DISABILITY INCLUSION ACTION PLANS Progress Reports NSW Local Councils 2019-2020

1 [ Page left intentionally blank ]

2 Contents AlburyCity Council 7 Armidale Regional Council 7 Ballina Council 8 Shire Council 9 Bathurst Regional Council 9 10 Council 11 Council 15 Council 17 18 Council 21 Council 23 Blue Mountains City Council 24 Council 27 Council 27 Council 28 Broken Hill Council 29 Burwood Council 31 Council 31 32 Camden Council 32 Campbelltown City Council 33 Canterbury Bankstown Council 37 Shire Council 38 Central Coast Council 39 Council 41 Cessnock City Council 41 City of 43 Council 44 City of Council 47 Council 48 City of Council 51 67 Shire Council 68 Council progress updates have been City Council 69 extracted from Council Annual Re- ports, either in the body of the Annual Council 71 Report or from the attached DIAP, Shire Council 72 or from progress updates provided Regional Council 71 directly via the Communities and Council 73 Justice Disability Inclusion Planning 73 mailboxes. Regional Council 78 Council 82 3 83 Shire Council 147 Council 83 Shire Council 147 85 Shire Council 149 Federation Council 86 Council 151 Council 87 150 Council 88 152 Council 90 Orange City Council 153 Council 91 Council 154 Goulburn Mulwaree Council 92 Penrith City Council 154 Greater Hume Council 93 -Hastings Council 156 Griffith City Council 94 159 Shire Council 95 -Palerang Regional Council 160 Council 99 Randwick City Council 161 Hawkesbury City Council 100 162 Council 100 Shellharbour City Council 163 102 Shoalhaven City Council 164 Council 103 167 Hunter’s Hill Council 104 Snowy Monaro Regional Council 169 Council 105 170 Shire Council 108 Strathfield Municipal Council 171 Shire Council 111 Council 172 Council 112 Tamworth Regional Council 174 Kiama Council 113 Council 174 Kuring-Gai Council 114 Council 176 Council 115 Council 178 Council 117 Council 179 Lake Macquarie City Council 118 Council 182 Municipal Council 119 Council 186 Council 120 City Council 188 Lismore City Council 122 Walcha Council 189 Lithgow City Council 122 Council 190 Liverpool City Council 124 Council 191 Shire Council 127 Council 192 Council 128 Waverly Council 194 Maitland City Council 130 Council 198 Mid Coast Council 134 Council; 199 Mid Western Regional Council 138 Willoughby City Council 199 Council 140 Wingcarbee Shire Council 203 Mosman Municipal Council 140 Council 204 Council 143 Wollongong City Council 206 143 Woollahra Municipal Council 208 Council 144 213 145 4 5 The NSW Government’s commitment to inclusion is reflected in the Disability Inclusion Act 2014, NSW Disability Inclusion Plan and Disability Inclusion Action Plans.

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.

Local government Disability Inclusion Action Plans (DIAPs) 2019/2020 progress

This is an extract of NSW local councils 2019/2020 achievements taken from their DIAPs 2019/2020 progress or annual reports. To view council’s full reports please visit their website.

[email protected]

6 AlburyCity Council Creating liveable communities AlburyCity has completed the following: • Council, through our facilities management team, are constantly looking at our assets • The Access Committee continued to meet and ensuring works of rectification are throughout the year to advocate for better undertaken where issues of accessibility access throughout the local government are raised. area, in addition to providing the opportunity to provide input into council decisions • Two additional Disabled parking spaces relating to pedestrian (tactile ground have been identified for the front of our surface indicators) movement for people Home Support Services office (Nicolli with vision impairment. House) in Guyra to promote access for clients. Additional capital works on Guyra • The annual International Day of People with main street have included curb side access Disability event was held in conjunction with and disabled car spaces. Further, planned the City of Wodonga and the AlburyCity upgrades to some of the community halls Mayor attended the event. in our villages such as Wollomombi have • The Community Development Officer been earmarked to include wheel chair attended a course on Universal Design access ramps. Principles and deaf awareness training and • The Community Wellbeing Advisory provided input into planning decisions and committee provides a strong conduit for designs for council relating to access. information to and from Council, and • Attendance at the Capability Network community on issues of access. meetings continued, with the Community Supporting access to meaningful Development officer also remaining as a Steering Committee member for the employment committee. • Additional employment opportunities were not provided in this period due to COVID. Armidale Regional Council • The People and Culture department has, Developing positive community recently audited internal processes and attitudes and behaviours procedures to assess Council’s capacity to support a diverse workforce. Outcomes • Armidale Regional Council has endorsed from this audit are eagerly awaited. through the Community Wellbeing Advisory • Committee to reestablish­ an Access Improving access to mainstream services Advisory Working Party to focus on and through better systems and processes lead the community in areas of access and • Council has commissioned an accessibility inclusion. audit of its website and subsequently • Staff continue to be trained in inclusivity revised its online content, presence, and code of conduct as part of the on- and developed a uniform means of boarding of new staff. creating online content to ensure that all materials are accessible. Executing • Council is undergoing a revision of the recommendations from the accessibility committees and structures within Council. audit is in progress and is currently 60% The report undertaken by consultants has complete. recommended the reestablishment of an Access Committee in its own right. How have you determined that you’re meeting the needs of people with • ARC is an advocate for inclusion on people disability? with disabilities. Ensuring events that are planned by staff; actively engage with • Council has a policy of, responding to the community to provide awareness of enquiries and complaints within a 10 day appropriate access to events.

7 period. Any feedback from community • Membership of Dementia around issues of access, are dealt with Friendly Community Alliance. within those parameters. Creating liveable communities • Members of the Community Wellbeing • Advisory Committee are charged with the Upgraded Alstonville Aquatic Centre’s task of gathering feedback from community amenities block to include compliant members. This information is used to raise accessible change rooms including the issues and concerns at the committee level provision of an accessible transfer hoist. with recommendations fed back to the • MLAK keys given to residents free of Interim Administrator (acting as Council) for charge. review. • Accessible toilets remain unlocked Describe your challenges and throughout the day, and residents gain successes in delivering on your parts access after hours via use of MLAK keys. of the DIAP • Shared pathway from Ballina CBD to • Council has faced challenges in ensuring Lennox Head was completed in October that the DIAP is delivered. This includes 2020. the number of people and departments • Ongoing audits of pathways. that need to work collaboratively to ensure ° Lake Ainsworth and Shaws Bay outcomes are met. Council’s size and foreshore improvements include limited resources means that a dedicated accessible pathways, parking spaces, resource to disability and inclusion is not seating, BBQs and drinking fountains. possible at this point. • • Staff also struggled to maintain their Updated pedestrian crossing points commitment to programming and events throughout the shire to improve accessibility due to government restrictions and for people using mobility aids. coordinated efforts to contain COVID. • Accessible design elements included in approved plans for Wollongbar District • COVID restrictions prevented progress in Park. relation to some community programs and events being inclusive and accessible. • Stage 3 upgrade of River Street included improved accessibility Is there anything else you’re doing or planning for the future to contribute Supporting access to meaningful to greater outcomes for people with employment disability? • Continue to support the employment of • Council are looking to establish a individuals with low to medium physical and “Specialist Partnership Panel-Access intellectual disabilities within and Inclusion” that will engage specialist • Council’s Open Spaces section. community members tasked with providing advice and input on areas required by • Accredited employer under the NDIS. legislation or of ongoing strategic and • Recruitment methods provide people with operational importance. a disability the opportunity to apply for positions with Council. Ballina Shire Council Improving access to mainstream Developing positive community services through better systems and attitudes and behaviours processes • Access Reference Group meets bi-monthly • Website has been updated and is compliant and provides advice to Council on disability with Website Content Accessibility access issues. Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0 Level AA.

8 • Footpath inspections carried out via mobility • International Women’s Day event scooter to identify hazards and access promotions featured two women from the issues. Glenray laundry. • Auslan interpreter at Council meetings and • International Women’s Day florals provided community consultations as requested. by Power of Ability. • Council information and communication • Continued promotion of Council’s material accessible to people who use accessibility through social media. mobility aids. Promotion of disability services and • Council design engineers are incorporating access to Council Information accessible design features into public space designs. • NDIS promoted on the Bathurst Business Hub Facebook page including the $2million Disability Sector Scale-Up (DSSU) Council Program and information regarding positive Council, through community consultation, outcomes for employing People with a has identified the following areas where Disability. improvements to disability accessibility can be • All Council websites provide ReadSpeaker done: function including an enlarge font button. • Placement of braille signs on toilets; • BRC promoted Glenray Movie Night • Installation of automatic doors on toilets event for International Day of People with and some Council facilities; Disability. • Improve the layout of the visitors • 2019 Jobs Expo attended by Vivability, information Centre to allow easier mobility; Verto, Department of Human Services, Bathurst Seymour Centre, NDIA, Glenray, • Lowering of counter tops at Council Skillset, OCTEC and LiveBetter Community facilities where general public interact with Services. staff; • Disability Service Directory created and • Improve and implement footpath and published on Council’s website. mobility scooter path access; and, • Re-vamp of Council’s ‘People Living with • Provide more disabled parking spots Disability’ web page. around the . Recruitment practices and training Bathurst Regional Council • Training provided to Council staff regarding the Disability Inclusion Action Plan at Year to date Council has 46 actions in induction. progress. 50 actions exist across four areas with five actions complete. Review of actions • Implementation of new recruitment and strategies listed in the Disability Inclusion software. This software asks People Action Plan undertaken. COVID-19 has had a with Disability to specify what additional significant impact on the DIAP with 21 out of requirements they need to assist them the 50 actions affected. during the employment process. • BRC provided paid work opportunities to Disability inclusion initiatives undertaken in the two LiveBetter clients to pack children’s art 2019/2020 financial year include: and craft packs for the Winter Festival and The provision of a range of programs and • Work experience student from Carenne activities School at Bathurst Library 2.5 hours per • The Bathurst Library All Ability Lego Club. week for three months. • Winter Festival Live Better Accessibility Day. 9 Accessible built environments Bathurst Regional Access Committee • Continuing to implement strategies in the • Council continued to support the Bathurst Regional Council Access and activities of the Bathurst Regional Access Cycling Plan 2011 with a focus on the Committee. The Committee meets width of footpaths, access in and around monthly to promote awareness of the playgrounds and parks, maintenance of challenges faced by those with a disability existing pathways and development of in accessing local services and businesses. further pathways. It participates in Council’s development, • The development of sensory garden/ planning and policy processes and also water play area at Park (Adventure provides information on access issues and Playground) was included in the Bathurst lobbies for improvement. 2040 Open Space Strategy. • Council provides • Access and inclusion audits undertaken at ° A venue for the committee to hold its selected Council facilities by Solve Access meetings. Consulting. ° Bathurst access improvement for small • Bathurst Access Improvement for Small business grants totaling $15,000 on an Business Grants continues to be provided annual basis and administrative support with the assistance of the Bathurst Regional for the grant. Access Committee (BRAC). ° Assists the committee with the provision • Council continues to advocate for improved of a councilor delegate. access to shops and businesses through the BCA and DACC assessment processes. Other • A hearing loop has been installed in • Council makes places available within Council’s Chamber. all its Children’s Services programs for children with disability and vulnerable • Continued inspection and maintenance of children at risk of harm. Referrals are made accessible toilets. through the local Child and Family Support • Roll out of street lighting upgrades. Agencies, Early Intervention services and • Charge stations for motorised wheelchairs the Department of Family and Community installed at the Library/Ary Gallery and Services (FACS). Council also provides for BVIC. children with additional care requirements within its Long Day Care Centre Scallywags • Footpath maintenance ongoing with and Bathurst Family Day Care. priorities identified through BRAC. • The Kelso Community Hub, located in • Footpaths constructed in Perthville and Bonnor Street, continued to provide a Trunkey with drought relief funding. community hub of services and activities • Provided advocacy for improvements to for the Kelso community in 2019/2020. Disabled Taxi Services. Specialist activities provided at the hub included: • Provided advocacy for improvements to bus services. ° Disability Advocacy supporting people living with disability and their carers. • Accessible Parking included in CBD Master Plan. Bayside Council • Library/Art Gallery Accessible parking markings completed. Developing positive community attitudes and behaviours • Continued provision of accessible toilets, parking and site access for major events. • Council has created the Bayside Seniors Network to provide support and training for seniors groups.

10 • Council continued to train staff on disability Supporting access to meaningful awareness. employment • 70% of staff are trained in disability • Council continued to provide accessible awareness including Mental Health employment opportunities for staff with Awareness. disability. Creating liveable communities Improving access to mainstream • Council continued to improve access and services through better systems and undertake upgrades of a number of parks processes and playgrounds. For example, Council • Council produced adverting materials for has constructed new accessible toilets, residents in seven community language. accessible ramps and ambulant toilets in The Translating and Interpreting Line (TIS) Rockdale Park, Ador Ave Reserve and Syd is used throughout council. Frost Memorial Hall. • Council’s Have Your Say webpage adheres • Council upgraded AS Tanner indoor archery to the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines community hall to ensure archers using (WCAG) 2.1. wheelchair can compete. • Council’s library service provides access • Council committed $143,000 toward to a broad range of e-resources which creating an accessible play space at are available 24/7. Residents can tailor Studdert Reserve. personal devices to increase volume or • Council run a fortnightly Social Housing magnification to suit their individual access Project (at Eastlakes) in order to increase needs. access to local services for seniors and people living with disability. Bega Valley Shire Council • Council has extended its Home Library Developing positive community Service to include four extra nursing attitudes and behaviours homes. Establish partnerships that address • Council continued to hold pop up libraries community wide barriers to access and in target areas increase accessibility for inclusion seniors and the broader community. • • Council held an accessible event for Access and Inclusion Advisory Committee International Day of Disability in partnership (AIAC) meetings were held on 5/8/19, with Youth 2 Community to run the 12/11/19, 2/3/20 and 11/5/20. The AIAC Disability Yes Project at Rockdale Library in assisted in determining the Community December 2019. Access Improvement Grant program that contributed up to $14,795 to five local • Children’s services received funding projects. They also provided feedback from the Inclusion Support Program on access design to a range of projects (ISP) increasing access for children with including a member advising on major disability. projects by council. This has resulted in • Council’s Community Engagement Strategy important improvements to a range of has been developed with access principles strategies based on advice from the AIAC, to ensure access is always included. including: the development of the Public Toilets Strategy adopted in June 2020; an • Council partnered with COTANSW (Council area to allow for the needs of guide dogs of Aging NSW) to promote the Age Care in the re-design of the airport; Navigator in Eastgardens Library. and a revised and updated community • Council continued to chair St George project proposal form to enable better and Sutherland Disability Interagency to consideration of accessibility issues in include DIAP outcomes such as training for the development applications for these services and people living with disability. projects. 11 • During the 2019/2020 bushfire disaster disability to apply for and participate in Council worked with the Department of work experience in areas of interest within Communities and Justice, NSW Police the organisation. Details of this work and other emergency services on the experience program can be found on the evacuation and accommodation and ‘Careers at Council’ webpage. medical needs of people with a disability. Creating liveable communities The multi-agency Health and Wellbeing Committee was subsequently established Advocate for improved access and with representatives from disability services inclusion outcomes across all levels of to coordinate recovery efforts and ensure Government the needs of people with a disability are considered by all agencies. • Council has continued to advocate for people with disability and their families on Celebrate inclusive practice and access a range of issues including housing and outcomes transport. In 2019/2020 Council actively • Access and inclusion continue to be a focus supported the Physical Disability Council across Council and the Communications NSW’s call for the NSW Government and Events team have used social media, to provide secure, permanent funding media releases, Councils website and for independent disability advocacy, Council’s regular newsletter Council News information and peak representative to promote projects and programs. The organisations in NSW. Council holds annual awards to recognise Contribute towards programs which aim to staff who have worked to uphold the increase social inclusion and community PLaCE values (People matter, Learning is connections important, and we Can do, Engaging the whole organisation is key.) • The Access and Inclusion Advisory Committee awarded access improvement Improve staff awareness of disability grants to Cobargo School of Arts for issues accessible parking, Lions Club • Council’s Corporate induction program for accessible toilets, On the Perch Bird includes a session on Council’s Code of Park for accessible parking and pathway Conduct and PLaCE values (People matter, (funding subsequently returned unspent Learning is important, and we Can do, when the Park decided to close), and Bega Engaging the whole organisation is key). Showground Trust for an access ramp. These sessions provide an overview of The AIAC also invested surplus grant Equal Employment Opportunity legislation funds to upgrade path links amenities BBQ and customer service which includes staff playground at Cocora Beach, construct responsibilities concerning inclusive service accessible furniture and paths at Merimbula provision. Boat Ramp surrounds and improve access from carpark to BBQ facilities at Kianinny • Council engages with its employees Bay, Tathra. through a Consultative Committee which • meets every six weeks. The committee has Council’s library services runs a growing a designated position for a staff member number of inclusive programs such as Bega with disability which focusses on disability Lego Club, Intergenerational Playroom and inclusion and awareness in the workplace. Story time and has begun delivering Story time videos accompanied by AUSLAN • Council applies an Engagement Toolkit interpretation. Our libraries also offer chair which requires employees to consult, yoga videos for those with mobility issues engage, and collaborate with relevant and supports the local Adult Literacy group stakeholders on associated work projects to offer free tuition. and development across the organisation. • In 2019, the library hosted the Wide • Council has a work experience program Angle Film Festival, which screened which supports young people with a 12 award-winning short films reflecting the • Councils Rural Village Playground Program lived experience of people with disability, utilised the Everyone Can Play Guidelines in partnership with Tulgeen Disability to make sure all projects included access Services. improvements. • Children’s Services successfully applied for • Work has continued with Councils Coastal a $3,450 grant under the Disability Inclusion Accessibility Projects (Pambula–Detailed Program (DIP). These small grants (from design and works procurement, Short Point Education NSW) provide additional staff – Detailed concept development, Bruce hours, to enable improved staff: child ratios Steer Pool – Site works Public amenities for children with a disability. The improved and paths) staffing ratios and support for identified Supporting access to meaningful children increases their ability to participate employment in our early childhood education and care programs. Develop and enhance employment • Bega Valley Regional Gallery (BVRG) has opportunities for people with a a long working relationship with Tulgeen disability and deliver continued Support Disability Services operating in the Bega Coordination and plan management for Valley and through this delivers an annual NDIS participants exhibition or similar opportunity. In 2019 • Council is a member of the BVRG initiated a partnership between Region Joint Organisation (CRJO) which Tulgeen, the University of NSW Art & has been developing a regional workforce Design and The Junction Works Disability strategy using research to identify current Services from Western Sydney. This drivers and trends affecting employment involved a peer to peer workshop where in regional NSW. The regional strategy is artists developed animated collages currently in draft form and is expected to be made specifically for the Dream States adopted in 2020/2021 by CRJO members. Come True exhibition. These works were The strategy will include a number of the centre piece for the PARKLIGHT focus areas, one of which will include community art project held in Littleton equal employment opportunities and Gardens Bega on 11 September 2019. support of people with disability in the local Contribute towards liveable and accessible government industry. public places • Following a successful work experience • Council has established a Community placement of a student with a disability, Engagement Strategy which seeks to the library has engaged this student as obtain community input at concept design the first library school-based trainee, who stage on identified projects in public places. will complete a Certificate III in library studies while completing the Higher School • Council’s main administrative building Certificate. is undergoing a redesign to improve the • entrance to customer service and access to To support local employment opportunities Council’s offices. This will include a lift and Council contracts a local disability service connected extension and redesign of the provider to deliver a cleaning service for Regional Gallery. Council’s library.

Increase access to community assets Investigate improvements to the administration building to facilitate • Council has prioritised access outcomes employment opportunities in renewals and upgrades of community • assets. Example projects include the Council’s main administrative building at accessible Tathra Headland Walk and Zingel Place has a fully developed redesign replacement of the fire damaged Tathra plan to improve accessibility for staff Lions viewing platform. and the community. Importantly this will

13 include a lift and improved office access tours have been offered on appropriate throughout. exhibitions. The COVID-19 health crisis provided an impetus for a greater online Provide volunteering opportunities for presence for temporary exhibitions such people with all abilities as offering audience members who cannot • Our library services actively encourage attend in person online interactive 360 and support high school work experience engagement. placements for students with disabilities • The new library and gallery websites and current volunteers with disabilities are W3C compliant for multi device are engaged in digitisation, local history, accessibility. collections and support projects. • The process for developing and monitoring • Bega Valley Regional Gallery has a history the next Disability Inclusion Action Plan of providing volunteering positions for for 2021-25 has been improved to include people of all abilities, including young more engagement with stakeholders people with mental health challenges. and to more fully embed its progress in BVRG is a safe space for all and strives the Integrated Planning and Reporting to provide inclusive and meaningful framework. engagement through contemporary art. Include access and inclusion consideration Improving access to mainstream in project management, design and services through better systems and strategy development processes • All current projects consider access and Continuously improve processes to inclusion design elements in line with achieve access and inclusion outcomes project scope and budgets, the aim being to make improvements to accessibility in the • The library is a cornerstone for inclusive finished outcome. Council applies inclusive community borrowing as it actively collects design principles such as those in the Every materials in a range of accessible formats One can Play Guidelines to identify and for adults and children including books include improvements in recreation project in large print and dyslexic fonts, physical development. audiobooks and audio-readers, electronic audiobooks via a number of free platforms • A Project Management module is in and eBooks and eMagazine platforms with development for Council with specific large print, dyslexic and comfortable font consideration of access and inclusion options. On request the library can source embedded in its process. This will be materials in accessible formats through the implemented in 2020/2021. State Library of NSW and inter library loan. How we are meeting the needs of • Library services are delivered through people with disability a range of accessible options such as • Council has implemented a range of live web chat, phone and email plus a actions to meet the needs of people Home Library Service that delivers library with a disability, including through the materials to those who cannot access improvement of communication and the library due to medical reasons. This engagement strategies; local and State service was expanded in response to advocacy on disability issues; and asset COVID-19 and renamed Library Link, to improvements that offer increased deliver materials to anyone who has trouble accessibility for people with a disability. accessing the library due to disability, Council is also looking closely at how health vulnerability or lack of connectivity. inclusion can drive local economic benefits • The Gallery is also a keen user of new through an accessible tourism strategy technologies for improving inclusive access. and encouraging businesses to embrace Over the past 12 months descriptive audio inclusion in their practices.

14 Challenges and successes in delivering • Councils Customer and Business Services the DIAP team organised and promoted RU OK Day within Council. • The major bushfires of 2019/2020 and the subsequent COVID-19 pandemic • Council received funding for the Suicide has affected all areas of council business Prevention Project through the Primary including service closures, infrastructure Health Network to deliver actions to reduce damage, reduced staff on-site and suicide, including events, resources and volunteer numbers. Our bushfires also training opportunities. highlighted the need for more accessible • Opportunities have been promoted to and appropriate evacuation facilities for disability service providers for people of all people with disability. This will be a major abilities to perform at Council led events at project of advocacy and planning during the interagency meetings and through specific recovery and preparation for future events. networks. • A key challenge of the DIAP is to ensure • Council became members of Sport NSW to that its actions provide meaningful and support more inclusive sports opportunities. measurable progress towards inclusion. A proposed all ability sports day was The next DIAP (to cover the period 2021- postponed but resources on how to make 25) will have its progress identified through activity more inclusive were distributed to clear measures and embedded through local sporting clubs. its connection to the fully implemented • Integrated Planning and Reporting Council became members of the Dorrigo framework. Urunga Bellingen Suicide Prevention Action Network steering committee and have • The DIAP has provided a focus for inclusive supported the development of a program of activity and for the work of the Access and mental health training in this role. Inclusion Advisory Committee (AIAC). The • combination of the AIAC, the DIAP and Investigate provision of swimming lessons Council’s planned approach to disability for children with Sensory Processing inclusion has driven many improvements challenges - waiting for feedback from over the last 12 months and the preceding pool operators about all abilities swimming three years. One example of Council lessons. intentionally growing its resources is the Creating liveable communities library evolving its website, providing large • format books, audio books, web chat and Regular engagement has occurred with the expanding its home library services to community to gain insight on issues relating better reach those isolated by age and to the public toilets in the Bellingen Shire. disability, particularly during the COVID-19 • The provision of MLAK toilets have been pandemic. promoted on Councils website. Information on the National Public Toilet map has been Bellingen Shire Council updated. Developing positive community • Footpath renewals have occurred in the attitudes and behaviours Dorrigo and Urunga areas of the Bellingen Shire in the last 12 months. • The availability of tether points in the • The pedestrian crossing in Dorrigo are Bellingen Shire has been assessed for the being modified as part of the Dorrigo suitability of their locations. In addition, Roundabout project and as a result will be many food businesses have been spoken more user friendly for wheelchair users. to ensure dogs are tethered appropriately and to reduce the risk of them being a trip • The installation of Tactile Ground Surface hazard. In addition, a fact sheet for the Indicators are integrated into new community on assistance animals has been pedestrian crossings and access points prepared. including the new crossing points as part of the Dorrigo Roundabout project. 15 • Footpaths around the Shire have been it more accessible to people with reduced assessed using Councils Reflect system. mobility and wheelchair users. This assessment continues to be used to • Recycled plastic decking has been installed prioritise the importance of repairs and at the beach at Urunga to improve access maintenance works. to the water for wheelchair users. • Funding was received to upgrade Supporting access to meaningful Coronation Park in Dorrigo and the project employment is in progress. This will include new inclusive playground equipment. • Council is an inclusive employer. • Funding was received to upgrade • A new layout for the office spaces at Coronation Park in Dorrigo which in Council Chambers, has been completed addition to new footpaths will include an which includes an additional meeting additional disability parking space, inclusive room accessible via an existing ramp; the playground equipment, a toilet block with circulation paths are of 120cm wide to two accessible stalls and a BBQ shelter allow a wheelchair and appropriately sized with three accessible tables and two door width. An additional two offices are accessible BBQs. also accessible via an existing ramp with • The availability of resources has been appropriate path and door width to the promoted including at meetings and offices are SAB. interagencies, through email networks and • The new layout of the entire administration on the Council website. building now allows circulation paths for a • Community Transport have continued to wheelchair. promote the services they deliver to the • The new layout at the Raleigh depot community. This was especially beneficial allows for wheelchair circulation. We have at the beginning of the COVID pandemic. put the masonry walls down to create • Content on scooter safety and life after an open space, hence enhancing the licenses was produced for the Dorrigo circulation possibilities. An existing outside Support Centre newsletter and the Aged ramp, under a generous cover allows a Care Network. wheelchair to access to the facilities and to the new meeting room. Access to the • Discussion occurred about holding a training remains on ground level, easily transport forum in Dorrigo. This was accessible. planned to be incorporated into an expo on Living Well scheduled to take place in April Improving access to mainstream but postponed due to COVID-19. services through better systems and processes • Council has continued to have a strong focus on inclusive tourism and has • Increasing representation of people with conducted professional development lived experience with access and inclusion workshops for accommodation operators challenges on council committees continues in the Shire. A greater investment into to be a goal for Council even though there accessible accommodation has been made is no official advisory committee model. by tourism operators in the Shire. Council Council have other committees that include is in the process of developing an Inclusive people with lived experience of access and Tourism Strategy as part of its new inclusion challenges. Economic Development and Tourism Plan. • There have been no requests for public • Cleaning and removal of vegetation has consultation documents in large print, occurred throughout the year as part of the but Customer and Business Services Council works program. are available to produce a larger print document if required. • Modifications have been made to the Mylestom ocean viewing Platform making

16 • Council are purchasing a new website • Dementia Friendly Community – Council platform which will be checked against customer service and Library Services web content accessibility guidelines and staff participated in Dementia Awareness tested by people with lived experience of Training. disabilities. Creating liveable communities • Council events have microphones and • large name tags can be made available on Continued implementation of Berrigan Shire request. Pedestrian Access and Mobility Plans – extension of accessible path network. • Councils Community Engagement Platform, • Create, has been developed in line with Construction of family friendly and meeting or exceeding WCAG 2.0, the accessible facilities Collie Park. current global web accessibility standard. In • Redevelopment of Library – addition, there are resources on the site for extension increased accessibility of the specific set up requirements. Library. • Requests for community directories in large • Installation of new fully accessible public print have not been received but Customer toilets – Railway Park, Finley and local and Business Services may be available to cemeteries. produce a larger print sections if required Supporting access to meaningful on a case by case basis. employment • Berrigan Shire Council Commenced review of human resource operations. Developing positive community attitudes and behaviours • Continued liaison with workplace insurer on improving access to meaningful • Access at a Glance Project Terms of employment for workers injured at work or Reference Agreed and Advisory Group outside of work. Established as a Partnership with Intereach Ability Links: peer assessors trained in EEO plan assessing venues ongoing until halted due • In April, 2014, Council reviewed its Equal to COVID19. Employment Opportunity requirements • Planning for the Hosting of Tri-State Games under the Local Government Act 1993, Ch. 2020 and 2021 (Social Games: An event 11, Part 4, and implemented changes that for Disabled Athletes representing NSW; included: Victoria and South ) – this event is ° Separation and development of the now on hold due to COVID19. Discrimination, Workplace Bullying • Dementia Friendly Community – Council and Harassment Policy, and the Equal customer service and Library Services Employment. Opportunity Policy. staff participated in Dementia Awareness ° Development of the Equal Employment Training Access at a Glance Project Terms Opportunity Management Plan. of Reference Agreed and Advisory Group Established as a Partnership with Intereach • The Equal Employment Opportunity Ability Links: peer assessors trained in Policy outlines Council’s assessing venues ongoing until halted due commitment to EEO practices, to COVID19. and responsibilities for ensuring our workplace is fair and free from • Planning for the Hosting of Tri-State Games discrimination. 2020 and 2021 (Social Games: An event for Disabled Athletes representing NSW; • The Equal Employment Victoria and South Australia) – this event is Management Plan (EEO Plan) has now on hold due to COVID19. been designed to work in with the

17 Berrigan Shire Council Workforce ° Accessible Event Checklist Policy. Development Plan, incorporating the ° Advocacy on making visible signs on provisions as outlined in the Local accessible parking in the CBD. Government Act 1993, and states Council’s objectives for achieving • An information banner for International Day compliance and eliminating for People with Disability was displayed discrimination in the workplace. this year amidst Blacktown Communities and the Blacktown City Access Advisory • The EEO Plan is a dynamic Committee formed a subcommittee that document outlining actions for was responsible for the planning of 2019 Council which include: Blacktown Celebrates International Day of ° Ongoing policy review. People with Disability (International Day for ° Distribution of information and People with Disability). awareness sessions relating to equal • 2019/2020 was the third year of the Talent employment opportunity. Showcase and first Year of Disability ° Ongoing position description review. Awards. This is an awards event for disability leadership and achievement ° Succession planning, training recognising and celebrating the opportunities and career progression for extraordinary contributions and leadership EEO target groups. shown by people with disability, their ° Collection of relevant EEO information. careers, advocates and local disability service providers in Blacktown City. This • Reporting Requirement Local Government award event reflects what is important to (General) Regulation 2005 cl 217 (1) (a9) people with disability; and services, and Improving access to mainstream the ways that are affecting change and services through better systems and pursuing access, inclusion and equity for processes our community. The award event also recognises outstanding achievements • Council continues to monitor and is by individuals, or disability services, who implementing its online and website have significantly contributed to advancing accessibility improvement program. the status of people with disability in the Blacktown community. Blacktown City Council • Over 400 People with disability, carers, Developing positive community advocate, service provider and other attitudes and behaviours members of the community attended this event. The following actions were undertaken and • There were Four winners and several progress made: Finalists in the following categories: • Council has an Access Advisory Committee ° Inspirational Person of the year award. and this Committee has raised or been involved in the following access issues and ° Community Advocate of the year award. carried out advocacies resulting in: ° Inspirational Young Person of the year ° Accessible Playground Checklist – (aged under 21) award. Done through Recreation Planning and ° Volunteer of the Year award. Design–Checklist was tested at a local ° park and is now used by Recreation Organisation or Business of the Year Planning and Design. award. • ° Access Advisory Committee supported A media release was done from Council community advocacy for a Lift at media unit prior to 2019 International Day Doonside train station one of the busiest for People with Disability. There were three train stations in NSW.

18 events held in Blacktown City. All the events • Transport Forum held in November 2019, were supported by Council including accessible and community ° 3 December 2019: Council-Talent transport on the agenda. Showcase & Disability Awards: 10am– Supporting access to meaningful 2pm at Blacktown RSL Club. employment ° 4 December 2019 – Community • Council’s recruitment and selection Event- Picnic in the Park: 10am–2pm, procedures, including advertising of vacant at Blacktown Showground, Richmond positions, are inclusive for those applicants Road, Blacktown. who identify a disability. There has been ° 8 December 2019 - Special Olympics no evidence of incidences of discriminatory SOAR and ROAR Festival: 9am–3pm, conduct in relation to the recruitment and Sydney Motorsport Park (Blacktown local selection process. government area). • Council has gathered employees who have • Council has a Disability webpage and identified as having disability. There are this webpage was updated during the nine people who have identified as having 2019/2020 calendar/financial year with disability. This includes eight permanent relevant information and links to relevant and one casual employee. services that people with disability will use. • The corporate induction checklist provides • Please refer to https://www.blacktown .nsw. for information to be included that will allow gov.au/Community/Our-people/ People- for reasonable adjustment in the workplace with-disability. for existing and new staff with disability. • An access awareness instruction is Creating liveable communities included in training attendance notices • Blacktown City have a disability purpose to ensure that all reasonable access is centre-The Sargent Centre. This Centre provided to learners. has Sensory rooms and other facilities for Improving access to mainstream People with Disability and their Services. This Centre is been promoted to People services through better systems and with Disability and their support networks. processes Moreover, the Centre is been promoted • Blacktown City Libraries has the following by Community Development Officer equipment at Max Webber Library: (Multicultural & Disability) through handing ° Large print hi-contrast keyboard. the Centre flyers at network meetings, Community forums and Expos. The ° Large screens. Centre is also promoted through email ° Toilets have external braille signage. and telephone contact from Community members. ° Disability toilet has a MLAK key. • Council designs all new buildings to comply • In 2020 Reader pens have been purchased with the National Building Code which with the intention of making them available addresses Disability Discrimination Act. for in-house use. (These pens will read the printed word when sliding over the text). • Council endeavours to remove all trip edges on the path paving by grinding or • Staff have been supportive during events reconstructing path paving. (particularly story time) to wear the special Assistive Listening Device (ALD) when • Council Asset Planning tam inspects all provided by the client. path paving on a regular basis for further action for maintenance. • The Blacktown City library has materials in 30 languages in collection. This includes • All new/upgraded bus shelters comply with DVDs, children’s books, magazines Disability Discrimination Act requirements. and fiction and nonfiction. We also keep ephemeral material in community 19 languages, such as government brochures quality early childhood education program explaining a range of services and on the same basis as all children. We information. currently have children across three of our • Council also utilises the service from the preschool services accessing this funding. State Library of NSW to borrow languages • Blacktown City Council Kids’ Early Learning we do not hold for our clients. has continued to facilitate relationships with agencies such as the department of • The library purchases a range of resources education and NDIS providers for individual to assist people with reading disabilities for support for specific children. Over the past a range of ages: eight months Kids’ Early Learning has ° Large print items in adults and children’s developed a partnership with the STaR collections. association which has seen an outreach ° Spoken word in adult and children program provided to all KEL services. collections. • The STaR Outreach connects the expertise ° Read along for children where the of the STaR team to our KEL community audible and book are combined. educational services and families of young children. The outreach program provides Currently these items equate to 5.9% of the experts with high-level knowledge and skills total lending collection. in special education to work within our early • Blacktown City Library also has 2,759 childhood and in support for families of e-Audio books (as of 7 July 2020) where children with disability. It is a collaborative the client can download the item at any time consultancy model in which the knowledge at their convenience Blacktown City Library and skills of the family are recognised along also purchases many eBooks where the with those of the professionals involved. client can alter the print on their device to How have you determined that you’re suit their needs. meeting the needs of people with • In 2020 Blacktown City Council Library disability? purchased a special collection of titles in • junior fiction to suit clients with dyslexia. We conduct review of current DIAP by requesting for update on action from • Blacktown City Council Kids’ Early Learning stakeholders each year. (KEL) long day care services have been • approved for funding from the Australian The Disability Inclusion Action Plan is Governments Inclusion support program currently been reviewed for updating. (ISP), the Inclusion Development Funding • Council has engaged a Consultant to allows services to engage an additional update the plan through research and educator to assist with providing care to consultation with community members, children with additional needs. Disability Service providers, Access • The Blacktown City Council Kids’ Early Advisory Committee and Council staff Learning currently has approval for this members. support subsidy in 7 Kids’ Early Learning • Council has formed an Access Advisory long day care services, applicable to 17 Committee to inform and advise Council on children across the services with varying Access and Inclusion Issues. needs. • Three community consultations with People • Blacktown City Council Kids’ Early Learning with Disability, Advocates and Service preschool services has also applied for providers were carried out in 2019/2020 by the Early Childhood Education Disability the Consultant updating the new DIAP. and Inclusion Program. The purpose of the • New proposed actions are currently been funding is to support and enable children obtained feedback and discussed with with disability and additional needs in stakeholders. community preschools to participate in a

20 • We conduct Feedback from the disability, advocates, carers and general International Day for People with Disability community members to discuss issues events held each year. related to disability. • To prepare for the review, there were few • The Blacktown local government area information session briefings held for Disability Interagency meeting objectives Council Section Managers, Blacktown City are: Raising Awareness, Capacity Building, Council Library Teams as well as Blacktown Inclusion, Networking, Collaboration. City Council Access Advisory Committee. • The Blacktown local government area Describe your challenges and Disability Interagency Meetings are successes in delivering on your parts organised and convened by Community of the DIAP Development Officer (Multicultural & Disability). • Blacktown is a City of diverse cultures – a home to around 486,000 people • Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic 2019/ representing around 188 birthplaces and 2020, these meetings we held via zoom in 182 languages. Blacktown City is the 2020. Here are a few highlights: second largest local government area in ° Monthly Zoom meetings were held in NSW. 2020. • With the increasing population diversity, ° Bi-monthly face to face meetings were there is a need for increase in financial and held in 2019. human resources to do comprehensive ° Over 30-40 Service providers, People inclusion works in the City. with Disability, Advocates and general • Council does not have a designated Community members attend this Disability Inclusion Officer. meeting. • Blacktown City Council DIAP is also not a ° Different guest speakers from Disability core work plan of most sections of Council related sector presented at each of these and as such it has not yet been embedded meeting. into the day to day work practices. This will ° Information share and networking. take some time. • Most sections of Council are yet to fully grasp the concept and need of NSW Bland Shire Council Disability Act. Developing positive community • There is current work on CBD attitudes and behaviours enhancement going on which will impact on • Disability awareness training to be offered accessible map updates. to senior staff as required. • There are huge collaborations from • The Disability Inclusion Action Plan has services at the Blacktown Local been discussed at MANEX, reviewed at a Government Area Disability Interagency. Council meeting and made available to all Is there anything else you’re doing or staff throughout the organisation with staff planning for the future to contribute encouraged to familiarise themselves with the document. to greater outcomes for people with disability? • Basic bullying and harassment training held for all new staff in 2019 as part of induction • Blacktown City Council – Community process with EEO, anti-discrimination and Development Unit has organised and disability inclusion included. Councils. started the – Blacktown local government area Disability Interagency. • Community Access Policy and Guide to Communicating with People with a • This interagency is a platform that brings Disability reviewed in 2019. together service providers, people with

21 • People with disabilities and their carers and advocate for people with disabilities encouraged to provide feedback to Council particularly around the implementation in the development of the Disability of the NDIS and access to local service Inclusion Action Plan. provision. • Community education session held around • Stadium access improvement initiated mental health and psychosocial disabilities through Community Reference Group. in Youth Mental Health First Aid course. Supporting access to meaningful • Partnered with a multitude of local employment organisations and High Schools to delivery • presentations from motivational speaker Council conducted an access audit as part Ben Pettingill. of its most recent Access Map update. • • Information regarding Councils Access Council has approved an access grant for Incentive Scheme Grant stream published the improvement of access at the West in Council Notices and on Social Media. Stadium to support people with disability. • Successful International Day of People with • Disability Day celebrations held in 2019 Fire Warden training scheduled for early with successful screening of the acclaimed 2020 has been postponed as a result of the movie ‘The Upside’. COVID-19 pandemic. This training will be held later in 2020. Creating liveable communities • Training will be made available to people People with disability live in accessible and with disabilities to assist them in the well designed communities with opportunity workplace as required. for full inclusion in social, economic, sporting • Special provisions are made for people and cultural life. with disabilities when undergoing the • Plans are in place to complete works on the recruitment process. Stadium to ensure ease of • All Council position descriptions have been access for people with mobility issues. updated and are compiled to accord with • Council’s Disability Access Map was document accessibility standards. updated in 2019. Improving access to mainstream • The Mobility Access Map is available on services through better systems and Council’s website and will be promoted on processes social media throughout the year. • Available technology is promoted on • Information on Australian access design Councils website and across social media. requirements and compliance standards is • Discussions held with a number of service readily available on Councils website. providers to improve understanding of the • Councils Access Incentive Scheme Grant needs of people with disability and their fund was promoted across social and print carers. media during the 2019/2020 financial year. • Council has just moved to a new and far • Installation of new accessible public toilets more user friendly website platform to within the shire. enable better online access for residents and users. • Funds allocated to Councils Access Incentive Scheme Grant for the 2020/2021 • Council utilises user friendly fonts, text size financial year. and colours in all outgoing documentation. • Installation of new accessible public toilets • Council works to ensure all documents are in the villages of and . compatible with adobe reader. • Support and assistance provided to a • Investigations and updates ongoing within multitude of organisations who work with Council in relation to accessible documents.

22 • Customer satisfaction community forums ° Lyndhurst: Selby St - Mid Western Hwy - were undertaken in February 2020. Mount McDonald Road. • Community Reference Group meetings are • Mandurama: Gold St Millthorpe: Redmond held bi-monthly with community members Oval Millthorpe: Blake St Renewals encouraged to voice any access issues or completed: concerns. ° Blayney: Ogilvy St between Adelaide St • Council has created portable disabled and Farm Ln, Blayney parking signs for use at events to ensure ° Park St, entry to Redmond Oval, events are access friendly. Millthorpe Spot renewals and repairs • Event accessibility checklist used and site completed: Blayney: Maple Crescent, audits conducted during event planning to Napier, Adelaide, and Binstead Streets. ensure all events are access friendly where ° Carcoar: Icely St. possible. ° Mandurama: Cooper, Olive, Loquat and • Internal processes are adapted on an Gold Streets. individual basis as required. ° Millthorpe: Victoria and Park Streets. • All Council staff have been provided with a copy of the Disability Inclusion Action Plan • Council has budget provision and advises and instructed to familiarise themselves business of its Access Consulting Support with the document and the requirements Program. The program assists businesses noted. by providing preliminary accessibility compliance advice triggered when a • The DIAP is acknowledged in Councils IPR Construction Certificate is lodged. documentation (action 5.1.2). • Everyone Can Play principles included in concept planning for future open space at Blayney Shire Council Beaufort St Blayney. Developing positive community • New compliant public toilets completed attitudes and behaviours at Barry Hall and Carcoar Sportsground, • As documents are published a review for including accessible parking and pathways. inclusiveness is undertaken. • Shared path concept completed to provide • Induction process with new staff and future connection from Martin St to Martha Training Plan inclusive of Disability St, Blayney. Awareness Training adopted. • Central West Equestrian and Livestock • Council has budget provision and advises Centre includes accessible parking and business of its Access Consulting Support pathways. Program. The program assists businesses • All Construction Certificate applications are by providing preliminary accessibility assessed in accordance with the Building compliance advice triggered when a Code of Australia and the Disability (Access Construction Certificate is lodged. to Premises - Buildings) Standards 2010. Creating liveable communities • Access consulting offered to businesses • Active Movement Strategy Works in pre DA advice, however none used the completed: service in 2019/2020. ° Blayney: Martin St - Farm Lane - • Accessible outcomes were included in part - Ogilvy St - Adelaide St, D of the Development Control Plan (DCP) Blayney. 2018. ° Blayney: Adelaide St - Martha St. • Event Management Plan promotes accessible events. ° Carcoar: Icely St.

