction Code. • More than four million dollars was spent on footpaths, kerb ramps and • Continue to advocate for and support bus shelter upgrades in accordance housing and homelessness partnerships with universal design principles. and initiatives to deliver housing This improves access for the whole outcomes. community including people with disability. • Council convened the Eastern Suburbs Homeless Coalition and supported the • Implement strategies to improve beach Eastern Suburbs Homeless Assertive wheelchair loan systems and access to outreach Collaboration to monitor designated beaches. strategies that address homelessness. • A storage facility to house beach • Two street counts were held. The wheelchairs and a shower was installed number of people sleeping rough have on the promenade to been stable for the last few years. provide easy access to these facilities. The construction of a new accessible • Council’s strong working relationships ramp at the northern end of Bondi with the Homeless Outreach Support Beach has begun. Council worked Team and specialist homelessness in partnership with Bondi Surf Life services has assisted people to access Saving Club to seek funding from the housing and support services. This Australian Government and AbilityLinks approach continues to work well as for additional beach matting, roll a coordinated response to a complex out storage equipment, and a beach social issue. wheelchair for children. Access Bondi • Design all new Waverley Council assets, ramp will be completed in late 2019. buildings and open spaces to disability • Work with relevant transport agencies access standards and universal design to improve the transport network in the principles region for people with disability. • Universal design that features • The Waverley Traffic Committee met accessibility were incorporated into the regularly to discuss transport issues in concept design of the South Bronte the area. Actions are being progressed Amenities and Community Centre. to improve pedestrian access as set • Bondi Pavilion Restoration and out in Council’s People, Movement and Conservation Project is in the final Places strategy. stages before construction. An independent access consultant Supporting access to meaningful completed an access review of the employment proposed alterations and conservation works to the Bondi Pavilion. Members • Opportunities for learning and skills of Council’s Access Advisory committee development for adults with mild had input into the concept design and intellectual disability are provided supports the application of universal through the Waverley Community Living Program.

138 • Waverley Community Living Program of disability during the planning & continues to provide a regular design stages of major development program of support for people with an and upgrades, policy development and intellectual disability to develop their purchase of equipment.

skills and confidence, which assists W people to access employment. • The Waverley Access Advisory Committee provides advice about • Work with stakeholders to develop and access and inclusion initiatives. Inputs publicise essential information on how were provided into key projects such to access employment support services. as Access Bondi and Bondi Pavilion Restoration and Conservation Project. • A Regional Disability Expo was held in June 2019 in partnership with City • Co-designed projects such as Pre- of Sydney and Randwick City Council, Invictus games event at Bondi Beach 50 stall holders participated which which highlighted the need for better included employment agencies such access to Bondi Beach. as Job support, Breakthru, Disability Services Australia, Konekt Employment • WCLP participants reviewed and and TAFE NSW Evaluate Waverley designed an easy English Handbook to Council’s employment policy and improve pedestrian access as set out in practices to remove barriers and Council’s People, Movement and Places improve opportunities to support a Strategy. diverse workforce. • Council’s recruitment policy was reviewed and updated in 2018 to ensure all advertised positions encourage applications from people from diverse backgrounds and people Weddin Shire Council with disability. Council is committed to make reasonable modifications to The items Council have achieved in the DIAP positions and work environments to to date include: accommodate staff with disability. • New public toilets in Taylor Park with Improving access to services through accessible toilet (MLAK). better systems and processes • New sporting amenities at Lawson Oval including accessible access and • Council publications and documents are amenities. available in a diverse range of formats and the website is compliant with • Footpaths upgraded. WCAG 2.0. • New main Street upgrade has been put • Council’s website is compliant with the out to tender, which includes accessible Web Content Accessibility Guidelines parking and accessible pathways. (WCAB) 2.0. • Council has included a voice over function on the website so people with vision impairment can access the information. • Explore digital technology solutions and innovative communication systems such as implementing the Snap, Send, Solve App. • Explore Waverley digital mapping has been further developed to include wayfinding functions. • Identify and involve people with relevant expertise and lived experience