23 • Accessibility, assessed as part of proposed • Development of a volunteer policy to renewals and upgrades as project and ensure that it is inclusive of people with funding becomes available. disability. • 2018 audit of accessible car parking within • Review of Equal Employment Opportunity the Blayney Shire completed, costings to Management Plan in progress. undertake compliance upgrades are yet to • Investigated and considered utilisation of be completed. services and activities offered by disability • Library Project funded new access doors services programs. Completed. and accessible toilets. • Interagency meetup supported. Hosted by • Social Futures proposed to undertake the Council. No meeting held in last quarter due Access at a Glance project in Blayney to to COVID-19. create a digital online map identifying all Improving access to mainstream facilities and business that are accessible services through better systems and during 2020. Project was de-funded late 2019. Everywhere Venues confirmed processes the project shut down but have offered • Principles of access inclusion in Media and that Blayney list all its venues on their Publications. online platform https://everywherevenues. • Operational Plan included program with com as an online alternative to the State $5K funding to be used as a contribution to Government Project. assist businesses if they require an access • Through the Event management approval consultant report when lodging a DA and/or process event organisers are asked to CC. consider accessible facilities and parking • Council’s communication practices with event planning. Associated information reviewed. Council website improved to is also provided. include features to cater for the hearing and • Program was proposed to be undertaken in visually impaired. partnership with adjoining Councils. • BSC 2020 (10 year) Active Movement • Program of authorisation and engagement Strategy, Draft 2020/2021 Operational Plan, with schools required. Not yet commenced. Draft 2020/2021 to 2023/2024 Delivery Council continues to support of Interagency Plan, Draft Belubula River Precinct, and delivery of services to people with Carcoar Amenities Plans, CWELC plans, disability. CentrePoint Major Upgrade plans, KGO • NSW Companion Card holder fee (free concept plans all provided to Access entry) to access CentrePoint Sport & Committee for comment. Leisure Centre included in 2020/2021 • Design staff have previously undertaken Operational Plan fees & charges and accessibility training. endorsed by Council at June 2020 meeting. • Construction staff routinely reminded to Supporting access to meaningful maintain vigilance when preparing works for employment construction, and direct concerns to design staff for potential changes. • Recruitment information available from council website that includes features to cater for the hearing and visually impaired. Blue Mountains City Council Council continues to promote itself as an Developing positive community Equal Opportunity employer. attitudes and behaviours • We make reasonable adjustments to • Through coordination and facilitation of workplaces to facilitate work placement Council’s Access Advisory Committee opportunities for people with disability. meetings, Council has regular input from people with a disability, including people

24 with a vision and/or hearing impairment, significant achievement with NSW National people with dementia and people with Parks and Wildlife Service. The direct autism on providing equal access. Over consultation with people with a disability the past 12 months this was particularly and service providers at both forums, has valuable for input into the Council City Deal given an understanding on the need for Liveability Projects: inclusion to all to National Parks in the local government area. ° Glenbrook District park ° Springwood Library Creating liveable communities ° Springwood Town Centre • Through provision of lift and change facilities at the Blue Mountains Cultural ° Wentworth Falls Lake and Centre there are now three Lift and Change ° Katoomba Aquatic Centre facilities across the Blue Mountains – Blue Mountains Community Hub, Springwood, Input from the Committee on the design of the Visitor Information Centre, Echo Point the Liveability projects ensured inclusivity Katoomba, and the Blue Mountains Cultural for all members of the community, not just Centre, Katoomba. A further facility is being those affected by physical access: e.g. completed at the Visitor Information Centre, providing a time-out area for children with Glenbrook. autism and consideration for a dementia- friendly library layout. • An inclusive play space at the Glenbrook District Park will be launched in February • Council’s Master Local Key Brochure 2021, as part of a redevelopment of this (MLAK) was updated to include additional facility. accessibility facilities and to advise people with a disability and their carers of the • The replacement of a standard non- facilities available fitted with the MLAK key accessible bus with a new 14 – 16 seater system. The MLAK brochure is available at low floor wheelchair accessible bus will Council libraries, Council Customer service allow people with a disability and those with centres, and distributed to the community mobility limitations, to access recreational via the Community Care Forum and Access areas and community events. The bus Advisory Committee. is a milestone achievement in improving transport opportunities to people with a • Mental Health Awareness Training was disability in the Blue Mountains. provided to a wide range of Council staff, including Risk Assessment de-escalation • The adoption of new stainless steel tactile for front-line workers, in the context of surfaces standard endorsed by Council, increased challenging interactions in ensures tactile surfaces are more durable 2020. The training sessions included and user friendly, allowing people with a direct experience of communicating with vision impairment to use facilities safely. people with a mental health issue, and • Through consultation with Vision Australia, understanding of the stigma associated with Council installed hardwood timber landings mental health issues and other conditions to provide a visual and textural contrast in e.g. epilepsy, autism. Staff reported at the place of elevated steel, along with a new end of the training, being better equipped to section of walking track with an accessible communicate with people with a disability night-lit walk. As a result, user experience and build positive relationships with them. has been made more inclusive to the Three • Advice was provided to NSW National Sisters lookout, which is one of the most Parks and Wildlife Service on the visited tourist destinations in NSW. importance of inclusion and access for • Through the Assets Work plan, Council has people with a disability using National Parks provided over 270 metres of accessible via the Council Access Advisory Committee footpaths to connect the areas Hazelbrook and Community Care Forum. This was a with Hazelbrook town centre.

25 • Partnered with State rail to provide advice people with disability from this process will on best practice in design for upgrades to assist in Council’s advocacy on behalf of Hazelbrook, Falconbridge and Lapstone people with disability and inform Council’s train stations. Disability work plan in future years. • Provide an all inclusive three bay swing • Community engagement has been replacement including rubberised soft complicated by COVID19 restrictions fall at Wilson Park Wentworth Falls Play and the recent bushfires earlier this year, Equipment. Council has continued to seek feedback from people with a disability through: • Undertake inclusive play upgrades to Summerhayes Park Winmalee and ° Councils Monthly Access Advisory Springwood toddlers park. Committee. Supporting access to meaningful ° Community Care Forum. employment ° Informal consultations with people with a • Continuation of implementation of Councils disability and Online Council “Have Your trainee program for people with a disability Say” Survey for each project undertaken. at Council. • Council will continue ascertain the needs Improving access to mainstream of people with a disability through these services through better systems and channels. Consultation is incorporated processes into Councils Master planning statements, future Capital works Program and PAMP • Consultants have been engaged, to Projects to ensure the Council is meeting consult with people with a disability, the needs of people with a disability and their vision impaired and Dementia Australia, carers. to produce a report on key elements to consider when developing signage is being Describe your challenges and prepared. A Working Group from across successes in delivering on your parts the relevant Council teams will develop the of the DIAP Accessible Signage Strategy, which will • Consultation work is required across identify a suite of accessible signage for Council to include key areas in the both the local natural and urban areas. planning and implementation of the DIAP • Council now ensures incorporation of Actions. Progress in this area includes the accessibility and inclusion best practice incorporation of the DIAP considerations considerations through its Environmental into the Asset Works Planning and Impact Assessment Process (Part 5) for budgeting system, as well as increased all internal Development Applications and presentation by staff with the Access Council activities. Advisory Committee. The Liveability Projects has raised awareness of the DIAP • Council’s DIAP implementation is across Council areas and shows that is a now incorporated in new asset works “living document”. management system. Modifications to Council’s Asset Works planning and Is there anything else you’re doing or budgeting system allows for DIAP planning for the future to contribute priorities to be identified in design and to greater outcomes for people with implementation. disability? How have you determined that you’re • In the development of the Accessible meeting the needs of people with Signage Strategy, Council will also review disability? relevant marketing and publications documents and website, to achieve • Council completed community engagement higher than the Australian Standards in phase of Disability Services and Needs communications. research during 2019. Feedback from

26 • Post COVID19 Council will undertake Bourke Shire Council further Mobility Consultation with people with a disability for the townships of Leura, Some of the DIAP’s key achievements for this Wentworth Falls and Katoomba. Following year include: from an initial Mobility Study of Springwood, • The installation of additional disable Winmalee and Blackheath, these three parking, ramps and tactile paving included upper mountains townships are identified in the Main Street upgrade. as the priority in consultation at the Access • Upgrade at the Back O’ Bourke Exhibition Advisory Committee and Community Care Centre to include access for persons with Forum. The Mobility Studies will make disabilities. recommendations for improvement in disabled access through Councils PAMP, • Installation of toilets with disability access at Active Transport Links and Master Planning North Bourke, Enngonia and Central Park. upgrades. Council has a comprehensive EEO Management Plan: Bogan Shire Council • To ensure that management and all Bogan Shire Council takes pride in its ability employees understand EEO and Anti- to provide a comfortable country lifestyle. In Discrimination principles and their order to achieve this we must recognise a responsibilities in relation to them, and the socially just community is one where everyone EEO and Anti-Discrimination Management has fair and equal access to services. It is Plan, and its implementation. important to acknowledge some people need • To ensure the active participation of more support than others. Council recognises all employees and relevant unions in older people and people with a disability decision making about the EEO and Anti- as being in need of this additional level of Discrimination Management Plan and its support. implementation. Council has progressed the following • To review recruitment policies and practices initiatives from the DIAP: to ensure they conform with EEO and • Council recognises International Day for Anti- Discrimination principles and to People with Disabilities. demonstrate fair practice. It will also provide opportunity for increased representation of • Liaise with the Interagency Group for ways EEO and Anti-Discrimination target groups to provide opportunities for people with in the various areas of Council employment. disabilities. • To ensure that the Selection Committee • Attend Interagency Meetings and ensure members have sufficient skills and are fully disability opportunity remains on agenda. aware of, and implement the principles of • Accessible toilet and change facilities at EEO and Anti-Discrimination. Larkin Oval. • To ensure that the various Council • Appropriate Shade over the Liberty Swing. workplaces and facilities are accessible to people with physical disabilities. • An accessible front counter. • To give the opportunity for people with • Accessible and safe footpaths. a physical disability to gain a place in • Explore funding options to extend footpath Council’s workforce. network. • To ensure that appointment, promotion and • Sufficient disabled car parking in transfer policies and practices conform with CBD. EEO and Anti-Discrimination principles and to demonstrate fair practice.

27 • To increase the representation of women Supporting access to meaningful and other minority groups, in which they are employment currently under represented in Council. • Develop Council’s Workforce Management • To implement and maintain an accessible Strategy to include best practice guidelines and effective grievance procedure for inclusion. Over the next year Council will be reviewing • Review recruitment processes, forms and the current DIAP commencing the language for accessibility. development of a new plan with will outline • Provide information and training for Council the practical steps Council will take over the supervisors/managers in order to increase next four (4) years to create a more inclusive their knowledge and skill. community for people with disability. • Continue to conduct and respond to staff disability inclusion survey. Brewarrina Shire Council Improving access to mainstream Building positive attitudes and services through better systems and behaviours processes • Audit website to ensure that images include • Develop a fact sheet to assist Brewarrina people with disabilities and that language is Shire Council customer service staff appropriate. respond to queries regarding services for • Develop and facilitate Disability Awareness people with disabilities. Training for staff (other than induction • Develop plan for Website content training). compliance with disability standards. Creating liveable communities • Investigate technologies to enhance the • Continue to provide community events that accessibility of customer service experience promote connected communities that are all across Council. access friendly. How have you determined that you’re • Promote universal design practices to home meeting the needs of people with owners, house designers, and builders. disability? • Audit activities and events run by Council When Council has feedback we take it for accessibility. on board and try to action immediately. • Progress actions in Council’s Pedestrian Council employs a community development Access Mobility Plan. coordinator that has daily interactions with • Investigate improvement to pedestrian our town’s most vulnerable, council also crossing in the Brewarrina main street. chairs the Interagency; this provides optimum opportunities for those in need to raise their • Review seating provision in Brewarrina concerns. Main Street. Describe your challenges and • Source funding for all abilities play successes in delivering on your parts equipment to improve playgrounds of the DIAP throughout the Shire. • Assist ageing and disability service Council challenges consist of the remoteness providers as required in the changing of our area, as well as finding local trade’s climate of the National Disability Insurance people to be able to carry out the work Scheme. that is needed However, most of what we are required to do in the DIAP is already • Audit Council buildings and facilities to embedded in councils practices and planning. ensure accessibility compliance.

28 Is there anything else you’re doing or Development and Compliance staff to planning for the future to contribute develop alternative formats in Word, PDF, to greater outcomes for people with PowerPoint. disability? • Supporting Assets and Infrastructure team to enhance disability confidence and Council is very inclusive of people with communication skills. disabilities and we ensure that if we are doing renovations or works to any Council • Provision of training to Library, Events and infrastructure we include all abilities access. Art Gallery/Museum staff to gain awareness of needs of children with autism. • Source grant funding to install chair lift at the pool. • Provision of training to Library, Events and Art Gallery/Museum staff to develop Social Stories to assist children with autism. Broken Hill Council • Provision of Awareness and Training Developing positive community programs for Council staff to ensure services attitudes and behaviours can be provided in an inclusive manner. • Customer Service Framework incorporates • Annual hosting of programs/events including inclusion and accessibility awareness and disability as part of the human experience and effective methods for communication with cultural expression. customers who may have a disability. Creating liveable communities • Website Content Accessibility Guidelines awareness and compliance training provided • Funding received from Roads and Maritime to staff who create content for Social Media, Services to develop a city-wide Pedestrian Open Forms and Open Cities formats. • Access and Mobility Plan; the Plan upgraded • Staff attended autism awareness training. to an Active Transport Plan (ATP) which also incorporates a bike plan. ATP priorities • Inclusion awareness campaigns reviewed, consultation and progress of conducted with the Library holding Story ATP and the footpath works to be reported time during Hearing Awareness Week Council. and the GeoCentre hosting the Annual Lifeline Art Exhibition. Supported the NDIS • Patton Park Refurbishment Project information and preplanning hubs, National including state-of-the-art amenities unit that Reconciliation Week, Positive Partnerships is fully accessible to Australian Standards Autism Awareness, Inclusive Tourism Online and Legislation. Learning (internal promotion), Stress Down • Advertising and marketing information Day and International Day of People with a introduced for the Art Gallery and GeoCentre. Disability community event. Information uploaded to Council webpage. • Hosted programs/events with disability and • The Library established the following for inclusion as part of human experience, at the ATSI people: a collection of Early Literacy Library and workshops for Marri Ma Health resources; engaged with aboriginal group clients at the Gallery. community in holding NAIDOC Story time session in Library; engaged with In progress: Community Hub 123 regarding mini library • Developing Council Inclusion Awareness and planning future programs at centre. training materials for inclusion in induction • The Library supported the community to and/or refresher courses. access the Library through the provision • Developing annual training program of accessible furniture installation, software, promoting inclusivity. library resources and engagement with the • Provision of training to Corporate Services, local community. Human Resources and Planning,

29 • Collection of resources in the Library for • Promotion of benefits of economic benefits reluctant readers and purchase of books, of accessible and ageing friendly places such as braille. and activities through media releases and • Civic Centre access features completed website. with lift; accessible toilet; hearing loop and • Encouraging and supporting Business theatre area suitable for people who use Awards organisers to include an Accessible wheelchairs. and Inclusive Business Award category, • Map of accessible Council public toilets through discussion and collaboration with reviewed, updated and included on National organisers. Public Toilets Map Register. Supporting access to meaningful • Installation of adult change tables within key employment locations such as Aquatic Centre and Patton • Australian Network on Disability Park amenities block. membership obtained. • Enhanced staff knowledge and skills through • Recruitment Service Review undertaken. the sharing of templates and resources • developed internally for organising IT Strategy review undertaken with accessible events. workshops and fact-finding exercise. • Access and Inclusion Plans incorporated In progress: into planning for all Civic Events. • Investigation of Australian Network on Accessible Meeting Checklist developed Disability resources for sharing and for implementation in 2020/2021. monitoring disability information and Accessible Meeting Process developed for purchase of Employers’ Guide to Partnering implementation in 2020/2021. with Disability Employment Services. In progress: • Review of recruitment and employment • Consultation, review and upgrade of public policies, procedures and processes. facilities for disability access. Development of Recruitment Framework. • Development of information sheet, listing Improving access to mainstream features and including pictures of Council services through better systems and public toilets to enable families to decide on processes suitability of access for their needs. • Website accessibility audit of brokenhill. • Investigation of accessibility features nsw.gov.au completed and findings used in of Council buildings underway and the scope for new website. development of PDFs showing Council • Business case completed and new Council building access features and activities website deployed with accessibility features hosted within buildings. of site. • Completion of listing of accessible features • Complaints Management Policy of Library, Art Gallery, GeoCentre and adopted and procedures for handling Visitor Information Centre buildings. complaints reviewed for endorsement and • Investigation and development of implementation in 2020/2021. documentation detailing access features • Guidelines developed for staff to author of sportsgrounds, parks and playgrounds web accessible documents. (including fencing). • Alternative Format Request Process • Further investigate installation of wheelchair developed to allow requests for provision height counter and directional signage at of Council documentation in an alternative Visitor Information Centre. format. • Installation of way finding in Council • Council website provides details on how to Administrative Centre, Civic Centre and apply for information in alternative format Visitor Information Centre. 30 and contact details for the National relay people with disabilities and their carers from Service. across Burwood local government area and • Emergency evacuation procedures for the Inner West. Council buildings reviewed and updated to Provide opportunities for people with address the needs of people with disability. disability to have influence in decision making. In progress: • The Burwood Challenger Obstacle Course • Investigation and development of implementation included consulting with Accessibility page on Council website, for major disability groups such as Vision information on the accessibility features for Australia and the Physical Disability Council getting around Broken Hill. of NSW to ensure that the course was • Review of Council’s supplier agreements, accessible for all abilities. This resulted expression of interest/request for quotation in the addition of low impact exercise and tender documents to ensure that the bars for people in wheelchairs and further appropriate accessibility and inclusion construction to take place after July 2020 parameters are in place for procurement of including an epod. goods. • Review of community engagement Byron Shire Council processes to enable people with disability Developing positive community to provide input on the development and attitudes and behaviours progress of Council plans. • Review and update of the Local Emergency Council has worked towards promoting Management Plan (LEMP) and Pollution positive attitudes and respectful behaviour Incident Response Management Plan towards people with disability, including (PIRMP). “invisible” disability as follows: • Delivered mental health first aid training to Burwood Council 30 Council staff members. The past year was focused on providing • Sponsored the Byron Community Centre opportunities to enable people with a disability to deliver the Byron Shire Seniors Festival to participate in community life and to provide and Expo. opportunities for people with a disability to influence decision making. • Created a staff working group to support delivery of DIAP actions and encourage Deliver accessible and inclusive deeper understanding of the diverse needs community facilities and spaces of people with disability. • Enfield Aquatic Centre has incorporated a • Supported events that encouraged broad ‘Pelican Pool Hoist’ for wheelchair users community participation and inclusion. and those who have other mobility issues. • Partnered with Vision Australia to deliver • EAC has also included an accessible staff training on Creating Accessible change room plan to comply with new Documents. provision of the Building Code. EAC already has one accessible change room located Creating liveable communities near the indoor pool. Council has undertaken the following Support accessible and inclusive infrastructure projects to increase access to community events and activities for public spaces, and recreational and cultural people with disability activities enabling greater participation in community life: • The tenth anniversary of Groovability Festival was celebrated on 5 Dec 2019. • Repaired 77 footpaths and upgraded 22 Attendance was estimated at about 300 ramps throughout the Shire.

31 • Upgraded 14 bus stops under the Bus • Working with event organisers to ensure Stop Accessible Improvement Program universal access. accessibility requirements. • Fortnightly and monthly bus routes from • Supported Council staff to include people smaller villages to Orange. This supports with disability in community engagement community members who may otherwise and consultation. have isolated access to larger centres. • Promoted electronic billing to allow the • All of Council’s communications use use of assistive technology and provided language and formats that promote alternative payment options. inclusion. • Developed templates to improve the accessibility of documents. Camden Council Developing positive community • Received Federal Government funding for an additional Educator to support children attitudes and behaviours with additional needs at Sandhills Early Promote and encourage people with Childhood Centre. disabilities to be actively participate in various • Provided early childhood education and community groups, activities and projects not care in-line with the National Quality just disability specific. Framework access standards. • Provide Disability Inclusion Resource Kits • Installed a Hearing Loop in Council (book packs) that encourages preschools, Chambers to improve sound quality for school groups and the public to borrow people with hearing impairment. and talk with children about recognising all abilities. Each kit contains 12 books, Supporting access to meaningful learning guides with suggested questions employment to ask children and activities to extend children’s learning about disability/ Council has encouraged opportunities for acceptance and a list of websites where people with disability to obtain meaningful they can go for additional information. employment within the Byron Shire: • • Reviewed recruitment practices to ensure Deliver a series of monthly health, they are inclusive. wellbeing and social connection activities for all abilities; approximately 20% of • Identified partners to promote job participants are people with disability. opportunities for people with disability. • Deliver a series of sensory walks and • Provided job applicants the opportunity activities at Mount Annan Botanic Gardens to submit written applications or audio for children with special needs and people applications. living with dementia. • Awarded inclusive employment contract to • Deliver a series of Disability Awareness Aruma (formerly House with No Steps). training sessions. • Cabonne Council Provide training and role play assessments for all front line staff when communicating Outcomes achieved: and providing information to people with communication difficulties which included • Partnering with community organisations using electronic speech devices, word or through bi-monthly Cabonne Interagency picture based communication boards or meetings. books, sign language and gestures. • Engagement for the design of inclusive • Council’s Community Access Advisory playgrounds in and . Group meet bi monthly to continuously • Improved and new footpaths, including provide strategic, expert and impartial widening, handrails and ramps for ease of advice to Council on access issues for access. 32 people with a disability in the local Camden • Provide work experience opportunities community, including providing advice for students with disability, mental health on the development, implementation, issues and challenging behaviours from monitoring and review of Council policies, local special needs schools. strategies and plans as they relate to Improving access to mainstream access and inclusion. services through better systems and Creating liveable communities processes

Create environments by continuously Improve access to services through better improving accessibility of existing facilities and systems and process. promote well-being • Promoting disability awareness, training • Accessibility improvements made to and services throughout networks and existing buildings, signage, seating and Council’s websites. equipment as a direct result of access audit • Provide large font books to Disability recommendations. Services to support Camden’s book bus • Offer free Master Locksmith Access Key project. (MLAK) to eligible Camden residents. • Offer a user friendly access code system • Provide access and inclusion comment and via a pin pad for people with disability to recommendations on Council’s community access the Accredited Adult Changing space and service facilities development Places facilities at Curry Reserve and applications. Dawson Park Water Play Space. • Provide Accredited Changing Places • Provide picture and gesture based public toilet facilities in two locations of the communication books and boards Camden local government area. throughout Council’s front line services • Offer free hire of six child and adult size and libraries to support people with all terrain wheelchairs that provide and communication difficulties source and improve access to the water play and connect with Council services. recreation areas of Curry Reserve and • Provide information in a variety of formats Dawson Park for children and adults living including one on one conversations, large with disability. print, information pathways to technology • New amenities in parks and open spaces support and easy read resources available that take the needs of people with disability through Council’s connection projects which into account including accessible BBQ’s, include: picnic tables and play equipment. ° Camden Connect, Café Connect, Call • Providing quiet zone tents with sensory play Connect, MATEY project,(Matching Aged at community events. To Engaging Youngsters) Carers Week and International Day of People with Supporting access to meaningful Disability events. employment Campbelltown City Council Establish and strengthen existing partnership with local service providers that supports Developing positive community access to employment. attitudes and behaviours • Working in partnership with local disability • Council’s Disability Inclusion Action Plan employment services to provide information Advisory Group (DIAPAG) continues to and promote their services. meet quarterly to guide implementation. • Presenting Council initiatives at monthly • Council provided training to staff in: Disability Network Forums and information ° “Let’s Talk disability” covering myths share with service providers. and misconceptions, disability etiquette,

33 principals of access, language, attitudes, to be completed by end of 2020 but has inclusion and respect – followed by a now been reviewed to end of March 2021. Q&A session. • Council continues to provide some ° Equal Employment Opportunity support to a Touched by Olivia Foundation awareness training for all new staff inclusive “Livvy’s Place” play space in East covering: Leppington – currently at Construction Certificate stage. • The principles of equal employment opportunity (EEO) within a legislative and • Council celebrated International Day of local government workplace context; People with Disability in partnership with • The responsibilities Council, managers, the Australian Botanic Garden (Mt Annan) employees have in maintaining EEO within with sensory walks and morning tea for the workplace. people with autism. • • Options in relations to raising a complaint Free Quiet Hour sessions were held at (grievance) if they feel they have been Winterland and the Festival of Fisher’s treated unfairly by Council or another Ghost. Combined these events attracted employee in the workplace and recognising over 800 people with disability. circumstances that limit EEO including • An Auslan interpreter was engaged for our discrimination, vilification and harassment. Christmas Carols event in December. ° Supporting Individuals on the • Campbelltown Arts Centre continues to Autism spectrum training to develop host, support and develop the Little Orange understanding of Autism and practical Project for artist who identify with disability. suggestions for working with autistic Little Orange has been commissioned for people. several Council public art projects. ° Deaf Awareness Training to improve • Identified and initial development of service delivery to deaf clients and inclusive events guidelines for Council ensure that deaf employees are included events. in the team. The training provides • Three new accessible toilet facilities information and practical tips to improve nearing completion in three location across interactions with deaf people. the local government area. ° As part of Councils Mental Health • Continue to implement an active PAMP Strategy, 41 staff completed accredited program. Mental Health First Aid training. • During the COVID-19 pandemic Council • The training has supported staff to build a partnered with Meals on Wheels to arrange greater understanding, reduce any anxiety for meals to be delivered to a range of and embrace the benefits of working with vulnerable people including those with People with Disability, creating a more disability to ensure they had access to positive and accepting culture in the meals during the lock-down period and workplace. beyond. • The DIAPAG continues to meet and work • Council supported a range of food security towards outcomes in the DIAP across the services with resources and access to organising also building on a more positive Council facilities in order to meet the and pro-active attitude towards supporting demand for vulnerable people to access our residents living with disability. meals and food hampers. A significant Creating liveable communities proportion of those assisted were people with disability, their families and carers. • Continued to partner with Touched by Olivia Foundation and Variety in the development • Autism training for staff at Council’s leisure of “Livvy’s Place” an inclusive play space in centres to introduce specific swimming Glenfield. The project was initially expected programs implemented at the centres.

34 • Council’s web-based feedback tool “Bang Through these programs and training – the Table” and other visual aids are Council is committed to and accessible currently being refined with a range of to employ people with disability. The DSA options to make it more inclusive for people work experience gives participants and of differing abilities to be engaged. understanding of working in local government • “She Conjured the Clouds” a performance and adds to their skills list to gain sustainable featuring artists with a disability at employment. Campbelltown Arts Centre. The Improving access to mainstream performance was also accessible for a services through better systems and range of abilities including those with processes sensory disability and deaf community • members. Accessibility options included a Any film screened at our libraries all had tactile tour, audio described performance, open caption. choreography with contemporary • Library services continue to build dance and Auslan dialogue and relaxed collections of talking books, videos with performance. open caption and audio books. • “BLEED” (Biennial Live Event in the • We continue to operate home library Everyday Digital) in partnership with services (deliveries monthly and residents Arts House (). This was an can borrow up to 40 items) Library staff on-line only presentation with a variety qualify each client to ensure their particular of accessible viewing modes. There we needs are met in library resources offered, extensive access options including: live including audio books and large print and pre-recorded Auslan interpreting; books. closed captions; live (open) captions; text • Visual audio reads and download talking transcripts and text-only formats; live and books. pre-recorded audio description and digital tactile tour (designed to support audience • “Settling kits” provided by all libraries members who were blind or with low suitable for all children and particularly vision). beneficial children on the autism spectrum as the kits contained sensory items. • All library actions in 4 Accessible systems, information and processes. • At each library “Dark Dens” - tents creating a quiet and dark space for children with Council strives towards a liveability for all our sensory disorders and on the autism residents. Creating programs and activities spectrum to use if needed when visiting the that are inclusive to all have continued to library. create a more cohesive and liveable place for our residents living with disability, while • Integrated on-line community consultation creating greater acceptance across Council portal – “Bang the Table” makes it possible and the broader community. for people to share their ideas and thoughts through imagery, including ‘liking’ images as Supporting access to meaningful a way of voting for elements that could be employment included in public places, like playgrounds • Staff trained in disability awareness areas or parks, as well as taking photos of what as listed under creating positive attitudes. they like and posting those to the page, or drawing on paper and sharing those images • Partnered with Disability Services Australia on the platform. It also has standard survey to host work experience placements for: tools and provides ongoing project updates Disability Employment Service (DSA) that people can access at home, in their and School Leaver Employment Support own time if they wish. participants. • We now also caption images that we post • Educational forum with Disability Services on our social media channels so that it can Australia for managers on hiring team members with disability. 35 be described through audio readers for is fully utilised and engaged. For example people with visual impairment. guest speakers reporting on major projects • We continue to update our website to and how each project will be inclusive for meet the highest possible standard of people with disability. accessibility and are now investigating • Better utilising the skills and knowledge of updating our CMS to improve accessibility our “external” members – ensuring enough across multiple platforms. time for “conversation” to gain insight into the experiences of those working in the We will continue to improve and enhance our sector and those with lived experience to accessible systems. Our existing program better implement the DIAP and respond to processes and information keep our residents emerging challenges relevant to Council as living with disability connected and engaged. they arise. How have you determined that you’re Our challenges: meeting the needs of people with disability? • The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted on Council’s capacity to fully implement some • Attendance and support of the Macarthur actions in the DIAP. Disability Network meetings to gain insight into the local needs of people with disability. • The impact of bushfires and the resulting poor air quality impacted on our ability • Consultation with “external” representatives to safely implement one of our planned on Council’s DIAP Advisory Group via partnership events for International Day of attendance at meetings and one on one People with Disability. “out of session” conversations to ensure the meetings are relevant and representatives Is there anything else you’re doing or feel confident and comfortable to raise planning for the future to contribute existing and emerging challenges. to greater outcomes for people with disability? • Working with “external” representatives to ensure the disability voice is heard through • Council is currently re-developing five parks better community engagement into Council across the local government area. The projects and activities. Attending disability parks will have accessibility components groups when consulting and liaising with imbedded in the design. disability services to discuss best ways to • Council’s web-based feedback tool “Bang engage with their clients. the Table” and other visual aids to be Describe your challenges and refined and finalised with a range of options successes in delivering on your parts to make it more inclusive for people of of the DIAP differing abilities to be engaged. • A review and refresh of Council’s mobility Our successes: map to make it more user friendly for target • Council has had positive feedback from users. food security services who supported the • Broader promotion of Council’s MLAK key community, many being people living with program. disability, during the COVID-19 pandemic shut-down and the continued restrictions/ • Purchase “Boardmaker” program as tool for Our quick response to ensure basic needs signage, website and communications. would be met has been acknowledged Additional information and comments across the sector. about the information provided • We have had high demand and attendance • The DIAP Advisory group has identified the at Quiet Hour Sessions. need to improve community engagement • Review of DIAP Advisory Group agenda with our community living with disability. and implementation to ensure the group Council is in an unprecedented growth

36 phase with a range of projects that will • International Day for People with Disability have a lasting positive impact on our Gala at Bankstown Sports Club. community. We will be undertaking a more • Deliver a child focused campaign promoting intensive and meaningful consultation and inclusion Seminar to educate the Children engagement process with our community Services sector on disability and NDIS. living with disability and their carers to improve on this. Council has limited • Council run programs which include understanding of the NDIS and the DIAP provisions for people with disability. Advisory Group and other relevant staff will • Total of 256 programs and events were be participating in an educational piece to completed - 2172 attended. understand the NDIS followed by a round ° table discussion on the programs and Book a Librarian- 30 sessions, 42 services we provide and how the NDIS may attended. be utilised by community members with ° Book Clubs – 34 sessions, 219 attended. disability. ° Craft Groups – 40 sessions, 231 attended. Canterbury Bankstown Council ° Movie clubs – six sessions, 53 attended. Developing positive community ° Tech Help – three sessions, 17 attended. attitudes and behaviours ° Tech Wise Buddies – 13 sessions, 30 • Provide disability and inclusion awareness attended. training for all new staff as part of the Induction Program. ° Guided Library Tours – four sessions, 37 attended. • A Disability Inclusion workshop was delivered at corporate inductions on six ° Author Talks – two sessions, seven occasions. attended. • Deliver community education initiatives ° Knitting Groups – 73 sessions, 785 in partnership with local disability attended. organisations promoting awareness of ° Wellness Talks – 25 sessions, 266 various types of disability, including mental attended. illness. ° Internal Autism Workshops at Campsie • Delivered Disability Inclusion training to Library. RSPCA Volunteers. • Regular meetings between Council’s • Held Asset Based Community Development Communications and Community Workshop to initiate ‘Doing it Differently Development Units to discuss increasing Grants’ to end loneliness. visibility of people with disability in • Zero Barriers for Inclusive Businesses were communications content. awarded at the Canterbury Bankstown • A focus on providing information on Local Business Awards. COVID-19 including reaching out to • Seminar to educate the Children Services different community groups, dedicated sector on disability and NDIS. messages in a range of community language newspapers, a range of • Supported St Vincent De Paul run 21 translated resources on Council’s website, Community Access Networks and NDIS media statements, and community radio workshops across the Local Government announcements. Area. Creating liveable communities • Held the Bankstown Wellness Festival at Paul Keating Park. • Install directional and hazard tactile ground • Vietnamese Living Library at Bankstown surface indicators to bus shelters local Arts Centre. government area wide.

37 • Review, prioritise and install signage and knowledge or access to online platforms. tactile ground surface indicators at key We also have a high demographic of destinations. people who do not speak English as a • Tactile Ground Surface Indicators (TGSI) first language, making online engagement were installed as part of bus stop upgrade particularly difficult. program and in Town Centres. • Audit and prioritise key destinations that Council require upgraded or new kerb ramps and Developing positive community undertake work. attitudes and behaviours • The bus stop accessibility program and • Support and advice have been given to Pedestrian Access and Mobility Program businesses wishing to improve accessibility (PAMP) was completed for 2019/2020. to their businesses. No changes have Supporting access to meaningful been made due to the adverse economic employment conditions prevailing due to the drought and COVID-19 impacts. • Ongoing department reviews are conducted • Council has encouraged the adoption of in collaboration with Department Manager inclusion guidelines for sporting clubs, and Access and Inclusion team to identity community groups and organisations. While opportunities for increased flexibility some interest has been shown no formal with regard to location, hours, working adoption by the organisations have been conditions and additional support. made. • Needs Analysis Survey conducted with • Council has supported the Home and Talent and Human Resources to develop Community Care (HACC) services to the a plan for accessible employment and community and the transition to home care Easy Read staff training which will assist in packages. HACC services are stretched interpreting documents and contracts. in the community and an extensive review • In 2019/2020 Council partnered with the of services has been completed. An action Council for Intellectual Disability which plan will be developed to improve services meant implementation of training initiatives and their delivery. to empower our staff to be confident to Creating liveable communities work with people who may present with an intellectual disability and require additional • Draft Footpath master plan has been support to perform a position within Council. prepared. Describe your challenges and • Problem areas for wheel chair access successes in delivering on your parts has been identified in Council’s kerb and of the DIAP guttering and footpath network. Some work has started in improving access and placing • Due to COVID-19, consultation for the footpaths for easier access. next DIAP 2021-2025 were placed on hold due to the risks associated with physical • Council has reviewed its offices, halls, gatherings. toilets and other community buildings to determine accessibility and problem • COVID-19 has affected the manner in areas that need remediation. Due to the which we engage with people with disability. influx of grant funding Council has been It has placed a hold on most disability able to renovate some of its community related programs and events. Any and all buildings especially the halls and improve contact or consultations with people with accessibility including toilet access. disability has been conducted online. This has presented many challenges for our • More work is planned next financial year on Council to engage with our community the improvement to the public toilet facilities with disability as not all residents have in Hillston for the next financial year.

38 Supporting access to meaningful Central Coast Council employment • Spatial mapping - inclusive tourism project • Council encourages flexible work has created accessibility maps for public practices to encourage an inclusive work and Council use. Better Access Map [BAM] environment. Council’s EEO policy was partnered with Council for International reviewed and training provided to staff. Day of People with a Disability to display the Better Access Map functions to the Improving access to mainstream community. services through better systems and • processes The ‘Including You’ Tent was set up in Kibble Park where public were given • Upgrade and improve systems and demonstrations of the information available processes and provide accessible profiling accessibility features of local information to the community through a businesses. variety of different formats. Council is in • Promotion of upcoming WheelEasy the process of reviewing an updating its mapping events. website to incorporate the web content accessibility guidelines 2.0 where practical. • Link to WheelEasy on Council website The update of the website will be completed Access and Inclusion landing page Better next financial year. Access. How have you determined that you’re • Map promoted at Access and Inclusion meeting the needs of people with Business Forums. disability? • Council website displayed Easy English • Council has received no adverse feedback. COVID Fact Sheets and notification of resource was promoted to sector network. • Council has completed an extensive • review of its HACC services and have had Regular contributions of disability inclusion meetings with clients, and other service content is included in Council internal providers. communications. For example, all videos include captions, or a transcript and audio Describe your challenges and translation. successes in delivering on your parts of the DIAP • Public awareness days about mental health and social inclusion are promoted to staff. • Council always struggles with minimum staffing and resources to meet its current • Regular inclusion of disability awareness programs apart from introducing new and education information in Council infrastructure or services. communications activity continues as business as usual. • The participation of businesses and the community groups is hampered by the past • All Council corporate publications include and current economic issues facing small a diversity of images (depicting a broad rural communities especially the drought representation of people with a disability). and COVID-19 restrictions. • Deliver accessible documents training staff • Delivery of HACC services had to be who produce documents for uploading modified and or restricted due to the to the website - Online training program COVID-19 restrictions. completed and available to staff. Is there anything else you’re doing or • Identification and prioritisation of key planning for the future to contribute customer service enquiries / complaints to greater outcomes for people with identified for development into Easy English disability? documents and forms. • • Council is struggling to deliver the current Reporting of key word searches from DIAP without placing further burden on Customer Experience system to already strained community resources. assist Disability Inclusion Officer with 39 understanding customer issues. Information improve the general accessibility of key is used to address the issues while town centres. Findings will identify short, highlighting inclusion challenges our medium and long term upgrades for each customers are still facing. of the precincts and will complement • Draft Universal Design Guidelines access audits and internal stakeholder developed and circulated to internal engagement. stakeholders for comment. Comments have ° The Making Access and Inclusion Your been received and guidelines currently Business resource kit was launched being finalised. in February and business forums held • During the year there were four Smart in The Entrance, Gosford and Wyong. Eats Deaf Awareness / Auslan workshops A range of businesses attended the delivered across Wyong and Gosford sessions and the presentations were well Administration buildings. received. Copies of the kit have been hand delivered to all businesses in The • Deaf Awareness/Auslan workshops Entrance, Gosford, Wyong, Terrigal and promoted on internal platforms. Woy Woy and emailed to the relevant • Updated content added to Access and data bases. Inclusion landing page. • In relation to exploring and implementing • Planning Accessible Events Guide partnership opportunities with accessible uploaded to website. bus companies to help identify routes for accessible buses: • Partnered with Busy Beans Café who provide barista training to people with ° Partnership developed with Community disability and set up at coffee cart in Kibble Transport to promote the door to door Park next to the Including You tent to pilot commuter bus service. promote International Day of People with a • Accessibility considered and selected items Disability. included in all new, renewed and upgraded • A new work experience program was play spaces. launched in July 2019. This program, whilst • Matting has been installed at Toowoon open to all, had has a specific focus to Bay and Umina Beaches to establish and place people with a disability. The response enhance inclusive access ways. Matting and success of this to date has been was also purchased for installation at two extremely positive. additional beaches for next summer. Avoca • In addition, a Disability Expo Stand Beach Southern Foreshore Improvement launched in February 2020 as part Project was completed in December 2019 of Council’s redesigned induction including an all access ramp. Further program. This will provide new staff with opportunities to enhance access will be understanding and access to information investigated in future years. relating to disability and inclusion. • Universal Design Guidelines incorporating • In relation to exploring and implementing stakeholder feedback has been finalised. accessible tourism opportunities: Communication Plan being drafted to promote the Guidelines internally for staff ° Spatial mapping audit completed for use. Budgewoi, The Entrance, Wyong, Umina, with the aim of identifying, • Two grant writing workshops focused upgrading and actively promoting the on access and inclusion delivered to 35 accessible attributes of the places participants. Council’s grant program and spaces. Spatial mapping provides promoted through all relevant channels accurate information on gradients including the new Working Together Staying and ease of travel impediments for Strong grant. people with restricted mobility, which • Accessibility improvements works will therefore identify priority areas to completed at Peninsula Community Centre, 40 Chain Valley Bay Hall and Kincumber Cessnock City Council Neighbourhood Centre. Developing positive community • Material outlined below found in report attitudes and behaviours however does not refer to the DIAP. • Council events including NAIDOC, Youth • Council continues to promote equal Week and Seniors Festival have used the employment opportunities by investing time international symbol of access to identify and resources into process improvements activities held in accessible premises. including a work experience program inclusive of students with a disability, and • Council’s Seniors Festival 2020 program updated recruitment processes to enable included 47 activities and events, with over reasonable adjustments in the application 2000 community member attending events. process. 45 out of the 47 activities were held at • Adjustments have been made to the accessible sites. Recruitment website, application and • Council’s Mobility Maps were also interview email with additional wording promoted on collateral. added for those needing specific Creating liveable communities assistance. • Training rolled out using Blueprint Learning • Upgrades and improvement initiatives have Management System eLearning platform been carried out at a number of Council on Anti-bullying and Harassment and Equal owned facilities to enable improved access Employment Opportunity. increase community participation including: • Monthly demographic data collection and ° Cessnock City Libraries – installed a lift reporting (including disability) is now part of and automatic doors. business as usual processes. ° Kurri Kurri Aquatic and Fitness Centre – • A review of delivery methods and templates refurbished family change rooms. continues. ° Bridges Hill Park and Playground, • All People and Culture content compliant Veterans Memorial Park and Jeffries with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines Park - installation of accessible (WCAG) and the Disability Inclusion Action pathways, furniture and play elements. Plan. • Flexible working practices. Supporting access to meaningful employment Central Darling Shire Council • Council Procurement Policy Council was Central Darling Shire Council Disability updated and now includes the commitment Inclusion Action Plan 2017-2020 outlines to explore procurement opportunities to Council’s commitment to improving Australian Disability Providers (ADEs) that opportunities for people of all ages who live supply goods and services locally, add with disabilities to access the full range of ADEs to Council’s Contracting Panel and services and activities available in the Shire. support the capacity of suppliers. Improving access to mainstream This document is due for review and updating services through better systems and in the next reporting period. processes Council’s Equal Employment Opportunity • Council’s Community Engagement Strategy (EEO) Management Plan covers all aspects has been reviewed and has developed required under legislation. This includes plans four key engagement principles, one of for redeployment, retraining, retrenchment and which is ‘Inclusive’, where Council has redundancy. committed that community engagement will be designed to be inclusive ensuring Council has ensured that the EEO a range of values and perspectives are Management Plan has been adhered to. captured through use of participation 41 practices that are accessible. The strategy planned forum and community engagement also acknowledges barriers to engagement for the 2021-25 DIAP which was held in and commits to making engagement August/September 2020. Instead, Council opportunities inclusive and accessible developed a community update which by adapting our methods. Some of the was shared amongst the community actions related to disability inclusion in the and uploaded onto Council’s website. Community Engagement Strategy include: Community engagement was undertaken ° Identify and address access barriers in a COVID-19 Safe environment using for people with disability when planning online surveys, discussion panels, creative engagement. competitions, phone calls and face to face meetings that could be booked through ° Provide information in a way that is easy Eventbrite. to understand and uses plain language. • In March 2020 Council launched a new ° Provide information visually, where website which aims to meet the Web appropriate. Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) ° Consider accessibility when planning 2.1 Accessibility standard to AA level. written communication and make it Some key new website features to improve available in alternative formats when accessibility include: requested. ° Accessible data tables - assistive How have you determined that you’re technologies (such as screen readers) meeting the needs of people with can interpret information organised disability? in compliant plain text tables more effectively. • 5% of the people engaged as part of the ° Contrast - colour contrast between Community Engagement Strategy identified website text and the page background as being a person with disability. The to ensure it can be read by users with feedback they provided directly informed moderately low vision (who do not use the development of the strategy. contrast-enhancing assistive technology) • People with disability and the disability and colour deficiencies. The website text sector has also provided feedback on has large and wide character strokes to key public domain projects and Council ensure it is easy to read at lower levels strategies including, but not limited to the of contrast. Cessnock Housing Strategy and Local ° Contrasting hovers - Contrasting hover Strategic Planning Statement. The data colours have been included to clearly collected from these consultation processes indicate a page selection for visually as well as consultation data specific to the impaired users. focus areas of the Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) will be collated for inform ° Decorative images have been limited Council’s 2021-25 DIAP. across the site to enhance screen reader outputs. Where images have been Describe your challenges and included to encourage engagement, full successes in delivering on your parts descriptions of the have been included. of the DIAP ° Live chat and online forms to reduce the • Council had planned to run a DIAP forum need for manual interactions (in-person in May 2019, joining together people with or via the call centre) for our customers disability and those from the disability with mobility or audio limitations. sector to discuss the plan’s achievements ° and future opportunities before engaging Mobile responsiveness - ensuring our with the community in the development of new site is mobile responsive all of the next plan. COVID-19 impacted both the our customers can access important

42 government information and services on • Council arranged for a mental health a small screen. advocate to talk to all staff in December ° Simplified language and reduction of 2019. jargon - ensuring all website information Creating liveable communities is clear and concise i.e. including short phrases, using common words and To create a liveable City for people with a avoiding jargon where possible. disability, Council has focussed on community participation, choice, and the provision for ° Text spacing for maximum readability. independence and inclusiveness. Is there anything else you’re doing or planning for the future to contribute Our outcomes: to greater outcomes for people with • Development and review of the Local disability? Strategic Planning Statement (LSPS) • Council is in the early stages of developing considered the needs of people with a our next Disability Inclusion Action Plan disability and planned for diverse housing (2021 – 2025) having conducted initial types. The LSPS was adopted by Council in community consultation and internal October 2019. workshops. We hope that we will be able to • Incorporation of adaptable housing needs in build on the progress made through the first the Development Control Plan (DCP). The plan, further strengthening the accessibility DCP was adopted by Council in February of community events and activities, 2020 engagement practices, communication • Accessibility works undertaken to provide methods and the delivery of accessible access ramps to Council facilities, infrastructure. playgrounds, streets, roads and other public spaces. Included in this was the construction of a $20,000 ramp to Developing positive community improve access from Taplin Park to the attitudes and behaviours adjacent Greg Davis Stand and amenity in Drummoyne. Council recognises that misconceptions, • Delivery of the Bay Connection Program for negative attitudes and behaviours, and a lack residents requiring assistance to engage of knowledge about disability can affect many with the community. This service operated aspects of life for people with a disability. By at capacity twice a week and assisted 60 adopting positive attitudes and behaviours residents each month. and challenging stigmas, a constructive • Delivery of the BayRider bus service in contribution can be made towards greater partnership with Drummoyne Community inclusion. Centre. This service provided transport Outcomes: to 15 seniors or residents with a disability once a week and assisted up to 60 • Use of social media and newsletters residents each month. to promote Council projects aimed at improving access and inclusion. • Locations identified at Five Dock Library and Concord Library for the installation of • Twenty managers and 20 library staff mobility scooter charging stations. Further trained in disability awareness. locations within Council facilities are being • The Mayor’s Golf Day held in November investigated. 2019 raised $45,500 for Let’s Get Going, • Promotion of community grants to disability a not-for-profit mentor and experience organisations and community groups. program for adults with an intellectual or physical challenge. • Plans are underway to install an accessible toilet at Halliday Park, Five Dock.