139 Wentworth Council • The LOOP Transport Service upgraded to include accessible access. Council’s Disability Inclusion Action Plan Building positive attitudes and 2017-2021 was adopted by Council on June behaviours 2017. The Plan outlines Council’s intended actions to ensure access and participation to • The National Relay Service is a all of our public buildings, spaces and events standing agenda item on the Customer are able to be enjoyed by all residents, Service team meetings. This ensures regardless of disability. knowledge/training on the use of this The Disability Inclusion Action Plan service is kept up-to-date and offered was developed through a community by Customer Service Staff when consultation and research process. required. A review of Council documents and • Information on the National Relay government policy took place together Service is available on the Willoughby with a staff survey. Community consultation City Council Knowledge Base for access involved talking with people from across by staff. Statistics are collected on the the community and from a variety of usage of the National Relay Service stakeholder groups and members of the with a view of implementing or utilising Shire including a pop-up information stand other assistive technologies. at our Australia Day celebration and the active encouragement of resident input • Training provided in July 2019 to all at Community Engagement sessions held staff (including casuals) within Children across the Shire. Services by Kindergarten Union on ‘Inclusion in Children Services’. • Children and Youth Services continue to promote resources including: · Network of Community Activities. Willoughby City Council · Including Children with a disability in Outside of School Hours Care: A We support older adults and people with a Guide. disability by providing information, advocacy and referral services, and community · The Australian Human Rights facilities. Commission learning and development resources – Access Council also provides a home delivery and for all: Improving accessibility for self-select library service to deliver a range consumers with disability (2016). of product from the libraries. · Disability Inclusion Act 2014. Council also conducts computer assist programs, wellness, education, spiritual and · The Department of Education – social activities. Inclusion Support Programme Guidelines 2018/19. Council continued to implement the Disability Inclusion Action Plan 2017-2021. • Positive images of people with The plan aims to make Willoughby an disabilities are used in general inclusive and accessible city for everyone. promotion material across the year. Examples include The Street Fair Key achievements in 2018/19 were: and Vivid. These marketing materials were promoted and available across a • Improved access and inclusion to number of social media platforms. events. • In the planning of Vivid, the Media & • Partnerships with community Marketing team worked with disability organisations to promote access and advocates to ensure accessibility and inclusion events including Dance to the inclusion were at the forefront of this Nines, Seniors Festival, Dementia Cafe event. and Blend Art Space. • Council has partnered with a number

140 of organisations to provide events that • The majority of activities/features such raise awareness of and promote access as the light installations were spaced so and inclusion. These include: mobility aids could be used to navigate around and explore the features.

· Dance to the Nines Disability Dance. A short walking distance between W · Seniors Festival. features along flat ground also aided access. · Willoughby City Council Men’s and Women’s Shed. • In 2019 The LOOP Accessible Transport Service purchased a bus with disability · Be Connected Tea and Tech Sessions. access and is currently in service across the LGA. The LOOP can be accessed at · Lower Disability the rider’s discretion as an audit of all Interagency Forums. bus stops is completed. The audit will · Blend Art Space . identify access features and barriers in line with Disability Standards of · Dementia Café. Accessible Public Transport. • Council provides community services · A draft Bus Operation Policy is being for people with a disability including developed which will focus on safe Meals on Wheels, Linen and Out & operation and access by passengers, About transport and Social Support staff and the community by August group services. 2019. The Policy would be placed on our website and provided on the bus • The ‘Better Business Partnerships’ so that passengers are aware of this website includes a number of accessible Council policy. features such as audio/visual access and checklist of inclusive business · This policy will be based on the practices. current routes and bus stops to ensure the bus can still be utilised • ‘Missed Business’ guide is available in at the rider’s discretion as the audit multiple formats on the Council website process and upgrade of bus stops is and provides useful information for completed. businesses to improve accessibility and customer experience to enhance · LOOP Bus operators have inclusive practices for customers across completed training with their staff the region. on accessibility and aiding clients getting on and off the bus. • The Better Business Partnerships Accessibility Awards took place in · A review of the current timetable November 2018. will be undertaken to ensure bus reliability as the time required Creating liveable communities to support mobility impaired passengers on the accessible bus will • Council Staff member undertook need to be taken into account. training on Universal Design Concepts with the Access Institute and will be • ‘Think Before you Park’ campaign saw a qualified by October 2019 to undertake reduction in the number of offences for: Building Access Audits. Disabled Bay Offences 17/18 – 1018 offences, 18/19 – 944 offences • Universal Design Concepts training will Misuse of Mobility Permits 17/18 – 213 be provided at Team Leader level and offences, 18/19 – 194 offences rolled out across the Council by March 2020. Council is hoping to see a future reduction in these numbers and the • Events Access checklist has been campaign continues to be rolled out. completed and incorporated into event planning processes. For example, Vivid • Access features of parks are available Sydney at Chatswood festival website on Willoughby City Council’s website. and marketing materials included accessibility information on how to get The NSW Planning and Environment to the event.