43 Supporting access to meaningful City of Newcastle Council employment The City of Newcastle is currently developing Council continues to be committed to our new Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) maintaining, growing, and supporting our for 2021-2024. The new DIAP will replace diverse and inclusive culture by seeking and our existing DIAP which included 18 Strategy promoting diversity within each of our Council points, with 57 actions aimed at delivering work sites. We welcome and encourage improvements across four focus areas applications from diverse community groups Some of our achievements from our current and recognise the benefits of diversity in DIAP include: creating amazing customer experiences, increasing productivity, and encouraging • Delivering the inaugural “Count Us business growth. In” Festival of Inclusion, a month-long program of events and activities focused Our outcomes on celebrating abilities/skills of people with • Development of the Reasonable Workplace disabilities. Adjustment policy. • Auditing and mapping of facilities for public • Council’s vision and values repurposed to information incorporate inclusion and diversity. • Improvements to street accessibility via Improving access to mainstream town centre upgrades, new kerb ramps, services through better systems and and improved planning and design processes processes. • Facilitating and delivering AUSLAN Developments in technology have interpreted shows revolutionised the way in which people • Including Auslan services into more communicate and access information. community engagement processes Council recognises that some technologies • Delivering BeConnected workshops for may bring great challenges for people with a better digital connectivity disability as many people in our community • Bin assistance for people requesting this experience difficulty in hearing, seeing and enhanced waste management service communicating. • Delivery of and facilitating more inclusive Our outcomes events and exhibitions. • • Training and support provided to members Improved home library and online library of the Access and Inclusion Committee to services encourage participation in online meetings • Improved online learning programs during COVID–19. • Increased staff awareness of inclusive • Easy-read COVID–19 information provided programming and disability confident on the City of Canada Bay website. customer service. • Delivery of two new lift and change facilities • Community Services staff business cards within the City at high use locations. printed with Braille. Count us in Newcastle Regular feedback from people with a • disability is received through Council’s Count us in Newcastle delivered a month- request management system and the Access long program of activities and events and Inclusion Committee. The DIAP will be to provide inclusive opportunities for reviewed next year in consultation with various community members to attend learning, groups and stakeholders to identify the arising sporting and cultural events and activities. needs of people with a disability and create a The programs included: plan to address any issues. ° The all-inclusive games day held between Civic Digest, Civic Park and

44 Wheeler Place included a mixed games Accessibility outcomes day facilitated by people with disability • New lift and change facilities have been which encouraged people to participate constructed at and on their own terms. Nobbys Beach which make improvements ° A programming audit and staff training to access for people with disabilities and about understanding autism in the lead their carers and friends. These facilities up to a low sensory day at Newcastle significantly increase the experience of Museum. community members and tourists who ° An inclusive business forum facilitated by wish to have a day out in Newcastle CBD, NSW Business Chamber. visit the cultural venues in between Laman ° An inclusive design workshop providing Street and Honeysuckle, take a tour of education and awareness about inclusive Bathers Way and visit the beach. digital and print design. Accessibility advice was provided on the Other achievements following CN projects: • Our home library service delivered over ° Newcastle South Activity Hub 25,000 items to our community ° Stevenson Park upgrade • 153 participants were provided with guided ° James Street Plaza tours at our Art Gallery for people with a disability Low sensory experience audit at the Museum • Our cultural services undertook a cultural conversation session with people with • A comprehensive audit of the Newcastle disabilities to better understand individual Museum, its exhibitions and public requirements and better design customer programming was undertaken to improve service and enhance customer experience. awareness and skill for low sensory suitability. This was accompanied by • Four BeConnected workshops assisted 87 staff training for officers from cultural and people at City and Wallsend Libraries with recreation faculties, and also a low sensory digital literacy support trial day held as part of the Count us in • A further 408 people were assisted at Festival. branches. 2020 Newcastle Seniors Week festival and • Digital literacy programs for seniors new Seniors Directory including 3D printing and augmented reality (AR) were hosted with 118 attendees. • In Newcastle, there was plenty on offer including wood-turning, music, quilting, • Lynda.com online learning platform friendship, meals, cultural classes, croquet, delivered. exhibitions and the Sassy Seniors Denise Paratriathlon Gold Bingo Show hosted at City Hall. • City of Newcastle hosted the Oceania • In February CN published the new Seniors Paratriathlon on Sunday 26 January2020 Directory which provides information about () on the foreshore of facilities and activities for seniors in the Newcastle Harbour. The event showcased Newcastle and Hunter community. Feature the sport of paratriathlon, as well as the stories look at cycling opportunities, both city. Elite entrants competed for valuable assisted and independent. Olympic selection points. The event Auslan accessible theatre comes to consisted of a 750m swim in Newcastle Newcastle Harbour, a 20km cycle leg in and around Nobbys and Newcastle beaches, as well as • Civic Theatre’s Possum Magic included two and Customs House, and Auslan interpreters on the stage. Indeed, finished with a 5km run around Horseshoe for the 1,400 students, teachers and Beach and Pit Lane. parents who attended, appeared just the 45 usual thing to do. The Auslan performance to improve access to arts venues and however was the result of months of work projects. by the team at the Civic Theatre. • Established a web chat initiative to offer a The Civic Theatre team wants to improve more inclusive access point for those who access for people with a disability have a physical and a hearing disability who attend our shows. While booking as it provides a service very similar to interpreters was an easy process, the team a conversation with a CSO (community also provided new wheelchair levelling mats services organisations), just over the web, to deal with the sloping auditorium floor, and is fast and effective. opportunities for students to have a special • Resources and information provided to staff orientation prior to the show and promoted and community on how to deliver inclusive the show to local disability education units. events. The results saw a significant number of children with disabilities accessing the Improving, promoting and facilitating Theatre for the first time. equitable access to services and facilities- Providing accessible and inclusive • Delivered on actions within the Disability communities for all people Inclusion Action Plan • Implement Disability Awareness training as Access can be physical, communication, part of staff induction process digital and also can be about the attitudes and behaviours of staff and volunteers who • Promoted a culture of responsive customer have an impact on the customer’s experience. service Some of our achievements are listed below: • Progressed website accessibility • Delivering building and infrastructure • Celebrated inclusive practice and access upgrades to improve accessibility is a outcomes key priority especially in relation to street crossings and street accessibility. • Liaised with and promoted accessible and inclusive sports and activities within • We delivered a pedestrian refuge on Newcastle Gordon Avenue, Hamilton South; crossing upgrades at Union, Laman and Bull streets, • Improved staff awareness of disability Cooks Hill; and kerb ramps on Mandalong issues to provide responsive services for Road, Adamstown as part of our Pedestrian customers with a disability Access and Mobility Plan (PAMP). We • Promoted and facilitated inclusion also delivered 2.4km of footpaths, seven awareness with councillors, executive kerb ramps, 2.85km of kerb and gutter leadership and other staff. replacement (new and reconstructed) as part of our Local Area Traffic Management Ensured people of all abilities can enjoy (LATM). our public places and spaces • Recreational facility improvements included • A variety of parklands and recreational a new all-abilities carousel at Brickworks facilities are provided, that are accessible Park in Wallsend and installation of an and distributed equitably across the city. accessible pathway at Islington Park. • Deliver recreational facility improvements • Engaged with Accessible Arts to improve throughout the city - playgrounds, outdoor services and options for those wishing to courts, sportsgrounds, exercise equipment access the Theatre. and dog off-leash areas. • Provided access to the Playhouse for • Demonstrated leadership in public domain arts activated workshop. This workshop improvements presented knowledge and skills in how • Promoted new Lift and Change facilities at Nobbys Beach and Newcastle Museum.

46 • Developed a priority list of potential lift and Creating liveable communities change locations • Council has continued its efforts to • Facilitated the Disability Inclusion Advisory remove barriers to inclusion and ensure Committee, and began consultation for accessibility for people with disability during second iteration of the DIAP. the project design and delivery stages of new or upgraded Council buildings, Council facilities and open spaces. Council’s Universal Design & Access Project Officer Developing positive attitudes and is included in the process to review and behaviours inform accessibility requirements for • The City of Parramatta’s Community projects from inception. Presentations on Engagement Strategy is now in place. The projects have been made to the Access Strategy guides actions aimed at increasing Advisory Committee to seek their input to engagement with people with disability. All ensure new and upgraded public buildings, consultations now include a phone number facilities and open spaces meet Disability for people to call and speak to someone Discrimination Act (DDA) requirements. if they require assistance and summary Their active engagement in the Aquatic and documents are prepared where necessary Leisure Centre for Parramatta project has to simplify technical documents and led to an increase in the number of ramp make it easier for people to understand. points from boardwalk to concourse. Information encouraging people to Supporting Access to Meaningful contact Council for accessible formats is Employment published on engagement material. The new engagement platform is accessible • As part of the Disability Employment and is compliant with Web Content Strategy, Council has reviewed its Accessibility Guideline (WCAG) including recruitment processes to ensure they are surveys. A concerted effort to diversify the disability friendly. The following initiatives membership of Council’s online Research have been undertaken and have resulted in and Consultation engagement panel has an increase in applications from people with increased representation of people with disability: disability to between 2-3%. ° Showcasing commitment to diversity and • The Access Advisory Committee is inclusion represented at Council’s stakeholder ° Having the Disability Inclusion Action workshops and community meetings and Plan on the website provides regular and up to date information to improve access to and inclusion in ° Inviting people with disability to apply for services and facilities. roles • As part of an ongoing commitment to ° Committing to making reasonable increasing inclusion, Council has continued adjustments to accommodate disability to organise Disability Awareness training for where requested during interview; and employees and Councillors. This has led to ° Providing feedback to unsuccessful a better appreciation of barriers faced by applicants via Disability Employment people with disability. Service providers. • Training packages for Universal Design • Educating managers and employees about principles have been created and were the support available to make reasonable scheduled to be delivered to senior staff adjustments, has resulted in employees involved in planning and design. They with disability getting additional support. will be delivered as soon as COVID-19 During the COVID-19 outbreak, Council restrictions lift. has provided support to employees with

47 disability to work from home, where series, which included profiles of local requested, and organised one on one community members living with disability. training sessions for staff to equip them to • To celebrate International Day of People participate in group trainings and meetings with Disability, Council profiled a staff online. This has resulted in increased member who was introduced to Council employee engagement. through a business administration Improving access to mainstream traineeship for someone living with services through better systems and disability. The staff member’s story was processes also promoted by TAFE NSW. • The City of Parramatta Community Care • Progress on DIAP actions was also detailed Services to National Disability Insurance in Council’s Annual Report. Scheme (NDIS) participants have increased • The City of Ryde held several events for over the year, with positive feedback across Social Inclusion Week in 2019. They were: all activities. The number of word of mouth ° All Abilities Disco – An opportunity for referrals about the quality of Council’s people to get together and celebrate services is increasing and coming directly Social Inclusion Week. The event from participants, their families, other featured a glam corner for people to service and NDIS planners. get their hair and makeup done before • The Library enables everyone to spending a fun social afternoon together. experience the joy of books and storytelling ° Creativity Unleashed – People were able via audio and eBooks. A new special font is to discover a vibrant mix of multicultural available on Borrow Box for all devices (iOS food, fashion, music, interactive and Android) that makes text more readable demonstrations and visual art displays. for people with dyslexia. ° Inclusive Fashion Parade - With diversity • Council continues to program and provide and disability being rarely represented accessible activity options for people with in fashion, this event was an opportunity disability in Sport and Recreation programs. to banish any stereotypes and inspire COVID-19 created an interruption to everyone that it’s possible to experience programming however a move to online the glitz and glam strutting down the programming has increased accessibility catwalk. for some. ° Zumba in the Plaza – The community • City of Parramatta is committed to was able to participate in an all-inclusive empowering people of all abilities to outdoor Zumba class at the newly take part in sport or active recreation. In redesigned outdoor space at West Ryde partnership with Sport NSW, an accessible Plaza. and inclusive workshop for recreation providers, sporting and community ° What’s Available in Accessible Travel and groups was held to enable them to deliver Leisure Activities – At this information programs for all the community. session people were able to find out about what options are available for City of Ryde Council accessible travel and leisure activities for Developing positive community individuals or for families. People were attitudes and behaviours given information on local, regional and international accessible travel locations. • Achievements by staff and community members living with disability are promoted ° Proud to Be! - Presented by the through Council’s communication channels, Common Misfits, this event celebrates including its website and social media Social Inclusion Week by providing an channels. opportunity for LGBTQ+ youth (14 – 24yrs) to form connections with their • City of Ryde partnered with Macquarie peers. University to deliver the People of Ryde 48 ° Silent Disco at West Ryde Library – • The guiding principle of ‘place’ is included Attendees had a chance to explore the in the new Library Strategic Plan. West Ryde Library after hours with a • We provide inclusive and welcoming DJ pumping the latest tunes in a quiet spaces that inspire social, recreational, atmosphere with no flashing lights. creative and learning experiences for our • Continued provision of inclusive and diverse community. accessible events, with a filter established • Several works to improve accessibility on Council’s Events Listing web page for are completed or planned: accessible All Abilities and a space within the event self-service kiosks have been installed submission form for organisers to add at all libraries; accessible toilet upgrades accessibility information. planned at West Ryde Library in 2019/2020 • Due to COVID-19 restrictions, many and Gladesville in 2020/2021; and an Council events have been held online, accessibility upgrade at Eastwood in which has made them more accessible to 2020/2021. members of our community with mobility • Asset data was collected in the 2019/2020 issues. financial year. Through this audit, Creating liveable communities information such as trip hazards on the footpath and compliance of kerb ramps • A recent audit has been completed for DDA standards was collected. This for compliance of all City of Ryde bus information will be incorporated in project stop infrastructure with the Disability development moving forward. Discrimination Act (DDA) and DSAPT. An action plan will be created for this for the • The City of Ryde Community Grants upgrade of bus route infrastructure. Program now offers a social inclusion category. Funding can be used to adapt • We supported community transport workplaces to be more accessible for staff organisations through the City of Ryde and customers. community grants program and promoted volunteering opportunities through our • The Department is currently exhibiting volunteer referral process. an Explanation of Intended Effect for a proposed new Housing Diversity State • Council’s Wayfinding signage in Macquarie Environmental Planning Policy (Housing Park has been updated in 2019/2020; Diversity SEPP) that: incorporating the approved Transport for NSW’s symbols for Train Stations/Bus 1. Introduces new definitions for build- Stops and Taxi ranks. to-rent housing, student housing and co-living. • Assets and Infrastructure department have been working with Transport for 2. Amends some state-level planning NSW to upgrade bus stops and footpath provisions, particularly for boarding connections. house and seniors’ housing development. • Transport department regularly comments on Transport for NSW upgrade proposals 3. Amends some state-level planning for major transport infrastructure. provisions to support social housing developments undertaken by the NSW • $50,000 identified in 2020/2021 budget to Land and Housing Corporation (LAHC) undertake works to improve accessibility to on government-owned land; and playgrounds. 4. Consolidates three housing-related • Playground and Amenities Building Audit SEPPs. completed in the 2019/2020 financial year and priorities were identified and a works • State Environmental Planning program has been established. Policy (Affordable Rental Housing) 2009.

49 • State Environmental Planning • Due to COVID-19, alternative arrangements Policy (Housing for Seniors and for face-to-face consultation and People with a Disability) 2004. engagement have been occurring. During • State Environmental Planning our biggest consultation in the past year we Policy No 70 – Affordable Housing actively reached to people with disability (Revised Schemes). with a variety of engagement options and • A review of planning controls both at a directly contacting groups. state and local level is underway to better • A technology training space is planned for facilitate the development of affordable, the Macquarie Library and Creative Hub. social housing to support the community of There is also opportunity for a specialised Ryde. space as part of this development. Supporting access to meaningful • High contrast keyboards installed at all employment libraries. • The City of Ryde, in partnership with • In 2018 we had already commenced this Meadowbank TAFE, held an all-inclusive work through the engagement of social Youth Skills and Jobs Expo. Over 200 enterprise group Bushlink to undertake people attended and attendees had the bush regeneration works at a council site opportunity to apply for real jobs on the in the Terry’s Creek catchment. In the past day. Presenters at the event highlighted the year we have not been able to further this benefits of employing inclusively and the engagement due to program changes, site strengths of having a diverse workforce. suitability and then COVID-19 where many of our programs have ceased due to social • Grant category in place for Social Inclusion. distancing restrictions. This could include workplace training, equipment, small scale capital works to • In the future, Council will review our sites to support a person with a disability. see where possible opportunities may be present. • Volunteering programs have been placed on hold due to COVID-19 restrictions. • Continue to develop social enterprise, providing work experience, social • Volunteering programs have been placed connection and skills based learning to on hold due to COVID-19 restrictions. involve people with disabilities in bush • Council website updated to enable easier regeneration programs. access to available volunteer opportunities. How have you determined that you’re Links for volunteering opportunities during COVID-19 added. meeting the needs of people with disability • Council have an ongoing relationship with the National Disability Recruitment • All actions that involve the input of people Coordinator. The coordinator for the region with disability are presented to Council’s provides us with updates and solutions to Social Inclusion Advisory Committee for any gaps that may be present with current review to ensure a suitable outcome is education needs for children with disability achieved. in the area. • The Social Inclusion Advisory Committee Improving access to mainstream will be involved in future planning and the services through better systems and Terms of Reference for the Committee processes updated to ensure more consultation on areas that affect people with disability in • In 2020/2021 financial year the the community. https://www.ryde.nsw.gov. Communications and Engagement Strategy au/files/assets/public/advisory-committees/ will be reviewed. social-inclusion/social-inclusion-advisory- • In 2020/2021 financial year the committee-terms-of-reference.pdf. Communications and Engagement Policy and Procedure will be developed. 50 Describe your challenges and Is there anything else you’re doing or successes in delivering on your parts planning for the future to contribute of the DIAP to greater outcomes for people with disability? • City of Ryde has adopted the DIAP and each department has taken responsibility • In order to contribute to greater outcomes of their action items to ensure that the for people with disability the City of Ryde DIAP is part of the Council strategy. The has developed several community plans Social Inclusion Officer meets with each including a Social Plan, Creativity Strategy, department regularly to discuss how each Reconciliation Action Plan, Resilience of their actionable items is tracking and to Strategy and a Plans of Management for identify any assistance required. Parks. The DIAP actionable items and the • An internal Social Inclusion Working Group recommendations from the Social Inclusion has been established to provide strategic Advisory Committee will be incorporated advice and feedback on the following into these plans to ensure that people activities: with disability have better outcomes in our community and are consulted when 1. Socially Responsible Council – review planning for the future. of internal systems and processes. How have you determined that you’re 2. Social Inclusion page on the Council’s meeting the needs of people with website. disability 3. Social Inclusion Week activities. • All actions that involve the input of people 4. Business/Corporate Partnerships: with disability are presented to Council’s Communication and Engagement Social Inclusion Advisory Committee for Strategy. review to ensure a suitable outcome is 5. Internal and external training needs: achieved. • Social Inclusion–What it is and • The Social Inclusion Advisory Committee Why is it important? will be involved in future planning and the Terms of Reference for the Committee • Mental Health First Aid Training. updated to ensure more consultation on • Welcoming Customers with areas that affect people with disability in Disability Training. the community. https://www.ryde.nsw.gov. • Disability Confidence Training for au/files/assets/public/advisory-committees/ Human Resources. social-inclusion/social-inclusion-advisory- • The challenge that City of Ryde faces in committee-terms-of-reference.pdf. completing outcomes are the timing and the funding of the actionable items and this Council financial year COVID19 also affected the Key achievements number of outcomes we could achieve. The City continues to build on the success • There have been times when actionable of the previous year and in the 2019/2020 items have not been completed because financial year there have been a number of they fall outside the timeframes for applying key achievements. for funding for projects or programs. • The COVID-19 (novel coronavirus) • Action items that require significant funding pandemic prevented the City from to be completed are also challenging. delivering services in our usual format due to the physical distancing required by public health orders. In response, City staff adapted library, cultural and social programs for an online audience. This

51 ensured that people were able to remain a framework to apply relevant Australian connected during the pandemic and in access standards and best practice some instances resulted in increased approaches consistently in the design, participation by people with disability, who maintenance and management of public were not previously able to attend face to domain spaces such as streets, footpaths, face programming. parks and open spaces, and infrastructure • The City ran an Auslan Slam Poetry event including street furniture. The City was which showcased four professional and recently announced as the winner of the five novice Deaf artists. The event was well 2020 Disability Access and Inclusion attended with nearly 100 participants, 57 category of the 2020 National Awards per cent of which identified as living with a for Local Government for the Policy and disability. Guidelines. • The City hosted a CityTalks event titled Developing positive community “We all have a role to play in supporting attitudes and behaviours mental health” in October 2019. The Hon • During 2019/2020, the City updated its Julia Gillard AC led a discussion around disability awareness and confidence the complex issues of mental health and training for staff. Staff continued to access wellbeing, along with a panel of mental a variety of disability access and inclusion health experts such as the City, including training programs. The City delivered a people with lived experience. The event variety of innovative community programs took place during Mental Health Awareness aimed at fostering positive community Month and highlighted the importance of attitudes towards people with disability and creating inclusive and just societies that people with a lived experience of a mental place the wellbeing of our communities health issue. at their core. The talk aimed at raising • awareness of the role that the community The COVID-19 pandemic prevented the can play in supporting, and importantly City from delivering programs in our normal maintaining, mental health and wellbeing. format due to public health orders resulting To close the evening, Magda Szubanski in the temporary closure of libraries and performed a special piece. You can view community centres. Staff responded by the talk on the City’s website. adapting programs for an online audience. • • The City officially sponsored the 2020 Providing programs online helped to Australian Paralympic Team headed to prevent social isolation and assist our Tokyo. Through this sponsorship, the City community to remain connected online receives recognition as a supporter of during the pandemic. In some cases, staff the Australian Paralympic Team, as well received feedback from the community that as appearances from para- athletes at these programs enabled them to feel more City events. These appearances promote connected than before, as some people positive community attitudes towards previously were not able to attend City people with disability. The COVID-19 programs in our community facilities. pandemic prevented the Paralympic Games Online inclusive programming in response proceeding, they will now be held in August to coronavirus 2021. The City has therefore extended its sponsorship agreement until October 2021 City spaces and is exploring opportunities for online and • The City adapted many of its support, social media promotion. health and social programs to support the • The City’s landmark Inclusive and community online. Some of these programs Accessible Public Domain Policy and includes classes and workshops, yoga, Guidelines and Inclusive and Accessible gentle exercise, Pilates, preschool music Event Guidelines were adopted in and movement, digital literacy, Zumba, October 2019. These guidelines provide acting, singing and social events.

52 • Over a three-month timeframe at the Awareness training. The new training beginning of the pandemic, these programs module will be rolled out in 2020. reached over 4500 people from a broad • Belgravia Leisure (who manage the City’s range of cultures and backgrounds. aquatic centres), continue to run YouMeUs, Participants attending these programs a compulsory online disability awareness reported a significant increase in wellbeing, training program for all staff. 356 Belgravia new skill development and increased Leisure staff, or 97 per cent have community connection. The City has also completed YouMeUs disability awareness received feedback that these programs training in 2019/2020. have kept community members feeling well, connected and engaged during the • Belgravia Leisure are in the process of pandemic. developing ‘Everybody Welcome’, an online platform that covers a range of diversity • This adaptation to online programming topics to be completed by staff at the also led to an increased participation rates induction stage. for people with disability, particularly those with mobility challenges and people living Specialist disability training with mental illness that may have felt uncomfortable in their ability to engage is • Employees have access to a range of physical social settings. specialist disability access and inclusion training and development opportunities and Library programs resources including: • With the closure of library branches staff ° Training in Deaf Awareness adapted library programs, such as the Auslan and English Story time program ° International Day for People with for an online audience. A series of eight Disability staff awareness event. pre-recorded videos were produced in ° Communicating and engaging with partnership with the Deaf Society and people with disability workshop. hosted on the City’s website for people to ° Access in the built environment: watch. The videos feature a Deaf presenter Buildings, Housing, Parks and Open reading the book in Auslan accompanied Spaces training. by a voiceover reading the book in English. Providing these Story time sessions online ° Web accessibility and inclusive graphic ensured that children, including Deaf and web design training. and hard-of- hearing children, and their ° Training in creating and producing families, were still able to access a vital and accessible documents e.g. accessible inclusive early literacy program. The first Word and PDF, InDesign documents and two videos published in June 2020 have Easy English. been viewed 578 times. The Auslan and English Story time videos can be viewed on ° Managers guide to workplace inclusion. our website. • 126 City staff completed specialist disability and inclusion training, including mental Harmony and social inclusion health training in 2019/2020. This is a 50 Disability Awareness training per cent decrease from the previous year (255 City staff in 2018/19). • The City continues to implement a program of Disability Awareness and Confidence Mental Health training training and provide resources on disability, mental health and inclusion topics to all • The City continues to offer a range of staff. mental health related training to provide • A new Disability Awareness and Confidence employees with the skills to manage online training module has been developed their work and life demands in a way that for all City employees. This training module supports their mental health and the health is an update of the previous Disability of others. 53 • This suite of training improves customer COVID-19 pandemic prevented the service responsiveness to people with Paralympic Games from proceeding, they disability. will now be held in August 2021. The City • The following mental health courses were has therefore extended its sponsorship undertaken by employees: agreement until October 2021 and is exploring opportunities for online and social ° Mental Health in the Workplace: media promotion. Awareness and Strategies for Employees. Disability-inclusive events ° Workers with Mental Health Illness - A • A ‘disability-inclusive’ events tag was Practical Guide for Managers. created on the City’s What’s On website ° Mental Health First Aid. to include on events. A disability inclusive program page was also created to roll up all ° Mental Health Awareness for People events that promote inclusion of people with Managers. disability or contain accessible features. Images of people with disability • A series of guides covering ‘accessibility at your event’ were developed for the What’s The City continues to encourage the use On help centre. These guides help event of images of people with disability in City submitters to list and share events with publications and online materials. An access features. additional 54 images of people with disability were purchased and added to the City’s image • A dedicated accessibility filter was library. introduced in the newly launched What’s On in February 2020. This filter helps users • Images of people with disability were search for events with accessibility features included in: Inclusive and Accessible including audio description; blind and low Public Domain Guidelines, Inclusive and vision assistance; braille; closed captions; Accessible Event Guidelines, City of hearing loop; mobility access; national relay Sydney Draft Operations Plan and within service; sign language. City of Sydney news stories. • A ‘people with disability’ tag was created on • Images of people with disability have been the City of Sydney News website. Articles used by Belgravia Leisure on their social created against this tag to date include media platforms to promote Swim Champs, ‘help us create a more welcoming Sydney’ a swimming and water safety program for and ‘disability-inclusive things to do in children under the age of 18 with disability, Sydney’. Senior’s Week programs and International Day for People with Disability. • In 2019/2020 over 600 events were submitted to What’s On featuring • Out of a sample of five City of Sydney accessibility features. public documents, three included images of people with disability. Across these • Eight articles have been created on City documents people with disability were of Sydney News against the ‘people with represented in 19 per cent of all images. disability’ tag. • 12 City of Sydney News articles featured The City continues to deliver a range of people with disability, Senior’s Week programming aimed at fostering positive programs and International Day for People community attitudes toward people with with Disability. disability and people living with mental illness. Paralympics Australia Sponsorship • The City continues to deliver a range of programming aimed at fostering positive • The City’s sponsorship agreement with community attitudes toward people with Paralympics Australia and associated disability and people living with mental media campaign will assist to promote illness. inclusion of people with disability. The 54 • During Mental Health Month 2019, The Community Centre on 15 October 2019. Hon Julia Gillard AC led a discussion This event acknowledges and celebrates for the CityTalks event “We all have a the significant contribution family role to play in supporting mental health”. and friend carers make to Australian Panelists discussed the complex issues society. Carers were treated to free of mental health and wellbeing and the entertainment, pamper stations, art role of communities and governments in workshops and lunch. supporting mental health. ° In partnership with Way Ahead, a health • Panelists included mental health experts promotion event was held for new and people with lived experience of a parents during Perinatal Depression and mental health issue. The event emphasized Anxiety week in November 2019. The the importance of creating inclusive and event aimed to raise awareness about just societies that place the wellbeing of our perinatal mental health issues in our communities at their core. community. • Over the 2019/2020 period, the City ° Sports Skills for Life, a gentle exercise delivered and supported the following program run at the Peter Forsyth inclusive Library and community programs: Auditorium. This is listed as a dementia ° 38 events in Auslan and English. This friendly social group through Dementia included the “Big Feels Club at Green Australia and is also listed on Young Square”, a discussion facilitated by Stroke NSW recovery group as a free presenters who identify as living with community group. mental health challenges. The aim of ° Cycling without age, a program to this program is to normalise mental provide free, healthy outdoor rides health challenges and remove the stigma on specialised trishaws to aged associated with mental illness. care residents of local aged care ° 28 weekly Auslan and English Story time accommodation was delivered by sessions at Surry Hills and Glebe Library. BikeEast in partnership with the City There were 292 attendances at these through a matching grant. City’s events over the 2019/2020 period. The Matching Grants in the City of Sydney COVID-19 pandemic and closure of our local area. The funding enabled a library branches led to a decrease in the number of community ride event days, number of Story time sessions delivered training for volunteers and over 100 free from 40 to 28 and attendances from 371 trips for older people, and people with to 292. disability. ° ° Eight Auslan and English Story time Mood Active in partnership with the videos were produced and uploaded to City through a community services the City’s website to allow access to this grant provided well-being and exercise program during the library closure period. programs to support City residents living with mental health conditions in City ° In partnership with NSW Health, a parks and fitness centres. mental health first aid course was ° Living with Anxiety and Depression, a delivered in Mandarin in October 2019 as pilot program to assist people living with part of mental health month. The course HIV, experiencing anxiety or depression was attended by 14 Chinese speaking was delivered by Positive Life NSW community members who became in partnership with the City through a qualified in mental health first aid. The community services grant. participants are now qualified to provide support to their community in their first • 98 per cent of attendees of Auslan Story language. time and some adult programs where ° In partnership with Carers NSW a Carers Auslan interpreting was provided, agreed Day Out event was held at Redfern that they had a “greater appreciation of why

55 library programs should be accessible to Sydney, or third parties such as contractors everyone”. or developers as part of voluntary planning agreements. Creating liveable communities The City’s Inclusive and Accessible • Over the 2019/2020 financial year, the Event Guidelines outline key access and City continued to create more liveable inclusion considerations when planning communities through upgrades to the and delivering events within the City of public domain that deliver improved access Sydney. The guidelines outline minimum outcomes. standards as well as some best practice • The City and its partners also delivered a considerations to encourage event number of inclusive opportunities at events producers to move beyond minimum and programs. compliance and demonstrate their commitment to inclusive events. Inclusive and accessible public domain guidelines The scope of the policy and guidelines were developed in consultation with the City’s • Every day, people with disability experience Inclusion (Disability) Advisory Panel, and barriers that make it difficult to participate informed by access audits conducted by and work in the community. Barriers consultants with diverse lived experiences may be physical, such as inaccessible of disability, and feedback from the streetscapes; social, such as a lack community about access issues in public of information about public spaces; or spaces. attitudinal, such as assumptions that people Drafts were developed in consultation with with disability are not able participate in staff with diverse professional expertise. certain activities in public spaces. People with disability were consulted Section 23 of the Disability Discrimination through peer-led workshops and surveys Act 1992 makes it unlawful to discriminate on the draft guidelines and provided against people with disability in relation feedback to the City which was taken into to access to, and use of, any premises, consideration. Disability sector peaks and including the public domain - usually the developers were engaged and expressed responsibility of local government. their support, acknowledging that the policy Designers and others often look to policy is a significant step in ensuring accessibility makers for practical advice on how to is carefully considered in all public space meet community expectations on disability projects, and how it could benefit other access and inclusion. Until now, this was councils. readily available for buildings from the The City of Sydney’s Inclusive and Disability (Access to Premises - Buildings) Accessible Public Domain Policy and Standards 2010 but not for public spaces Guidelines was announced as the winner or events. The City has filled this gap with of the 2020 Disability Access and Inclusion the Inclusive and Accessible Public Domain category of the 2020 National Awards for Policy and Guidelines endorsed in October Local Government. 2019. Accessible places and spaces The Policy and Guidelines provide a framework for the consistent application of Pedestrian Access relevant Australian Access Standards and • The City’s Pedestrian and Access Program best practice approaches in the design, is ongoing. This program focuses on maintenance and management of public access upgrades and renewal projects to domain spaces and infrastructure. The improve safety and accessibility across the policy and guidelines apply to all new City of Sydney area. The program includes: and upgraded public domain spaces and infrastructure, provided by the City of ° Upgrading non-compliant ramps – including ramps at intersections.

56 ° Provide ramps where missing. Mobility parking spaces ° Footway renewal and upgrade. • The City gathered information about all ° Kerb and gutter renewal and upgrade – mobility parking spaces across the City of including the removal of lips on ramps. Sydney area, including the location and images. This data has been included on the ° Paver infill program – upgrading and City’s Online Access Map, allowing people improving material across footpaths, to understand where parking spaces are ensuring more consistent footway available, and view a street view image surface. of the space so they can understand the • In 2019/2020 the following access and context of the space before making their inclusion improvements were delivered journey. across the City of Sydney area: • Work is underway to consider strategic ° 47 access ramps constructed to current placement of mobility parking spaces to standards. allow greater access to key sites in the City of Sydney area for people with disability. ° 22 continuous footpath treatments Council already implemented some mobility constructed across side streets parking spaces. (removing the need for 44 access ramps). • The City has commenced use of timed mobility parking spaces in some locations. ° Four raised pedestrian crossings This helps to increase access share to constructed (removing the need for eight spaces for multiple users. access ramps). • Information about mobility parking spaces ° One shared zone constructed to improve is currently available on the City of Sydney pedestrian access and safety in laneway website on the Mobility Parking page and without an accessible footpath. the Online Accessibility Map. • Work to collect data on the percentage of • A net of three mobility parking spaces were footpaths throughout the Liveable Green removed to accommodate the temporary Network with accessible kerb ramps is pop-up cycleway on Pitt Street. Changes underway. have been made to the location and time • 63 per cent of the City’s Liveable Green limits to mobility parking spaces in this Network Priority Walking Routes have location to increase turnover and access to improved accessibility outcomes. This these spaces. number remains stable for the 2019/2020 • The temporary pop-up cycle ways were reporting period. established by the City and the NSW • 100 per cent (n=2100) signalised Government to create capacity for people pedestrian crossings include tactile and walking and riding to allow for safer travel braille signage. between workplaces, schools, health care and the city centre. These important new Bus Stop upgrades bike links enable people to ride and free up space on public transport and roads, • The City continues to upgrade bus stops to helping the community to return to work and ensure that they’re compliant with Disability local businesses safely, supporting NSW’s Standards for Accessible Public Transport economic recovery. 2002. • 292 mobility parking spaces shown on the • More than 90 per cent of City bus stops are City of Sydney website. Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport 2002 compliant and the City is on • The temporary cycleways were track to achieve 100 per cent compliance implemented in a short timeframe to by 31 December 2022. respond to an urgent need to provide safe transport during the COVID-19 pandemic,

57 meaning that the community was not public toilets, key transport nodes and consulted in the way it normally would be. potential barriers such as stairs and steep The City will consult the community on the inclines. future of the streets before any cycle ways • In 2019/2020 the City upgraded the Online become permanent. Access Map to a new system to enable • Work has begun to advocate to commercial regular updates to the data sets. This new parking operators to improve their map includes the following new data sets: information on the accessibility of their stairs, lifts, seats, bus shelters, information parking stations and booking systems. kiosks and navigability for six selected locations. The City has published some of Hearing augmentation the data from the Online Access Map to the • Since the introduction of the Disability Open Data Portal for other organisations to (Access to Premises – Buildings) Standards access. in 2010, new City community facilities • The Online Access Map continues to have been designed to include hearing experience an increase in the number augmentation. of hits per month, with the map being • The following community facilities have accessed the most over the summer and hearing augmentation installed: New Year’s Eve period. ° • The online access map recorded 3,140 unique views in 2019/2020: ° Barnet Long Room ° 867 page hits (July-September) ° Darling Square Library ° 1,197 page hits (October-December) ° ° 676 page hits (January-March) ° Glebe Town Hall ° 400 page hits (April-June). ° Green Square Library • An average of 261 hits per month, this is ° Harold Park Community Hall a decrease of 18 per cent per month from ° Juanita Nielson Community Centre 2018/2019-figures. ° • There was no external feedback on the accuracy of the map over the 2019/2020 ° Surry Hills Function Hall period. ° Surry Hills Library ° Centre for Disability Studies and the Marlborough Hotel ° Marconi Room, Town Hall House • In February 2020 an article was published ° Ultimo Community Centre by Broadsheet promoting a City funded • Work has begun to audit all community initiative between the Centre for Disability facilities to better understand their hearing Studies and the Marlborough Hotel. augmentation requirements. Further • A City of Sydney grant in 2019 enabled progress on this will be reported on in the Centre for Disability Studies and the 2020/2021. Portable hearing augmentation Marlborough Hotel to work together and devices are being purchased for use in develop Creating Inclusive Spaces, a some of the City’s smaller community resource that outlines how hospitality centres. venues can better serve people with disability. Online access map • The Creating Inclusive Spaces guide offers • The City’s Online Access Map provides advice for managers, bartenders and wait information about key access features such staff on how to promote inclusivity and as mobility parking spaces, accessible

58 address social inequity in the hospitality within the planning controls to increase industry. In 2020 the Centre for Disability the amount and improve the standard of Studies was awarded another grant by the housing that is universally designed. This City to enable them to continue working includes encouraging the delivery of larger with other venues in the Local Government on the ground floor to ensure Area and promote the resource. people of all ages, people with disability, and families with children can find suitable • The Marlborough Hotel worked along with housing with usable external space in the its Social Networking Group, an initiative city. run by the Centre for Disability Studies (CDS) that provides opportunities for Sense of belonging and connection to people with and without disabilities to place come together to socialise. To create more inclusive venues and spaces for people • In 2019/2020, a suite of programs were with disability in the City of Sydney. offered across the City’s community centres that were inclusive of people with disability. Business 2 Business Newsletter The COVID-19 pandemic prevented the City from delivering services in our usual • An article was distributed in the City’s format in the last quarter of 2019/2020. Business to Business newsletter However, staff adapted programs for an encouraging local businesses to be more online audience which resulted in increased inclusive of people with disability. participation by people with disability, who were not previously able to attend face Wheeleasy Grant to face programming. Some highlights • The City funded Wheeleasy through a included: Community Services Grant to run a series ° Online programs: magic club, singing of community mapping events to add groups, assertiveness training, ukulele information to their website on accessible club, mums and bubs fitness. places, activities and businesses in the ° Stronger fitter seniors exercise. following locations: The Rocks, Ultimo, Erskineville and Woolloomooloo ° Gentle exercise and chair yoga. • Four out of the six planned events took ° Internet life skills and computer, tablet place. The COVID-19 pandemic and public and mobile phone technical support. health orders related to social distancing ° Walking groups. prevented the delivery of the last two events. Over 200 people took part in the • Two per cent of participants that attended four events, many of which were people programs at Pine Street Creative Arts with a lived experience of disability. Centre identified as a person with disability.

Diverse housing tenures and types Inclusive sports • The City submitted a response to the • Inclusive sport, recreation and active living NSW Housing Strategy Discussion Paper. programs offered across of the City’s This response advocated for the NSW community centres included: Government to review requirements for ° Sports Skills for Life inclusive program adaptable dwellings to ensure that they delivered at Peter Forsyth Auditorium, meet the needs of people with disability. Glebe. • In 2020 the City adopted City Plan 2036: ° Stronger, fitter older adults exercise City of Sydney Local Strategic Planning classes held across various community Statement and Housing for All: Draft City centres. of Sydney Local Housing Strategy. The Planning Statement and Housing Strategy ° Fitness classes for older adults across include actions to investigate opportunities community centres.

59 ° Chair Yoga at various community Thorpe Aquatic Centre and Victoria Park centres. Pool. There were 1,216 attendances ° King George V Recreation Centre recorded for this program in 2019/2020. delivered ‘Queens of the Court’, a series Public health orders implemented in of three on three basketball competitions response to the COVID-19 pandemic to encourage women’s participation in required the closure of aquatic centres sport. during the last quarter of 2019/2020. • The City works closely with Belgravia City community centres: Leisure, who manage the City’s aquatic centres. Belgravia Leisure continue to • A number of community wellbeing and implement the Belgravia Leisure Disability health programs have been delivered and Diversity Strategy, which includes across the City’s community centres: the development and implementation of ° Introduction of a new mums and bubs programming to enhance the social and class at Peter Forsyth Auditorium, run in emotional wellbeing of people and promote collaboration with the Early Childhood opportunity for participation for everyone. Centre, Glebe and Glebe TreeHouse. • Swim Champs is a swimming and water ° Cliff Noble Community Centre hosted safety program run for children under the a health promotion day for older adults age of 18 with disability. The program aims to provide information and referral to build confidence and competence in a pathways for a range of local health safe environment. It is delivered by qualified and social services. This included teachers at Ian Thorpe Aquatic Centre and understanding relational violence. Cook + Phillip Park Pool. ° Harry Jensen Community Centre hosted • 498 attendances were recorded for this a series of health talks including pain program in 2019/2020. Public health management and managing medication. orders implemented in response to the • COVID-19 pandemic required the closure Belgravia Leisure run two mental health of aquatic centres during the last quarter of programs within the City’s aquatic centres. 2019/2020. Dense thriving communities • The following mental health and wellbeing • The City constructed its first Changing programs continue to be delivered at the Places facilityTM at the Abraham Mott City’s aquatic and recreation centres in community space, Millers Point in 2018/19. line with Belgravia Leisure’s Disability and This facility was open and utilised by Diversity Strategy with the aim of promoting patrons during the Sydney New Year’s Eve opportunity and participation of everyone: celebrations on 31 December 2019. • Swimming Well is a water safety and • The number of adult change facilities in pathway to swimming independence the City of Sydney Local Government Area program targeted towards those remains stable. There are four facilities in experiencing mental health issues. 49 the following locations: attendances were recorded for this program in 2019/2020. Public health ° Abraham Mott community space, Millers orders implemented in response to the Point. COVID-19 pandemic required the closure ° Westfield Sydney, CBD. of aquatic centres during the last quarter of 2019/2020. ° International Convention Centre, Darling Harbour. • Take Charge is a health and wellbeing program supporting adults experiencing ° NSW Parliament House, CBD. mental health issues. This program • The Gunyama Park Aquatic and Recreation operates at Cook + Phillip Park Pool, Ian Centre is currently under construction. It will also include a Changing PlacesTM facility.