141 ‘Everyone Can Play’ guidelines was used diversity and actively encourages in creation and delivery of inclusive people with a disability to apply. playspaces and the development of an accessible features checklist. • Selection Criteria for roles within Council have broadened and become As each park in the LGA is updated less restrictive. For example: reducing as part of the Council’s Priority the need for holding a current drivers Improvement Projects (PIP) new licence. accessible features are updated on the • Council’s ‘People with Disability’ Council website. For example the newly webpage is currently under review renovated Gore Hill Park looks like this: with links to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (how to apply and http://www.willoughby.nsw.gov.au/ find services), Disability Employment your-neighbourhood/parks-and- Australia and Job Access services. playgrounds/gore-hill-park/ • Council provide employment and In addition, a new page on the website volunteer opportunities for people with has been created titled ‘Access in disability throughout the organisation. Parks and Playgrounds’. Any parks or playgrounds that have accessible Improving access to services through features will be included in a list on better systems and processes this page. The title of the park will be hyperlinked and take the individual to • Hearing Loop and National Relay that park page where a list of access Service retraining has been undertaken features can be accessed. with Customer Service staff. Information on both services is available on the Community members have been Council Website. included in the various consultation phases of park upgrades with feedback • An audit of the Willoughby City Council integrated and recorded by Council. website was undertaken resulting in an upgrade of the site. The upgrade will • The WCC Access & Inclusion Committee meet the Web Content Accessibility continues to meet on a monthly basis Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0 of the World with the aim of increasing inclusion and Wide Web Consortium (W3C) working access across the Willoughby Local toward a Level A and AA accreditation. Government Area. • Council provided a Community A Council review of committees was Development office to support undertaken in 2019. The Committee will partnerships and community programs continue to perform its function while for people with a disability. the internal review of committees is • A survey of assistive and accessible completed. service/technology is currently being developed. Survey results will be used New Terms of Reference are currently to develop guidelines by December being developed in line with the review. 2019.

Minutes of the Committee meetings are DIAP progress is embedded in the available on the Council Website. Integrated Planning and Performance framework and reported bi-annually Supporting access to meaningful in Council’s progress report. Council is employment reviewing the delivery of the plan.

• A draft amended ‘Recruitment and Selection’ policy has been developed and awaiting endorsement. The policy incorporates inclusive employment practices. • Council’s website ‘Careers’ page includes reference to respecting

142 Wingecarribee Shire Council surveys had an additional question included, ‘How satisfied are you with DISABILITY access and inclusion Building positive attitudes and services, facilities, staff, support and behaviours information provision?’’ with 76 people W responding. Demonstrate and promote disability awareness and understanding across Public Transport meets Access Standards: Council, including: • An application for 2017/2019 CIPTIGS • Trialling of the YouMeUs Online training grant funding for upgrades to improve module for disability awareness for access at bus stops lodged. Council Staff. Accessible Parking meets access standards : • The development and ongoing • An audit of Council’s accessible parking implementation of the DIAP has both on road and in car parks in key increased disability awareness within locations undertaken. the organisation. • Ongoing monitoring and enforcement Reduce barriers within Council and the of accessible parking spaces with 32 community by advocating for inclusion: infringement notices issued. • Council partnered with Disability Encourage and promote accessible tourism Services Australia to hold the Ability in the Wingecarribee Shire: Walk at Lake Alexandra, Mittagong with 80 people with disability attending. • Participated in the development and review of the LGNSW online Inclusive • A Pop-Up Information Kiosk was held in Tourism training modules. Bowral for IDWPD supported by local disability service providers. Progressively increase access and inclusion at Public Libraries. • 400 Missed Business Guides distributed across Wingecarribee Shire to retail and small businesses. • Ongoing facilitation of Council’s Access Community Reference Group. • Council’s Community Strategic Plan included images of people with disability. • Council’s Annual Report for 2016/17 endorsed the adoption of the DIAP. Creating liveable communities