60 Inclusive and accessible event guidelines there were two new accessible viewing areas. • In October 2019 the City adopted the Inclusive and Accessible Event guidelines. ° Access to the Changing PlacesTM facility These guidelines apply to City run events, at Millers Point which was available from events sponsored by the City and event 9am New Year’s Eve to 1am on New organisers using City facilities, venues and Year’s Day. outdoor spaces. The guidelines outlined ° Large-print, easy-read and audio event key access and inclusion considerations to guides. be referred to when planning and delivering events with City venues and outdoor • Sydney Lunar Festival accessible features spaces. A summary of the guidelines is also offered: provided to external event organisers who ° Two audio-described tours of the Lunar hire City venues to consider when planning Lanterns at Circular Quay with both events in our facilities. sessions completely booked out. • The guidelines were presented to relevant ° Auslan interpreters provided. business units and City of Sydney staff • An accessible website with all video content to assist them to provide inclusive and including closed captions. accessible events. The City delivers and supports a number of major events. A ° Ramps installed at lantern locations. number of these events provide accessible ° Sydney Christmas accessible features features and inclusive programming. offered: • At the Arts Activated Conference held by ° Auslan interpreters. Accessible Arts in August 2019, a City staff member participated in a panel discussion ° Easy access to all sites. amongst disability experts about inclusive • Art and About accessible features offered: events. The panel discussed useful ° strategies and practical tips for delivering Audio guided tour for Australian Life better access and increased participation exhibition. for artists, audiences and arts workers with ° Designated accessible seating area. disability. The City provided an overview of ° Supervisors briefed on all accessible the City’s Inclusive and Accessible Event access points, lifts and accessible toilets. Guidelines, a tool which can be used by any event organiser to plan inclusive ° Accessible viewing platform at Demo events. at Customs House and an accessible pathway through the Untitled (Maraong • City of Sydney produced events Sydney Manaouwi) exhibition was provided. New Year’s Eve ° Accessible transport was provided on • The City works closely with a number of request. NSW government agencies to plan and produce the Sydney New Year’s Eve event. • Major events supported by the City of In 2019/2020, this event will be produced Sydney: by the NSW Government. The City ° Sydney Festival, Mardi Gras, Sydney provides: Fringe Festival, Sydney Writers Festival, ° An accessible golf cart service Vivid and Sydney film festival are all supported by the City of Sydney. ° Designated Accessibility Officer from November to January. ° The COVID-19 pandemic prevented Sydney Fringe Festival, Sydney Writers ° Accessible viewing area at Pirrama Park. Festival and Vivid from proceeding due This is one of eight accessible viewing to physical distancing required by NSW areas available on the night. In 2020 public health orders. Sydney Festival and Mardi Gras Festivals went ahead this year. 61 • Sydney Festival In December 2018, Sydney Festival launched a collaboration with Accessible ° Sydney Festival is leading in the delivery Arts to invite artists with disability or who of inclusive and accessible events. They are Deaf to pitch projects for inclusion in are also committed to the inclusion of the #SYDFEST program. Over 40 fantastic people with disability as artists. submissions for the 2020 Festival were • To make performances more accessible to received and reviewed by the Sydney audiences, Sydney Festival participates in Festival Access and Inclusion Advisory the Accessing Sydney Collectively program Panel who gave their time and expertise from Accessible Arts, which was also to ensure the criteria was met by all supported by the City of Sydney. submissions. • Sydney Festival in 2020 offered an • Sydney Film Festival Sydney Film Festival extensive range of inclusive and accessible supports the annual Screenability program, performances and experiences including: produced in partnership with Screen ° Accessible performances including NSW. Screeenability is a platform for sensory adjusted and relaxed screen practitioners with disability leading performances, audio-described and the narrative. This international program tactile events. showcases drama and documentary, offering unique world views on life and ° Interactive guest experiences for small foregrounding the stories of filmmakers with groups or individual who may not be able disability. to participate fully within a specific event. • This year, the Festival presented ° Auslan interpreted events and three compelling short films by multi- performances. disciplinary artist Emily Dash, former Youth ° Live captioning and open captioning. Paralympian Adam Bowes, and award- winning theatre director Anthea Williams. ° Accessible viewing areas. • All films in the Screenability and Dendy ° Support for the companion card program. Awards for Australian Short Films programs • Sydney Festival is also committed to are available to view with closed captions providing easy-to-find information that and audio descriptions. empowers people with disability to • Sydney Film Festival participates in the know what’s on offer, and how they can Access Sydney program and have a participate. This includes: Disability Inclusion Action Plan and an ° Ensuring websites are accessible. accessibility program. This festival is also ° Festival guides and information available funded by the City through the Festivals in alternative formats, such as Large Text and Events Artform Festival. and Braille. Vibrant creative life ° Listings of performances grouped by • The City offered or supported the following access supports provided. programs that promote participation ° Providing information about wheelchair of people with disability as artists and accessible parking and venues and audience members: hearing loops available within venues. • ‘Freefall’ was a theatre production • Sydney Festival is committed to increasing conceived and written by Emily Dash, an the representation of artists with disability in artist who identifies as having a disability the annual program. and supported by PACT, an organisation • They believe stronger communities are built that develops and supports emerging when a diverse range of artists tell their artists through an integrated program of stories to a diverse range of audiences. residencies, training and presentations. This production was supported through a City of Sydney Matching Grant. 62 This theatre production involving young Health and the Non-government sector to artists living with disability challenges ensure maximum participation in the project audiences to think critically about grief, by mental health communities and their identity, sexuality and disability. Three carers. artists with disability were case in the • The COVID-19 pandemic prevented the production. City from providing our usual programs The strategies used to reach new due to the physical distancing required audiences included: a strong focus on by public health orders. In response, staff social media to deepen relationships from the Pine Street Creative Arts Centre between audience and artists, a public adapted programs for an online audience Q&A and forum, and a targeted promotional and developed four Art and Maker online strategy. Auslan interpreters, relaxed workshops for the community to access performances and affordable ticket prices online for free. These workshops aim to be ensured greater access for audiences. as inclusive as possible reaching audiences • The City of Sydney’s Site Works program who may be experiencing remote, physical, provides artists with the opportunity social or economic isolation. The online to display their work on a large scale programs provide the option for participants construction hoardings across the City to access Auslan, captioning, audio of Sydney area. One of these licensed description and a downloadable Easy artworks, Midnight Zoo, was a collaborative English guide with class instructions. work created by Studio A artists Emily Supporting access to meaningful Crockford, Lauren Kerjan, Thom Roberts employment and Phillip Sidney. Studio A is a supported • studio based in Sydney that tackles the Over the 2019/2020 financial year, the barriers that artists living with intellectual City continued to build inclusive workplace disability face in accessing conventional cultures and effective systems for education, professional development promoting a mentally healthy workplace. pathways and opportunities needed to be • The City is taking action to increase successful and renowned visual artists. workplace flexibility, which benefits • “In Harmony” produced by Mostly Mad everyone, but people with disability in Music and supported through a City of particular. Sydney grant aimed to raise awareness • The City is proud to have signed the about mental health through the power and National Fair Internship Pledge to passion of classical music. demonstrate its commitment to the fair A series of pop-up performances across treatment of young people undertaking the Sydney local area were held, bringing internships. classical music from the concert halls to • In May 2019 the City focused its graduate the streets. A recital was held at Customs internship on young people with disability House for partners, friends and funders on from culturally and linguistically diverse international mental health day. backgrounds. Two young people were “In Harmony” provided access and inclusion chosen to job-share for an 18-month pathways for people with lived experience paid internship. The role centred on of mental illness and homelessness to opportunities for the graduates to gain participate in events shared with the skills and contribute to efforts to support general public, to enjoy beautiful music the City’s diversity and inclusion initiatives and to connect with a diverse range of in the workforce. The internship enables people in safe and de-stigmatising settings. the graduates to learn important skills and Mad Music uses the momentum of Mental gain experiences to enhance their future Health Month and strong relationships employment opportunities and career with the Mental Health Commission, NSW growth. It also adds to the richness of the diverse and inclusive workplace at the City.

63 • One of the graduate interns explains “As Diversity and Inclusion Officers to oversee a person with a disability it’s important its implementation. for me to remain transparent and let • The City’s People Strategy 2019-21 recruiters know of my hearing disability. It included an EEO, Diversity and Inclusion can be a little hard to mention a disability Action Plan outlining key deliverables that to recruiters over fear of judgment or address the City’s commitment to EEO loss of opportunity. However, when I principles and provide a roadmap for a saw there was a targeted role for people diverse and inclusive workplace with three with a disability, I felt an overwhelming key outcomes: sense of joy to apply. I was welcomed by managers and teams and I’ve recognised ° Communicate and raise awareness of that having a disability has not stopped the City’s EEO, Diversity and Inclusion me from working on projects with others. initiatives The City has given me the confidence to ° Implement policies and reporting on take on future roles that don’t define me as EEO, Diversity and Inclusion across the someone with a disability.” organisation, and Inclusive growth opportunities ° Improve EEO, diversity and inclusion in the workplace. • In 2016, the City began working with Australian Network on Disability to • The City held its first internal staff event for become a disability confident recruiter. International Day of People with Disability Work continues to become an accredited in December 2019. disability confident recruiter. • The City maintained its network of 30 • In January 2020 the City accepted an trained peer support employees to provide opportunity to work with the Council for initial support, assistance and information Intellectual Disability on a pilot program to employees who may be experiencing an titled “More than just a job for Councils”. issue which is impacting on their mental The aim of the program is to work with health and wellbeing. This peer support councils in NSW to support the employment network includes employees with lived and retention of people with intellectual experience in disability. disability. Through training and mentoring • The City’s Workplace Flexibility Policy and the Council for Intellectual Disability supporting guidelines and tools continued will help build the skills and capacity of to provide support to employees to meet managers and staff to employ and sustain the demands of the workplace and their people with intellectual disability in the personal lives. This was particularly workplace. Further progress on this project relevant during the pandemic lockdown will be reported in 2020/2021. when flexible and remote working was • In 2019/2020, 1.6 per cent of staff identified embraced by many employees. as a person with disability – this figure • Flexible working webinar sessions were increased from the 1.4 per cent the held for our managers and information previous financial year. was provided to staff to educate and clarify • In 2019/2020, two people continued concerns around our flexibility policy and working in the role of Diversity and how to avail flexible work options. Inclusion Officers. These positions were • During the year, City employees also targeted for people with disability. continued to undertake specialist disability • The City is working with The Australian training to build their awareness and Network on Disability to finalise our confidence. Topics included mental health Disability Confident Recruiter certification. awareness, mental health first aid and deaf awareness. • The City prepared the EEO, Diversity & Inclusion Action Plan and engaged two • The City continues to implement the Mentally Healthy Workplace Plan 2019/2020. 64 • The Mentally Healthy Workplace Plan ° Explore how services can creatively includes guidance and resources for reframe how they engage and work supporting employees with mental health alongside older people, people with conditions to remain or return to work. disability and their allies, and • The City continues to run and promote ° Explore what support staff and/or the Peer Support Program to enable staff volunteers need during the recovery and to readily access support and information reopening process. 55 people attended around mental health issues. the online 90-minute forum. • The program focusses on support around • Challenges and opportunities were mental health issues and consists of a identified and a number of organisations network of trained ’peers’ with lived or are working together to address priority shared experiences and skills around issues and to plan for service coordination mental health, and with whom colleagues and delivery. Key priority issues include: feel comfortable to approach for advice. ° High levels of digital exclusion faced by • A suite of returnable schedules for social people with disability, often as a result and sustainability procurement outcomes of low incomes, leading to barriers to have been developed. accessing both specialist disability • The following have also been developed services and other mainstream services. to ensure greater inclusion and diversity ° Concerns about increases of elder abuse outcomes through procurement processes: during lockdown, and ° Inclusion and diversity expectation ° Need for more support for people with statement complex mental and physical health ° Code of conduct for suppliers issues. ° Guidelines for sustainable procurement Balanced and inclusive decision making ° Evaluation guidelines being developed. • The City’s Inclusion (Disability) Advisory • Staff are currently reviewing procurement Panel has been advising the City on templates to make them accessible. Disability Inclusion and access matters since 2011. Improving access to mainstream For 2019/2020, the City’s Inclusion services through better systems and (Disability) Advisory Panel provided advice processes on the following plans, strategies, projects and policies: Creative opportunities and challenges for ageing and disability services in the ° Upgrade of Redfern Train Station and COVID-19 pandemic the George Street Light Rail project. • On 17 June 2020, Inner Sydney Voice, The ° The City Plan 2036: Local strategic Junction Neighbourhood Centre, Randwick planning statement. City Council, , and City of ° Housing for All: City of Sydney local Sydney Council held a forum with aged and housing strategy. disability services in eastern Sydney on the creative opportunities and challenges in the ° Information displayed on the City’s recovery and reopening after the COVID-19 website about community centres and pandemic. venues for hire. The purpose of the forum was to: ° Accessible and inclusive features for New Year’s Eve 2019/2020. ° Explore the opportunities and challenges in recovery and reopening for aged and ° Strategies to encourage commercial disability services in eastern Sydney. parking operators to provide greater information about off-street accessible parking spaces. 65 ° Refresh of the Inclusion (Disability) redesign of the corporate website and Awareness Training for staff. intranet. Accessibility was a requirement ° Provided input into the City’s submission in the specifications for each website, on the review of the Disability Inclusion with testing conducted during the Act NSW. development process against the Web Content Accessibility guidelines to verify ° Provided advice and feedback on the compliance. impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic for • The Sydney Culture Walks app was audited people with disability, people living with for accessibility with remediation work to be mental health conditions and carers. completed in 2020/2021. • The panel were consulted on 10 new City • policies, strategies and initiatives. This is The City’s ongoing program of web an increase from the previous year (six in and print communications is focused 2018/19). on providing accessible versions of documents, ensuring video content is • In December 2019, the City commenced captioned, and producing content that is live streaming and webcast recordings of delivered in a plain English and easy to Council and Committee meetings. Placing engage with style, making content more meetings online assists people with accessible for all the community. New and disability that may face barriers attending existing web properties (websites and web Council meetings in person. apps) aim to comply with Level AA of the WCAG standards. Audits are conducted Transparent accountable governance periodically, and new code is tested for • The City’s policy template was updated to accessibility. meet design and accessibility standards. • New and existing web properties (websites • The City’s Digital and Print Accessibility and web apps) aim to comply with Level Policy and Procedures were updated AA of the WCAG2.1 standards. Audits are in 2018/2019 to ensure that City staff, conducted periodically, and new code is suppliers and contracts comply with tested for accessibility. current standards and provide accessible information both digitally and in print. Public participation in community life • In 2018/2019 11 major documents were • The City’s Grants policy and guidelines are published online in accessible formats. accessible and have been published on the website. The City is currently working to • The City’s web team remediated documents update additional documentation available internally on 60 occasions. on the City’s grants pages to ensure they • All videos that required captioning were meet accessibility requirements. transcribed. • The Grants and Sponsorships team • All projects, strategies, polices and continue to review the Grant Application developments published on the City’s process to identify strategies to make website seeking community feedback the grants systems and processes more outline further options for giving feedback, inclusive and accessible. including contacting the City to discuss face • A dedicated support officer within the grants to face, using the National Relay Service team has been established to make it and using the Translating and Interpreting easier for applicants with disability to apply Service. and access information about the City’s • In 2019/2020 11 major policies and plans grants programs. were published online in accessible • The Grants platform SmartyGrants is formats. WCAG compliant. • In 2019/2020 the City completed the • The revised Digital and Print Accessibility upgrade of its events platform and archives Policy adopted at the end of 2018/2019 catalogue. Work was ongoing for the 66 requires any new information or is due to be uploaded to the Access communications technology the City Sydney website. procures complies with the Accessibility ° Alternative communication tools such requirements suitable for public as text messaging to communicate with procurement of ICT products and services. people with disability about transport • Twelve ICT products were procured in the delays or cancellations. 2019/2020 financial year that are required ° Disability awareness training for all to comply with the City’s accessibility bus drivers to ensure they can support requirements. 100% were compliant with customers with disability. accessibility standards. • In addition, Access Sydney Community • Work has been completed to collect access Transport is in the process of engaging features for 34 City parks. This information a consultant to ensure they comply with is due to be uploaded to the City’s new Disability Public Transport Standards 2002. corporate website. The City’s new corporate website was launched in September 2020. Clarence Valley Council Access features are more prominently • Council has an Access Committee that highlighted where available across a range meets once a month. This committee of areas including parks, hireable indoor comprises of two Councillors, nine spaces and community centres. community members (including an • These accessibility features are designed to Occupational Therapist and a guide dog help users understand content more easily, Orientation & Mobility Specialist). Some making it easier to perform a comparison meetings have been postponed due to between spaces before determining the COVID-19 restrictions. best solution for their needs. Features • Here are some of the projects the include: Committee has had influence over ° On-site mobility parking ° Feedback on draft planning documents ° Mobility parking within 300m for example the Grafton Bridge Project ° Level access entrance ° Lobbied Rotary Yamba to install a bench ° Entry door type seat at a Taxi Pick up and Drop off area ° Floors in Yamba ° Lifts ° Drafting some mobility maps. ° Accessible toilets ° Advocating for safer pedestrian ° Ambulant toilets crossings. ° Accessible change facilities See below for recent projects, current actions ° Hearing support system and future plans for the four key focus areas in • In 2018/2019 the City worked with the the Council’s DIPA: Village to Village transport service provider Developing positive community Access Sydney Community Transport attitudes and behaviours to review current access provisions against the relevant parts of the Disability • All Council programs promote and support Standards for Accessible Public Transport the inclusion of people with disability. 2002. • Vibrant Places – Environment, • In 2019/2020 Access Sydney Community Development & Strategic Planning, Transport has implemented a number of Access Committee and Community initiatives to improve access across its Development Staff went out to businesses transport’s services. These include: about revitalising the main street scape by ° An audit of accessible bus stops. ensuring accessibility for all Information collected as part of this audit • Free Accessibility workshops for businesses during NSW Small Business Month Access 67 at a glance program - promoting using Supporting access to meaningful window signage and stickers to indicate if a employment place or space is accessible at a glance. • Council will reviewed all policies and • Access and inclusion planning and delivery procedures in 2019/2020 to ensure they are is included in the planning of events. promote an equal employment opportunity workplace (EEO). Council will continue Creating liveable communities with this review into 2020/2021 to ensure • Public toilet strategy completed. Signage all internal documents from the People and review to be undertaken. Culture Team are up to date and promote EEO. Council are working on updating • Draft public amenities strategy completed the Workforce Diversity and Inclusion and to go on exhibition 2020/2021. Review framework to ensure ongoing opportunities of all public toilet condition undertaken for people with disabilities. • New accessible parking spaces to be • Advertising of all positions encourage all installed in new car park as part of the new members of our community to apply. Grafton Bridge at the instigation of Council • Workspace and access considers are • The Gallery is proactive in presenting and reviewed as needed. supporting program opportunities for people with disability and the Gallery is wheelchair • Council will redevelop the main office accessible. All our libraries are wheelchair building in 2020/2021 which will be all accessible and our programs and events accessible for the whole of community. The are presented and developed with inclusion new design will include a lift. and access for all in mind. Improving access to mainstream • Jacaranda Park and Alex Bell Park services through better systems and have been updated to include all access processes play. The ‘Wheelspin’ at Jacaranda • Park provides all children the liberating Councils web site contains a number of experience of dynamic movement. It allows references including - access, Access for all children to play side by side. Not Committee, and Community Services only does the ‘Wheelspin’ accommodate Directory. wheelchairs, it allows several children the • Council will be updated their web page opportunity to spin together. in 2020/2021 to ensure an all access • As part of the planning, approval and legal environment. requirements all new and or refurbished • All Council meeting have been broadcasted commercial buildings are compliant with live via Facebook. disabled access requirements. • Pippi Beach and Wooli Beach have Council improved all access areas Developing positive community • MLAK keys given to residents free of attitudes and behaviours charge • Disability Inclusion Action Plan 2020-2024 • Accessible toilets remain unlocked updated through consultation. throughout the day, access afterhours via • use of MLAK Council has applied for grant funding specific for Disability Projects. • Maintains network of accessible toilets Creating liveable communities • Council is continuing the process of expanding the shared pathway network • Installed accessible toilets and wheelchair accessible play equipment at Drummond • Ongoing audits of pathways and public Park. toilet infrastructure.

68 • Installed assessable toilets and updated Coffs Harbour City Council footpaths at Dalton Park. Developing positive community • Bus shelter at installed to meet attitudes and behaviours accessibility standards, new ramp and • Celebration of International Day of People entrance rectification to the Euabalong with a Disability, with a showcase of Community Hall. accessible features available at the Cex • Number of major upgrades budgeted for Coffs Harbour International Stadium. 2020/2021 year. • The booklet “Good Customer Service: Supporting access to meaningful It’s Everyone’s Business” was launched employment to business community. The booklet is a guide for businesses to make them more • Following Disability Inclusion Action Plan Accessible and to assist staff in customer 2020-2024. service training for persons with a disability. Improving access to mainstream • Promotion of library services to community services through better systems and members with a disability as a key processes audience. • Council Meetings – livestreamed for greater • Submission of an entry in the 2020 National access (prior to COVID-19). Awards for Local Government (Disability How have you determined that you’re Category) – MyCoffs: An Inclusive Future. meeting the needs of people with • The inclusion of community members with disability? a disability and the sharing of information about disability services on the MyCoffs • Through consultation our Disability Connect Facebook page. Inclusion Action Plan 2020-2024 has been supported and confirmed. • Two films were created with local community members with a disability using Describe your challenges and Jetty Beach Inclusive Access trial service successes in delivering on your parts achieving extensive reach and positive of the DIAP comment on Council and Lifeguards • Major program in footpath and access Facebook pages. ramps have been supported through Council Budget and Grant success. Council has worked to increase opportunities for people with disability to participate in Is there anything else you’re doing or community activities. This included: planning for the future to contribute • Adoption of an Inclusive Beach Access to greater outcomes for people with Issues and Options Paper, which endorses disability? Jetty Beach as a priority location for the • As per Disability Inclusion Action Plan development of inclusive beach facilities 2020-2024. such as a Mobi-matt and the provision of two additional Hippocampe beach Additional information and comments wheelchairs. The success of the project about the information provided was evident, with users varying from young • With COVID-19 some difficulty in Public families to persons with disabilities and/or Consultation has occurred which will be mobility issues. re-assessed in 2020/2021 and for future • Use of the accessibility checklist in years. development of community programs such as the Eco Surf Fest and the Sustainable Living Programs (Coffs by Nature Programs). Festival and community event planning continues to seek to partner

69 with local community organisations that parking across the Coffs Harbour City and are committed to diversity and inclusion connection to accessible pathways. of people with disability and consider the • Council has engaged a consultant to needs and broader community inclusion develop an accessible parking plan outcomes in planning and programming and procedure as part of an overall car • Consultation with Vision Australia to parking plan for the city centre. The plan develop plans for the Jetty Theatre will determine an appropriate target of Expansion Project to accommodate a quiet accessible parking spaces for our City room for audio description. Centre. • Preparation of a report on the cost and Supporting access to meaningful availability of assistive software for people employment with a disability for the library computers • and purchase of adaptive technology. The implementation of flexible work arrangements that support employment of Creating liveable communities people with a disability and carers of people • Accessibility upgrades to public toilets with a disability. at McLean Street and , Coffs • Alterations to the kitchen and bathroom Harbour, and Toormina Oval, Toormina areas of the Council Administration Building • Adult Change Place planned for Woolgoo to facilitate improved access for employees local government area Beach Reserve with a disability. upgrade. • Endorsement of the Equal Employment • Significant footpath upgrades at King, York, Opportunity Management Plan as a and McLean Streets, Coffs Harbour; and workplace planning framework. Eighth, Boronia and May Streets, Sawtell. • Support for management and staff footpath/Cycleway installations from with Disability Awareness training Gundagai Street to Robyn Street, Coffs available through Council’s online Harbour and Tasman Street, Corindi Beach. learning management system including • Refurbishment of the access ramp to requirements of the Disability Discrimination improve accessibility at the Cavanbah Act, social models, reasonable adjustment Centre, Coffs Harbour and guides for communication. • • Upgrade of 20 accessible bus shelters and Council has continued to support leaders pathways to the bus shelters constructed. in working effectively with employees with a disability through both capability • Consultation with the Disability Inclusion development, as well as one on one and Access Committee for the design of support with specific issues. This has the Cultural and Civic Space Project and included advice in terms of workplace the West Woolgoo local government area modifications, as well as considerations Sports Complex. around tasks and individual capacity. • Installation of a mobi-mat and lifeguard trial Improving access to mainstream at Jetty Beach. services through better systems and Council is working toward greater access processes across the local government area and has • Social media and web pages promoting allocated funding in the 2020/2021 budget for: access to beach wheelchairs and • A $600,000 footpath construction program. installation of the mobi-mat at Jetty Beach. • Upgrade of a further 10 accessible bus • Inclusion of junior fiction titles in a print shelters. format for young people with dyslexia. • Development of an Integrated Transport • The following numbers of accessible items Strategy which will consider accessible were added to the Library’s collections during the period: 537 talking books (books

70 on CD); 2,317 eAudiobooks (for download); Visitor Information Centre, Redgrave Park, and 950 new large print books. Coolamon, Hall & Marrar Memorial Hall. Council is investing in training to build skills • and knowledge to support access including: Ongoing implementation of Council’s Active Transport Plan including the construction of • Mental health first aid and awareness. a path in Beckom linking the park to the hall • Disability Awareness training has been and kerb blisters and ramps in . developed and is available through • Council continues to undertake Council’s online learning management assessments of its public facilities to ensure system. This module covers the Disability that accessibility issues are considered as Discrimination Act and guides for part of future upgrades. communication. • Council awarded funding under the Local Council continues to be committed to Heritage Places program to contribute to consulting with people with a disability: improved access to the Coolamon Post Office. • Council’s Disability Inclusion and Access Advisory Committee continues to meet • Designated disabled parking was monthly and regularly engages with Council established in Street, Coolamon. staff, excepting during periods of COVID • Flyers have been distributed to business in restrictions. Cowabbie Street, Coolamon for promoting • The Disability Inclusion and Access location of disabled parking spots. Advisory Committee provided extensive Supporting access to meaningful input into the design of the Cultural employment and Civic Space Project and the West Woolgoolocal government area Sports • Council’s Equal Employment Opportunity Complex Plan and related recruitment process ensure that everyone has access to meaningful employment and that all staff Coolamon Shire Council are supported within the workplace with Developing positive community appropriate adjustments. attitudes and behaviours Improving access to mainstream • Council has undertaken ongoing actions to services through better systems and ensure that positive community attitudes processes and behaviours are being developed • and maintained relating to people with a Council’s policies and procedures relating disability. These actions have included: to community engagement allow everyone the same rights to participate in the ° The provision of information to decision making of Council, regardless of Councillors, staff and the general disability. community regarding the Disability Inclusion Action Plan via Council’s website and newsletters, and Cootamundra Gundagai Regional ° Council’s employee and volunteer Council induction programs. • Engaging in industry discussion and keeping informed of changes to advocate Creating liveable communities for access to respite services for carers of disabled children. Our activities: • Keeping informed of industry and changes • Council’s websites having zoom enabled to advocate for the allocation of more and font resizing. resources for education early intervention • The construction of disability amenities and childcare for children with a disability. at the Council Chambers, Coolamon 71 • Conducted a triennial survey of service Currently updating HR system so data is providers to garner information on access correct. issues in the area (pending new appointee • Coordinator of HR to liaise with Disability but says completed). and Inclusion Action Group to investigate • Ensuring information concerning accessible barriers that exist for people with a disability public transport including community and their carers in accessing employment transport is readily available and council is in council positions and standing for council aware of where to refer people to. positions. • Clear easy to read signage is installed but • Development applicants are provided with official audit yet to be completed. relevant information regarding Disability • Strategies have been identified and are Discrimination legislation. being implemented to ensure the needs of all stakeholders are considered on council Council committees. • Council installed disability parking at the Coonamble Medical Centre. • DIAP actions are incorporated into the Community Strategic plan to ensure this • Managers are reminded of their obligations plan considers barriers to an inclusive under the Carers Recognition Act and to community and any issues raised. include appropriate reference to carers when reviewing policies. The Rights of • Appropriate information on available Carers are incorporated into council’s access for community and tourism events Disability Action Plan. is developed and provided in materials including promotional material where • Website continues to be monitored applicable. weekly to ensure content appropriateness (including Ensure that all images of seniors, • Council complaints process and the people with a disability and youth are Access & Inclusion Committee provides positive and language is appropriate. opportunities for stakeholders to easily report stakeholder concerns. • Black Dog: Agreement no longer in place with NSW Libraries. The Library now offers • Support provided to community Books on Prescription - that assist people organisations wherever possible to assist in managing their well-being. The Library with sourcing funding for accessibility and hosted an event on International Day of inclusion projects. People with Disability and support provided • As part of reviewing council documents to to the Wide- Angle Film Festival during make them easy to complete for people of Mental Health Week. all ability changed newsletter to larger print. • Housebound book program operating, • Currently updating existing Council ongoing support of services through channels to ensure that they have the interagency meetings in both Coonamble ability to include access information and and and the Coonamble other stakeholder requirements, and that Together Partnership. Regular update this is collected. provided by NDIS. • Some updates have been made to mapping • Event audits undertaken regularly to improve and websites to include access information accessibility and inclusion - ongoing. on facilities and activities. This is ongoing. • Provide appropriate support to organisations • Reviewing industry best practice for that provide services to people with a baseline intervention to consider ways disability and cultural and linguistically we can better support businesses which diverse (CALD) community members. employ people with disabilities. ° Support provided as requested - • Disability inclusion to be included in the ongoing. Implementation of the Disability update of the Workforce Management Plan. Inclusion Action Plan continues.

72 • Staff Disability Survey conducted May/ • Staff have attended mental health June 2020. Recommendations will be workshop which were scheduled to coincide incorporated into the revised Workforce with mental health day. Planning Strategy. • Ongoing EEO and anti discrimination and • Develop Council’s Workforce Management bullying training delivered to new and Strategy for retaining older workers and existing staff as required. people with a disability. • All supervisors and managers are • Council continues to comply with the conversant with EEO principles. underlying principles of EEO and anti- • EEO plan reviewed and updated for discrimination in its recruitment and approval. selection process. • Services / Assistance provided for Seniors and People with a Disability: Cumberland City Council ° ‘Words on Wheels’ is a housebound Some of the key highlights from the delivery service, which offers fortnightly implementation of the Disability Inclusion deliveries to local housebound patrons Action Plan (DIAP) in year 3 include: and residents of the Koonambil Aged • The regional all abilities playground at Care Facility. Central Gardens was completed and ° Tech Savvy for Seniors was run at the opened. beginning of the year with full classes • Inclusion Training for Educators working with a supply of workbooks for those who with school aged children (5-12yrs) was attended. delivered by the Western Sydney University ° The Library hosted an annual movie to 41 educators. day for International Day of People • From June to September 2019 Councils with Disability with food and beverages Arts and Culture team ran a program called offered. This was well attended. Peacock Wallaby. Peacock Wallaby was a unique collaborative artist residency project Cowra Shire Council led by Studio A (a supported creative arts • Funding has been sought under the studio for artists with intellectual disability) ‘everyone can play’ grant system for fencing and the Peacock Gallery’s Makers Circle of the Riverside Park. artists. They facilitated the creation of • The Access Incentive Fund has funded the a collaborative artwork installation with Cowra Tennis Club ramp construction. the local Cumberland community. Total 57 project participants of all abilities and • The CBD works, which is half completed, ages, 16 people with disability participated will provide additional shops with disability including six lead artists with disability and access. The refurbishment will provide new 10 creative workshop participants. seating and shade structures, new safe and • modern footpath surface, additional lighting In October 2019, Cumberland City Council for shop fronts, new frontage to Squire Park libraries worked with Neami and One Door and additional flower beds and landscaping Mental Health to deliver mental health talks which will create a vibrant outdoor space. in community languages to reduce stigma Furthermore, an additional 22 shops will surrounding mental health condition. have disabled access to their premises with • Council has implemented specific the footpath meeting the front step, making evaluation criteria to be considered by an a total of 58 Kendal Street buildings and evaluation panel when reviewing requests premises accessible. for quotes and/or tenders. The criteria • Successful Seniors Festival delivered. provides proponents the opportunity to Council hosted events at Cowra Pool inform the evaluation panel on their social and the Premiere Cinema were very well procurement initiatives and policies as part attended. of their value for money proposal. 73 • Council held an event to celebrate 2018 and ensures future engagement International Day of People with Disability is accessible. Ongoing review and where a video was created in order to improvements are underway. reduce stigma around disability, and further • Council adopted an Access and Equity highlight the rights and contribution of Policy in 2017 and reviewed / updated the people with disability in our community. The policy in 2019. video highlighted Council’s commitment to access and inclusion, the achievements of • Have discussed convening the Cumberland a local woman with disability and showed Disability Employee Champion Network snippets of a fun song writing workshop with Human Resources and Australian held with local people with disability who Network on Disability. More discussions are want the community to know they are just required for this item on how to progress like everybody else. and focus on in Year 4. • Council distributed inclusion resources • Guidelines to accessing Auslan interpreters provided through a project by St Vincent have been incorporated in Councils De Paul, to various service points, these ‘Engaging Translators and Interpreters included Xtra Eyes Kits, Escape the Noise Guidelines’. Kits and Sensory Tents. • Inclusion Training for Educators working • d/Deaf-led Artist Talks, Tours and Workshop with school aged children (5- 12yrs) was Program: This program consulted delivered by the Western Sydney University with key d/Deaf artists, advocates and ° 13 June 2019 - 15 attendees. social researchers from diverse cultural ° backgrounds, including Dr Riona Tindal, 25 July 2019 – 14 attendees. Darlene Thornton, Raian Hoblos and Ayah ° 15 Aug 2019 - 12 attendees. Wehbe (Silent Signs) in order to create a Managing Behaviours webinar with 30 d/Deaf-led Public Program that connected attendees was held in July 2020. with three exhibitions at Councils Peacock Gallery from July 2019–January 2020. It Inclusion Training on Autism was attended engaged a total of 42 d/Deaf people and by one attendee in July 2020. established a social media Facebook Group • Council continued to convene the with 45 d/Deaf online followers. Community Care Forum for local service Developing positive attitudes and providers to network, share resources behaviours and keep informed on sector updates and developments in the provision of aged and • Working with Council’s Organisational disability services. Development Officer to assess which staff have undertaken disability awareness • From June to September 2019 Councils training and to plan targeted training Arts and Culture team ran a program called sessions. Peacock Wallaby. • Additional Disability Awareness training • Peacock Wallaby was a unique sessions were held in October and collaborative artist residency project led November 2019 with the scheduled March / by Studio A (a supported creative arts April 2020 training sessions being cancelled studio for artists with intellectual disability) due to COVID-19. and the Peacock Gallery’s Makers Circle artists. They facilitated the creation of Sessions will be investigated to be held in a collaborative artwork installation with 2021. the local Cumberland community. Total Online Disability Awareness Training 57 project participants of all abilities and Program is also being investigated. ages, 16 people with disability participated including six lead artists with disability and • Council’s Community Engagement and 10 creative workshop participants. Participation Strategy was adopted in

74 • In October 2019, Cumberland City Council local people with disability who want libraries worked with Neami and One Door the community to know they are just like Mental Health to deliver mental health talks everybody else. in community languages to reduce stigma • Council delivered Inclusive Sports surrounding mental health conditions. Workshops to children from local schools • Council has implemented specific at Council’s Sustainability Expo in October evaluation criteria to be considered by an 2019. The activities delivered at this evaluation panel when reviewing requests workshop explored what inclusion is, why for quotes and/or tenders. people might be excluded and ways to be • The criteria provides proponents the more inclusive through play. opportunity to inform the evaluation panel Creating liveable communities on their social procurement initiatives and • policies as part of their value for money Identify and prioritise public buildings, proposal. These criteria are: community and recreational facilities that require access audits in accordance with ° Council encourage our Suppliers to AS1428.1 (Access to Premises) - All the consider the following and provide works have been identified and will be examples (if applicable) that will benefit prioritised based on 10 year Long Term the community, provide sustainability Financial Plan. and assist the environment during • this contract. For example, please list Undertake an audit of accessible public businesses that will be engaged during toilets across Cumberland to evaluate the this contract period from the Cumberland accessibility of each toilet, including their Local area. access and egress and ensure the National Public Toilet Map register is regularly ° Sustainability balances economic, updated.- All the works have been identified environmental and social considerations. and will be prioritised based on 10 year Please provide example of how your Long Term Financial Plan. organisation implements environmental • management. Access and Development Control Plan updated and adopted by Council (August ° Does your organisation employ staff 2020). Will come into effect once LEP is with disability or engages with Disability gazette (likely late December 2020) organisations to supply goods or • services? Please provide details. Continuously upgrade recreational facilities to incorporate access and inclusion ° Specify the details of any value added provision. services you will be recommending as ° part of this Contract, the Prices and Review of access and inclusion when payment is due. provisions are undertaken as part of the scoping and design process for all • Three photoshoots were held with Council’s capital works. NDIS lifestyle and leisure links program at ° different activities to increase the diversity Recent examples include the provision of of photos in the photo library. an accessible BBQ into the Wyatt Park Netball Court surrounds and the design • Council held one event to celebrate of the new Granville Park Stadium which International Day of People with Disability. A includes accessible ramps and lifts and video was created in order to reduce stigma complies with all BCA requirements. around disability, and further highlight • the rights and contribution of people with Wentworthville Swim centre modernisation disability in our community. This video works have commenced. The 50 metre pool highlighted Council’s commitment to access has no change to the structure therefore an and inclusion, the achievements of a local accessible Lift into the pool will be supplied. woman with disability and showed snippets The opening of the upgraded centre is of a fun song writing workshop held with expected in February 2021. 75 • A grant for Granville Pool was submitted continued transport planning work with to improve access and inclusion. Advice is State government. expected before the end of the calendar • Council’s access loop bus is delivered six year 2020. days/week to community centres, train • Council adopted a Community Facilities stations, shopping centres and other central Strategy priority areas include: locations in the Auburn/ area. ° Enhancing our existing Community • Transport assistance is provided for Youth Facilities. and Age/Disability programs and major • Council adopted an Open Space and Council events where required. Recreation Strategy which includes a • Council’s Seniors and Disability Services Strategic Strategy on continued to provide accessible transport to all their programs. ° Create welcoming and inclusive open space and recreation facilities that • Quiet zones are provided at major events reflect the diversity of the Cumberland to increase the participation of people with community’. disability, seniors, children and people of diverse religious denominations. This • Undertake access appraisals of the provides a quiet space with seating, Central Gardens, Holroyd Gardens and blankets and rugs, mindful activities and and promote sensory equipment. as destinations - The Masterplans are complete for the three gardens awaiting • A ‘Mainstreaming accessibility’ workshop funding for implementation as part of the was facilitated by the Australian Network 10-year Long Term Financial Plan. on Disability for Council staff. Feedback • Council has successfully incorporated from this workshop will contribute to the more accessible elements into playground development of a ‘Mainstreaming Dignified upgrade projects through the creation of Access and Inclusion’ resource for all accessible paths, surfaces and equipment. Council staff who develop and deliver Recent examples include: services and programs. • ° Scout Memorial Park, Granville - rubber 2 x disability-led arts programs have also softfall surface and accessible spinner. been implemented in 2019 at the Peacock Gallery. ° Memorial Park, Merrylands - creation • Council’s Libraries have commenced of new access path to connect to workshops in partnership with Early Ed to playground and accessible carousel with develop an accessible and inclusive story rubber softfall surround. time program for children with disabilities. ° Freame Park, Mays Hill (in construction) • Council libraries are currently installing both - new playground with access paths, Zoomtext and JAWS accessibility software access to pod swing and accessible for public PC’s which allows five concurrent carousel. users. • The Central Gardens playground upgrade • including accessible equipment was A variety of resources are available to completed. promote access and inclusion at events. • • Undertake research on transport Council library Staff attended 3x workshops/ disadvantage in the Cumberland Local info sessions facilitated by Early Ed in Government Authority - This action has order to develop a more inclusive Story been completed with the completed time program at Council libraries. SWAN background research to inform Council’s (Storytimes with Additional Needs) sessions future transport planning advocacy. were rolled out. • • Council advocates for accessible public Developing and Delivering Accessible and transport infrastructure and hubs in its Inclusive Programs resource for Council staff was developed. 76 • Council recreation officers delivered 5x goal ° Lifestyle & Leisure Links program (NDIS ball clinics in local schools Participants aged 18-65) which focuses ° Council distributed inclusion resources on development through experience provided through a project by St Vincent and encourages improvement to social, De Paul, to various service points, these physical and emotional capacities included through a range of peer group activities. ° ° Xtra Eyes Kit. Seniors wellness programs and outings with accessible transport. ° Escape the Noise Kit. ° Options for seniors with disability. ° Sensory Tent. Supporting access to meaningful • d/Deaf-led Artist Talks, Tours and Workshop employment Program: • Council promoted the ‘Employ their Ability’ This program consulted with key d/Deaf campaign to highlight the benefits of artists, advocates and social researchers employing people with disability. from diverse cultural backgrounds, including Dr Riona Tindal, Darlene • Council’s HR services distributes Council Thornton, Raian Hoblos and Ayah Wehbe job opportunities to Disability Employment (Silent Signs) in order to create a d/Deaf- Services in the Cumberland area. led Public Program that connected with • Implement actions from the Workplace three exhibitions at Councils Peacock Management Plan to improve the Gallery from July 2019 – January 2020. It inclusion and professional development engaged a total of 42 d/Deaf people and of employees with disability. - Council’s established a social media Facebook Group Workplace Management Plan broadly with 45 d/Deaf online followers. discusses inclusion and professional • Council’s Children’s Services provide the development for all. following supports: • Council’s Volunteer Application Form asks ° Early Integration Program supporting the applicant to identify whether they are a parents of children with disability to person with disability (it is not compulsory access education by linking them to a to disclose). If someone does disclose they suitable education and care service. are given a follow up call to ask whether they require any additional supports. ° Support is provided through the transition Council has engaged a consultant to review and commencement at a service. current volunteer policies, procedures and ° Inclusion support for families and practices. children within the service including • Council currently has a person with program support, individual support disability volunteering with Council’s plans, developmental support and outdoor staff with the help of a support resourcing families with local services, worker. Council’s Aged and Disability therapists etc. team also work with a number of active ° Training calendars, brochures regarding volunteers with disability. information for families is also distributed • Council were featured on SBS’s TV show to families in a range of ways. ‘Employable Me’ covering the experience ° Informal support for families with children of Ben, a man with disability who tried out with disability such as links to local a day in the life of a parking officer in the support services and resources. search for his ideal job. • Council delivers the following specialised • Council’s Workplace Adjustment services for people with disability: Procedures and Guidelines have been updated and are available on the intranet. ° Home delivered meals (for people with and without disability).