Public facilities and spaces are barrier-free and inclusive of people with disability • Construction of the pedestrian bridge and associated footpaths over the Unanderra railway line at Moss Vale has commenced. • Preparation for a play spaces strategy has commenced with 382 responses to the playgrounds survey. • The Public Toilet Strategy has been adopted and implementation has commenced. • The annual public swimming pool

143 Wollondilly Shire Council Key Opportunities

• Ongoing partnerships with State Disability Inclusion in NSW Government, Federal Government and Community Service providers In 2014 the NSW Disability Inclusion Act supporting capacity building and 2014 (the Act) required all NSW government growth. agencies and local Councils to develop Disability Inclusion Action Plans (DIAPs) in • Liveability Fund resourcing key consultation with people with disability infrastructure and recreation projects in Wollondilly. These plans were to outline the measures put in place so that people with disability • Council’s commitment to embedding can access general supports and services health and wellbeing in Wollondilly’s available in the community and can land use planning via employment of participate fully in the community. a Senior Strategic Health Planner (co- funded by Local The NSW Disability Inclusion Plan identified Health District). four areas of focus that people with disability said were priority areas. These Building positive attitudes and were: behaviours 1. Developing positive community attitudes towards disability. • 56 staff, including all new starters, participated in Disability Awareness 2. Creating liveable communities. training incorporated into the Customer Service mandatory training for all staff 3. Increasing access to meaningful during the 2018/19 period. employment. • 26 staff attended Deaf Awareness 4. Improving access to mainstream services Training, facilitated by The Deaf through improved systems and processes. Society in June 2019. This short course In June 2017, Wollondilly Shire Council provided information and practical adopted the Disability Inclusion Action tips to improve communication and Plan 2017-21. The NSW Disability Inclusion interactions with staff and community Act requires all Councils to report on the members who identify as deaf or hard progress of implementation of their DIAP’s of hearing. in their annual reports to align with their • Council’s endorsed Inclusion and Access current reporting processes. Council sees Advisory committee was established this reporting as an opportunity to share its in March 2019, with membership from approach to inclusive practices and update both community members, service its community on the progress made on the providers and staff. Since inception the implementation of our Disability Inclusion committee has met Bimonthly and been Action Plan. actively involved in making comment on engagements relating to the Wollondilly Challenges and successes in Community, Cultural and Civic Precinct delivering on the DIAP in Picton, Wollondilly Library Strategic Plan and South East Wilton Growth Key Challenges area with a specific focus on access and inclusion. • Individual and systemic advocacy addressing gaps in NDIS funding Creating liveable communities allocation and ongoing community organisation viability. • New accessible amenities blocks were completed at Emmett Park – Tahmoor, • Planning and resource allocation for Telopea Park – Buxton and Willis Park – changing demographics and emerging Oakdale. needs of new communities. • Council, in partnership with ‘Touched • Funding for infrastructure and facility by Olivia’ Foundation, commenced upgrades across the Shire. works on an Inclusive Play Space in

144 Warragamba Civic Park in 2018/19, due This resource will be rolled out in the for completion in 2019/20. The play 2019/20 financial year with a focus on space will include a Changing Places working towards having a AA standard accessible toilet and change facility compliant website.

that includes an adult size change table, W ceiling hoist and tactile braille signage. • Council, in partnership with local community organisations, in September 2018 supported the ‘Connecting Wollondilly Expo’ at Bargo Community Wollongong City Council hall. The expo was an opportunity for 45 local community services including disability, aged care, family support and Creating liveable communities seniors groups to promote themselves to the residents of Wollondilly. Council has developed and endorsed strategies which provide a planned approach Supporting access to meaningful for improving access, including: employment • Public Toilet Strategy 2019-2029, endorsed 6 May 2019. This strategy • Council reviewed it’s EEO Management provides a strategic framework to guide Plan in March 2019 ‘EEO – The Building public toilet provision across the city Blocks of Equity in our Workplace’ with over the next ten years. a particular focus on developing and promoting a culture that is supportive • Beach and Foreshore Access Strategy of Equal Employment Opportunity 2019-2028, endorsed 18 February 2019. (EEO) principles and embraces diversity This strategy provides a planned and and inclusion within the workplace. considered approach in the way Council will support people with disability to • Council were successful in securing access our beaches and foreshores. funding to complement the EEO management plan to allow for resource Council has undertaken a range of allocation for staff and community infrastructure projects to increase access members who may need extra support to the built environment for people with to participate fully when engaging with disability, including: Council e.g. Auslan Interpreter. • Delivery of eight ‘Quick Link’ accessible • Council has continued to work in path projects at Holborn Park, Berkeley; partnership with Picton High School to Figtree Oval, Figtree; King George provide work experience opportunities V Park, Port Kembla; Port Kembla for local students exploring Pool, Port Kembla; Lang Park, North opportunities beyond High School. Wollongong; Lakeside Park, Kanahooka; and Thirroul Beach Reserve, Thirroul. Improving access to services through This project has improved access in better systems and processes these locations by providing continuous accessible paths of travel linking car • Council have implemented open parks, playgrounds, picnic shelters and captioning on short videos since toilet blocks. June 2019 available on social media platforms. • A unisex accessible change room facility, including an adult lift and • Council have been working towards change table at Western Suburbs Pool, implementing closed captioning Unanderra. on internal videos available to staff accessing the online learning system. • Improved access to several Council buildings including accessible amenities • Council were successful in securing at Performing Arts Centre, funding to resource a web-based Coniston Community Centre, Mt platform that monitors website Keira Summit Kiosk, Bulli Surf Life accessibility and quality assurance. Saving Club and Stanwell Kiosk, and upgraded kitchen facilities,

145 including an adjustable bench at Dapto number of interest areas. During 2018- Ribbonwood Centre. 19, 228 people registered to receive information regarding disability access • Improved access at six bus stops by related matters. creating paths of travel from the bust stop/shelter to the kerbside. All of these • Establishing the Walking, Cycling and upgrades incorporated seating and one Mobility Reference Group. This group incorporated tactile markers. provides advice to Council on the preparation and implementation of • Installation of new kerb ramps in 37 bicycle, pedestrian and disability access locations and the upgrade/renewal of policies and strategic plans. existing kerb ramps in 28 locations. • Installation of new cycle ways, shared Building positive attitudes and pathways and pathways in 33 locations behaviours and the upgrade/renewal of existing cycle ways, shared pathways and Council has worked towards promoting pathways in 28 locations. positive community attitudes and behaviours towards people with disability • Installation of new accessible parking through the delivery of: in three locations and the upgrade/ renewal of existing accessible parking in • The Quiet Space at Council’s Australia 11 locations. Day and Comic Gong events in 2019. • The Same, Same But Different project Improving access to services through delivered in partnership with The better systems and processes Disability Trust. This project invited people with disability, parents, Council has worked to increase access to community service providers, and information by developing: members of Wollongong’s LGBTQI • Social Stories for our events, including community to share their lived Comic Gong, Australia Day, New experiences. The panel discussion at Year’s Eve, Viva la Gong, Paint the this event was recorded and is available Gong REaD Reading Day and Lord in podcast format. Mayors Transition to School Picnic; • An accessible viewing area as part of and services/ facilities including Wollongong’s Annual Australia Day Wollongong Art Gallery, Wollongong celebration. 129 people, including Youth Services and two of our libraries. people with disability and their carers, • An Easy Read Frequently Asked used this area during the day. CRAM Questions Guide, which has been Foundation sponsored this space. made available on Council’s website • A number of initiatives which resulted in and distributed at Illawarra Disability Corrimal Library receiving their Autism Options Expo. Friendly badge on World Autism Day Council has demonstrated its commitment on 2 April 2019. to enabling people with disability to • AUSLAN Story Time at Wollongong be involved in community engagement City Library. opportunities by: • Involving two residents with low Supporting access to meaningful vision, who use on-screen readers, in employment user testing sessions as part of the Wollongong City Council website re- Council has worked to support people with development. Their participation and disability seeking employment. Initiatives feedback assisted the project team in included: ensuring the new website is accessible. • A workshop for social enterprises • Establishing a new community which introduced Council’s Social engagement platform, Register of Procurement Policy, provided guidance Interest. This platform enables people on how to become a Council supplier to receive information via email on a and advice on how to align social

146 enterprise business operations with to disabled toilets that are locked. In 2018/19 Council requirements. Council’s Property and Projects team commenced a program to modify the MLAK • Continuing to provide Diversity locks on our accessible public toilets so that