77 • An external review of Council’s recruitment through Council’s Access Committee and policies and practices were completed Access and Inclusion Panel. Opportunities by the Australian Network on Disability. to report back to the community via the new Council’s Human Resources are website are currently being explored. currently in the process of reviewing the • A guiding checklist for access and inclusion recommendations for implementation. at events has been developed. • Council promotes flexible work • Council is working towards creating an arrangements where possible for all staff, access and inclusion page on the intranet including staff who are carers and staff with where all access and inclusion resources disability. can be found in one central location. Improving access to mainstream • Disability awareness/confidence training services through better systems and has been delivered to Council staff and processes volunteers during years 1 and 2. Additional • Council’s Aged and Disability Services targeted training to occur in years 3 and 4. promotional material, NDIS program Current priorities Service Agreements, Library sign-up sheets and Disability Inclusion Action Plan are all • The continued development and available in easy-read formats. implementation of disability awareness training for staff across Council. • Council is in the process of engaging a consultant to develop Accessible Document • The promotion of the availability of Guidelines and deliver training to relevant equipment and resources that can assist staff. with facilitating improved access and inclusion at Council programs and events. • Council’s Communications and Events team is undertaking a project to develop • Provide work placement opportunities for a new Council website which is WCAG 2 people with disability within Council. compliant and more accessible in terms of • Convene the Cumberland Disability navigation – Council’s new website has not Employee Champion Network. been developed and finalised. • Develop guidelines and conduct training on • Some Community Centres had their internal Accessible Communications and Content. signage updated to include Braille. • Council’s Access Committee and the Access and Inclusion Panel were created to Developing positive community provide community representation, advice and input to Council on the views, needs attitudes and behaviours and interests of people with disability in the • Dubbo Regional Council created a new community. position in organisational structure 2019: ° Seven x Panel meetings have been Community Development Officer (CDO) convened. Seniors and people with disability: Full time position to undertake role across the local ° One x extraordinary consultation was government area. conducted for the Auburn Botanic Gardens Masterplan in February 2018. • Council website updated to display information relevant for ageing & disability ° Four x Access Committee meetings have sector been held each year. • Promoting International Day of Disability • Council participated in the Australian with the launch of a new project in Dubbo. Network on Disability Access and Inclusion Council media and communications division Index in May 2020. working with a local disability service to • Council is currently keeping track of the promote a new project (Journeyfit) for DIAP actions implemented and reporting 78 Dubbo to increase inclusion with exercise • Detailed work items listed, costed and activities. prioritised within relevant section of Council • Promote a variety of information through • Majority of A1 (high risk & high priority) social media for relevant days and events. items have been completed. This access • CDO regularly promotes local and regional audit Phase 1 & 2 are reviewed and events and services available for people reported to the Disability Inclusion Advisory living with a disability through the Dubbo Panel. Regional Local Government Area. This • Council buildings, particularly the Dubbo promotion is through emails, phone calls, Regional Theatre & Convention Centre face to face discussions and facilitating an have incorporated many inclusive and interagency meeting. accessible features, such as: Hearing loop provided. Ramped entrance front and rear • Interagency networks are attended and of the venue. Accessible theatre seats to reported on. accommodate wheelchairs. Accessible • CDO has spoken at local groups and has theatre dressing room. Nearby parking with also organised speakers from relevant five accessible car spaces. Passenger lift to services to speak at local support groups. the mezzanine level. Tactile floor indicators. Informing those attending of events and Accessible toilet facilities fitted with duress services available alarms both auditory and visual. • CDO facilitated two Seniors Week events • Braille on toilet facility doors. Hand rails on which were open to the public and all stairs and ramps. Special needs friendly accessible. “Dancing Through the ages” and relaxed performances on selected and Seniors Week Expo in February. shows. Social Story available for those on Hundreds of community members were the autism spectrum. Wheelchair for patron able to attend and learn more about the use on site. Companion Card - Companion services that are available to them. Card Patrons who hold a Government • Disability and access matters are raised at issued Companion Card are eligible for one various Interagency in the community. complimentary ticket for their companion when purchasing tickets for themselves. • CDO is the Chair of the Dubbo Aged Services Interagency which links together • The café & restaurant Outdoor Eating age care and disability services. Policy has been created and approved 2019 which clearly states the need for • Council’s manager of Community accessibility for patrons. Services continues to engage with the business chambers to promote a disability • Council continues to provide Development engagement award for the local business Applicants with relevant information awards. concerning Disability Discrimination legislation and the Liveable Housing • Council has an active Disability Inclusion Australia Guidelines. Technical Panel to advise council on specific access and inclusion matters. • Council continues to provide annual financial assistance to the Early Creating liveable communities Intervention Centre: Financial assistance • Council is providing Disability funding provided. budget for works and projects to improve • Conduct an annual review of the inclusion and accessibility in the region: Development Control Plan (DCP) $2m used over four years. All funds • Ensure signage within Council buildings is expended by 2022. accessible, clear and easy to read: Council • An external access consultant was worked with Social Futures to promote the engaged and audits completed in May 2019 ‘Access At A Glance’ on each of the high for the Dubbo CBD and Wellington CBD., traffic area Council buildings. high traffic areas. 79 • All new footpaths are compliant with access • Engagement of NSW Guide Dogs has requirements. commenced for recommendations to be • Council has upgraded many playgrounds, made on upgrades of amenities to be vision sporting fields and passive areas in impaired and dementia friendly. the Local Government Area. Creating • Conduct a biannual survey of service accessible and inclusive community providers for people with disability: CDO spaces. Typically all new or replacement contacted Family and Community Services playgrounds include a minimum of 60% Ageing & Disability representative to gain inclusive play elements within them. up to date list of locally funded service • Public toilets have been upgraded in providers. CDO has attended all regional Dubbo and Wellington CBD to include the disability forums and workshops to engage accessible adult change facilities. with new providers in 2019. CDO assisted in the compiling of disability services list • Encourage all activities conducted at the for the region with Ability Links (now social Dubbo Aquatic Leisure Centre, Wellington futures) in 2019. Aquatic & Leisure Centre and Geurie Pool are inclusive. Supporting access to meaningful employment • Improvements have been made to The Dubbo Aquatic Leisure Centre through the • Economic Development Services (EDS) installation of an accessible adult change team have not missed any opportunity to table and improved access to the pools. foster development of businesses that have a focus on disability. EDS also encourages • The Wellington Aquatic Leisure Centre and promotes the work of existing business completed in 2019 has been designed with such as Westhaven, through activities access ramps to the main pool and Learn such as the recent ‘Smile its Christmas’ to Swim pools. A full range of accessible and ‘Jingle on the Bell’ where they were amenity facilities has been included and is employed to help with decorations in AS1428 compliant. Dubbo and Wellington, and services • Macquarie Regional Library in Dubbo is promoted through positive media articles upgrading the accessible library amenities. which Council organised and held media opportunity’s at the business itself – with • Council continues to provide annual workers showcased. financial assistance to the Orana Early Intervention Centre: Financial assistance • The branch is also investigating provided. Autonomous Vehicles for potential support for people with disability. • Modifications of Council buildings to make them accessible for staff with • Economic Development Services Marketing disability: Inspected Council facilities and Branch is also investigating Council’s recommended that accessible amenities engagement of ‘Go Get Em’ a micro be installed to assist current and future business set up by Emily Gardner - who employees with mobility disability. Advice is a volunteer with a disability at the and plans provided to Community and Information Centre. Recreation Operations branch regarding • CDO has contacted Development Australia access and appropriate amenities. in Dubbo (2019) to encourage them to work • Upgrade of customer experience areas in with and include disability services with council administration buildings in Dubbo & their new support service to businesses. Wellington to be inclusive and accessible, • Council have started discussions; creating completed in 2019 & 2020. a supported work placement partnership • Master plan for Wellington main street with Westhaven in Dubbo. upgrade has been through community • Relevant discrimination legislation to be consultation with an addition of more included in EEO Policy, Staff Induction and accessible parking spaces. Recruitment Training: Information Provided. 80 CDO has also given People Culture & contract with Catholic care. Facilitates all Safety access to guidelines from People requirements for Rainbow Cottage and with Disability Australia (PWDA), to correct Dubbo’s Family Day Care. The Community language within policies. for Children Officer roles out activity work plan in Wellington. Improving access to mainstream services through better systems and • Ensure information is available for users processes of scooters and electric wheelchairs on footpaths. Pedestrian safety information • Ensure information concerning accessible also be made available: Road Safety public transport including Community Officer and CDO ensures information is Transport is readily available: 2019 CDO available at various sites including Council was part of a small team that received and Wellington Senior Citizen Centre. funding to provide a pilot Project in Dubbo region, to increase accessible transport • Macquarie Regional Libraries will continue ‘out of hours’; called LIFT (LiveBetter Ican to conduct the Home Library Service (HLS): swiftFare Transport). CDO now sits on the Resources and service is maintained. steering committee that is rolling out the • CDO works closely with Disability service project in 2020 and 2021 providers within the area through the • MCS and CDO ensure that transport Wellington Interagency and the Dubbo information for public transport and Interagency. Information is shared through community transport is readily available at; this network. Council administration buildings, Wellington • Youth Development Officer discusses Senior Citizen Centre, seniors groups issues with the Dubbo Youth Council and is and libraries. CDO has also informed the Chair of that network. and updated the Wellington Community • Review customer service procedures Services Interagency network & Dubbo to identify barriers to access and Interagency network through meetings and communication: Procedures continually regular emails any changes to community monitored and updated. transport. • CDO has meet with the Chief Investigator • CDO daily informs community members from The University of Sydney to promote either; face to face, over the phone or the research project; Planning for a better via email information related to transport life under the NDIS and Retention of the services and other service providers and Aboriginal Health, Ageing and Disability how to access to them. Workforce project. CDO has promoted this • In late 2019 CDO and other council project throughout the various interagency staff meet with Transport for NSW networks to gain service provider and Commissioner to raise transport issues in participant involvement. Encouraging our region. Bus links, community transport people to tell their story. and taxi services. How have you determined that you’re • Information concerning public toilet meeting the needs of people with locations is available for people with disability? disability: Signage and access for public toilets is visible in Dubbo and Wellington. • Council has many links and New accessible toilets have been uploaded interconnections with a broad section of onto National Toilet Map to website. community groups, interagencies, individual community members, service providers, • A Mobility Map is being created which will organisations and state and federal bodies. display accessible parking and toilets within Two way communication on a variety of the local CBD’s and parks. issues spanning across the Council’s scope • MCS participates in ongoing planning of work and responsibilities occurs on a activities (access & inclusion) through the daily basis. Community for Children committee & sub 81 • The formal processes that are involved • A Mobility Map for both Dubbo and with the Disability Inclusion Advisory Panel Wellington should be completed late 2020 are invaluable as the committee is made or early 2021 up of external and internal representatives • A draft 2020 – 2024 Disability Inclusion with lived experience and/or a passion Action Plan has been created and will for inclusion and access. This committee be reviewed by the Disability Inclusion guides and gives feedback on many access Advisory Panel and open for community and inclusion issues related to council. comment, before finalised. • The Disability Inclusion Advisory Panel Additional information and comments has provided a regular platform for the about the information provided strategies and actions within Council’s Disability Inclusion Action Plan to be • A positive - Disability, access and inclusion reported on and reviewed. are words which are becoming mainstream • Access and inclusion is on the forefront of and a first thought across Council as a Council’s planning as $2 Million has been whole. set aside to use on access and inclusion projects over a four year period Dungog Shire Council Describe your challenges and Developing positive community successes in delivering on your parts attitudes and behaviours of the DIAP • Inclusion tent provided at three Shire • The challenges have been the reduced events. community engagement on a large scale, Creating liveable communities due to COVID–19 restrictions • Extended linkage paths of travel within the • Weather patterns over 2019/2020 have public school precinct. delayed some works projects which improve access and inclusion. • Path linkage to accessible parking • COVID–19 lockdowns in early 2020 • Improvements to accessible parking spaces reduced the availability of specific • Two pedestrian crossings in Dowling Street resources for access works with our CBD’s. upgraded Particular items such as TGSI tactical indicators also became more expensive Supporting access to meaningful with a long back order waiting time. employment • COVID-19 restrictions and the need to • Provision of resources or equipment to protect our most vulnerable has meant that support area of need. there has been less Disability Inclusion Improving access to mainstream Advisory Panel meetings services through better systems and • The community at large is more aware processes of Council’s commitment to access and • inclusion for the local government area. Investigating resource options. • The continued partnerships with local Other actions disability services is positive. • Continued to provide support for Is there anything else you’re doing or International Day for People with Disability planning for the future to contribute 2019. to greater outcomes for people with • Reactivated Access committee with focus disability? on International Day for People with Disability. • Investigations have begun regarding training by Dementia Australia for Council to become a Dementia Friendly Organisation. 82 Edward River Council recreation sectors via networks and Council • In 2019/2020 Council reviewed and audited newsletters to promote inclusion. access and facilities at the • Creative Arts Services provides a wide Swimming Pool and developed a plan for range of inclusive and accessible projects upgrades to enable best possible access by and activities through programming and all people. An all abilities change room has collaborative partnerships, both externally been built at the swimming pool. and within Council. Some of the highlights • Kerb ramps and crossings were installed in include: a group photography exhibition in several locations that were considered high collaboration with the Eurobodalla Libraries risk including: and roundsquared, celebrating International Day of People with a Disability where ° George Street between Hardinge and participants shared their unique insights Napier Streets into the region and produced creative • As part of the Lagoon to River Walk, kerb works that transcended their disability. ramps were installed in: Dementia Friendly Tours in the Bas were also introduced as collaborative events ° Edwardes Street between Cressy Street with Community Development. These tours and Harrison Street. provide dementia sufferers and their carers ° Napier Street between Cressy Street and with the opportunity explore and interpret Harrison Street. selected works within an exhibition. ° Hardinge Street between Whitelock Creating liveable communities Street and Poictiers Street. In 2019/2020, Council set out to address ° Macauley Street between Whitelock 15 actions under liveable Communities, a Street and Poictiers Street. summary highlighted below. • The availability of hearing loops in Eurobodalla Shire Council community facilities and halls is promoted Developing positive attitudes and by signage and through Council’s website. behaviours • All registered Customer Service Requests In 2019/2020 Council set out to address 12 relating to access or other maintenance actions under the focus area of Attitudes and issues for Council facilities have been behaviours. The following is a summary of addressed, in line with Council customer some of the activities and actions achieved: service standards. • • Mental health awareness training programs Council continues to upgrade any have been promoted to various community facilities identified as non-compliant with groups and have been well attended. accessibility standards and all new facilities are constructed to meet the necessary • Young people with disabilities are standard. This year, a key infrastructure encouraged to join the Youth Committee. upgrade delivering improved accessibility This year, one person with a disability sits standards was the construction of a new on the Committee and is well supported. toilet block on Clive Court in Tuross Head. • Deliver a campaign promoting inclusive • Work has also been undertaken regarding practices to business, recreation and transport infrastructure, construction has community groups commenced on an accessible bus stop • Council awaits the outcome of a grant and shelter on Hector McWilliam Drive at that was submitted to resource an the Princes Highway intersection. Council Inclusion Officer to implement an inclusion is also participating in ongoing discussions campaign locally. Programs and training with Transport for NSW on future plans and and advocacy opportunities have been have applied for numerous grants for bus promoted to all business, community and shelters and improved parking/drop off.

83 • Council prioritised accessibility within been impacted by the pandemic, work will Council offices, with automatic doors, recommence on this in 2020-21. disabled car parks, signage and a disabled • Support the annual intake of local youth toilet. with disabilities through work experience • Young people with disabilities are - Consideration of supports for an annual encouraged to participate in the YDrive intake of local youth with disabilities is program. In 2019/2020 one young person being scoped and explored. Aligning with a disability was registered with the work opportunities with the strengths of program. the participants, the capacity of the work • The grant funded volunteer coordinator area and a range of experiences that position has worked proactively to increase successfully build skills and confidence are the number of people with a disability who critical components of this initiative and are volunteer with community care services, as currently being examined. well as environmental and arts volunteering Guy Street villas residents opportunities. This occurs as part of service • planning for individuals and via recruitment It was important that during pandemic processes. The restrictions imposed by restrictions, residents at the Guy Street the pandemic has reduced the uptake Villas were still able to engage and have across all volunteer recruitment processes, their emotional and psychological needs however there has been consistent work met. undertaken in this area. ° Key activities undertaken during • Youth Week activities were all online this pandemic restrictions included individual year due to pandemic restrictions. One and group social outings, engaging in young person with a disability took part in work and physical recreational activities. our highlight event which was an online From the information gathered from Instagram competition. The work was the residents they found some fun and awarded a ‘highly commended’ prize. practical ways support staff could meet residents identified needs during this • Council’s Children’s Services continue to difficult period. These included: work with schools to support children with ° disability, the 3Bs playgroup and Embracing Borrowing key equipment and resources Participation Project. Identify and promote from our local Disability Employment Eurobodalla’s accessible infrastructure, Service so residents could continue with venues and activities to visitor markets. their designated workday and tasks each week. • Council focuses on marketing all of our ° places and spaces that visitors can Each resident engaging in a weekly experience in Eurobodalla. By pulling in all virtual Zoom PT session with staff Australian Tourism Data Warehouse listings support. The local gym kindly loaned into the Alpaca maps it allows visitors to them relevant equipment that remained easily see the places and locations that are at their home for the duration of home accessible friendly. stay period. Staff also facilitated individual daily exercise programs Supporting access to meaningful developed by their exercise physiologist. employment ° Social engagements - in consultation with the residents, designing weekly In 2019/2020, Council set out to address two themed dinner nights. areas related to Employment, a summary can be found below. • Investigate the merits of event(s) that promote good access and inclusion - Work in the event space has unfortunately

84 Fairfield City Council • Converted online forms available on Council’s website to be accessible with The key focus of the DIAP this year was screen readers, based on a review by around planning and integrating DIAP into Vision Australia... Council’s corporate plans, workforce culture • and services. Some key highlights that were Advocated for Council’s new website identified during the 2019/2020 financial year to have a range of features to improve included: accessibility. • Developing positive community Designed Council events to include a range attitudes and behaviours of features to improve accessibility such as quiet areas, improved access between • Held a number of events celebrating people areas and therapy dogs... with disabilities and carers. • Implemented an online Corporate Induction, • Provided early intervention for children which makes staff aware of what Council with disability and promoted partnerships has in place for people with disabilities. with local services to support inclusion of • Facilitated a DIAP steering committee that children with disability. promoted collaboration and information • Provided visual abilities classes at the sharing on disability inclusion across Fairfield City Museum and Gallery for Council’s service areas. people with disability. • Provided training module for all staff to Creating liveable communities improve their interactions with people with disabilities. • Provided inclusive classes and purchased assistive equipment at Council’s Libraries. Compliance for Carers • Provided inclusive fitness equipment in • Fairfield City Council recognises the parks and promoted disability inclusion in valuable social and economic contribution the Gyms in Parks Program. carers make to the community and the • Audited Council’s website for accessibility. people for whom they care for in line with the NSW Carers (Recognition) Act 2010 • Integrated access audit information into and NSW Carers Charter. Council’s Community Facilities Strategy • Council’s support for carers includes: • Provide assisted technology and design ° at Council’s Leisure Centres to enable Two events were held for Carers Week disability access to swimming pools. with 210 people attending. Events focused on people who care for children • Pedestrian ramps upgraded for accessibility with autism, and carers who support access on the corner of Ware and Nelson people with ill mental health. Streets, Fairfield. ° Provided information to the community Supporting access to meaningful on the newly established Carers employment Gateway to link carers with suitable services. • Promoted Council as an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. ° Provided support for carers through the Mayor’s Wellbeing Register during Improving access to mainstream COVID-19 lockdown. services through better systems and processes ° Provided support for International Day of People with Disability events and • Provided educational sessions to workshops in Fairfield City Council that community leaders and businesses on the raise awareness of the role of carers. importance of access and inclusion. ° Engaged carers, carers groups and • Provided training sessions for Council staff the Seniors Services Interagency in on creating accessible online forms. the development of the Strategy on 85 Ageing for Fairfield City 2020– 2023 a positive position with 86% of its indicator and Disability Inclusion Action Plan measures identified from the DIAP working 2017. Consultation to Seniors Services towards achieving the community’s vision, with Interagency and carers groups. 7% having no change. The 7% of indicators ° Offered free access to Council’s leisure working away from achieving the community’s centres for carers of people in receipt of vision is due to the availability of resources to the Disability Support Pension. meet these targets. ° Provided training to ensure employee awareness of carer recognition support. Federation Council Developing positive community • The following policies and programs enable staff to request council support in achieving attitudes and behaviours a work/life balance which enables fulfilment • Council relaunched the Federation of caring responsibilities outside their Disability Advisory Committee calling for employment. members who have a lived experience of ° Flexible Working Arrangements Policy – disability. The committee will continue to Subject to operational requirements. help Council identify and remove barriers preventing the participation of people ° Appropriate Workplace Behaviour Policy. with disability in programs, services and ° Employee Assistance Program. facilities. Six new members have joined the committee. ° Diversity Management – Equal Employment Opportunity Plan 2017- • Images of people with disability actively 2020 articulating future actions that engaging in their communities were support the objectives of the Carers included in Council publications, on social Recognition Act and NSW Carers media and Council’s website and in Charter. promotion of council events. ° Delivered an educational module through • Council’s supported initiatives that are the Learning Management System, inclusive, accessible and welcoming to which included information on the NSW people of all abilities through the 2019/2020 Carers Charter and Council support Community Grant Program. for employees who provide care for Creating Iiveable communities individuals with disability, illness or are frail aged. • Council continues to advocate for funding to allow community groups and clubs to Measuring DIAP Progress complete retrofitting work of inaccessible buildings and facilities to enable use by all Indicator measures are a method of community members.. assessment used in determining how Council is progressing towards achieving • Upgrade of sporting facilities such as the community’s vision, priorities and goals the Tennis Pavilion, Lonsdale identified in the 2016-2026 Fairfield City Plan Reserve Bay13, Victoria Park, Rand (City Plan) that relates to the DIAP. Therefore Sports Ground and public toilets such the indicator measures are broken down as Bangerang Park, Colombo Creek Ski across the five themes identified in the City Park, and replacement of change rooms Plan and against each service area. It is and toilets at Oaklands Recreation Ground important to note that the results identified have allowed for all abilities access and below will assist Council in establishing increased the useability and functionality of targets for future years. these community facilities.. • Council delivered on projects under the The trend in the performance of these Stronger Communities Fund such as indicators is reviewed quarterly. Council is in Bangerang Park and Skate Park

86 that have created new play and sporting Improving access to mainstream facilities that are accessible to a range of services through better systems and people. processes • Federation Council continued to partner • Council has built on its website content to with Intereach – Community Links to ensure consistent information is provided deliver the ‘Access at a Glance Program’ in respect to disability inclusion and that across the Federation Council. The Access content is compliant with conformance level at a Glance Program is an audit and AA in the W3Cs Web Content Accessibility improvement program that aim to engage Guidelines. and educate communities and businesses on the value of the inclusion for both • Council continues to use and offer non- societal and commercial reasons. technology reliant communication methods such as local newspapers, printed • Council consulted and engaged with the newsletters, letterbox drops and community community to develop a draft Pedestrian notice boards to communicate with our Mobility Access Plan (PAMP) as well residents. as implemented road safety initiatives throughout the council area including 65 Plus mobility scooter workshops and Forbes Shire Council pedestrian safety. . Developing positive community • Increasing Accessibility of Programs and attitudes and behaviours Services. • Council expanded our program of events • Federation Disability Advisory Committee celebrating International Day of People is engaged and monitoring the DIAP and with Disability, hosting a Pool Party at providing feedback and advice to Council the Forbes Olympic Pool attended by regarding access and inclusion. over 100 people (including chair yoga, sensory painting, a performance by Mainly • The ‘Look Out Before You Step Out’ Music and lunch). All participants were campaign included highly visible pavement presented with participation certificates stickers are being installed at key high with all attendees saying they had a great traffic areas in the main streets of Corowa, time. Council also presented Wheelchair , Howlong, Urana and Oaklands to Basketball workshops (facilitated by NSW remind pedestrians to cross at the safest Wheelchair Roadshow) at Forbes High locations and to make safe decisions when School and Bedgerabong Primary School crossing the road. Unfortunately the annual attended by 180 students. ‘On the Road 65 plus Workshop’ this year was cancelled due to COVID social • Council’s website features a page distancing restrictions. dedicated to people with disability. Supporting access to meaningful • Council supports the efforts of disability employment service providers across the Shire through participation in and support of the Forbes • Council continues to be an equal Interagency Network. opportunity employer and welcomes • Council extends invitations to disability diversity within our organisation. Pre- service providers to all Council-run events. employment Functional Assessments are carried out as part of the recruitment • Revised event processes to include process, this helps us to be proactive in consideration of accessibility at all Council- identifying any reasonable adjustments run events. This includes access to that we may have to make to the workplace transport, consideration of quiet spaces to support an employee with disability to and availability of access for attendees with perform their job. mobility problems.

87 • All Abilities Cooking Day (scheduled • Investigation is under-way on ways of for April 2020) was postponed due to creating employment opportunities for COVID-19 with plans to reinstate the event people with disability in the workforce. in the future. Improving access to mainstream Creating liveable communities. services through better systems and • Accessibility and inclusion is considered as processes. part of any functional brief for new Council • Council Rangers patrols and enforce illegal facilities, and upgrades to existing facilities. parking of vehicles impeding access or • New ramp installed at Forbes Croquet Club illegally occupying accessible parking to allow access for people with disability of spaces. those with mobility issues. • Overhaul of Council’s website completed, • Completed repairs and upgrades to the with new website conforming to Web Unisex Disabled Change Room at the Apex Content Accessibility Guidelines. Riverside Caravan Park. • YourSay portal developed for community • Council continues sponsorship of the consultation conforms with Web Content Forbes Home and Community Centre to Accessibility Guidelines. ensure continuity of service provision for people with disability. • Installed accessible public barbecues Developing positive community (wheelchair accessible) at the Forbes Youth attitudes and behaviours and Community Centre and at the Forbes • Ski Dam. Council continued to partner with local community groups to showcase the • Secured funding for extensive contribution people with disability make refurbishment of the Forbes Heated Pool. in our community. Local disability groups • CBD revitalisation designed with have been assisted financially through our accessibility measures in mind – Community Grants Program to support their construction to be completed next financial programs, work, and resources to advocate year. and raise their profile to work in the community. These have included funding Supporting access to meaningful under two categories: employment. ° Major Programs category: Kogarah • Ongoing support for those staff who have RSL Sub- Branch Youth Club received identified as having a disability. funding for Junior Jellybeans social • In the process of being set up as a Job connectedness program for children with Access Provider to further facilitate and disabilities and their parents. support disability inclusion and adaptive ° Capacity Building category: Cerebral technologies. Palsy Alliance received funding • Council’s online ‘Working with Council’ for Communication equipment for page outlines Council’s commitment to people with disability, Cass Care Ltd- encouraging diversity in the workplace Development for a therapeutic Sensory and developing a workplace culture that is Room, Learning Links for supporting inclusive, respectful and promotes diversity. children with learning disabilities and difficulties in the Georges River • Council in discussion with service providers Community, and St George with to support an upcoming forum to support Disabilities Children Fund Inc. for music people with disability to transition to the therapy and life enhancing support for workforce. children with severe disabilities.

88 • Council provided free autism workshops in • A physical audit was conducted for the August 2019 and in March 2020 to provide Public Toilets in the Georges River Local support to families, and offer information Government Area between September and and behaviour strategies for people living October 2019. The National Public Toilet with Autism. Two workshops in April Map has been completed and updated on and June 2020 were cancelled due to Council’s website to ensure people with a COVID-19. More workshops are planned disability are able to find accessible public for Council’s staff in the Customer Service, toilets in the community. Children Services and Hurstville Library • A number of works have been carried out teams later this year. to improve the accessibility to people with • Council reviewed its digital commination disability. Disability parking spaces at the and have consulted people from all abilities Oatley Park playground area have been about their needs. As a result, we will completed in December 2019. include more images on our website that • A kerb ramp was installed at the present people with disability in a positive intersection of two streets in Riverwood for manner and to illustrate the steps taken to an elderly resident who is in a wheelchair. improve disability perception. These images will be presented to members of the Access • Council has produced three (3) accessible and Inclusion Reference Group at their next maps for Hurstville, Kogarah and Mortdale meeting for their endorsement. town centres. These maps have been made available to the local community and are • A Disability Awareness Train the Trainer on the Council’s webpage for reference program was delivered by an external and downloading. There are three (3) more consultant to managers and coordinators accessible maps for other town centres in across the organisation part of our Wellness the area to be developed this year. and Belonging Program in July 2019. The program promoted awareness of disabilities • On Wednesday 16 October 2019, the and the impact that societal attitudes and Carers’ Cruise event was organised by inherent stigma and discrimination have on Council for seniors’ carers and carers of the lives of people with disability. people with a disability, targeting those who were isolated or did not identify as Creating liveable communities a carer. The Carers Morning tea cruise • A Comprehensive Access Audit of the attracted 40 carers who had the opportunity Jubilee Stadium - Stage One has been to meet Georgie the Dragon. The event completed in March 2020. The project was received very well by all participants aims to ensure the Stadium is compliance and commented that was an opportunity with Australian Access Standards and the to leave their caring role on the shore, and Disability Discrimination Act measures. The meet up with other people in the same audit included mapping the paths of travel situation as them and share stories. to all parts of the Stadium from all entry • Council partnered with Kingsgrove points and car parking areas, all rooms Community Aid Centre to celebrate the and facilities, and reported any areas that International Day of People with Disability do not meet current Australian Standards. on 29 November 2019 at Kingsgrove. The audit recommended works to achieve The event showcased disability services, compliance, the inclusion of features that performers and provide outdoor games and meet the Principles of Universal Design entertainment, the event was attended by was provided and advice on the need to about 120 people. comply with Section F 2.9 of NCC 2019, • and the inclusion of an Accessible Adult Council is working on the strategy for the Change facility was also provided. Wayfinding Signs, Walkability and retro fitting braille plates to existing signage.

89 Council is looking at using Kogarah Town organisations and resources in Easy Centre for the pilot program, before rolling English related to COVID-19. out to other town centres. • We also looked during COVID-19 into Supporting access to meaningful the meaning of concepts such as social employment distancing and isolation that are so critical to the diverse community. We ensured • Council’s ongoing support with the Jubilee that information is clearly explained to Arts for Mental Health program (JAMH) has people with disability. Information related to had positive outcomes and feedback from COVID-19 was updated on our website. the participants and community. The art skills program is offered each term for 12 to 14 people living with a mental illness. There Gilgandra Shire Council is an opportunity for participants who have Developing positive community attended for a few terms to be selected attitudes and behaviour for a paid position as an assistant tutor on following programs. • Liaison with local businesses has resulted in work experience for Orana Living clients • To raise awareness about the contribution at 2WAR FM Community Radio; Australia people with disability make to the Post, Rohr’s Timber & Hardware. community, our Events team engaged the Taren Point Band, the Weeklies (a disability • Orana Living clients undertook, with Rock Band) to perform at our Australia Day support, Meals on Wheels deliveries, celebration and Lunar New Year in 2020. A operation of Swimming Pool turnstiles and viewing platform for people with disability delivery of Council’s internal mail. and disability parking spots were also • Needs of people with a disability considered provided in addition to Auslan interpreters. in all planning projects and developments Improving access to mainstream undertaken by Council. services through better systems and • Orana Living celebrated International Day processes of People with Disabilities with another organisation. • As a result of the impact of COVID-19, Council organised all meetings via online Creating liveable communities. platforms including meetings with members • Consideration given to accessibility when of the Access and Inclusion Reference planning activities and events run by Group. Council. • We used new tools and technologies that • Creation of additional footpaths to link key are designed and developed to improve our facilities. reach to people with disabilities and access issues. • Council promotes the availability of community transport options. • We added Live Captioning and Auslan interpretations at major meetings and online • Commenced planning for new specialist platforms. Our Events and the Community disability accommodation for up to 13 and Cultural Development teams undertook people. accessibility assessments of events hosted Improving access to mainstream throughout the year. services through better systems and • We increased the provision of key Council’s processes. documents in easy-to-read English and • Communications policy developed to were promoted in the community through complement Council’s Communication Council’s Access and Inclusion Reference Engagement Strategy. Group and relevant networks. Council also provided information and links to • Effort being made to ensure language is simple and appropriate.

90 Glen Innes Severn Council Manager of Community Services liaised Developing positive community with Council’s Facility Maintenance Officer whom confirmed that all completed facilities attitudes and behaviours meet these criteria. • Council staff continue to provide • Mellings Park and Railway Crossing works administrative support to the Community were completed to allow pedestrians Access Committee which is regularly access to Lambeth Street without the need attended by people with a disability to have for Lang Street crossing. valuable input. • Other notable projects include the sheep The Community Access Committee yards upgrade and truck wash at the meetings have recommenced post a period Saleyards, the Warwick Twigg Centre of inactivity during COVID-19. for a regional Netball facility, along with • Liaison with the Police and monitoring improved public facilities such as toilets by the Community Access Committee encompassing new disability guidelines and members, continues to achieve compliance useable by all people, and community art with only eligible people parking in projects that provide an interest for visitors. accessible parking zones. Improving access to meaningful Creating Liveable Communities employment • The Mobility Brochure (including the • Providing EEO awareness training for all document link) is promoted on Council’s new staff and ensuring that they are aware website and positive feedback has been of conditions of employment through the received from locals and visitors. A guide provision of induction material; to accessible places to visit has been • Including knowledge of EEO as developed and is available on Council’s an essential requirement in all job website for the benefit of residents and specifications for supervisory positions; tourists to Glen Innes. • Including access for people with physical It is added to the New Residents Packs, as disabilities in all new design plans for staff well as being available on the website. New accommodation Resident Packs are distributed via outlets such as the Visitor Information. Centre, • Has one casual staff member with disability. Councils Town Hall Office, and a variety of • Discussions have commenced for Council local Real Estate Agents. staff to receive free training related to the A secondary document outlining accessible employment of persons with an Intellectual places to visit is also available to assist Disability. Learnings from this training in visitors to Glen Innes. principle agreement may then be rolled out to the wider community. • Stickers remain in use in businesses to welcome people of all abilities and display Improving access to mainstream the business phone number to call if services through better systems and barriers to access are encountered. processes • Council’s website and the Community • Feedback from the community residents Services website are both set up to assist that are blind continues to be positive in in navigation by people that are blind. Using relation to accessing Council’s information. their own familiar software a blind person • Positive feedback on the progress of can click on an article and it will be read Council’s initiatives has been gained aloud. through individual feedback, both to Council • A new ablution facility was completed in staff and through the Community Access Melling Park with left and right hand unisex Committee members. toilets to cater for people of all abilities.

91 Other services for people who are older Facilitators and regular auditing conducted and people with disability by the Team Leader Activity and Lifestyle Support and Life Choices - Support • Council’s Community Access Committee Services Finance Officer. NOTE similar to advocate for people who are older and above people with a disability in relation to access and safety of mobility. The committee • Two organisations provide direct support make recommendations to Council for services to Life Choices – Support Services its consideration and many of the points consumers who receive assistance under raised have been included in Council works Council’s funded programs for people who projects which have improved access are aged and people who have disability. generally for people of all abilities. See Is there anything else you’re doing or access to services planning for the future to contribute • The Home Library Service at the Glen to greater outcomes for people with Innes Severn Public Library co-ordinates disability? and delivers a personalised library service • The Accessibility Expo was held in to frail, aged people, people with a disability November and was well attended. and to their carers at private homes, hostels, nursing homes or hospitals across • The last review of diverse activities the communities of Glen Innes, Emmaville available locally for people of all abilities and Deepwater. was in November 2019. • Specialised resources are provided for • Letter was sent to the Member for Northern the visually impaired including Large Print, Tablelands in June 2020 requesting for Talking Books, eReaders and Playaways. continuation of public transport (rail and A Senior Kiosk with three computers is bus) between Glen Innes and Sydney. The available to service the needs of senior local member responded via a letter on members. Access to services Friday, 3 July 2020 notifying Council that he made representations on behalf of Council • During COVID-19 a Seniors Book Chat to the Minister for Regional Transport and was organised and delivered via a Roads, seeking his advice and direction on teleconference link and allowed isolated the matter. An answer is expected from the seniors to chat with each other about their Minister by the end of September 2020. current reading material. Access to services • Council continues to provide innovative Goulburn Mulwaree Council services equitably to people who are • Construction of new footpaths, crossing older, people who have a disability, and and street lighting (for a list of locations see their carers across its Children and Family annual report. Services and Life Choices – Support • Road safety programs and funding Services. The community services teams including: adopt a person-centred approach which focuses on the individuals needs and goals ° Cycling for seniors. and then style assistance types to best ° Seniors week. assist the individual to meet and achieve their goals. ° Older drivers. • Delivery of Supports to Consumers and ° Pedestrians. Participants is person centered following ° Bus shelter funding. due consultation with each individual and ° having appropriate reference to the Aged International Day of People with Care Quality Standards and the National Disability. Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) Quality • Council established a successful training and Safeguards Commission Standards for café in the Library that provides hands-on People with a Disability. Budget compliance training and formal qualifications in barista, is routinely monitored by Lifestyle Support food hygiene and customer service. In 92 excess of 40 participants have successfully enable them to remain independent and completed qualifications and in excess of living in their own homes. 20 have found meaningful employment. ° This service primarily involves the This includes people with a disability. co-ordination of volunteers to supply • Council library a range of services that provide socialisation, companionship and ° Specific services and programs for practical support and assistance to frail seniors and those needing support with aged people, people with a disability and technology. their carers, to enable them to remain ° Library remodel to create more flexible independent in their own homes. use spaces, updated lighting, accessible • Work has commenced on a new aquatic shelving and signage. centre. ° Big Read Bus making library resources • Lobbying of State Government to provide available to vulnerable members of the adequate health and medical facilities community. within the Local Government Area • Council aged care and disability services undertaken and ongoing. ° All CHSP programs delivered within • Lobbying to support the development budget, however some programs of community health services and modified to take COVID-19 requirements infrastructure that is accessible to residents into consideration. living in remote areas and to less mobile • A Social Sustainability Strategy and Action residents undertaken and ongoing. Plan was adopted by Council on 19 May • Undertake community consultation in 2020. It is too early to report on whether accordance with adopted Community priority actions from this document have Engagement Strategies aimed at giving been implemented. all community members an opportunity for • Wollondilly all abilities Walking Track input: extended. ° Ongoing promotion and advertisement • The Annual Visions of Pleasure Exhibition occurs. to coincide with International Day of People ° Social media presence continues to with Disabilities held in the Council foyer 1 - grow. 22 December 2019. ° Community Outreach meetings held. • Arts Access Workshops were delivered to students at the Crescent School. Three local artists were contracted to deliver Greater Hume Council twelve practical workshops at this facility. Developing positive community attitudes and behaviours and • Council auspices the following services under the title of Goulburn Mulwaree Social behaviours Support Services employing four full time • Continuing Partnership with Intereach’s and four part time staff Access @A Glance program. All Council ° Goulburn Leisure Link is a Peer offices and libraries have been assessed Support program for people with a and access stickers installed at the disability, it provides social, sporting entrance to each. and recreational activities designed to • NDIS information sessions promoted. increase community participation and • Health and Wellbeing meetings planned independence. and promoted. ° Goulburn Respite is for people who are • Healthy plus range of youth mental frail aged, people with disabilities and health and other events promoted. their carers. Programs are designed to

93 • Council support provided to NSW Transport • How has this been incorporated into your for extension of point to point transport trial, current and future planning? which has been successful in addition to • Planning and Engineering Departments advocating for wheel chair access as part continue to embed accessibility guidelines of trial. into projects and future planning and • Supported and participated in Compassionate engagement processes implemented. Communities Program in . • Feedback is responded to quickly. Creating liveable communities Describe your challenges and • Access and inclusion incorporated successes in delivering on your parts within centre based childcare… ongoing of the DIAP commitment to improve skills and • COVID-19 provided many challenges from capabilities of staff. engaging with community and groups, • Engineering and Environment staff apply especially DIA groups. the provisions of the Disability Inclusion Act • Additional centre based childcare provided and Continuous Accessible Path and Travel challenges and successes in offering (CAPT). inclusion support for children with needs. • Ongoing commitment to improving infrastructure, both new and renewed and Is there anything else you’re doing or inclusion within planning for example all planning for the future to contribute abilities playground planned for , to greater outcomes for people with changing place for Holbrook. disability? Supporting access to meaningful • Improved planning across all areas. employment • Renewal of the DIAP will occur during • Work experience opportunity within libraries 2020/2021. provided. Additional information and comments • Promotion and increased uptake of about the information provided Educators in early years childhood • Greater Hume Council incorporates DIA education and care in delivering programs across all areas and currently this is for children with disability as well as working ok, as Council is responsive to Educator opportunities across centres and issues and needs. family day care. Improving access to mainstream Griffith City Council services through better systems and processes Council’s Disability Inclusion & Access Committee meets regularly and includes • Customer Service Staff are aware of the individuals with a range of abilities and first- resources needed to respond to people with hand experiences that provide Council with disability/carers. valuable advice on a broad range of access • Access at a glance assessment assessed and inclusion issues. Council implemented a customer service staff. All staff assessed number of new actions that directly support were aware of services available. the needs of people with a disability during 2019/2020. How have you determined that you’re meeting the needs of people with Some notable improvements include: disability? • Memorial Park Griffith upgrade to include • What engagement or feedback have you disabled toilet facility and change rooms, had from people with disability? accessible community event stage and drinking fountain.

94 • Increased the number of Disabled parking and inclusion area on the portal. Positivity spaces in the CBD. statements and copies of the DIAP are available for download (full, easy to read, • Additional Footpath and Shared Pathways access friendly versions). To value add to across the community and villages. the website, a shared library of appropriate • Enticknap Park is inclusive including and positive images featuring local people accessible playground equipment, with disability for use in publications has barbecue, seating, ramps and access. been identified as a future project. • Streaming of Council meetings with audio • Commenced conversations with a myriad available on Council’s website. of internal stakeholders to promote the • Master Locksmith Access Key (MLAK) principles of access and inclusion both survey conducted, toilets mapped and fee proactively and routinely including the for the key now covered by Council upon delivery of a Disability Day. application. • Livvi’s Place Inclusive Playground • Council’s website offers three view settings Working Group comprised on community for ease of reading. stakeholders and disability sector representatives continued to have input into the progression of the construction of the Council play space. Developing positive community • Completion of the $1.5million inclusive attitudes and behaviours playground ‘Livvi’s Place’ project in • Ongoing delivery of the Access Working December 2019. Livvi’s Place is situated Group - An advisory group of Council in a prime location in the Gunnedah CBD comprised of a range of internal and district. The play space is fully accessible external stakeholders. The group meets with intergenerational play equipment, quarterly to discuss ideas, projects and wheelchair friendly BBQs, mixed seating initiatives of Council relevant to enhancing types, ramps, tactile indicators, buddy access and cultivating inclusion including seats, sensory garden, shade, fencing, those focused on parking, transport, CCTV and shared pathways. The park infrastructure, events etc. The group is encourages graduated play areas for solution focused and seeks to be a change children and adults of all ages and mobility agent while broadening the mindset of levels and is designed to encourage internal stakeholders around inclusive socialisation and community interaction. design. The opening ceremony featured a children’s live performance of ‘We are • Collaborated with community groups Australian’ translated in Auslan. and disability support sector to promote positive attitudes to deliver a number of • Council’s People and Culture team are activities including Access at a Glance working towards development of a program and the Dementia Friendlies Communities of training for frontline Council customer initiatives. service staff to increase their capacity to engage effectively with people with • Featured stories regarding access disability. and inclusion in internal and external communications (news outlets, social Creating liveable communities media, Shire Flyer) and raised the profile • Ongoing delivery of inclusive design in the of the Shire as an Access Friendly Shire Council’s new branding strategy. through special interest features interview on ABC radio and in print media. • Council continued subscription to the Grant Guru has made available on its website • Ongoing maintenance of Council website the Gunnedah Shire Funding Finder which to enhance access to information and has enhanced the community’s capacity opportunities with a dedicated ‘access

95 to access funding that supports access • An online booking and ticketing system for initiatives and infrastructure projects. The events within Council’s Cultural Precinct site is access friendly. and cinema has been implemented to • Council has implemented the Access at a enhance access for a broad range of Glance Initiative in the Gunnedah CBD and demographics. surrounds and utilises the media to further • Staff have undertaken Accessible Design enhance the projects and positive attitudes training with Vision Australia and training towards access and inclusion across the manuals have been disseminated to the Shire. AWG • 6 staff across the organisation completed • Staff have attended the National Meeting Dementia Friendly Communities Training on Disability - ‘Young people from refugee and Council is investigating the progression and migrant backgrounds with disabilities: of the Shire towards a Dementia Friendly exploring experiences and gaps with status. information shared to the Access Working • The Missed Business Guide is Group’. disseminated each year to businesses • Council continues to maintain the currency within the CBD and electronically to the of National Public Accessibility Toilet Map in Gunnedah& District Chamber of Commerce relation to Gunnedah Shire. and Industry. • In 2019/2020, the Working Group • Council developed a new business platform successfully lobbied for operational funding called Localised and features a range to deliver the Master Locksmith Access Key of accessibility enhancement tools in its system to relevant accessible public toilets design to maximise reach. throughout the Shire in 2020/2021. • Across Council, marketing and engagement • Council’s Open Spaces Strategy Brief techniques have expanded to include a to consultants in 2019/2020 included a range of engagement tools to expand requirement for the successful contractor accessibility and appeal to a range of to undertake Everyone Can Play in NSW demographics. Access Audits of existing play spaces within • Access and inclusion has been the Shire. incorporated as a category in Council’s • Council continues to implement its Footpath annual Section 356 Community and Occupation Policy which is to provide Sports Small Grants round. A number clear and concise guidelines in relation to of disability organisations including footpath occupation within Gunnedah’s Riding for the Disabled and the Early business zones and ensure that the Childhood Intervention were successful provision of pedestrian access including in obtaining grants under the program those with disabilities is not inhibited by to enhance access and safety and to such activities. increase participation and membership • Council’s Civic Cinema has an upgraded and to purchase equipment to enhance hearing loop and provision for access accessibility. Additional equipment and seating. infrastructure projects were funded to support volunteers with mobility challenges • Access to Council’s entertainment venues and to enable them to remain as active including the Town Hall, Smithurst Theatre volunteers. and Gallery are accessibility friendly. • Access Working Group continues to review • Wide Angle Film Festival was delivered in the location and number of designated 2019 for International Day of Disability and access parking bays throughout the Shire now scheduled as a recurring event from and is currently developing an access 2020 parking map for community use. • Councils Waste Department delivers an annual Spring Clean Day in September 96 to reduce household waste. A significant Plan and reports on progress as part of the component is the utilisation of volunteer Integrated Planning and Review process. organisations with trailers to undertake free • Recruitment policies, procedures and collections from people who are aged or practices are reviewed on an ongoing disabled. basis to ensure that a best practice and • Council has installed a wheelchair integrated approach to workforce and accessible BBQ, seating and water stations diversity planning. at the Pool. • Induction and on boarding programs are • Council’s GoCo Community Care Transport also under review to strengthen references provides safe, flexible and efficient to access and inclusion obligations and transport services for the residents of responsibilities and to foster a supportive, the Gunnedah Shire Council area. GoCo diverse and welcoming workforce. provides subsidised transport assistance • Principles are reinforced in: to people living in the Gunnedah Shire Council and Tamworth Regional Council ° Staff position descriptions and area, who do not have access to employment contracts. appropriate transportation. Their clients are ° Council Employee Handbook. predominantly aged, people with disability, ° frail and socially isolated. During COVID Council Code of Conduct. this service continued to operate. ° Council Customer Service Standards • Council’s Library provides a House Bound Management Directive. service. Customers include people with ° Council’s Complaints and Grievance disability, those recovering from surgery, ill, policy. the aged and those who are either transport ° Council’s Induction and On Boarding or socially isolated. During COVID-19 Program. this service became an invaluable human connection for the socially isolated and its ° Annual Performance Review process. customer base increased significantly as a ° Toolbox/safety talks program (e.g. result. Bullying, Harassment). Supporting access to meaningful • Strategies to attract and retain employees employment from diversity groups are referenced in our • Council investigated a number of options Workforce Plan (under Review) for traineeships for people with disability • People and Culture team maintains a and through consultations with potential diversity register to identify Indigenous placement departments have identified staff and staff with disability. The potential inclusion focused awareness and sensitivity to grow that register to include staff from training priorities. Developing partnerships a culturally and linguistically diverse and collaborations with schools and background, staff with Auslan skills and employment focused community multi-lingual staff has been identified for organisations has also been flagged as an progression in 2020/2021. opportunity to grow a diverse workforce and • Staff exit interviews (cessations, discussions with those potential partners resignations and terminations) capture has commenced. emerging patterns and issues. • Employment is an identified action in • Council investigated a number of options Council’s Disability Inclusion Action for traineeships for people with disability Plan 2017-2023 (DIAP) which is a living and through consultations with potential document. placement departments have identified • Council fully supports and implements its inclusion focused awareness and sensitivity Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) training priorities. Developing partnerships

97 and collaborations with schools and were implemented to keep clients and employment focused community passengers safe, effectively ensuring the organisations has also been flagged as an continuity of the transport service. opportunity to grow a diverse workforce and • Council’s customer services installed a discussions with those potential partners wheelchair accessible drop box outside has commenced. its customer service entry, all interest was Improving access to mainstream frozen on unpaid bills and customers were services through better systems and supported to utilise the direct debit system. processes • Community and cultural development staff • Council’s website is compliant with the Web have continued to disseminate and share Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) a myriad of information and COVID related 2.0 (Level A). resources to the broader community and disability support sector in order to enhance • Council is committed to making its website connections to services for people with as accessible as possible to all visitors, disability and marginalised members of the including those using its site with: community. ° Mobile devices. How has this been incorporated into ° Assistive technologies such as screen your current and future planning? readers. • No specific DIAP focused engagement ° Various browsers. activity has been delivered within the ° Slower internet connections. Report period however engagement efforts are incorporated in the delivery of strategic • Council’s website features and Access and planning processes designed to capture Inclusion portal to direct customers to key the views and aspirations of our community information which includes: DIAP, Access over a broad range of topic areas. I.e. Working Group, National Relay Service, Community Participation Plan, Local Companion Card, National Public Toilet Strategic Planning Statement, Community Map, Spinal Cord Injuries Australia and Tips Strategic Plan, upgrades to open space for accessible Complaint Handling. infrastructure, urban design processes etc. • Education around accessibility principles • Council routinely seeks the views of the and formatting for marketing and community in its planning processes and promotions collateral has been steady and does so using a range of engagement is ongoing. methods. I.e. surveys, social pinpoint • Council’s new brand Guide incorporates mapping, social media, forums, and the access principles and features references public exhibition of plans and strategies. to the (WCAG) 2.0 Level A guidelines as • Access Working Group is comprised of does the business platform ‘Localised’. key stakeholders and parents of children • COVID-19 process responses examples with disability. This group advises (not exhaustive): Council on matters around access and inclusion enhancement, and provides • The delivery of the GoCo Community Care feedback on infrastructure design where transport service to aged and disabled appropriate. The concept design of clients was impacted early in the pandemic Livvi’s Place Inclusive Playground was as volunteers for the service are aged and submitted to Kidsafe for an independent in the high risk category and were not able assessment to ensure it met access and to be utilised as drivers for the service. inclusion principles, to identify safety Council redeployed staff from other areas issues and to seek any recommendations to assist with driving functions, community for improvement. The findings were volunteers were utilised in the non risk both positive and encouraging. category and COVID safe transport plans

98 Recommendations made by Kidsafe were • Despite this, and since the DIAP was considered and incorporated into the introduced, conversations around access Concept Plan prior to the release of the enhancements are becoming more Construct Brief. common in the workplace. The DIAP has • Council has a robust complaints policy and been used as leverage for office space feedback on access issues is encouraged. redesign and on several occasions been Information on how to make complaints or championed by staff as an opportunity to provide feedback is provided in the access lead by example. and inclusion portal of Council’s website. Is there anything else you’re doing or • Council has adopted the Everyone Can planning for the future to contribute Play (ECP) in NSW Planning Guidelines to greater outcomes for people with for its play spaces and has featured ECP disability? Access Audits in the Open Spaces strategic • Council will be undertaking a planning process. Moving forward, this comprehensive review of its existing DIAP will enable Council to determine if existing in 2020/2021. This will include a progress play spaces meet the needs of people with pulse check with both internal and external disability. stakeholders and business units including Describe your challenges and the Access Working Group. successes in delivering on your parts of the DIAP Gwydir Shire Council • COVID-19 has presented challenges in • Council was successful in seeking funding the ways Council connects with customers for an all abilities recreational area adjacent across all levels of service including aged to the MPS and Naroo Aged Care and people with disability, which present a Facility. This recreation area will provide high demographic in our Shire. an exciting recreational space for people of all abilities. The space was designed • Council convened its COVID Management utilising the Everyone Can Play Principles Team in mid March 2020 and adopted a developed by the NSW Government. collaborative problem solving approach across its business units, to ensure that In developing this park Council has Council’s services were maintained and demonstrated its commitment Gwydir customers were not disadvantaged. Shire to implementing the Act by way of constructing a recreation/play space for • Attitudinal changes around the training people of all abilities. The design includes commitment needed for employing people wide paved walkways, wheelchair friendly, with disability is a barrier that has been access to raised garden beds and access identified. This has been identified both to a wheelchair swing. This specific internally and externally in discussions equipment has been incorporated with with local businesses already struggling gym equipment and playground equipment economically in ongoing drought conditions. ensuring that all community members have These challenges are not insurmountable the opportunity to access these facilities and obtaining the buy-in from internal together. Also included in the design is stakeholders and initiatives such as the varied styles of seating, outdoor music delivery of the Access at a Glance initiative equipment, passive recreation turfed have created a higher level of awareness spaces and a native plantings of bird and conversation around engaging with attracting plants. customers and employees with disability. COVID-19 and the maintenance of • The All Abilities Park was officially services to our frail, isolated and clients completed this year and continues to with disability have further enhanced the provide a wonderful recreation space for conversation. people of all ages and abilities. The design

99 of the space also lends itself to being a strength and increased scope to the recreation space for outdoor performances combined committee. This committee is such as the Army Band that visited made up of people in the community who Warialda and played in the park to the are interested in helping to make their enjoyment of all. community or town more disability and • The Gwydir Shire Youth Officer has been dementia friendly. working with the schools and assisting Hawkesbury City Council young people who have been having • trouble with school and out of school. Delivery of four ‘Dementia Friend’ education Services accessed outside of Gwydir sessions, including a business breakfast. Shire included Pathfinders in Inverell • Two events to raise profile of access and assisting in gaining tenancy and support inclusion. for young people in our Shire, EACH in • Development of ‘Pool Park’ in South Moree provides a range of health, disability, Windsor - an accessible of play-spaces counselling, and mental health services. to meet expressed needs of people with • Council also demonstrates a commitment to disabilities. EEO principles through the development of • Delivery of partnership project to increase systems and processes for recruitment and employment opportunities for people with promotion. All decisions made regarding disabilities. recruitment and promotion are based on merit not influenced by gender, disability, • Establishment of a project to provide race, age, religion or any other attribute. outreach access to mental health services. • Council seeks input and feedback from • Provision of Auslan interpretation and consumers and their carers and has access accessible transport options to events and to various methods for raising and resolving consultations. complaints. This feedback is actively • Convening sector-wide interagencies to reviewed, and the service is improved as improve access to services for people with appropriate. disabilities. • Staff awareness and education is available • Launching outreach service providing My through various programs such as Aged Care access point in Council library Dementia Australia and Golden Carers. community rooms. • Staff also have access to webinars • Delivery of accessible activities and health providing information and education on information delivered at Richmond Pools in programs such as the new Integrated Carer conjunction with Seniors Week. Support Service Model. • Mental Health awareness event hosted in • Commonwealth Home Support Program February 2020. (CHSP) services celebrate Carers week. Carers are also involved in our Disability • Website review and redesign being Inclusion Committee undertaking a undertaken in compliance with Web consultative role. Content Accessibility Guidelines. • Naroo Frail Aged Care facility continues to • Support has been provided to external recognise family and carers on a monthly agencies with a focus on creating a number basis by holding a BBQ each month to of accessible, local service directories. celebrate the resident’s birthdays and inviting them to attend. Hay Shire Council • Work continues on implementation of Developing positive community Dementia Friendly communities within the attitudes and behaviours shire. The Dementia Friendly Committee • was integrated with the Disability Inclusion Council regularly meets with health Committee during this year which brought services, schools and Intereach through 100 meetings such as the Local Emergency this was identified in our Plan to assist Management Committee Meeting and the users in getting up from the seat. Community Safety Precinct Meeting where Supporting access to meaningful information is shared and issues identified. employment The Hay Multi Service Outlet (formerly HACC) also hold meetings at Council • All staff attended mental health and where information is shared and issues wellbeing workshops organised through identified. Council. • Council promotes available services • Council had a high school student with a through its website, Facebook and disability undertake work placement over 10 community newsletter. Any other relevant months in 2019, in the Parks and Gardens information is also promoted through these section. He is now employed as a casual forms of media, such as workshops and employee. initiatives, examples of these were Drought Improving access to mainstream & Wellbeing Workshops, Mental Health free diaries, Women’s Yarn Up sessions. services through better systems and processes • Working with Transport for NSW on road safety initiatives, sharing informative videos • Council’s website, Facebook and on Facebook. Our Plan says Council will community newsletter are regularly endeavour to promote the safe use of updated, our newsletter often incorporates sidewalks and footpaths by gophers. news and programs from Intereach and local health services. Creating liveable communities • Due to COVID-19 impacting local tourism, • Providing and advertising community Council undertook virtual tours of the transport. museums and attractions in town, to • Council incorporates inclusiveness in all encourage people to come and visit them its projects where it can and incorporates when restrictions ease. it into all future planning. Projects either • Hay Multi Service Outlet (formerly HACC) completed or started in this financial year still provide transport for out of town include: New Playground at Hay Park medical appointments for their clients, and which includes wheelchair accessibility also provide taxi vouchers for in town. and several inclusive play equipment • Council has undertaken surveys for local pieces (grant through Everyone Can businesses and for community feedback Play in NSW Program); The Hay Library on projects in town – These are done Redevelopment incorporated wheelchair electronically which allows people to have access and a reading garden; Pocock input from the comfort of their home. Park, Hay Showgrounds, and Maude received new and/or upgraded How have you determined that you’re amenities including disabled amenities and meeting the needs of people with improved access, as well as the Maude disability? Hall; The Council Office was improved with • accessible doorways and dropped height of The surveys provided some feedback in front counter. these areas, as well as the consultation held when developing the Disability Action • Cycleway/walkway was extended around Plan and Lachlan Street Master Plan more Sandy Point and through the Hay Park recently. which was identified in our Plan as needing • better wheelchair access in wet weather. The development of the Lachlan Street This also provides a linkage to the network Master Plan involved extensive community so it is all accessible. consultation, with workshops and sessions regularly held to receive the community’s • Bench seats with armrests are being installed through town and at new projects,

101 input. Items that were considered in the entrance, which will incorporate better Master Plan include the surface type for accessibility (grant funding being applied the footpath and tree types, as to not cause for). trip hazards. Disabled parking spaces to • Walking tracks continuing to be linked and be relocated into more suitable locations, upgraded as funding becomes available. furniture to be usable for all abilities, and the design in general is being made more • The Lachlan Street Redevelopment project open and accessible. is in its planning stages and will incorporate accessibility changes and improvements to • Council incorporated the feedback above the paving. into its Lachlan Street Master Plan which incorporates upgrading projects through the • The Hay Park Playground Project involved whole main street. accessible pathways, toddler play for younger children and also inclusive • The 2020/2021 Delivery & Operation Plan equipment for people of all abilities. identifies that Council will: • New amenities (some replaced/ ° Provide accessible transport to the refurbished) to be inclusive – Showgrounds, community and incorporate inclusion Pocock Park and the Maude and Booligal principles in works program. villages. ° Maintain streets and supporting Is there anything else you’re doing or infrastructure, making it safe and planning for the future to contribute accessible. to greater outcomes for people with ° Promote local employment and training disability? opportunities. • Incorporating inclusiveness and ° Work with local health agencies to accessibility into all future projects. address health issues in the community. ° Work with community partners in Hilltops Council providing and promoting programs that contribute to community pride, inclusion Encourage the development of facilities and wellbeing. and services to assist the vulnerable, the aged populations and those with ° Promote and develop an inclusive local disabilities community culture – Extend the use of community facilities by incorporating • Implement the actions of the DIAP and strategies from the disability and associated projects – ongoing. inclusion plan and support inclusive • Work towards all towns and villages having initiatives and events. access to disabled public toilets - activity ° Expand E business and internet services modified to adapt to and implement to improve accessibility. community requirements during pandemic. Remainder deferred to be reviewed in Describe your challenges and 2020/2021. successes in delivering on your parts of the DIAP • Support the increase in the number of private aged care facilities - activity Our successes: modified to adapt to and implement community requirements during pandemic. • Council Office doorways improved for Remainder deferred to be reviewed in accessibility and the new front counter 2020/2021. incorporated a lowered section for people in a wheelchair. • Work with key partners to provide education and information to the community on • Visitor Information Centre disabled available facilities and services for the amenities fixed, and plans have been aged and disabled - media releases are developed for the refurbishment of the

102 distributed through media channels to in partnership with Studio Artes, a local extend and promote available facilities and service which supports people with services. disabilities, showcasing artists’ works and bringing people together to celebrate. • Support programs that address social inequality - events supported by or Creating liveable communities organised by Council include: Seniors • Week bus trip, International Women’s Day, Council maintains dedicated Access Youth Mentoring Program, in design phase. and Inclusion, Living with Disability and Dementia pages on its website. Information • Work with partners to increase includes useful links to information and accommodation options for the aged, low services, and a list of accessible public income earners and disabled, members toilet locations. Accessible facilities are also of the community and those in need of included in project and location-specific crisis accommodation - presentation and pages, for example parks and gardens. discussions between crisis accommodation providers and Hilltops Wellbeing Action Supporting access to meaningful Group to explore barriers for community employment members seeking crisis accommodation • Section 8 of Council’s Recruitment and and social and affordable housing in the Selection Determination encourages region. employment of people with intellectual • Work with partners to support the promotion disabilities, where possible. Council was of harm minimisation strategies - meetings able to provide casual employment for with Hilltops Wellbeing Action Group are two individuals with disabilities during held monthly. 2019/2020 through an arrangement with Nova Employment, a disability employment program provider. Hornsby Shire Council • Council has mandatory Equal Employment Developing positive community Opportunity online learning for all staff. attitudes and behaviours Improving access to mainstream • Council-organised events, and programs services through better systems and and events submitted by community groups processes and organisations, have been promoted via our channels (website, monthly • Council uses the Monsido platform to eNewsletter, Facebook, Next Door, What’s monitor website accessibility compliance to On publication, and print advertisements) WCAG 2.0 AA. where appropriate. These include • A new COVID-19 information web page promoting International Day of Disabilities, was introduced providing valuable Ride a Day in my Wheels, NDIS in your information to the community on local community and Carers support to raise services to provide assistance. A new awareness of people living with a disability. Facebook page for libraries was launched, • Council’s inclusive approach to all events and Council commenced utilising ‘Next ensures they are wheelchair accessible Door’, a social media platform. This and have drop off zones, as well as mobility enabled Council to ensure information was maps with easy to read signage and accessible to everyone in the community. accessible toilets. • Council’s Community Directory is regularly • Offering accessible entertainment through updated. The community can easily access Council’s new ‘Friday Night Vibes’, a music information on local NDIS providers and event for everyone to enjoy online, bringing services. entertainment to the community while • A service delivering plants and trees direct adhering to COVID-19 restrictions. to residents’ doors was implemented during • Celebrating International Day of COVID-19, increasing access to the wider Disabilities with an inclusive art exhibition community. 103 What we are doing or planning for • Information was provided directly to the future to contribute to a greater vulnerable community groups, including outcome for people with a disability five information presentations for CALD community groups regarding Council’s • Commitment to Hornsby Shire becoming a services, programs and projects. The dementia friendly community – consultation groups included the Chinese senior’s with people living with dementia, group, English conversation groups and participating in the Northern Region CALD family groups. Dementia collaborative and increasing the community’s awareness of dementia • Continuation of vital services for people through dementia awareness webinars and who are frail, aged or living with a disability Council’s new dementia information web include the Home library service, and page to create positive change and a more E-audio devices loaded with E-audio inclusive community. files and loaned to customers with a print disability or vision impairment. Customers • The link to the National Relay Service is are able to receive 1:1 assistance with now available on Council’s website next to E-devices, including computers. Council’s contact details and is displayed on every page of the website. • Providing inclusive and accessible spaces such as Hornsby Aquatic Centre and • Council continues to source a range of Galston Aquatic Centre with appropriate new images as required from stock image signage, adult change table, waterproof websites, including pictures that represent wheelchair, disability hoist and/or ramps diversity, inclusiveness and disability in the into pools. community. • Educating and supporting Council’s Access • Council continues to update and renovate Committee on how to utilise the City Watch park spaces and equipment to be program via Council’s website and how to accessible and inclusive for everyone in easily report issues that impact access in the community to enjoy. Most recently this Hornsby Shire, e.g. damaged footpaths. includes Storey Park at Asquith. Council’s website allows people to search for an Describe your challenges and accessible playground to suit their needs successes in delivering on the through a search function. Disability Inclusion Action Plan • Information on community venues on • Due to the challenges of COVID-19 with Council’s website displays accessible facility closures and social distancing amenities on floor plans. requirements, accessible information was provided through webinars for seniors and Meeting the needs of people with the CALD community on initiatives such as disabilities a learn to drive program and online story • Opportunities were provided for people time. Promotion of Council’s new COVID-19 with disabilities to seek information and resource web page and information to the engage with service providers through community was widely shared through the Community Connections Hot Desk - a social media platforms such as Facebook weekly service offered at Hornsby Library. and Next Door. • During COVID-19, access to library books • Success can be defined through our ability was maintained with library staff home to meet the needs of the community by delivering over 6,819 books and resources maintaining essential services during through its Pick and Drop Service. New COVID-19. online events/storytimes were also launched to the community which included Hunter’s Hill Council the use of captions to assist people who • We have addressed many challenges have difficulties with audio. through disability awareness training, revision of public forms and documents, 104 broadcasting Council meetings and Improving access to mainstream improvements to customer service. services through better systems and • Council has adopted a deliberate strategy processes to promote positive messaging about • Improved Council and committee meeting inclusion, demonstrated in the “inclusion” accessibility using online broadcast through branding of events and public places. COVID. While we can report on the completion of many of the DIAP actions, the test of the • Updated accessibility of Council’s website, effectiveness of the DIAP will be the level including review of colour contrast, usability of satisfaction of people with disability with and the function of assistive technology like Council’s services and facilities. screen readers on our website. • Developing positive community Created a community directory that attitudes and behaviours includes information on disability service providers. • Promoted the lived experience of disability • Participated and facilitated local and through communications regularly. regional forums with service providers, and • Sponsored the Inclusion Award at the planned collaborative approaches to key Northern Districts Local Business Awards. issues. Creating liveable communities • Continued to promote opportunities for consultation online, in person and via • Commenced upgrade of Town Hall access, phone including an entry ramp, accessible bathrooms and accessible chamber. • Commenced review of Council facilities, and collated information on access for Education, recreation and social hiring information. inclusion • Reviewed footpath conditions and improved • In a move unprecedented for any access in Gladesville and Garibaldi Australian Council, all three of our major Villages. aquatic centres have leading practice accessibility features coming online, either • Advocated for Universal Design and through new builds (in the case of Ashfield Inclusion in all projects and events. Aquatic Centre) or through significant • Developed a Playspace Strategy informed investment in refurbishment or master by the Everyone Can Play guideline. planned redevelopment (in the cases of Created design for new playspace Enmore and Leichhardt). Major pools will at Riverglade Reserve based on the all be accessible via hoists, and/or ramps. principles. Each facility features an adult accessible • Promoted inclusive play through changing room with ceiling hoist and partnerships with Touched by Olivia and change table to enable access to our pools Play for All Australia. and spa/sauna facilities via free aquatic chairs. Dedicated bookable accessible • Promoted the completion of bus stop parking is also being added. Hearing upgrade program to DDA compliance. loops are included throughout the new Supporting access to meaningful Ashfield facility, along with new accessible employment wayfinding features. • • Engaged contractors and entertainers with In addition, the attached gymnasium disabilities. facilities at Ashfield and Leichhardt offer tailored programs and professional training • Updated Council’s Equal Opportunity support for people with disability. Employment policy and communicated • and promoted with internal and external Australia’s oldest ocean baths, the stakeholders. historic Dawn Fraser Baths, in Birchgrove 105 have also been redeveloped with new an awareness raising gig at Newtown accessibility features added. Neighbourhood Centre with over 300 • In partnership with SportsNSW and PCYC people engaging, a meet your neighbour Marrickville the Activate Inclusion Day services networking event was held with was held as part of International Day of over 50 services attending. People with Disability activities. Some 300 Cultural inclusion children aged 5-18 from local schools were • involved. The event provided a launching The Library team have worked to make point to engage with local sports groups the online content delivered by Library on inclusion practice and introduce many as a result of COVID inclusive. This has children to local opportunities. Over 10 included new work on captioning content sporting codes were present providing and / or providing transcripts (within existing modified indoor and outdoor sports. Another budgets). is being planned for 2020. • The library has delivered programs for • Local sporting clubs have used the people with disability of all ages, along accessible equipment library including with families with a disability, this includes outdoor matting at their events. the installation of hearing loops at the new Marrickville Library and participating • Council facilitated meetings of the Inner in a radio interview describing the library West Disability Forum attended by 28-50 specifically for vision impaired and blind service representatives. Topics were: Legal listeners. Rights and People with Disability during • COVID-19, National Pandemic planning An expanded International Day of People committee and the Royal Commission into with Disability Film Festival program Violence, Abuse and Neglect of people with was held over two nights incorporating a disability. comedy debate, feature film, a series of short films and panel discussion on film • Staff are working with Inner West Domestic representation. The program was curated Violence Committee to develop a respectful and created by and with people living with relationship program in partnership with the disability to model inclusive practice and Intellectual Disability Rights Service. provided a platform for the voices and • Staff have been active in the development stories of those with disability. of Council Policy regarding ensuring • Council has established an access accessibility to online programs and equipment library to enable greater information, notably as a response to inclusion at festivals, events and involving COVID-19. public art. This will be complimented • A working group was established of youth by an accessible events guide under and disability alliance to make youth development. Staff training purposefully services more disability friendly and developed for council by Accessible Arts disability services more youth friendly. was delivered this year with the content focused on improving access and inclusion • Council has hosted a peer social for the whole of community experiencing art networking group for Sydney Epilepsy that is produced, sponsored, auspiced and Jacaranda Club and has actively supported created in partnership with Council. two Dementia Cafe groups in the local government area. Staff also continue to Economic inclusion support peer networking groups including • Specialist accessibility advice is provided the centre for disability studies social for planning proposals and development networking group, Gig Buddies, CDC and application assessments to ensure leading others who have moved to 1:1 support practice inclusion features are designed during COVID-19. into new precincts and developments. • Mental Health Month was celebrated with • Council has invested significant time in staff bulletins on mentally well workplaces, building relationships between property 106 developers and providers of Specialist • The Affordable Housing policy has Disability Accommodation (SDA) which generated four adaptable units as part of is supported through funding from the Councils portfolio managed by a community National Disability Insurance Scheme. The housing provider. Units will be used to scheme enables providers to purchase accommodate people with disability and apartments from developers that have been their families who qualify as key workers built to SDA standards, enabling people under the program. More accessible with disability to live independently in the housing will be added to Council’s Inner West and to more easily access affordable housing portfolio over time. employment and economic inclusion more Civic inclusion, engagement and broadly. information • COVID has delayed engagement with local • businesses on further initiatives about Council provided links to organisations access improvements. and information to assist people with disability through COVID-19. Letters to Inclusive planning infrastructure & Commonwealth and State ministers were environment sent advocating for greater recognition • Adoption of a Public Toilet Strategy which and response to the expressed and urgent gives effect to new practice beyond needs of people with a disability during the compliance including in gender neutral initial stages of COVID. It is noted that the signage, adult accessible change facilities Disability Royal Commission has reported and strategic direction on accessibility on this issue. location and priority access. • Council maintains a variety of • Significant engagement on inclusion and communication channels to keep people access planning created plans to guide informed including digital and print upgrades and redevelopment of aquatic media, as well as targeted email lists and facilities. promotional or advertising products. In addition, a range of media releases and • Council staff continue to work with NSW newsletters around inclusion and access Government to improve accessibility of where issued throughout the year. public transport. Discussions regarding • Easy read and plain English documents are upgrades to Petersham railway station have now incorporated in Council’s style guide. taken place and it is envisaged the project will commence within the next year. • Council with input from members of the • The Inner West Integrated Transport Access Advisory Committee made a Strategy (ITS) was adopted by Council this submission to the NSW Disability Inclusion Act review. year. Its implementation will include a new Pedestrian Access & Mobility Plan (PAMP) Access and inclusion are embedded in by end June 2021. our systems and processes • Works required to improve accessibility of • An accessible events guide and equipment bus stops as per the Disability Standards library have been developed to assist for Accessible Public Transport (DSAPT) staff in delivering more inclusive practice. have been completed at all identified bus Together they will assist in breaking down stop sites for 2019/2020. common and persistent barriers for people • Audit undertaken for all Council owned with disability to participate. The initiatives carparks, including mobility parking are being trialled with staff engaged in bays. Lennox Street, Marrickville carpark planning and running events and a wider redevelopment included three mobility roll out will be progressed next year. parking bays and 38 additional mobility • E-learning continues to be available to parking spaces were installed in the local all staff via Inner Me - Disability Aware: government area this financial year.

107 An awareness and inclusion program by (IDAP). These destinations are also linked Cerebral Palsy Alliance. with strategies that align with National • Advocacy during the COVID period has Disability Strategy policies which have been focused on highlighting health and support used to ascertain actions to be undertaken priorities of people with disability and their in the IDAP. Priority actions identified within families, providing information during the the ISC IDAP to be improved or completed health crises and supporting participation by 2021 are displayed in the table below. It including through the online environment. should be noted that some actions within the ISC IDAP have no end date and will continue • Customer service team now provide in to be implemented throughout the lifetime of house training on the National Relay the plan. Service. A recognised leader in the broader context • Council’s Access Advisory Committee meets quarterly. During COVID information • Collaborative relationships between and discussion continues online with the Council and all levels of Government in group as required. policy development, services delivery and infrastructure to address the gaps on Initiatives planned for the year ahead regional Australia for people with a disability • Due to COVID there has been limited is ongoing. capacity to address and complete all • Assisting the community in achieving the scheduled actions this year. However new objects and principals of the NSW Disability opportunities have arisen in provision Inclusion Act 2014 is ongoing. of online content, service platforms and workplace flexibility. This reset has enabled A community that is healthy, educated and Council to imagine new ways of working sustained and connecting with community. • Council’s infrastructure, as reasonable • Council will extend its current IAP for 12 practical, is accessible by people of all months due to COVID disruption, and the abilities, is ongoing/in progress delayed Council elections. This period will • be used to reflect, engage community and Council’s libraries have access, equipment, develop a new plan aligned with the new resources, programs and services for Community Strategic Plan to commence people of all abilities is complete. from 1 June 2022. Emergency planning • Collaborative relationships between Council responses and post pandemic recovery will and educational institutes for a variety of receive a higher recognition as a central mediums for people of all abilities to learn, theme and work to maximise opportunities grow, and develop is ongoing. to effectively include people with disability • Major parks are accessible with amenities, to ensure safety, social and economic play spaces, sports and recreational health and participation is achieved. facilities for people with all abilities is in progress. Council • Collaborative relationships between Inverell Shire Council prides itself on being Council, local community and sporting clubs a community for everyone with the vision enhance opportunities for people with a of creating an inclusive, vibrant community disability in sport, cultural and recreational while offering opportunities for resourceful activities is ongoing. businesses and residents, as well as support A strong local economy services for both commerce and industry. • Retailers, restaurants, accommodation and Council has identified five destinations that business are accessible and obliging to are the foundation of all Council plans. Of people with a range of abilities is ongoing. these five destinations, four are relevant to the Inclusion (Disability) Action Plan (2017) 108 • Collaborative relationships between Council 2019/2020 projects and educational institutes for a variety • of educational mediums for employer/ From November 2019 to October 2020, employees of all abilities to learn, grow, and Lake Inverell underwent redevelopment develop is ongoing. works to increase accessibility for people of all abilities. This work included: • Collaborative relationships between ° Council and all levels of Government and New walking paths. telecommunication providers for improved ° Boardwalk facilities to improve visibility communication services is ongoing. of the lake for all abilities. ° Kayak launch facilities and access ramp • Collaborative relationships between Council for vehicles. and local disability employment service providers to enhance opportunities for ° Viewing platform. employment of people with disabilities is ° Picnic facilities. ongoing. ° Information signage. • Tourist attractions and facilities, major Future plans for the reserve includes an all events and festivals are accessible is in abilities amenities upgrade. progress/ongoing. • Inverell Shire Council established a • Visitors and tourists have access to designated disabled parking space, two information to assist in planning their trip to kerbside pram ramps and a 1.2 meter our community is due for review. concrete path with double railing leading to the entrance ramp of Yetman hall. Tactile • Review and facilitate the hire of mobility indicators were also installed at both top aids for visitors and community members is and bottom of the ramp. due for review. • In September 2019, Council applied • Council is an effective member of the local for grant funding through the NSW Chamber of Commerce and Industry to Government’s Community Building increase awareness and support initiatives Partnership Program on behalf of the for the access and inclusion of people with Yetman Hall and Progress Association a disability is complete. and jointly funded the procurement of The Communities are supported by a replacement 12 seater bus for the sustainable services and infrastructure Yetman community. This has seen to the continuation of isolated Yetman residents of • Council ensures that, as reasonable all abilities to travel to regional centres for practicable, that access for people of all events and shopping. abilities is incorporated in all its designs of public infrastructure is complete/Ongoing. • June 2019 saw the completion of the Inverell Off-Road Recreation Circuit which • Provisioning of continuous accessible paths is a sealed 1.6km loop with the width of of travel (CAPT) between services and 2.4 meters, suitable for two wheelchairs to facilities in the town centres is complete. travel side by side, and is connected to the • Council reviews its recruitment, training and town cycle ways. Towards the end of 2020, resources to uphold non-discrimination of Council began the construction of inclusive people with a disability is complete. amenities on site. • Council workforce training to up-skill staff • Planned in consultation with the community, with information about access and disability McLean Care, Brighter Access and IDFS, issues relevant to their area of work is the two year redevelopment of Copeton complete. Northern Foreshores commenced 2019. Works completed 2019/2020 include: • Council review the formats and medium it uses for the dissemination of information to ° New public amenities block including the community is complete. all ability showers, toilets and laundry facilities: 109 ° Upgrade to northern concrete boat ramp. throughout the site. 2021 will see the ° Floating pontoon accessible via the commencement of stage three of the concrete boat ramp, allowing for ease of town centre renewal plan which will focus access into aquatic vessels. on the Vivian to Lawrence Street section of Byron Street. ° Network of 2km of shared paths. • Bus Shelters ° Upgraded power supply, including ° As mentioned in the 2018/2019 progress installation of solar power. report as a current project, Council is ° Upgraded internal access roads. installing wheelchair accessible bus ° Fishing cleaning stations. shelters with Tactile Ground Surface Indicators throughout the shire to ° Upgraded powered caravan sites. improve public transport accessibility for ° Amphitheatre for live performances. people living with a disability. 2019/2020 saw the installation of four new bus ° Upgraded kiosk with ramp access. shelters in the locations of Albion Hill ° Construction of accessible viewing area of Inverell, Little Plain and two in the platforms. Ashford community. Council continues to • Materials Recovery Facility take public submissions requesting the installation of bus shelters throughout the ° The Inverell Shire Council Materials shire into consideration. Recovery Facility (ISC MRF) has been • operated by Northaven Ltd which is a Meeting the Needs of the Community disability services provider and support ° Inverell Shire Council collaborates with organisation, employing people of all disability and aged care services such abilities. December 2020 saw Northaven as Brighter Access, Northaven, Best relinquish their tender for the operation of Community and McLean Care. Council this facility which would have seen many also carries out community surveys, people with disabilities unemployed. community consultation sessions Council has worked together with Glen and utilises constructive feedback Industries, an Australian disability to determine areas for improvement enterprise for a seamless exchange in and significance in existing and future operating companies. This resulted in infrastructure to ensure designs and the continuation of employment for local facilities accommodate all community people with disabilities. requirements and abilities. • Byron Street Redevelopment Describe your challenges and ° At the beginning of January 2020, successes in delivering on your parts Council commenced the second stage of of the DIAP the town centre renewal plan. This stage • A major challenge in delivering the Inclusion consisted of the redevelopment of Byron (Disability) Action Plan over 2019/2020 Street from Campbell Street through to has been COVID-19. Due to COVID-19, Vivian Street. As with stage 1 that was a significant decrease in services and completed in 2018 in Otho Street, the equipment available to people living with a works increase accessibility for people of disability was evident from: all abilities. Raised pedestrian crossings with steep inclines from the footpath ° Closure of inclusive play equipment. to the road have been levelled out and ° Closure of the Library. a wide, flat median section has been ° constructed providing an area for refuge Closure of the Tourist Information Centre. when crossing at any location throughout ° Closure of businesses. the redeveloped area. Designated ° Regulations over businesses that affect disabled parking with pram ramps and access for people with a disability i.e. tactile indicators have also been installed 110 making room for separate entry, exit and • Investigation continues for “Talking one-way flow of people resulted in more Community Newsletter”. narrow walkways through businesses. How have you determined that you’re ° Cancellation of the 2020 Careers Expo meeting the needs of people with which showcases a range of local disability employment opportunities for people of all abilities. • There was no formal engagement or feedback sought in the 2019/2020 year, however planned for coming year. Council Describe your challenges and Developing positive attitudes and successes in delivering on your parts behaviours of the DIAP • Continual Participation in Interagency • Challenge: COVID-19 pandemic – meetings. numerous events/meetings affected. • Community Centre collaboration. • Challenge: Whilst an Access Advisory • Event planning considers accessibility. Committee was formed, participation from • Youth Council includes one member with community representatives continues to disability. be difficult to achieve and the planned reinvigoration of the Committee was Creating liveable communities affected by the pandemic. • Refurbishment of Athenium Theatre • Challenge: Community Transport no longer included the build of a disabled bathroom receives CCSP funding for people with and disabled access to the theatre. disability. However, some clients without • Upgraded children’s playground which NDIS packages can access service as included equipment which can be utilised transport disadvantaged clients. by children with a disability. • Success: Youth Council continues to • Library auto-door is now operational. encourage participation from youth with disability. • Rooms at our Recreational Centre are • Success: Improvements continue to currently being utilised by a Physiotherapy footpath network and disability parking. provider. Hydrotherapy sessions are held weekly with community members and there • Success: Physiotherapy provider operating are a number of services now available from our Recreational Centre through this service for our local community, • Challenge: Community Transport - due to including NDIS eligible individuals. COVID-19 no wheelchair handling training Supporting access to meaningful occurred during 2019/2020. Training to be employment rescheduled to later 2021 if permissible. • Council employ one school-based trainee Is there anything else you’re doing or with a disability. planning for the future to contribute to greater outcomes for people with • Council currently employ four staff with a disability. disability? • Improving access to mainstream Investigating a “Talking Community services through better systems and Newsletter” for vision impaired community members processes • Hearing loop installed and operational in Athenium Theatre. • Access Advisory Committee meetings.