Awareness Training to Council officers. W they can be left unlocked during the • Developing and delivering Autism day. Signage with clear instructions and Awareness Training, with over 150 emergency contact details will be installed Council officers from various teams for when the accessible toilets are locked attending the training. at night. The accessibility features of toilets • Providing support to the Workers of throughout the Municipality were updated Wollongong program by supporting on the National Public Toilet Map work experience opportunities for In 2018/19 Council’s Open Space and people with disability at Wollongong Recreation team commenced work on a Botanic Garden. major upgrade to the Parsley Bay Reserve • Participation in mock interviews with playground. The design of the new people with disability to assist them playground will result in an all-abilities with preparing for interviews inclusive play space that will feature wet- pour rubber soft-fall to provide wheelchair and pram access through the playground. Council was a grant recipient from NSW Government and the ‘Everyone can play’ initiative towards this play space. Woollahra Municipal Council The Disability Inclusion Action Plan informs Council’s Delivery Program and Operational Plan to create inclusive infrastructure and Places, spaces and activities that are services to support all members of the accessible and inclusive benefit not only community. those with disability but are more attractive and welcoming to people of all abilities. Since adopting its Disability Inclusion Action Plan in June 2017, Council has made great progress in breaking down barriers which prevent people with disability from Yass Valley Council accessing the same opportunities as everyone else. Building positive attitudes and In 2018/19 Council worked in partnership behaviours with the State Government to implement an accessibility upgrade at Edgecliff Station • Disability Awareness training for that includes sheltered seating, a fully Council staff - online training sourced. accessible ramp to replace the old one that Community Service and Library staff didn’t meet disability standards and the promoted availability to staff. installation of a second lift to the station platforms. • Event accessibility guide – online information available on Council’s Council has committed to ensuring its roads, website as part of event information. footpaths, cycle-ways and transport systems accommodate, as far as is practicable, • Support development of a Disability people of all ages, life stages and mobility Support Service Interagency in Yass abilities. In 2018/19 Council’s Engineering (completed). Services team commenced work on the Woollahra Integrated Transport Strategy • Utilise International Day of People with that gives consideration to access for Disability to promote inclusion to the children and people with disabilities and general community (completed). mobility issues. • Promote the importance of access to The Master Locksmiths Access Key (MLAK) businesses in the main street of Yass system allows people with disability access – Access must be considered as part

147 of any approval for publicly accessible Supporting access to meaningful buildings and is routinely part of any employment pre-lodgement discussion. • Actions to support access to Safe and accessible community meaningful employment have not yet facilities commenced. The intention is to work with disability service employment • Audit Council Buildings and facilities organisations to identify opportunities to ensure compliance with related for employment and work experience standards - Design completed and at Council and within the community. approved Administration Office Council’s recruitment processes, forms entrance. Currently negotiating with and languages are to be reviewed for Telstra regarding construction over accessibility. underground infrastructure. Work programmed for 2018/2019 financial Improving access to services through year not completed. Project placed on better systems and processes hold pending outcomes. Accessibility Upgrade Program to be considered • Review of current communication as part of Asset Management Plan methods (print and social media) to from the Expression of Interest comply with level AA in the W2C’s process for the redevelopment of the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines Administration Building. Resources for is complete. Format for printed this project not yet allocated. documents altered so captions included for all illustrations/photographs and • Provide disabled toilet facilities colour contrasting being used. in Council’s administration office – Disabled toilet facility provided • To facilitate communication with but access to it is not compliant. customers that have a disability, a new Investigated as part of new office floor website was launched in August 2018, plans. Implementation of plan currently compliant with relevant standards. on hold due to lack of funding. Council An Access Committee representative also currently exploring opinions for joined the working group to review new offices through an Expression of format. Interest process. • Council plans to undertake an audit of • A project brief is being prepared to Yass Valley’s Public Transport system undertake an audit of designated to identify service provision gaps and accessible parking spaces on-street work with service providers to maximise and in car parks in the CBD, town access to public transport. and villages to identify the number of spaces available in close proximity to key services and their compliance with access standards and develop a strategy to address needs. • Automatic doors installed at Yass Visitor Information Centre. • DIAP actions are prioritised and integrated with actions that are contained in the Pedestrian and Access Mobility Plan. • Council developed and implemented a program for installing and upgrading kerb ramps and footpaths to improve continuous accessible paths of travel and deliver access outcomes. Priority locations include Town and Village Centres and Council.

148 W

149