111 Kempsey Shire Council • New accessible equipment at the South Developing positive attitudes and Kempsey Park with the merry go round and the accessible picnic facilities. behaviours • Riverside Park with the bucket swing. • Events promoted through Hey Macleay and social media platforms. • Township determined for the placement of the new amenities – South West Rocks – • Promotion of online events in line with Horseshoe Bay, however Funding for the COVID restrictions new amenities and Kiosk has been deferred • Two very successful events (for International until next year. Day for People With Disability) were held: • Shared pathway Eden Street, from Kemp ° Big Day Out – all ages event 230 people Street to Riverside Park. attended and 22 organisations were • South West Rocks amenities block represented. accessible parking bays and footpath. ° Glitz and Glamour ball- 130 people • Committee established January 2019 and attended. meets monthly to address issues facing • Council actively promoted people with community members with a disability a disability in promotional materials for and to coordinate and hold events e.g. the Glitz n Glamour Ball and the Big Day International Day of People with Disability. Out as well as through our social media • Council has developed a Community campaigns. Photos from these events Grants program with a focus on community have also been used in wider Council development, inclusion and projects that documentation. build stronger communities. • We will work with the Disability Reference • Council’s Engagement Strategy was Group to develop additional promotional adopted in December 2019. materials and images. • As part of the preparation of the Your • An operating procedure has not been Future Places and Spaces strategy, a focus developed. The organisational development group session was held with the Disability team are rolling out disability awareness staff Reference Group to get their feedback and training which will support customer services advice prior to drafting the strategy. A one and complaints handling into the future. on one interview was also held with the • With the introduction of Learning Hub Kempsey Regional Support Group. (online LMS), Organisational Development • The Disability Reference Group has to enrol all employees into online Disability been involved in presentations relating to Awareness training module by end 2020. engagement opportunities for the following: • Disability Awareness training to be ° Operational Plan review 2019/2020 included as part of required training upon commencement of employment. We are ° Operational Plan 2020/2021 currently setting this up. Governance will ° Horseshoe Bay Masterplan need to address Councilor training. ° Backcreek upgrades project Creating liveable communities ° Local Strategic planning Statement “Your • Council has constructed new assets at Future Growth and Character” Back Creek, Crescent Head CBD, Crescent ° Crescent Head Public Domain project Head Pool, Gladstone, and are currently working on new Amenities for Bellbrook ° Community Infrastructure Strategy “Your Hall, Clyde Street Mall, Smithtown – Future Places and Spaces” Riverside Park, as well as upgrading ° Pedestrian Safety Audit the Civic Centre to meet Disability Discrimination Act requirements. ° West Kempsey Pump track

112 ° Kemp Street Sporting complex Kiama Council ° Service Clubs Park masterplan Our actions and outcomes: ° Connecting our community through • Council’s Access Committee meeting bi- COVID monthly to address identified issues, with ° Bushfire recovery 23 actions completed including the creation of an Easy Read version of a resource that ° Draft Community Engagement Strategy lists all the accessible features of the Kiama Supporting access to meaningful Local Government Area (local government employment area). • Organisational Development have met with • Community education around raising all local disability providers who are aware awareness for the inclusion of people with of our recruitment processes. Under the disability in all aspects of community life Local Government Act all positions must be including employment and tourism. advertised and appointed on merit. • Ensuring the national public toilet register is • Review recruitment processes, forms and up to date in regards to all of our accessible language for accessibility - currently under facilities. review by the communications team i.e. • The number of accessible toilet facilities Careers page accessibility. across the local government area has • Unknown in relation to volunteers with been expanded with the replacement of disability – we currently do not track this the Cooke Park Gerringong amenities information for volunteers. We ask for new and upgrades to the Kevin Walsh Oval, employees for statistical purposes, but it Jamberoo and Emery Park in Gerroa being is not mandatory. This item will require a completed with fully accessible facilities review in forward planning. including an adult lift & change facility in Jamberoo. • One trainee provided with learning support via RTO. • A fully accessible three bedroom cabin was built at Surf Beach Caravan Park. Improving access to mainstream services through better systems and • Disability accessibility and awareness has processes been promoted across multiple platforms and throughout Council’s networks. This • Council adheres to the accessibility has been achieved through the distribution guidelines for print and online media of articles and information to email registers content. and promotion via Council’s newsletters. • Ongoing development of website to meet A number of consultations and events compliance for web content. have also been held to support the promotion of opportunities and to develop • Where practical engagement activities an understanding of existing barriers to and events have been held in accessible access in the business community. A venues. presentation was also made at the Tourism • With the shift to online engagement due to After Hours event in Jamberoo promoting COVID restrictions we have ensured that the importance and benefits of disability people with a disability and their support inclusion with the presentation delivered by services are aware of opportunities to Peter Davies who is deaf, and accessibility provide feedback. tourism information has been added to the new Destination Kiama website and 2020 • Signage being upgraded to comply in new Visitor Guide. assets as they are built. • The Dementia-friendly Kiama Project continues to expand its impact in making Kiama local government area a very

113 dementia inclusive community. The most • Exploration art exhibition - In conjunction regular activity of the project is community with Settlement Services Australia and education that continues to be delivered by TAFE, Council put on the Exploration Art people living with dementia using content Exhibition at the Ku-ring-gai Art Centre. The created by people living with dementia. In Mayor opened the exhibition which was addition, the project established weekly made up of artists from the local community online social catch-ups during COVID-19 who all had a disability. A total of 67 artists that saw the participation in the project entered the exhibition with many pieces grow to include participants from right sold. As part of the exhibition, a people’s across Australia and Singapore. The choice award was presented. project also hosted a two day visit by the • Carer’s week - to celebrate Carer’s Week national Dementia-friendly Communities and to recognise the contribution they make project team from Dementia Australia. This to our community, Council and Ability Links visit included providing an overview of the put on a Carer’s Pamper Day. The day Dementia-friendly Kiama Project, site visits included free massages, manicures, facials and discussions about outcomes for future and lunch. Council also provided a crèche learning. to look after dependants so that carers • Disability access & inclusion has been could relax and enjoy their day. incorporated into the design & building • RUOK? Day - To create awareness of of the new Gerringong Library & history mental illness and support community centre. members and staff, Council ran a RU OK? • Council has established a new website that Day awareness campaign and programs. uses the new Open Cities CMS that meets • Twilight sensory tent - a sensory tent was accessibility standards to the highest level. provided at the Twilight Concert hosted • The bi-monthly convening of a Disability by Council. The tent aims to make events Consultative Group that brings people more inclusive for people with disabilities with disability together with local service and their carers. The tent reduces sensory providers. input, removes distractions and provide a safe and non-stimulating space for people • The provision of an accessible viewing with disabilities to calm down. The tent also area at the New Year’s Eve Sky Show and provides mobility equipment for people to a dedicated worker to support people with use and noise cancelling headphones. disability to access the area. • St John’s Avenue, Gordon streetscape - St Overall, the plan has been very successful John’s Avenue, Gordon is being upgraded in driving improvements within Council’s to create an ‘eat street’. To ensure access provision of services, facilities and information. and inclusion were considered in the We know we still have many improvements planning stages of the upgrade, an access to make and we’re committed to continuing to auditor assessed the plans and made progressively making improvements across recommendations to make the street more all of these areas as cumulatively over time, accessible and inclusive for people with all the improvements will add up to having disabilities. a substantial impact on making the Kiama • local government area a very accessible Play space strategy consultation - to ensure community. the views of people with disabilities and relevant stakeholders within the disability field were heard, community consultation Kuring-Gai Council was held regarding Council’s Play Space Strategy. Access improvements and related During 2019/2020, Ku-ring-gai Council has feedback provided by stakeholders were undertaken the following initiatives in relation incorporated in the plan. to the implementation of the adopted Access and Disability Inclusion Plan 2019-2023. • COVID-19 resilience workshops - to support carer’s of people with a disability through 114 the lockdown period of the COVID-19 completed as well as stops that tie in with pandemic, Council conducted online works being undertaken under the footpath sessions with a registered psychologist. program. The sessions were designed to create connections between carers, assist carers to look after their mental health, provide practical strategies to manage Developing positive community home schooling, and encourage them and attitudes and behaviours their family members to stay connected • Utilising the ‘Inclusiveness Module’ for throughout the lockdown period. induction training of Council staff. • In addition, online resilience workshops • Ensured all disability inclusion actions have facilitated by a registered psychologist an awareness and account for Aboriginal were held for seniors throughout the cultural sensitivities that may affect lockdown period as they were identified as opportunity for interaction or participation. a vulnerable group. • Delivered inclusiveness training during all • Music and art therapy - Council held weekly council inductions for new employees. online music and art therapy for children with a disability through the COVID-19 • As position descriptions are updated, lockdown period. The classes were run identification of physical, cognitive and to provide a stimulating and therapeutic interpersonal requirements inherent to each activity for children and to offer parents and position are considered. corers with some respite while the classes • Included representative imagery of people were run. with disability in Council’s publications. • Youth group - to provide opportunities for • Recognised and incorporated disability young people with a disability to socialise inclusion requirements as part of Council’s and meet youth workers, Council started contractor procurement processes through a youth group for people with disabilities. distribution of “The tradies guide to good The group meets monthly and runs different access”. recreational and entertainment related • activities each month. Developed public messages and campaigns highlighting disability inclusion Other achievements: requirements and benefits to the community through the outdoor gym project and pool • Dementia Café - established in partnership upgrades. with Rotary and the YMCA • Actively involved people living with disability • Trauma informed care and practice - in Council’s communication campaigns implementing training on trauma-informed around specific projects including housing, care and practice for volunteers. physical activity and access to transport • Accessible emergency evacuation centres and employment. - following the recent bush fires, Council • Consistent with social equity principles, completed an audit of the emergency planned for the inclusion of people evacuation centres to determine what with disability service needs in guiding venues are accessible. This information community development. was incorporated into emergency management plans and made public so that Creating liveable communities community members can make an informed • Identified indicative housing options that decision about locations for equitable may be suited to people living with a and dignified access, should they need to disability or for older people by reviewing evacuate in an emergency. LEP provisions; Developer contributions • Accessible bus stops - during 2019/2020, and working with the Village communities six bus stops along Ryde Road were

115 through the Visions of the Villages Master Supporting access to meaningful Planning process employment • Attended meetings of established working • Promoted the benefits of a diverse group of people with disabilities facilitated workforce, including people living with a by AbilityLinks and then when defunded, disability, to Council’s organisation as a Social Futures. Engaged with Real Art whole. Works to support young artists with • disabilities to exhibit in the Stepping Up Reduced procedural barriers to recruiting Gallery. people from diverse backgrounds, including those living with a disability, without • Investigated options for short and long compromising any existing qualification, term incentives to accelerate housing professional registration or Australian accommodation development for older Standards requirements. During COVID people and people with disability through working from home was instigated to Developer Contributions discounts. support employees and reduce their risk of • Developed social inclusion programs in becoming ill. partnership with third parties (such as • Facilitated succession planning, where AbilityLinks; Social Futures and Real Art practicable, for older employees or those Works) to ensure older people and people that may develop a disability during their with disability needs continue to participate work life with Council by implementing as valued community members. phased retirement plans. Employees • Continued to support the local Transport looking to retire take on trainees and Working Group for local community apprentices to ensure the transfer of skills transport planning purposes. and corporate knowledge whilst enabling the employee to reduce hours of work over • In partnership with the Transport Working time. Group developed and promoted a transport information resource kit for community • Encouraging people with a disability distribution within Kyogle Council area via to apply for Council positions through links to the “Going Places” website. statement on job advertisements (see #5). • In partnership with the Transport Working • Providing an explicit diversity commitment, Group identified options and implemented including people with a disability, in job strategies to improve bus transport services advertisements by including the words within Kyogle Council area such as putting “Council is an equal opportunity employer in new bus shelters in locations identified and encourages applications from people by the local community. with diverse backgrounds, people living with disabilities and indigenous ”. • Advocated improved access to key buildings and businesses within the local • Pro-actively sought a diverse range of government area through launching applicants, including appropriately qualified/ the Accessible Shops project with local experienced people with disability, for businesses and AbilityLinks. employment shortlists by encouraging people with a disability to apply for Council • Planning for the review of the Council’s positions through statement on job Pedestrian Access and Mobility Plan advertisements. (PAMP) with an extended focus on disability inclusion and mobility issues as identified Improving access to mainstream through the Visions of the Village planning services through better systems and process. processes • Ensured disability inclusion remained a • Council news and information is provided key part of Council’s village planning and in a variety of accessible formats, including projects. distribution of free hard copies throughout

116 the local government area and electronic SCCF3 for a Drought Support Worker forms are available on Council’s website. employed through WPRD. • Hearing Loop facilities are provided during • Respite care now offered in Condobolin and formal Council Meetings. Tottenham. • Provision of information through accessible • Overview of HACC financial position well platforms such as the web, Facebook, underway. Number of clients serviced have Twitter and Council’s Newsletter. been increasing since late 2019 in both • Continuing to implement e-Business Condobolin and Tottenham. initiatives to enable electronic access to • Emergency COVID-19 funding received development application and other Council from the Department of Health to processes such as payments. maintain meal service delivery. Applied • Providing accessibility options information for and successfully received grant to for builders and developers interested in support seniors in social isolation though developing within the local government COVID-19. area by distributing”The tradies guide to • Sensory Playground installed in good access”. Condobolin. • Hearing Loops have been installed in the Lachlan Shire Council Condobolin Council Chamber. Funding is • Discussions with Hon Mark Coulton MP available in this year’s budget ($15,000) to regarding possible funding models for Lake install more hearing loops. Cargelligo Retirement Home. • Disability access audit to Council buildings • Preliminary research completed on the complete. 10-year maintenance and need for a Dialysis service. Contact upgrade schedule close to completion. numbers have been established. Corporate • Taxi service opened in May 2018 in services team have been liaising with Condobolin. Community transport service interagency meeting participants to provided in Condobolin, Tottenham and investigate options. Mayor and GM have Lake Cargelligo raised the issues at meetings with Western • HACC community care regularly being NSW Local Health District (WNSWLHD). used in Tottenham for transport between • Some contacts established and issue Tottenham and larger service centres. No discussed. Mayor and GM have met with formal advocating done. Taxi service now in representatives from Ochre Health, RaRMS place and WNSWLHD to discuss ongoing • Installation of disabled parking and medical services. pedestrian ramp in Lachlan Street • Corporate services team have been liaising Condobolin. Further modifications required with interagency meeting participants • Spraying program for footpaths to control to investigate options. Discussion held weeds and pests. with GM and WNSWLHD regarding dialysis services. WPRD letter requesting • Expand footpath network to the Condobolin re- introduction of Dialysis service at Cemetery. Condobolin Hospital supported. Information • Accessible play equipment upgrade, BBQ provided to WNSWLHD regarding lack of shelter and pathway at Gum Bend Lake. Community Transport Services to transport Dialysis patients to Forbes Hospital. • Council has supported the implementation of a Suicide prevention officer funded by Western Primary Health Network Service included in Drought Communities Program, project application. Funding obtained under

117 Lake Macquarie City Council annual school-leavers’ expo for children Developing positive community transitioning to disability programs and employment) attitudes and behaviours • Participated in two NSW Ageing and • Continued to provide the ‘Including YOU’ Disability Commission Elder Abuse tent at Council’s major events, with four Collaborative meetings. The Commission events attended was established in July 2019 to protect • Continued to build networks and skills of older Australians and older people with a participants through the Me2 program. disability from abuse. The collaborative The program provides free, inclusive role is to support information sharing and activities for people of all abilities. 11 raise awareness of the referral pathway for sessions were organised, covering a individuals to report abuse. range of topics including yoga, gardening, • Participated in the NSW Disability Inclusion drumming, a tour of the Council Chambers/ Act review. visit with the Mayor and a Sculpture Park Discovery Trail at Booragul. In total 132 • Facilitated four meetings of Council’s participants attended, and were supported Ageing and Disability Advisory Panel. by care workers. As part of the program an Creating liveable communities Activate Sports Inclusion Day was hosted at Hunter Sports High in partnership with • Completed works on the changing place at Sports NSW. 260 school students attended Toronto Swim Centre. and participated in 10 sports activities. • Commenced construction of ramp, pathway In addition, hosted a Great Get Together and viewing platform at Blacksmiths Beach. Picnic to celebrate Children’s Week and the Lake Macquarie Family Day Care • Commenced a trial of installing beach Service’s 40th Anniversary. This inclusive matting over the soft sand at Caves Beach event was attended by 200 children and to improve access for all users (particularly families. Activities included yoga therapy, mobility aid users). Council Lifeguards drumming workshops and therapy ponies. rolled the matting out and packed away at Service providers attended to connect with the end of the beach session or in the event community. of extreme weather conditions. • Participated and presented two Disability • Participated in Accessible Cabin design Conversations as part of the virtual project. Four individual cabins were speakers series developed by staff during designed based on universal design the COVID-19 period. principles to cater for broad range of people. The cabins will be installed at • Prepared and distributed six e-newsletters Swansea, Belmont Pines and Blacksmiths to 600 individuals and service providers. Holidays Parks in 2020/2021. • Liaised with Lake Mac Libraries to host a • Completed 10 non-discriminatory referrals sensory photo shoot with Santa. for Council master plans and development • Continued to monitor the supply of free applications for recreation facilities. master locksmith access keys to eligible • Monitored the forward capital works residents. A total of 63 keys allocated program, resulting in improvements in during this period. non-discriminatory access to existing • Followed up on seven access enquiries facilities including public toilet facilities and from the community and liaised with community halls. appropriate Council departments to resolve Supporting access to meaningful identified issues employment • attended relevant networks and forums, • Council engaged The Australian Network including Hunter Future Choices Expo (an on Disability to commence a diversity

118 in recruitment review. The review will NSW/ACT Inclusion Agency for its ongoing be reported internally and actions will service commitment to inclusion with an be followed up on receipt of the review ‘Our Service Values Inclusion’ Strategic findings. It is anticipated that a small Inclusion Plan sticker. working group will be established to work • Kindy Cove uses transmitters to assist on the recommendations. children with hearing loss as well as flash Improving access to mainstream cards with visual cues to help children with services through better systems and hearing, language and processing delays. processes • In February 2020 the Dementia Café was • Continued to update Council’s website launched, providing the opportunity for during COVID-19 to include information local people living with dementia, their for people with a disability and continued carers and friends, to meet socially in a to update the National Toilet Map with new mainstream café once a week. and upgraded accessible amenities. • continues to collaborate • Completed new Council website to cater for with City of Ryde and Hunters Hill Councils all members of the community and to align to promote the annual Northern District with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines. Business Awards – Business Inclusion Awards. A socially inclusive business • Commenced discussions with St Vincent recognises that every person matters, De Paul, Better Mapping Project staff. The regardless of their circumstances. The project involves the development of an App inclusion award gives customers, staff to include access details in various Lake and business owners the opportunity to Mac Town Centres. Audits are required to nominate and reward local businesses for be completed in the nominated areas by their efforts to be inclusive. volunteers. A recruitment drive and training was planned, unfortunately the project • The model for the life-drawing class held was put on hold due to COVID-19. It is during the Seniors Festival was an older anticipated that it will recommence in 2021. person with a disability. • Participated in the Signage Guidelines Creating liveable communities for the City including wayfinding to assist • The opening of The Canopy included a people with low vision. range of features that promote an inclusive community including Lane Cove’s first Lane Cove Municipal Council Changing Place, a change facility with Developing positive community adult change table, hoist, shower, and peninsula door, which allows people with attitudes and behaviours high support needs to fully participate in the • The Different Degrees Theatre Ensemble community. The Changing Place is the only transferred their rehearsal program to Zoom one available in a public space on the North to ensure preparation for their performance Shore. continued once COVID-19 restrictions allow • The Canopy also has accessible toilets the group to perform publicly again. The at each end of the park level and all performers continued their work on two connections to and pathways throughout dances: ‘Fire’ and ‘Water’. The moves for The Canopy are at accessible grades. The these dances are based around the themes playground includes a Sway-Fun glider of bullying, things they are proud of, and ® and there are 14 accessible parking things that make them feel scared. These spaces located across the four levels of the themes were chosen and developed by the underground car park which is supported performers. by lifts and travelators to bring people to the • Kindy Cove, Council’s long day care centre, retail and park levels. continues to maintain an active Strategic • Pedestrian access to The Canopy for Inclusion Plan and is recognised by the people living on the western side of 119 Rosenthal Avenue is via a pedestrian community and avoid complex and bridge including a lift and stairs. bureaucratic processes for customers • Library staff were trained in dementia in order to engage with Council. Council awareness and staff members are now has been undertaking customer journey registered as Dementia Friends. mapping which sets out a visual representation of every experience • Council is progressively installing over 70 customers have with Council. This helps upgraded and seven new bus shelters Council step into the customer’s shoes and throughout the area which will meet the see Council services from the customer’s required standards under the Disability point of view. One of the primary aims Discrimination Act 1992 (C’th) (DDA). The of the strategy is to improve online new shelters include signs illuminating the accessibility and useability of Council’s name and location of the bus stop, tactile website. ground surface indicators, and improved • Text only versions of festival programs such undercover space for all users. as Sunset in the Village and Festival by • The final stages of Mindarie Park are the River are available so people who are now complete. As well as the all-inclusive vision impaired can use ‘text-to-speech’ playground created in stage one, the park programs to hear about festival activities includes paths, signage, bubblers, seating, and events. barbeques and picnic areas that are all • DDA compliant. Council initiated closed captions on new Facebook videos developed for online • A new pocket park opened at 552 Mowbray cultural events such as Fun Fridays. Road with accessible seating, swing, • The Lane Cove Library hosts a weekly barbeque and bubblers. “hot desk” where representatives from a • The upgrade of the Finlayson Street range organisation are available to provide Playground includes inclusive swings and information and referrals to local services. spinner. • The Lane Cove Connection, a monthly Supporting access to meaningful newsletter for seniors, provides information employment on local services and events that are accessible. The newsletter is distributed • The Lane Cove Connection, a monthly via post, email and online to over 1,400 newsletter for seniors and widely people as well as copies taken to doctors’ distributed across the area, advertised surgeries, retirement homes and aged the Temporary Employment Register for care facilities. Activities and events that the Royal Commission into Violence, are accessible are identified with the Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People international symbol of access with Disability. The register included a specific employment register for people with disability who want to work with the Leeton Shire Council Disability Royal Commission. Building positive community attitudes • The “Hot Desk” held weekly at Lane Cove and behaviours Library includes representatives from local • Seed meetings for Disability Reference disability services that can support and Group held 31 October 2019 and 12 refer people to employment services. December 2019, with representatives from Improving access to mainstream disability service providers and carers. services through better systems and Discussed issues, format and regular processes agenda items, and Terms of Reference. Informal consultation on Council’s major • Council’s Customer Experience Strategy infrastructure projects was conducted. was adopted in September 2019. A Encouraged attendees at meetings to key focus of the strategy is to provide consider participating in Local Health ‘surprisingly simple’ services to the 120 Advisory Committee. 3rd meeting held 13 Improving access to mainstream February, with a partial review of actions in services through better systems and the DIAP undertaken. processes • Discussions with Kurrajong services led • A module on the DIAP has been included in to a proposal for a combined activity with induction package for all new staff. Gralee School to celebrate International Day for People with a Disability, which • Community Grants Guidelines refer to was successful in obtaining a Community Council’s inclusive objectives – specific Strengthening Grant. The event was held in grants awarded: Kurrajong $1000 towards Mountford Park on 5 December 2019, and hire of Roxy for performance by participants attended by about 100 people (Q1). • Creating liveable communities $1000 for International Day for People with Disability event. • Construction of compliant kerb ramps at: Cypress St and Kurrajong Ave; Jarrah How have you determined that you’re St /Reservoir Lane near Mountford Park; meeting the needs of people with Cedar St and Pine Ave; four New Ramps disability? at the intersection of Sycamore and Yarran • As above, consultations have been Streets; with a total cost $59,000. conducted, and are ongoing, with people • Installed footpaths along on Sycamore with disability and disability service Street, Waratah Street, Cypress Street and providers regarding major infrastructure Coolibah Street, in line with the Pedestrian projects, and we are currently developing Access and Mobility Plan (PAMP). strategies for increasing engagement of people with lived experience of disability. • Commenced work on the Leeton CBD Enhancement Project Phases 1 and Describe your challenges and 2, Wade Avenue and a new taxi rank, successes in delivering the DIAP including four kerb ramps, more accessible • COVID-19 restrictions stalled the progress road crossings and accessible parking of the Disability reference group, but regular spaces. communication was maintained with service • A toilet facility with full disability access providers by email. installed at Graham Park. • A planned project to inform and work with • A new playground commenced construction main street businesses to improve their in the Golf Course Estate with disability accessibility was also stalled because of access pathways. COVID-19 restrictions. • Funding was received to build an • A collaborative event to celebrate accessible carpark at the Leeton Early International Day for People with a Learning Centre Disability for the first time in 2019. This was so successful that the organisers planned Supporting access to meaningful to improve on it for 2020 and aim to attract employment more members of the general community to • Statements regarding the principles of participate, but this has been hampered by Access and Equity have been integrated COVID-19 restrictions. into Council policies, strategy plans and • The most success has been in delivering position descriptions. infrastructure, such as footpaths, kerb • Council has long term employees with a ramps, accessible toilets, and accessible disability and is welcoming and supportive parking spaces. of new employees and volunteers.

121 Is there anything else you’re doing or available year-round and can be used planning for the future to contribute on all patrolled beaches or suitable to greater outcomes for people with walking tracks and can be folded for disability? transportation in any medium-sized vehicle. • Stronger and more effective mechanisms for engaging with people with lived ° Printing and distribution of the free experience of disability should be in place Tradies Guide to Good Access, which by early 2020. provides builders and other construction workers with a quick reference guide to • Discussions are underway with Leeton Arts Australian standards for accessibility. Society regarding an accessible arts project Free copies are available from Council’s that sees the local annual art exhibition. Corporate Centre in Goonellabah. emphasising its inclusivity for people of all abilities, and the development of an ° ReadSpeaker technology on Council’s annual plan of inclusive arts workshops and website, which provides text to speech activities. services enabling people who are vision impaired to have website content read aloud at the click of a button. Lismore City Council ° A Missed Business Guide to help Key achievements in 2019/2020 in businesses with hints, tips and simple implementing the DIAP include: ways to improve accessibility. The • Waiving of fees for development Missed Business Guide is free for all applications for accessibility improvements. businesses to download from Council’s website. • Bi-monthly meetings of the Access and ° Inclusion Advisory Group to provide A beachfront entrance and handrail advice to Council on disability access and at the Goonellabah Sports & Aquatic inclusion. Centre for accessibility and an automatic wheelchair hoist. There is also lift access • Continued provision of a hearing loop in the to the SWITCH 24-hour gym and a hoist Council Chambers and live-streaming of at the Lismore Memorial Baths. Council’s ordinary meetings and events. ° The Lismore and Goonellabah Libraries • Provision of funding for AUSLAN are both accessible and provide a range interpreters for meetings. of services and resources for people • Continued incorporation of accessible living with a disability including large print standards e.g. footpath and cycleways books, talking books, CDs, eBooks and (shared paths) into infrastructure design. eAudiobooks. International Day of People with a ° Our libraries also provide a home Disability delivery service and one-on-one tech training (bookings required) plus access • Council took part in activities at the to Victor Stratus Readers and Victor International Day of Disability for the first Stream Readers. time in December 2019 at The Quad. • Council spoke with community members Lithgow City Council and service providers who were interested Creating liveable communities to learn about some of the services and assistance Council provides to people living Enhance access to council’s building and with disability and their families/carers. facilities • These activities and services include the • Back of stage works including dressing following: rooms, as part of the Union Theatre ° Free hire of an all-terrain beach upgrade, have been completed except for wheelchair. This wheelchair is 122 the installation of the lift which has been • Construction of a footbridge over Farmers delayed and is now due for installation by Creek at Sandford Avenue and footpath August/September 2020 linking Sandford Avenue and Albert Street.

Improve access to public toilets Increase the number of accessible bus stops and shelters • The national toilet map is updated as required • Bus Shelters were replaced at: • Accessible toilets have been installed at the ° Pipers Flat Road (near Range Road), Adventure Playground. ° Cullen Bullen () • New accessible toilets have been • One additional frame purchased for commissioned for the skate parks in installation in 2020/2021. Wallerawang and Portland. Improve Council’s policy and planning • The toilets at Pioneer Park, Main Street, tools to create better access Lithgow have been demolished and a new exeloo toilet will be installed in 2020/2021. • Council’s Community development committee have invited the community Ensure there are sufficiently well located to nominate to represent the disability disability parking spaces in the local community on the CDC. There are two government area dedicated seats on this committee.

• During 2019/2020 one infringement notice Increase access and inclusions to the was issued for non-compliant use of Library and Eskbank House Museum disability parking spaces. • Community development Officer regularly Improve the number of accessible paths of attends interagency meetings to maintain travel to key destinations and develop partnerships • The following footpath assets were • In 2019/2020 a total of 4349 large print renewed in 2019/2020: books and 2194 audio books were loaned out from the inclusive collection. A large ° Read Avenue, - 46m number of these loans are distributed via ° Rabaul Street – 32m the Home Library Service to residents of ° Roy Street – 78m local Nursing Homes and private homes for people with mobility issues. Furthermore, ° Tank Street – 89m 5164 eResources were loaned. Our ° Hayley Street – 18m eResources have continued to include; eBooks, eAudio, eMagazines & eFilms and ° Evelyn Street – 45m the online study platform Linda has been ° Bridge Street – 78m added. ° Barton Street – 92m • The Library continues to host the Maker ° Willewa Street – 750m Space (play therapy program for children with disability) during operating hours. • Portland Footpath Garden Beds • The library continues to develop programs • Wolocal government area Street and that include and celebrate diversity. These Willewa Streets Portland. include the ukulele group, which meets ° Removal of Mop Tops and installation of weekly, the colouring in group that meets Crepe Myrtles. weekly that is hosted by a young person with a disability and promoted to local ° Removal of a number of high disability services as an activity. maintenance gardens and caused accessibility issues for pedestrians. • The library team also encourage and support volunteers from within the disability

123 community to participate in programs such • Strong social media presence and regular as Story time. media releases to promote events and programs. Target disability sector through Increase recreational opportunities for the interagency mailing list. young people with disability • Council continue to engage with the • Council continue to collaborate with local interagency meetings bimonthly to improve organisations including Headspace and information distribution for the disability Uniting Care to enhance opportunities for sector. recreation for young people with disabilities. Increase participation in Councils • Young people are encouraged to join community engagement processes the Youth council in order to contribute their diverse lived experiences including • Dedicated seats on the community disability. development committee have been assigned however, we have not yet had any Supporting access to meaningful applicants for those seats. We will continue employment to encourage participation. Incorporate workforce diversity as part of • Media releases providing information on everyday Council business upgrades to services are distributed via local and regional media, social media, • Council continues to design work flexibly Council’s website and eNewsletter. including the expansion of working remotely, variable hours, flexible leave arrangements, and the use of mobile Liverpool City Council technology Developing positive community Promoting positive attitudes and attitudes and behaviours behaviours • Council secured two grants under the Stronger Communities Program to install Undertake programs to promote access six Communication Boards in the Casula and inclusion Parklands and Carnes Hill Precinct. • Council’s Health & Wellbeing Committee The boards are designed to assist promotes Dignity & Respect in the communication among and with people, Workplace children and carers of people with disability or language barriers. They were designed • The Mayors Mental Health Taskforce by Council’s Community Development and has worked with a number of community Communications teams, and the images organisations to improve the mental health and wording developed with the Autism and wellbeing of the community. Advisory Support Service. • Council continue to assess events and • Council partnered with Civic Disability incorporate the need for accessibility using Services and Casula Powerhouse Arts our DIAP as a guiding document. Centre to host the 2019 International Day • Council continue to use website and of People with Disability in December. It communications to highlight accessibility has been running since 1996. The event and inclusion at events. increases public awareness, understanding Improving access to mainstream and acceptance of people with disability services through better systems and and celebrates the achievements and processes contributions of people with disability. The event was a success with more than 5500 Enable easy access to information attendees. • • Council continues to improve how it The Michael Clarke Recreation Centre communicates with the community. hosted International Day of People with

124 Disability. More than 100 participants members will hold their first virtual meeting with a disability and their carers took part in October 2020. in a morning group fitness session and • The Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) accessed the stadium for sports activities. Working Group was established to develop • All programs across Council’s three leisure guidelines for accessible consultation and centres are registered under the National to explore options for walkability, parking, Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). There traffic and transport in the city. was a total of 75 NDIS referrals in the year. • The DIAP Working Group expanded • The 2020 International Day of People its role to include the development and with Disability planning is underway to implementation of a new Positive Ageing showcase Council’s achievements across Plan for Liverpool. To reflect this change, various departments. Due to COVID-19 it is now called the DIAP/Ageing Working restrictions, the event will be held on Group. Facebook. • Council regularly consulted internally and • Council is discussing constructing and externally on issues regarding inclusive managing a Mobile Lift and Change Facility access with Council facilities such as with internal and external stakeholders. parking stations, halls, libraries, community This is a mobile accessible restroom for centres and recreational spaces. The people with disability and includes an adult Liverpool Access Committee and DIAP/ change table and hoist. The purpose is Ageing Working Group aim to progress to to provide accessible resources at major wider community consultation. events hosted by Council. • Council regularly invites guest speakers • Council promoted accessible pathways in to the DIAP/Ageing Working Group and new parks during community consultation Liverpool Access Committee meetings to about draft plans. Examples include speak on relevant matters and provide Kotlash Park, Lurnea and the upgrade to updates. Croatia Avenue Park in Edmondson Park. • An access audit is due to take place in These were promoted via Facebook, October/November 2020 for nominated the Liverpool Champion and Liverpool Council facilities, including libraries, the Listens. Accessible paths in Speed Street, Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre and Liverpool, were also promoted via the community centres. Liverpool Champion and Liverpool Life e-newsletter, and • An access audit of Council’s recreation and aquatic centres in 2019 identified • The Shopfront Upgrade Program offers accessibility improvements for Council. shop owners financial assistance to make Items that could be immediately rectified the city more attractive to visitors and have been addressed, with larger customers. It has specific criteria and infrastructure items scheduled for offers design guidelines which refer to progressive improvement. accessibility. These include providing level access and installing wider doors and • Council has ongoing consultation with doorways to allow a person with a walking people with disability and carers to engage frame or wheelchair to pass through. them in planning and implementation of relevant Council projects. Creating liveable communities • Council partnered with Variety Australia to • Council endorsed a new membership build an inclusive playground at Lieutenant term for the Liverpool Access Committee. Cantello Reserve in Hammondville. The Council conducted a recruitment drive new playground will be a unique place to encourage new members to the where people of all abilities can play Committee and successfully recruited 12 side-by-side in a fun and challenging new members. The new Access Committee environment.

125 • Council continued to deliver programs at at events and activities. Noise-reducing its leisure centres specifically for people headphones and earplugs lessen with a disability. The centres attracted 80 background noise, reducing the impact enrolments to the Take Charge! Program, of sudden and loud sounds, while still which gives support for adults experiencing allowing the user to have a conversation, a specific range of mental health conditions follow directions and hear emergency to participate in fitness programs. The warnings. centres also delivered 65 lessons each ° Sensory Oasis Tent week in the Swim Champs Program, which provides learn to swim training for children ° The Sensory Oasis provides a sanctuary with a disability. Importantly a further for children who become overwhelmed 23 children were able to transition into by noise, smells, lights, crowds, and mainstream swim classes after achieving other sensory inputs. Reducing it the objective of aquatic independence. allows a person to regulate their mood and avoid meltdowns which can be • Access programs at the Casula associated with sensory overload. The Powerhouse Arts Centre (CPAC) saw a Sensory Tent includes a teepee, which decrease in visitation due to restrictions contains sensory tools for children with imposed by COVID-19. However, 161 neurological behavioural disorders such public and private workshops were as Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention conducted from July to March with a Deficit Disorder, Attention Deficit weekly visitation of 196 individuals living Hyperactive Disorder, or a sensory with disabilities (excluding carers). The processing disorder. annual visitation rate of individuals living with disabilities to programming at CPAC, • Council completed upgrade and renewal including regular weekly programs, private works at: bookings and International Day of Peoples ° Green Valley District Centre - Accessible Living with Disabilities was 4820. parking, additional car space. • Council partnered with St Vincent de Paul’s ° Voyager Point Community Centre - New Access and Inclusion Program to provide accessible bathroom, Braille signage libraries and the Whitlam Centre with the throughout centre, new accessible following kits for children with sensory external ramp. disability: ° Dr James Pirie Community Centre – ° Xtra Eyes Kit Upgrade and improvement works to ° The primary aim of Xtra Eyes is to accessible toilet electronic door, shared provide an inclusive and comfortable access. space for people who may have low ° Wattle Grove Community Centre - vision. It is designed to be a kit that Improved accessibility entry to the businesses and/or organisations can use centre, and if a person requires assistance reading ° documents, forms or other resources. It Heckenberg Share Care - Upgrade contains items that include a magnifying to existing bathrooms catering only to glass, magnifier strip, magnifier sheet young children, new bathrooms that and wipes. cater to the community organisation that offer programs to clients with disabilities ° Escape the Noise Kit (complies to Australian Standards). ° This is being provided to community • All of Council’s community facilities currently organisations and businesses as a meet legislative accessibility requirements, resource to support people who may except Chipping Norton Lakes Boatshed. experience sensory overload. It can A review is currently underway to assess help create inclusive and comfortable all sites and identify further opportunities to environments. Having it available may improve community outcomes and address allow people to engage and stay longer community needs, and 126 • In May, the construction of an Assistive Service Centre, other Council facilities and Technology Space at Liverpool City Library on Council’s website. Information included was completed. It features: covers locations of accessible parking and ° An accessible wheelchair lift to take accessible toilets. patrons from Ground level to the • Three Master Locksmith Access Keys have accessible space on Level 1. been distributed. These provide access for people with disability to accessible facilities ° Height adjustable tables for wheelchairs. after hours, including elevators at railway ° Two large touchscreen computers with stations and public toilets. Numbers have software for people with dyslexia and reduced from previous years due to health vision impairments. restrictions around COVID-19. ° Large high contrast keyboards with • Information was provided to residents trackball mice, and in a range of formats such as Braille ° A large text magnifying camera to communication boards for children, social help people with vision issues to read media posts, newsletters, newspapers, magazines, newspapers and other text- online, general mail outs, telephone and based items. emails. Supporting access to meaningful • Council co-convened the South West employment Sydney Ageing Disability Forum and provided support through processes and • A new Diversity and Inclusion Working upgrades to the support services website. Group was developed in consultation with • Council is a member of the Multicultural various Council departments to explore Network for Ageing Issues and the ways to improve employment within Macarthur Disability Network for Disability target groups. An access audit of Council Forum. They lobby for regional change and buildings at Moore Street and Scott Street improvements for both Liverpool’s ageing will be conducted in November to ensure community and people, and for children Liverpool City Council is an accessible with disability and their carers. workplace. • An Auslan interpreter is available on • Disability Awareness Training is available request for Liverpool City Council meetings, for Council staff on the Intranet with online and specialist training provider SAP Litmos Solutions, and • Council continues to advocate for access and inclusion to be a guiding principle in • Council is reviewing recruitment processes the development of plans of management and Equal Employment Opportunity policies prepared under the Local Government Act to incorporate inclusivity and diversity 1993. measures. Improving access to mainstream services through better systems and Council processes Developing positive community attitudes and behaviours and • Council’s website was previously audited behaviours against Web Content Accessibility Guidelines. Following this, a review is being • No actions resourced for delivery in made of it, including relevance of content 2019/2020. and accessibility components. Council also Creating liveable communities launched a new Intranet with a page for its Disability Inclusion Action Plan and to make • Installation of kerb ramp for public available its ‘Teach Me’ resources. amenities – George Street, . • The Liverpool Mobility Map was updated • Implementation of accessibility parking for and is available in Council’s Customer public areas – George Street, Quirindi. 127 • Implementation of accessibility parking for • Incorporated access and inclusion public areas – Single Street, . principles in event management plans • Construction of accessible public amenities approved by Council. – King George Park, Willow Tree, and • Incorporated access and inclusion • Construction of accessible public amenities principles in Council’s development – George Street, Quirindi. application assessment processes. • In 2019/2020 Council identified footpath Supporting access to meaningful upgrades and disabled access to local employment businesses as a priority project for which • No actions resourced for delivery in funds will be allocated from the Drought 2019/2020. Communities Program Extension funding. Construction is scheduled to commence in Improving access to mainstream 2020/2021. services through better systems and processes • Council has adopted a Disability Inclusion Action Plan as well as requirements for all • No actions resourced for delivery in abilities access in its planning documents 2019/2020. such as the DCP. How have you determined that you’re • A progress report on the implementation meeting the needs of people with of the Disability Inclusion Action Plan was disability? submitted to the Minister by the legislative deadline. • Council has not actively undertaken any targeted consultation with people with • Included all abilities access to local disability during the 2019/2020 year. businesses in the Consultant’s Brief for the preparation of concept plans for the Lockhart Describe your challenges and main street upgrade which formed the basis successes in delivering on your parts of consultation with local businesses and of the DIAP the broader community. Council liaised with • Council has been able to deliver various shop owners on the benefits of investing in infrastructure accessibility improvement all abilities access to their premises. projects (as listed above) that benefit • Council continues to promote inclusion people with disability, but has not resourced within the community via its newsletters and any projects in the remaining three focus events. areas of behaviour, employment, and systems and processes. Creating liveable communities Is there anything else you’re doing or • Council’s Emergency Management Plan planning for the future to contribute has been approved by the Regional to greater outcomes for people with Emergency Management Committee. disability? • Council works with stakeholders through its • Council will review its DIAP in the 2021 Local Emergency Management Committee calendar year. and Interagency Group meetings held every four months. • Council committed to the preparation of an Lockhart Shire Council Adverse Events Plan. Developing positive community • attitudes and behaviours All abilities access incorporated in all new community infrastructure projects • Financial support was provided to progressed in 2019/2020 including: - community/volunteer based committees ° The Rock swimming pool refurbishment. including section 355 management committees, Men’s Shed organisation etc. ° Lockhart recreation ground amenities to support access to programs and events. building upgrade. 128 ° The Rock Regional Observatory. replace the bus stop in Lockhart to ensure • Council parks are maintained and improved compliance. to allow access to all. • Included all abilities access to local businesses in the Masterplan for the • Council has identified footpath upgrades Lockhart main street upgrade. and disabled access to local businesses as a priority project for which funds will be • Council liaised with shop owners on the allocated from the Drought Communities benefits of investing in all abilities access to Program Extension funding. Construction is their premises. scheduled to commence in 2020/2021. • Council works with stakeholders through its • An all abilities playground was officially Local Emergency Management Committee opened at The Rock Recreation Ground. and Interagency Group meetings held every four months. • Included all abilities access to local • businesses in the Masterplan for the Council continues to advocate for all Lockhart main street upgrade. members of the community. • Main Street traffic monitoring devices • Council liaised with shop owners on the were installed to collect relevant data benefits of investing in all abilities access to for determining appropriate actions. The their premises. Lockhart CBD masterplan incorporated • Council works with stakeholders through its accessible parking upgrades. Local Emergency Management Committee • All ages and all abilities facilities and and Interagency Group meetings held every attraction was included in the annual four months. Spirit of the Land Festival with the support • Council continues to advocate for all of Eastern Arts and the IDEAS members of the community. organisation. • Main Street traffic monitoring devices • A five year Footpath Plan is being prepared. were installed to collect relevant data for • Council has identified footpath upgrades determining appropriate actions. and disabled access to local businesses • The Lockhart CBD masterplan incorporated as a priority project for which funds will be accessible parking upgrades. allocated from the Drought Communities Program Extension funding. Construction is • Incorporate access and inclusion principles scheduled to commence in 2020/2021. in Council’s development application • assessment processes. Country Public Transport Infrastructure Grant Scheme funds have been utilised to • All ages and all abilities facilities and replace the bus stop in Lockhart to ensure attraction was included in the annual compliance. Spirit of the Land Festival with the support • Consideration to be given to further of Eastern Riverina Arts and the IDEAS development opportunities at The Rock organisation. following completion of Carson Road Stage • An all abilities playground was officially 2 subdivision. opened at The Rock Recreation Ground. • Ensure the forthcoming review of Council’s • A five year Footpath Plan is being prepared. LEP provides for diverse housing options. Council has identified footpath upgrades • The Air Strip is inspected monthly and any and disabled access to local businesses required maintenance carried out. as a priority project for which funds will be allocated from the Drought Communities Supporting access to meaningful Program Extension funding. Construction is employment scheduled to commence in 2020/2021. • Council continues to provide employment • Country Public Transport Infrastructure and work experience opportunities to all Grant Scheme funds have been utilised to members of the community.

129 • Council has participated in a skills access through the following community shortages in local government project by managed events: the Riverina Joint Organisation. ° ‘Let’s Dance’ program delivered by Early Improving access to mainstream Links Inclusion Support Service to build services through better systems and confidence and improve the quality of life processes of children living with disabilities. • Council worked with a service provider ° ‘Let’s Garden’ delivered by Early Links to convert a Council owned building into Inclusion Support Service enabled a housing for the physically and intellectually community garden to be built by the disabled. children supported by the community service. • Upgrade Council’s website to ensure compliance with relevant standards. ° Club refurbishment at the Hunter Valley Gemmology Club provided improved • Incorporate access and inclusion principles access to the club house for people with in event management plans approved by disability. Council. • The Commemorative and Recognised Days • Provide disability awareness training to Grant Program assists in the coordination staff. of activities and events that directly relate to • Council continues to advocate for improved National and International Days or Weeks internet access across the Shire. including Commemorative Days. One of these events is the International Week of • Access demographic data from the ABS Persons with a Disability. No applications including most recent community profiles. were received for this recognised week Council continues to encourage the during the funding rounds. community to support and complete ABS data returns as well as other government • ClubGRANTS provided support for projects surveys that provides important information that supported disability inclusion and regarding the community demographic. access through the following programs: ° Mental health early intervention program Maitland City Council for young Maitland people that are living in families affected by mental illness. Developing positive community attitudes and behaviours ° Great Aussie Bush Camp delivered by Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect). • Over the year we worked in partnership with service providers to encourage and ° Physiotherapy Baby Clinic delivered by support initiatives that promote inclusion Early Links Inclusion Support Service. awareness within Maitland. ° Youth Week applications for Youth • The Including You Tent supported over 100 Week Grants were amended to require people with disabilities and their carers to a statement on how inclusion and attend and participate in Council’s flagship accessibility would be addressed and Drive in Cinema events, at the same at events. Youth Week events were time it raised disability awareness within postponed due to COVID-19 restrictions the community. An audit was conducted to however, organisations are able to use identify how the tent could be improved. funds from successful applications to Results indicated a need for communication de liver events outs ide of the official boards for each individual flagship event Youth Week dates. These are yet to be and a provider has been engaged to scheduled. develop these boards. • Community connections form - the Aged • Council’s Section 356 Community Grants Persons, Younger People with a Disability Program supported disability inclusion and and Carers Forum was reinvigorated to the

130 Community Connections Forum to align Tactical Ground Surface Indicators (TGSls) to community and service provider needs. to 63% of eligible bus stops. Works are on The forum includes service providers and track to achieve 100% standardisation by community members from the disability and the end of 2022. aged persons sector. • Maitland Regional Art Gallery (MRAG) The network has established an action supported access and inclusion initiatives plan to create opportunities for information through inclusive exhibition openings sharing, joint projects, presentations and and events, the provision of Auslan panels with guest speakers from key interpretation, accessible seating and quiet areas to provide the network with relevant space. Auslan interpretation was expanded information to use within the industry. during 2019/2020 with all major events translated and all requests for individual • A panel was facilitated in February events successfully actioned. to increase awareness of services available to older people leaving The Art Gallery stocks a range of artful domestic and family violence. sensory products, proving invaluable for Panelists included: teachers and parents to support learning and address anxiety both in the classroom ° Maitland Police Domestic Violence and in the home. MRAG also provides Liaison Officer Carries Place sensory processing assistance tools to ° Jenny’s Place. gallery visitors. The Gallery provides Creating liveable communities inclusive access to exhibitions, public programs, shop and cafe for all its visitors, • Maitland Acquatic Centre: a wheelchair is available onsite. ° The unisex accessible amenities at Maitland Regional Art Gallery also: Maitland Aquatic Centre were improved ° Supported INSIDE OUT - an inclusive through the installation of a mobile sling group of artists who live or work in and hoist and mobile shower trolley/change around the Maitland region. The group t able. A sling hoist was also installed in was born out of Octapod’s professional the indoor pool and water wheelchairs development program supported by will be provided. Accessible Arts and Ability Links NSW. ° Usage of the pool by people with ° Supported participation in Journeys disability has increased across all Creative Connections monthly programs including Learn to Swim, workshops for adults with a lived mental User Group bookings and Casual User health experience. Workshops are Groups. delivered in partnership with Flourish ° There were nine Learn to Swim Program Australia and Aftercare, both NDIS bookings by access and inclusion clients agencies, and are facilitated by health in term one, compared to five for the workers and professional artists to same period last year. There has also extend professional skills, build resilience been an increase in carer visits, in 2019 and confidence in a public art gallery Council had a total of 2,378 and in 2020 environment. there were 2,603. General feedback ° Continued the Conversations: Art & identified a number of people with Dementia program with 44 free sessions disability and their carers are travelling presented and 350+ participants across from outside the local government area 2019/2020. The program improves to access the centre due to its improved wellbeing and quality of life for people facilities. Planning is underway to further living with memory loss and their carers improve the accessible amenities at the through engagement with the visual arts centre. and sensory experiences. • Accessible slab boarding points have been installed to 90% of eligible bus stops, and 131 ° Piloted the Open Art program for people An Augmentative and Alternative living with dementia and their carers, Communication (MC) Book Club was trialed offering creative engagement with with a small number of meetings before artworks and art making activities. The COVID-19 restrictions came into effect. The pilot was modelled on the Museum of continuation of the MC Book Club will be Contemporary Art Australia’s Artful. further explored next financial year. ° Art and Dementia program and falls • Council is undertaking a review of the within an ‘arts in health’ framework by Pedestrian Access Mobility Plan to guide using MRAG’s community space and the construction and renewal of footways resources to promote and support health across the City. The plan will include and wellbeing in the wider community. footpaths, kerb ramps, crossings, visibility, ° Consulted with the community to identify signage, bus stops, tactile floor indicators, current and desired participation levels, lighting, some parking, path of traveI in addition to barriers to visitation auditing and standards. To inform the and critical community needs. The review, 13 service providers were engaged engagement found 38 key findings and to provide feedback on the access needs focused recommendations on enabling of their organisation, their clients and the MRAG to effectively engage, service and community. Information obtained will inform support the Maitland community into the the development of the revised plan. future. Improving access to mainstream ° Improved accessibility and opportunities services through better systems and for artists with a disability, in partnership processes with Accessible Arts, by hosting an online • The 2019/2020 financial year was the first webinar focused on improving digital full year of operation for the Access and engagement during COVID-19. This Inclusion Reference Group (AIRG). webinar attracted 135 participants. The AIRG provided feedback on numerous • Maitland City Library supported access Council engagements and Public and inclusion initiatives by offering sensory Exhibition periods including the review of packs at all library branches, hosting a the Community Strategic Plan, four year monthly book club for teenagers with Delivery program, complex communication needs at East Maitland Library (AGOSCI), expanding 2020/2021 Operational Plan, Local the digital audio collection for people Strategic Planning Statement, Draft who have low vision or who are blind as Maitland Destination Management Plan and well as offering a Home Library service. Customer Experience Plan. Work progressed on the expansion of the The group also developed project ideas accessibility of Maitland Library’s collection that will be delivered in collaboration with and a collection of books is being provided relevant agencies to meet identified gaps. in open dyslexic font. The collection of • Council aligned the design of a number these books, as well as several Braille of local play spaces throughout books, will be built on over time. Adult 2019/2020 following the release of the Literacy tutoring is offered by staff that have NSW Government’s Everyone Can Play undertaken volunteer level tutoring training. Guidelines. Works included Willow Drive A story time was introduced in February Park Play Space which received $65,000 that was inclusive for children with sensory in funding through the Everyone Can Play preferences and sensory processing Grant Program. The design of this play challenges. This story time has been space forms a unique character and theme accessed by 20 children so far. It is hoped inspired by community members during the that this will encourage further participation engagement process. It considers access in the library environment. that meets Australian Standards and the play space has been moved closer to the 132 road to provide improved access to car work progressed to increase inclusion in the parking and footpaths, and to improve engagement and planning process sightlines for safety. The site will include an • Council’s new suite of Guiding Principles accessible picnic table and rubber soft fall align with the direction of the DIAP access to key play equipment. • The new Maitland Administration Centre will • Accessibility information was provided for provide improved access over the current each flagship event on Council’s website. building. This includes an accessibility page, which detailed a range of accessibility Our challenges: considerations including the site and • surface information, accessible transport COVID-19 delayed the delivery of projects options and parking information. and programs within the DIAP action plan • • Council continued to accept the Companion Barriers to address obstruction free kerb Card for our ticketed flagship event Bitter ramps and footpaths in relation to street & Twisted. All other Flagship events are furniture. provided free to the community. • There is a priority for businesses to be • In response to COVID-19, Council began operational, which requires flexibility facilitating a Food Assistance Network around street furniture to cater for restricted with all organisations that provide food operating environments associated with assistance across the Local Government COVID-9 Area. The network has enabled linkages • Works may be required on heritage between network members resulting in buildings services being provided with additional • Enforcement with current resources. meals for distribution and left-over meals from services being distributed to other Is there anything else you’re doing or providers for distribution. planning for the future to contribute Although many of the organisations to greater outcomes for people with successfully adapted their services, their disability? biggest challenge was awareness about • Facilitation of the AIRG and identified the services existing and their continuation. projects. Projects include improved To address this, Council fast tracked the community understanding of inclusion development and launch of a community and improvement of the delineation in noticeboard on Council’s website which the transition between footpath and the service providers began actively using. roadway where blended kerbs are present The noticeboard is a single point for • service providers and community access Review and integration of the DIAP into information relating to food services the Community Strategic Plan and Delivery and also other essential services such Program as financial and mental support. The • Implementation of planned works for noticeboard has been promoted in a additional accessible amenities at Maitland number of inclusive formats including a DL Aquatic Centre flyer dropped to all Maitland households to • Implementation of inclusive programs and ensure the greatest reach. activities in the Libraries, Gallery, Events Challenges and successes in delivering and community development areas the DIAP • Facilitation of the Maitland Community Connection Forum once COVID-19 Our successes: restrictions have lifted • The upcoming DIAP review will be • Finalisation of the EOI process for the integrated within our Community Strategic storing and facilitation of the Including You Plan and Council’s Delivery Program with tent post COVID-19.

133 Mid Coast Council River Street, pedestrian movement facilities have been improved in Fotheringham Park, Developing positive community attitudes and and a new pathway has been constructed behaviours around the new accessible toilet block in • A decision was made on the most effective Fotheringham Park. platform for a Community Directory, and • Consultation with community for the Draft we entered into an agreement with a not- Pedestrian Access and Mobility Plan, for-profit organisation with a proven track including a Bike Plan was delayed by record in hosting directories for a number bushfires in the area in September. The of councils in the mid-north and north coast Draft Plan has now been developed and will of NSW. Considerable work was involved be placed on public exhibition early in the in the set-up of the directory, and launch 2020/2021 financial year. events occurred in February 2020. • Construction of a footpath wide enough • The directory is supported by an App for for mobility scooter use, in Tea Gardens, mobile devices, and the package provides opposite the shopping area was delayed information to residents and visitors on due to bushfires and the COVID-19 services available. The site is WCAG pandemic, but is planned to commence in compliant, and the supplier is currently the 2020/2021 financial year. working to implement voice enabling to the platform. • As part of planning to complete a pedestrian link between Gloucester and • The Community Strengthening team Barrington, Council worked with RMS to continues to work to raise awareness of the include pathways on the Barrington Bridge. Directory in the community, and encourage Funds are now being sought to complete service providers to list their services for the link on either side of the bridge. free. • The feasibility of installing kerb-to-kerb • Council staff continued to host “Scoot pedestrian crossings was investigated for Aware” information sessions for the busy locations in Forster, but was cost MidCoast Community. The workshops prohibitive due to drainage considerations provide information on and the fact that the crossing would be ° Who can use a mobility scooter? retro-fitted. ° Choosing a scooter that’s right for you • Consideration will be given to pedestrian crossings during the design phase of ° Scooter users’ rights and responsibilities roadworks as has been done in Tea ° Road rules Gardens, where kerb-to-kerb crossings are ° Staying safe being trialled on Marine Drive. • ° Scoot aware training Strategic Planning has developed a Housing Strategy for MCC, with a draft Creating liveable communities placed on public exhibition from February • Approximately 300-400m of Queen Street to April. Feedback will be considered and in Gloucester has been upgraded, with be reported back to council early in the improvements to pathways and crossings. 2020/2021 financial year. • • The traffic crossing facility at Cross Street The draft strategy has been informed by in Old Bar has been upgraded. consultation with housing service providers in order to ensure opportunities for the • Primrose Street in Wingham has been provision of different types of housing to upgraded to improve footpath and crossing suit the community’s needs. The draft will facilities. also incorporate the need for accessible • As part of the Livvi’s Place (accessible design principles to be included in medium- playground) project, accessible parking density developments. and kerb ramps have been provided in 134 • Manning Aquatic & Leisure Centre the current hearing loop for the benefit of amenities were upgraded to improve the hearing impaired. access. • Despite delays resulting from restrictions • The Manning Regional Gallery was associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, successful in obtaining an $80,000 construction progressed for Council areas Regional Cultural Fund Grant for a within the civic precinct, including a new $170,000 upgrade of the Gallery. The library for Forster, and will be compliant with project included a new disability access the requirements of the Building Code of ramp, front entrance stairs, and an Australia and relevant parts of accessibility automatic opening front entrance door. requirements of AS 1428.1 Design for These improvements create ‘one’ entrance access and mobility - Part 1 General for the Gallery and also replaced the requirements, including: dangerous disability ramp and front ° Open, inclusive spaces from street, entrance stairs. The community has continuing throughout all public and staff responded with great feedback about both areas; the visual improvements and the inclusive single front entrance. ° All floor and pavement grades, thresholds, doorways, stairs etc; • The Manning Entertainment Centre received an upgrade through the design ° Circulation space to all doorways; and construction of a versatile flat floor ° Lift access to library and carpark. studio space, making the facility more All access stairs include contrasting accessible and providing greater scope for nosings, tactile indicators and compliant inclusive entertainment. While the facility hand rails; did have adequate access to the auditorium ° for mobility-impaired patrons and an All public and staff areas accessible extensive hearing aid loop covering the including public interface counters; entire auditorium, it did not have adequate ° Public accessible facilities on ground access to the stage, or accessible toilet floor including unisex accessible toilet facilities in the back stage. The new flat and both male and female ambulant floor ensures it is versatile and accessible toilets; and to all. The new auditorium will have a ° Accessible facilities for staff on both retractable seating bank for 160 patrons levels. with four wheelchair spaces. Care has been taken to ensure the seating bank will • An upgrade to the Nabiac Library was be comfortable and have adequate hand completed. Works include: rails and support for the mobility impaired. ° More accessible shelving; The new auditorium will have an extensive hearing loop for patrons with hearing ° Additional seating options; impairment. The studio space will also have ° Repair of floor and replacement of carpet accessible toilet facilities in both the front- to enhance mobility. of-house areas and back stage, with the • facilities having the capacity to be shared Construction has commenced on Council’s between the two venues greatly improving centralised head office at Biripi Way in access. . A professional Disability Access Consultant was engaged to provide advice • The PA system upgrade at the Manning throughout the design process. Some of Entertainment Centre main auditorium the accessibility design outcomes of this is complete. The new system provides include; incredible clarity for vocal recognition ° and has improved coverage across Correct circulation space for wheel chairs the auditorium, greatly improving the throughout the building experience of patrons. The improved clarity ° The use of ramps rather than stairs of the system can be transmitted through throughout the building 135 ° Provision of accessible parking • Planning on the MC1 Project (council ° Signage includes braille and provision software upgrades) progressed. The project for sight impairment (colour, font and text will include a building inspection results size) section which will allow for needs-based priority list to be created. ° Hearing augmentation in all major • gathering areas Funding applications were submitted for an upgrade to the Senior Citizens hall in ° Tactile indicators where required Gloucester including upgraded flooring and ° Vision-safety strips installed on all a hearing loop integration. Senior Citizens, glazing to assist the vision impaired Gloucester Arts and Cultural Council Inc. (GACCI) and U3A are all major users of the ° Heights of all tables and work surfaces facility. adjusted to suit wheelchair access • Fish-cleaning stations were upgraded at ° Provision of disability access lockers Endeavour Park in Taree and Manning ° Sit-to-stand desks can be lowered to Point, and are now include accessible fish- wheelchair height cleaning tables. ° Thought given to heights of power points, • The picnic facilities at Forster Ocean Baths room booking panels, etc were upgraded and now include accessible picnic tables, and an accessible BBQ. ° Contrasting flooring choices and colours Access to the picnic area and amenities to highlight changes in floor height block was rebuilt to ensure improved • Funding was secured for: access. ° The installation of an elevator at the • The public amenities block in Little Street, Wingham library. A Development Forster, was refurbished and now includes Application for the works has been completely accessible toilets. lodged, and it is hoped the project will be • The Variety Livvi’s Place all-abilities completed within 12-18 months. playground was completed and opened ° Works to the Forster Community Centre to the public. The play space, located in (the headquarters of MidCoast Assist). Fotheringham Park, Taree, involved a The upgrade will include improved partnership with Variety Children’s Charity, access. with considerable funding contributed • Council worked with community groups by NSW Department of Premier and to secure funding and implement Cabinet, NSW Department of Planning improvements at the following premises and Environment, Foundation for Rural which are not owned or managed by and Regional Renewal, Dundaloo Services Council: and Newcastle Permanent, and time and resources from a number of Council ° Upgrade of Marlee Community Hall’s departments (Community Services, exterior including access Property and Commercial Services and ° Upper Lansdowne Hall: toilet upgrade to Community Spaces Recreation and improve access Trades). ° Coopernook Hall: toilet upgrade to The project includes accessible parking improve access and a new, accessible amenities block ° Cundletown Hall: improved access with lift-and-change facilities, funded ° Dundaloo Services: accessible by Department of Family & Community recreation facilities for people with Services (administered by LGNSW). disabilities and their families • A multi-purpose pavilion was constructed ° Valley Industries: amenities upgrade at Stroud Showground which includes an ° John’s River Hall – improved access ambulant and four accessible toilets.

136 • Accessible toilets were installed at Improving access to mainstream ° Allen Park (Stroud) services through better systems and ° Aub Ferris Park at Nabiac processes ° Coopernook toilet block near the river • ReadSpeaker is fully functional on Council’s website, enabling customers to listen to a • Works were completed to connect existing page in audio, or highlight any section of pathways and include some outdoor text on any page to listen to the selected exercise equipment at Blackhead. text. ° An upgrade to Tea Gardens Hawks Nest • Council’s website continues to be improved Surf Life Saving Club was completed, in terms of quality and streamlining of providing five cubicles, one of which is forms on our website. Information on road accessible. projects has been greatly improved. ° Gloucester Recreation Ground was • A wheel in/out service is offered for a fee, upgraded to provide all-abilities access. for customers who don’t have ability to ° Upgrades to facilities at Boronia Park wheel their bins out for weekly collection. (Forster) were undertaken to ensure • Residents can report illegal dumping online, improved access. The netball area is eliminating the need to visit a council office, completed and works to the soccer area or make a phone call; are in progress. • The mobile Community Recycling Centre ° Harrington Dog Park and Foreshore continued to visit remote communities to was upgraded with the replacement of assist them with disposal of problematic the BBQ shelter and seating to provide waste such as paint, gas bottles, oil and improved access. batteries. • The following plans were progressed • Council meetings are now live streamed, for installation/construction during the proving the opportunity for anyone in the 2020/2021 financial year: community to listen to proceedings. ° The demolition and rebuild of amenities • Library Services continues to invest in and at Pebbly Beach (Forster). enhance its other services, including: ° A new amenities block including an ° A significant collection of large-print and accessible toilet at Croki, with funding audio books. secured for the works. ° Home library lending service, delivering ° Planning commenced for an upgrade to books to people who have difficulty the accessible ramp at Forster Ocean leaving their homes. Baths. ° Substantial dyslexic and literacy ° Planning commenced for the installation collections. of an accessible fish-cleaning station at Crowdy Head. ° A significantly expanding collection of eBooks and eAudio - online content was Supporting access to meaningful improved by 11% during the COVID-19 employment period. • Planning for a staff census progressed – in ° Delivery of virtual story-time for children. order to better understand the composition ° of our workforce and how the organisation Author and workshop events being held can assist those who need it. by Zoom – open to all residents. ° A wide variety of online databases and other resources. ° Availability of 24/7 online services, including access to the catalogue and membership details. 137 Mid Western Regional Council Supporting an inclusive workforce • Council and its Cultural Development • Volunteer opportunities exist within Council’s Committee work to support a range of Meals on Wheels and Community Transport arts events and programs across the services. In the past, people with disability region, including the annual Sculptures have opted to volunteer with the Meals on in the Garden event. Council is also a Wheels service and continue to be welcome supporter of the region’s arts societies and to do so. encourages use of the Mud gee Town Hall • Theatre for productions and events by local The Recruitment and Selection procedure community groups, such as the Mudgee was reviewed during the calendar year. Readers’ Festival, dance schools and The procedure is designed to ensure that disability service providers. recruitment standards are consistent, appropriate, inclusive and free from • Council also rolled out a series of discrimination or bias. community arts workshops across the • region (and accompanying exhibition), Council teams work with local disability made possible via a Country Arts Support service providers in terms of negotiating Program grant. supported employment opportunities and access to Council auspiced Community Provide equitable access to a range of Services. places and spaces for all in the community • Council has an Anti-Discrimination and • Council continues to monitor its public Equal employment Opportunity policy. buildings and upgrade through the 30 Specific training is provided to staff involved year asset maintenance plan and the in recruitment on Council’s Recruitment and works request system. All maintenance Selection procedure with a focus on merit and upgrades are in accordance with the based recruitment. current accessibility standards. Providing effective and efficient • Council continues to coordinate its governance and leadership Section 355 Access Committee which • provides feedback on a range of matters The Access Committee Terms of Reference relating to accessibility and inclusion for were updated and endorsed by Council at residents of and visitor s to the region. its September 2018 meeting. The Access Committee members meet regularly to Committee will be reviewing Council’s discuss and provide feedback on a range Disability Inclusion Action Plan shortly. of development applications received by • Council now has a single Access Council. Committee that meets monthly to • The Committee also commented on discuss and provide advice to Council pathways planned within the Mudgee on operational and strategic issues Showground facility. affecting physical access and inclusion for all residents and visitors to the region. • Stage 1 of implementing Council’s new The Committee has ongoing interactions facilities booking software (Bookable) has with Council staff across various fields of been completed with all internal and public responsibility. venue bookings made via Council trained • staff using the system. The next stage will Disability Inclusion is a standing agenda allow customers to view, book and cancel item for Council’s Interagency meetings bookings directly and check availability of going forward. a particular venue from any mobile device Supporting the community to promote and or PC. This is planned for completion by celebrate diversity and inclusion the end of 2020. Once fully implemented, it is expected to increase patron age of • Events and activities facilitated by Council’s community facilities through increased Community Development and Youth presence, accessibility and information. Services Officers welcome participation 138 by a broad range of community members • Accessible services for which Council is and do not discriminate against people responsible are listed on Council’s website, with disability. Council’s libraries work with including Meals on Wheels and Community local disability services and provide regular Transport services, and accessible study support for people with disability. playground and bathroom facilities. Council has also provided workshops to • Council is a proud supporters of local people with disability for annual community business ‘Clock Awards’, which includes art competition and exhibitions. Regular awards for excellence in community interagency meetings and communications services and ability access. also promote disability awareness and opportunities (such as grant funding • Council also proudly supports initiatives and access to the NDIS) for people with such as annual Disability Inclusion Sports disability. Council also collaborates with Awards, which includes the categories Rotary clubs to facilitate monthly accessible ‘Disability Inclusive Sports Club Award’ movie screenings. and ‘Disability Inclusive Sports Volunteer Award’. • Internal staff training includes topics such as anti-discrimination and disability • Council also regularly updates its listings inclusion. on the National Public Toilet register, which notes accessible facilities. • Council delivered a “Waste to Art” program whereby disability workers created artwork • Accessibility is always considered when that was exhibited publicly. Activities to updating or constructing new Council promote and support this included PR facilities. activities, web content and social media. Supporting improved physical access in • All new staff have included in their the community induction, information on disability inclusion • and Council’s DIAP. Nine PAMP projects were completed: ° • Council proudly supports initiatives such as Robertson Street West (Spring Road annual Disability Inclusion Sports Awards, heading north for 60m). which includes the category ‘Junior Athlete ° Robertson Road West - Maher Place with a Disability Sportsmanship Award’. (existing path in reserve - 104m). Disability services are also encouraged to ° Robertson Road West - Spring Road to participate in annual art competitions and Maher Place (85m). exhibitions with related workshops. ° Winter Street North (corner in seg 40 Actively promotes meaningful through drainage reserve to Bellevue communication and engagement with the cycleway - 92m) Bellevue Pathway community (Fairydale Lane - Bellevue Park). • Increased options of Council ° Douro Street West {pedestrian refuge communications, such as Facebook videos and build-out between Inglis Street and with spoken narrative, and audio, video and the railway line) visual versions of Community News are ° Inglis Street North (Douro and Court now available via Council’s website. Streets) Mayne and Tallawang Streets • Council is a proud supporter of local (pedestrian refuge and build-out). business ‘Clock Awards: which includes ° Rylstone Pedestrian Footbridge over the awards for excellence in community Cudgegong River. services and disability access. Council also proudly supports initiatives such as annual • Council’s building network comprises over Disability Inclusion Sports Awards, which 200 buildings and its Asset Management includes the categories ‘Disability Inclusive Plan establishes condition inspection Sports Club Award’ and ‘Disability Inclusive program. Sports Volunteer Award. 139 • Council’s Asset Management Plan • Library staff visit retirement homes and acknowledges greater demand for make home deliveries to housebound accessibility and services for an ageing residents. cohort. It also notes that renewal plans are • Council continues to support the training to include increased access at facilities. and promotion of a minimum of four contact • Council’s Community Grants Program officers across the organisation. closely aligns with its Towards 2030 • The EEO Management Plan was Community Plan, including strategies on updated and is in draft format awaiting providing equitable access to a range of the General Manager’s performance places and spaces for all in the community, reviews and inclusion of any relevant providing infrastructure and services to targets set within. One project budget was cater for the current and future needs of our specifically linked to balancing of EEO in community and maintaining the provision of areas across Council and making more high quality, accessible community services traineeships accessible to targeted areas that meet the needs of our community. as an investment in skills development and employment for the future. As noted Moree Plains Shire Council project budgets were not advanced due to COVID-19 budget roll over. All our projects take into consideration, as a matter of course, the special needs of people Mosman Municipal Council with disabilities. Since the adoption of the Developing positive community Disability Inclusion Action Plan (“DIAP”) in 2017, Council has been actively working attitudes and behaviours through the DIAP to achieve the desired Listen to people with disability outcomes to enhance inclusive activities and accessibility. • Accessibility improvements highlighted in newsletters and local media (share Infrastructure works, such as mobility friendly feedback and actions to improve roundabouts, have been installed and the accessibility taken by Council with Council formation of the Disability Network Group, staff) still continue to make improvements to the shire. These accomplishments display Promote understanding and positive Council’s commitment to the DIAP and its attitudes among Council staff goal to provide an inclusive environment for • Dementia awareness training provided community members of all abilities. to six staff and Anxiety and Depression • We continuously recognise and address training offered to five staff using expert access issues for people with disabilities. facilitators. These initiatives are carried out as part of • We hosted a Sector wide forum that our works program. discussed dementia and disabilities for 15 • The Disability Action Plan was completed participants. in 2017 and a committee has been formed • Staff participated in a Norther Sydney from services and consumers for the Disability Expo and disseminated purpose of providing ongoing information information within Council. around needs to Council. • Council recognise and celebrate the Promote understanding, positive attitudes achievements made by people with a and connections in the community disability through the provision of financial • Library held a special story time for support to a local disability group to co- International Day of People with Disability host the International Day of People with 3/12/2019 presented by hearing impaired Disability. outreach librarian.

140 • The Local Area Coordinators presented to • Work on the Clifton Gardens Beach access the Principal’s liaison Group around NDIS ramp was completed in August 2020. and inclusion strategies for children with a • Planning and design works were completed disability and parents. for the Raglan Street West accessible • Initial contact made with Ability Links for toilets. investigation, & Gig Buddies for Council’s • For all other footpath or building upgrades Volunteering Expo. an assessment took place around access • Volunteering opportunities provided within improvements and was implemented where Council programs, including an adult with possible. a disability and a young person with a disability. Improve access for providing access supports • In 2019/2020 five volunteers were recorded as LWD. • Request for assistance with bins is assessed on a case by case basis and • Promotion of International Day for People referred to the waste contractors for with Disability, available programs and assistance. services, and new accessible facilities (Raglan St West carpark), in local media, • An audit of mobility parking was completed including images. and the new requests are being assessed on case by case basis. • Engaging with community to promote inclusion Collaborate with state government to • All In! Inclusion Guide links provided to all improve access sporting clubs in August 2019. • Continued to collaborate with B-Line • Regular quarterly meetings were scheduled project. and held by library to engage with local • Council liaised with RMS for proposed Principals to seek feedback on library pedestrian crossings and refuge islands at services for their schools and an update on Spit East where improvements were made. their areas. Supporting access to meaningful Creating liveable communities employment

Listen to people with disability Ensure council recruitment process is • Council supported a successful accessible Government Grant application by • Equal Opportunity Employer statement Committee members that assisted in listed on all job advertisements. funding accessible toilets at Mosman Junction. • No requests for assistance despite applicants being prompted during interview • Council worked also with its Access and process. Mobility Committee to identify locations for and install an accessible ramp at Clifton • Reasonable workplace adjustments Gardens Beach. covered in recruitment and selection corporate practice and training provided to Progressively increase access in the local all recruitment managers. community and to Council facilities Ensure council is an inclusive and • The upgrade of Clifton Gardens playground accessible workplace included fully accessible play equipment. New works on accessible amenities and • 10 staff were trained in inclusive workplace beach access were also undertaken in culture through induction training consultation with the Access and Mobility • Software is reviewed prior to procurement Committee, together with smaller works to ensure accessibility options are such as pram ramps. available. 141 Explore volunteering opportunities for of Council so people do not have to make people with disability the same request to different sections – Council’s Customer Service Charter • Actively promoted access and inclusion to includes helping customers’ access schools i.e. Mosman High and universities services, with internal communication for volunteer opportunities at Council. processes subject to ongoing review and • Actively promoted support of people living improvement. with Dementia and facilitated support • Updates make to people with disability groups and activities. page of website, plus the inclusion of a • 5 recorded volunteers LWD this year. Parks accessibility rating document • Recruitment and promotion in the second • Interactive map of accessible parks half of year impacted by COVID-19. available on Council’s MyMosman app.

Support employment opportunities in the Provide accessible events and services community • Council’s major events are held at • No opportunities to date to explore wheelchair accessible venues with opportunities to procure services from accessible facilities Australian Disability Enterprises and • Hearing loops have been installed in the businesses employing people with Senior Services Hall. disability. • Council’s events and community care Improving access to mainstream teams consider accessibility as part of services through better systems and overall event planning. processes • Consideration (such as use universal icons and highlighting accessible locations e.g. Policy and corporate practice toilets, parking) is given to accessibility in • Access and inclusion considered when event promotion. reviewing policy and corporate practice. • Mosman Community Care continues to Improve council website and information provide Friday Youth Group to young adults access LWD. New marketing and promotional changes took place to promote the • Council website upgraded and constantly program. Stories written about participants improved for WCAG compliance. to be used on website promotion. Due to rd Implemented a web reader plug in on all 3 COVID-19, this program was suspended level content pages on the Council website, from March to June 2020. as well as the Gallery and Events sites. • Council’s programs, including Community • Encourage all software suppliers to improve Grants, encourage local service providers accessibility with new updates to consider and include people with • Documents continue to be digitised by disability. Council’s Information Management Team. • Within guidelines, use of Council venues is • In relation to developing standard templates proactively provided. for Council documents and forms to ensure • A local disability service, Fighting Chance accessibility of both print and online are regular market stall holders (Mosman versions - Accessibility options continue to Markets) and are supported by Council in be investigated and implemented, noting their participation. Regular promotion of that some operating systems now have Council services at Mosman Markets. accessibility options built in. Feedback, consultation and meetings • Ensure customer facing staff identify people’s preferred forms of communication • All meetings & consultations held in and share this information across sections Council’s accessible venues.

142 Describe your challenges and Developing positive attitudes and successes in delivering on your parts behaviours of the DIAP • Manager Community Services appointed as • Obviously COVID-19 and social distancing the DIAP lead. has hampered our activities to a large degree. • Access and Inclusion Committee to be appointed. Is there anything else you’re doing or planning for the future to contribute • Local awareness program being developed. to greater outcomes for people with • Cross council DIAP awareness sessions disability? planned. • We have appointed an officer responsible • Low desk included in new to ensure that councils DIAP goals are Customer Service Centre achieved and that there is ongoing dialogue Creating liveable communities with disability groups via the Access and Inclusion Group • Vulnerable People Network formed Community Transport options promoted. Additional information and comments about the information provided • Maintained Community Living and Access during periods of COVID restrictions. • MRC has had a number of staff changes, COVID restrictions, the tyranny of distance • National Parks installed disabled Canoe/ and eight separate facilities that has slowed Kayak launching pontoon at . progress during 2019/2020. • Asset Review by CT Management includes disability access. Murrumbidgee Council Supporting access to meaningful Developing positive attitudes and employment behaviours • • Murray River Council employment policy All information received by Council does not discriminate. regarding disability initiatives and developments, or changes that Council has • Regular contact with disability employment made to facilities to allow improved access, agencies. is shared on Council’s Facebook page and Accessible systems, information, or through community newsletters. processes Creating liveable communities • Mobile library being brought into service • All upgrades to footpaths and buildings with disabled access. carried out in 2019/2020, including the How have you determined that you’re Pool, John McInnes Square meeting the needs of people with toilet upgrade and provision of new toilets disability? at Lions Park, , as well as tender documents for the Brolga Place We have had significant community redevelopment in Coleambally and new engagement through: toilet block in Lions Park, have included disabled access provisions. • The MRC Adverse Event Planning engagement process and Supporting access to meaningful employment • Through the MRC ‘Rolling with Resilience Project’ that offers service improvements • No progress during 2019-20 was made on and training opportunities. this focus area. Discussions with NDIS providers and employment agencies • We can do better in 2021! dealing with people with disabilities is a priority for 2020-21. 143 Improving access to mainstream services and facilities and services for older services through better systems and people along with a desire for support for local processes communities are areas of priority. • Disabled access and facilities at Council’s Residents from across the Shire and our Darlington Point office has been improved visitors already have access to a wide range with renovations carried out during of community, government agencies and 2019/2020. Council services appropriate to their age and How have you determined that you’re needs. meeting the needs of people with Council also works with health, welfare disability? and educational organisations from the • Surveys were undertaken initially to identify government and non-government sector to priorities and these have been included in improve outcomes for individuals and our future planning. community. This occurs through liaison, advisory support, assistance with the use Describe your challenges and of Council premises and provision for successes in delivering on your parts opportunities for networking. of the DIAP The Disability Inclusion Strategies, Plans and • Challenges have been around lines of Actions in Muswellbrook Shire include; communication with people with a disability and their support providers. • Adapting existing services to ensure that they meet the needs of people with • Successes have been with increased disabilities, is an ongoing action across all government funding to allow for new parts of Muswellbrook Council infrastructure with disabled access. • Ensuring that physical access to public Is there anything else you’re doing or buildings and facilities is improved to meet planning for the future to contribute current building codes and standards to greater outcomes for people with disability? • Providing information to our community that is in formats which meet the communication • All new infrastructure plans include disabled requirements of people with disabilities in access and toilet facilities. an ongoing goal of Council • Delivering training to staff as required Muswellbrook Shire Council to ensure that advice and services are relevant to the needs of people with In May 2017 Muswellbrook Shire Council disabilities adopted a Disability and Social Inclusion Strategy. This strategy requires a continued • Partnering with other service providers to focus on policies and actions that promote support the participation of people with social inclusion and participation in disabilities in civic activities and public Muswellbrook Shire. This includes the delivery spaces that are appropriate including the of existing employment, community events Disability Inclusion Tent at events which and activities that provide improved liveability, includes adaptive assistance aid to people services and facilities that support people of with varying needs. all abilities, families and older residents as • Partnering with Muswellbrook Healthy they move towards retirement. and Well, and Warrior Disability Services to coordinate Muswellbrook Connect Most residents in our Shire are engaged, feel social media content and encourage a sense of pride in their communities and feel the community to adopt healthy and safe and secure in their homes. However, sustainable habits there are still a number of people who have indicated that they are seeking more. Youth • Business Clean Up Day saw 32 people from AGL Macquarie, Warrior Disability 144 Services and Denman Children’s Centre Increase visibility of people with disability clean up around Denman. in publications and online • The internal oversight of accessibility has • Some improvement with a small increase not required a meeting of the Internal in images being used. A photoshoot during Accessibility Audit Committee. Alternatively 2019 undertaken for Council’s tourism these matters are raised during Pre- function has resulted in professional images development Application meeting with of local people in local environments the Planning Business Unit and through and includes older people, people using Construction Certificates. Accessibility mobility scooters and wheelchairs (see reports are a requirement for all significant report cover). These are being used across development proposals as part of “Business Council documents. as Usual” for Council’s planning and building section. Promote accessible business and tourism • Council’s approved General Building • The Access Committee continued to work Renewal Program 2019/2020 includes on “Access at Glance” in collaboration with works identified in accessibility building and Blue Sky Community Services (previously property audits. Works programmed for Mid Coast Communities) to identify and 2019/2020 have been completed. promote accessible businesses. The project experienced some delays due to the COVID-19 shut down. Nambucca Valley Council • Developing positive community One of Nambucca Valley Council’s major attitudes and behaviours roles in tourism is the development of appropriate infrastructure. A couple of Support the Access Committee to continue achievements from the year follow: its advisory and promotional work on ° Construction of a 3m wide boardwalk inclusion and access between Gordon Park and the RSL car • Monthly meetings have proved to be a park Nambucca Heads. An existing challenge, with meetings cancelled due narrow boardwalk was replaced by this to November 2019 bush fires and then wider and more accessible structure COVID-19 restrictions. Virtual meetings which has passing room for two were not pursued as they would have wheelchairs. This is a very popular excluded some members who have limited attraction for tourists and visitors. access to technology. ° Located on the banks of Warrell Creek • Meeting minutes are presented to Council and opposite Gaagal Wangaan National for its information or endorsement of formal Park, this popular basic campground recommendations for action. is now more accessible for people with disabilities. A new amenities block was • The Committee has provided planning constructed and the facilities now include input into projects such as Highlighting Our a compliant unisex disabled toilet and Heritage (Macksville Bridge), Scotts Head outdoor accessible showers. Pedestrian Access Management Plan and the Adult Lift and Change Facility as well Creating liveable communities as providing advocacy for improvements • Location of public toilets is available on the to public spaces e.g. Nambucca Plaza National Public Toilet website. The map has Cinema complex. the following: Valla Beach (3), Nambucca Heads (15), Macksville (5), Bowraville (3), Conduct meetings of Council within the Taylors Arm (1), Scotts Head (2). All Council community at accessible venues with owned public toilets are listed. Listings for accessible facilities new amenities include photographs. • A portable PA is available for on-site or outdoor meetings.

145 • There were five access ramps installed ° The Staff Newsletter, published during the past year – two in River Street every month, recognises employees Macksville; two in Ridge Street and one in who demonstrate our values of Gordon Park, Nambucca Heads. professionalism, accountability, • A series of footpaths, including this access community focus, team work, value for ramp have been installed in Gordon money, safety and leadership. Park, Nambucca Heads. This improves ° The Staff Newsletter also promotes connectivity and increases the options for mental health awareness activities and paths of travel within the Park and along the the Employee Assistance Program. river-side boardwalk. ° Part of Council’s COVID-19 response • Improved access between foreshore included working from home levels along River Street Macksville has arrangements, consideration of special been completed. The work around the needs i.e. staff with compromised public toilets is a significant improvement immunity, splitting teams to prevent risk to access for people with disabilities who of virus being spread. previously needed to go onto the roadway • Applicants for vacant positions are given to transition between the street and the the option of requesting special assistance foreshore. Installation of a ramp, whilst via a standard question which prompts maintaining steps provides options for the need for consideration by Human everyone. Resources. • A landmark playground in Coronation • A number of items of equipment were Street Bowraville was designed under the purchased and changes to the workplace “Everyone Can Play” guidelines and was were made during the past year e.g. completed in the reporting period. This prescription safety glasses, specialised ear extensive playground was constructed protection, stand-up desks and a compact under inclusive principles and provides portable sit/stand option for short term use variety for children and families including in response to employees specific disability specific equipment for children with needs. disability. • An Employee Assistance Program is in Supporting access to meaningful place to assist people with health and well- employment being. • The Workplace Equity and Diversity • The Nambucca Valley Council has work Strategy continues to be implemented and practices which provide for Carer’s Leave includes the following objective: and flexible leave for people requiring Create a harmonious and supportive work long-term recovery or rehabilitation. There environment and an organisational culture is also a Return to Work program and that values and promotes equity, fairness Ergonomic Assessments to assist people and diversity. The response to this has with special needs to re-engage in the work been a range of activities such as the place. following: Improving access to mainstream ° Special events – BBQ, morning teas, services through better systems and theme days to promote causes such as processes RUOK and encourage inclusion. • Location of accessible facilities, parking and ° Code of Conduct training. has been made available online. ° Core corporate values of ethical conduct • Council’s website now meets WCAG (Web and teamwork are included in every Content Accessibility Guidelines) Position Description. • A new Tourism website which will meet ° The Induction for new employees covers WCAG was completed in 2017 the Code of Conduct 146 Council • Throughout 2019/2020 Council’s Corporate • During 2019/2020 the Access and Inclusion Planning and Workforce Section aimed committee successfully held two meetings. to encourage and support people with COVID restrictions during the early part a disability to apply for positions at of 2020 impacted reaching a quorum for Council. They plan to identify and promote scheduled meetings occurring. The Terms opportunities into 2020/2021. of Reference were changed to include • Research was undertaken on ways to more community representatives due provide and educate businesses to be more to increased interest in the Committee. accessible and inclusive. It is proposed Expressions of Interest were called for, and for Narrabri Shire Council to develop a an additional three members were accepted brochure in 2020/2021 to assist business onto the Committee. with a checklist. • As part of a combined event Social • Council, along with the Access and Inclusion Week / International Day of Inclusion Advisory Committee, continue to People with Disability in November 2019 work together to implement the actions in Narrabri Shire Council launched an Easy the 2017-2021 Disability Inclusion Action Read version of their Disability Inclusion Plan. A new DIAP is due in July 2021. It is Action Plan 2017 -2021. This event was proposed to launch a Disability Access and attended by over 40 people who witnessed Inclusion Survey in 2020/2021 to form part the Website launch in three formats - DIAP of the community engagement for the new Easy Read, DIAP E-Book and a DIAP Action Plan. Audio Book. This was the first time Narrabri Council had provided documents in these Council three formats. Note this council reported via a table with • A Council representative continues to actions – just cut and pasted comments as attend and participate in the Narrabri of 30 June 2020 outlining progress. Added in Interagency monthly meetings. As there is occasional word (highlighted) that ensures the a variety of service provider participation comment makes sense this enables Council to maintain working relationships and networks with important Developing positive attitudes and community groups and government behaviours organisations. Together they participate • Council has placed items in the media and assist with local events as well as highlighting funding opportunities for identifying gaps for services in the area. It persons with a disability, suggestions have was felt a need for an offshoot committee also been directed to local businesses that to deal specifically with issues of concerns they should reassess their points of access for Disability. Council is working with Best and egress therefore potentially increasing Employment’s Disability Employment customer opportunities for sales. Officer to develop a Disability Interagency and hope for it to be launched early in the • Council has created a new website with a new financial year. page dedicated to providing information to people living with a disability, including • Council continues to attend bi-monthly advising of local businesses who are Narrabri Dementia Friendly Community accessible (https://www.narrandera.nsw. Steering Committee meetings. During gov.au/community/our-people/people-living- 2019/2020 Council committed to having all disability). front-line staff complete online Dementia Awareness training to assist when dealing • Using the many media platforms available, with customers who may be affected. It Council has also showcased people living is intended that the Dementia Friendly with a disability including a post for the training get imbedded into new Council staff Lake Talbot Water Park Slides opening, Induction training. the Lake Talbot Water Park change rooms

147 opening and members of Kurrajong with • The Road Safety Officer presents support staff using Library facilities and the community safety section of the participating in programs. ‘Stepping On’ program when requested • During the COVID-19 pandemic Council’s by Narrandera Health Service. This Community Support team assisted persons presentation focused on pedestrian safety deemed as vulnerable with essential for people with reduced mobility and services such as the purchase of food items included information for mobility scooter and medication with this service extensively users advertised. Creating liveable communities • As part of the Council staff annual training • As footpath projects are undertaken and/or and development program the Human Pedestrian Access & Mobility Plan projects Resources team are currently looking at are constructed within the Narrandera CBD available options for awareness education. they will be assessed for tactile indicators • Council staff are aware that persons against current standards. with a disability have a lot to contribute • Council annually undertakes repair works to the community and make sure that to the footpath network to reduce rick and arrangements are in place to assist persons hazards with these works undertaken on a with a disability. priority basis. The repair program is collated • Staff regularly participate in and contribute from data gathered by routine inspections to meetings that share disability resource by Council staff and from complaints information both internal and external received by the community. to Council. Relevant information for • As part of the Development Application persons with a disability and their carers is process, all applications are assessed disseminated where possible either through for compliance with the Building Code of social media or traditional print. Australia and respective Australian/New • Where possible Council staff participate Zealand Standards. Council’s Development in appropriate forums such as the Control Plan (DCP) incorporates Local Health Advisory Committee and recommendations from the Universal Interagency Group meetings also meetings Housing Design Guidelines based on the with Murrumbidgee Local Health District Australian Standards for Adaptive Housing and Murrumbidgee Primary Health and for Access and Mobility. Network. The weekly Transfer of Care • The Economic Development Manager meetings with service providers such as facilitated a business survey prior to those co-ordinated by the Narrandera the launch of the new Council website Hospital to discuss patient discharge needs seeking information on businesses that are invaluable. provide disabled access arrangements. • The Road Safety Officer delivered the This information is located by selecting the 65Plus workshop which provides advice following link: https://www.narrandera.nsw. and safety tips for people in the community gov.au/community/our-people/people-living- aged 65 or over to help make safer disability. choices when driving, riding, walking, • Council’s Building Maintenance Co- using a mobility scooter or catching ordinator has assessed Council owned public transport. The workshop profiles premises and has compiled a scope of the changes to health that can come with works to retrofit older structures as funding age, and how conditions such as vision becomes available. Any new build projects impairment and dementia can affect are designed to ensure compliance with abilities as road users. Checklists are the Australian Building Code and relevant included to help develop safer driving habits Australia/New Zealand Standards. and make better choices when walking and crossing the road.

148 Supporting access to meaningful • Council has begun using video to employment communication information as a method of alternative communications. Currently 15 • Special needs students are welcomed videos have been created and are listed on and have undertaken work placements various places across the website and all at the Narrandera Shire Library, these have been placed on social media. placements are normally organised through Narrandera High School with Council being • Council events are considered and very supportive to retaining this ongoing managed with consideration to the access partnership. requirements of specific groups. • Council currently provides volunteer work • The Community Transport and Home opportunities for disabled persons through Support Programs provide NDIS services the Community Support team and the to those who require them to allow greater Narrandera Shire Library. community access. • A section of Council’s Administration Centre has recently been remodelled to Council provide disabled access for a current and Developing positive community potentially future members of staff with a attitudes and behaviours disability to access an office space and amenities. • Strategic actions implemented as per Disability Inclusion Action Plan • Council has a program of implementing adaptive office furnishings to provide a • Ongoing inspections held and better working environment for disabled improvements completed as funds become persons available. Consultation with residents, disability service providers, disability access • The Human Resources team provide home solutions providers to gain a greater commentary at the start of every understanding; how the Shire can increase recruitment interview that Council is an access for our residents and visitors to Equal Employment Opportunity workplace facilities or use of pathways and parking and does not tolerate discrimination within areas. the workplace; similarly upon appointment the successful applicant undertakes a Creating liveable communities workplace induction where the principles • Council has committed to a focused of Equal Employment Opportunity and the approach in identifying facilities in the Shire Code of Conduct are enforced. that require upgrade, improvement and or • The Economic Development Manager provision of additional facilities to meet the intends to make a presentation to the needs of our community and visitors to the Narrandera Business Group at the next shire. available opportunity. • DIAP works have been completed in both Improving access to mainstream Narromine and to provide more services through better systems and accessible road crossings and pathways for processes users. This includes additional car parking options for disability users. • Council’s website is now complete and • has an easy to use engaging layout. Using The refurbishment of a council building the ‘Wave’ Accessibility Check platform to convert the premises into a co working (https://wave.webaim.org) currently has space has commenced and due to zero errors, only four contrast issues and be completed by mid-May 2021. The 19 alerts. Council is also investigating a site refurbishment is inclusive of greater user check by National Manager Digital Access, access for disability impaired users with Vision Australia, with quote received but accessible bathrooms and ramp access into pending funding availability. the building.

149 Supporting access to meaningful • Successes employment ° Increased acknowledgement within • Disability Inclusion Action Plan is the community of the need for greater considered in all workforce activity. All accessibility and mobility friendly Council recruitment encourages people with services. a disability to apply. ° Improved consultation with disability Improving access to mainstream service providers and disability services through better systems and specialists in the region. processes Additional information and comments • Access to community transport locally • Narromine Shire Council have in the current and to Dubbo has been maintained, with financial year undertaken construction advocacy continuing for this service. works undertaken within the township of • An accessibility audit completed in Trangie to increase access for pedestrians 2018/2019 determined several council and disability users. These projects facilities require upgrading of facilities. were funded through grant funding via Grant funding has been applied for in Drought Communities Program and aimed economic development funding streams increased access capacity for users to try and enable these improvements with throughout the township. The following is a the aim of upgrading local parks bathroom summary of the projects undertaken; amenities to be inclusive of accessible and ° IGA Trangie Disabled Parking ambulant access, catering to the hearing ° Pharmacy Disabled Parking and sight impaired also to accommodate all needs. ° Public School Disabled Parking • Narromine Shire Council is awaiting the ° Challenge Disabled Parking outcomes of grant applications to enable ° High School Disabled Parking these improvements. ° Footpath and Ramp Access Trangie How have you determined that you’re Catholic School meeting the needs of people with ° disability? Footpath and Ramp Access Trangie Swimming Pool • Consultation and feedback from the ° Footpath and Ramp Access Trangie High community has prioritised the audit of School Council Facilities for compliance and scope of works recommendations. Describe your challenges and North Sydney Council successes in delivering on your parts Over the past twelve months Council has of the DIAP continued to deliver on actions identified in the DIAP. Some of the key achievements include: • Challenges ° Continued lack of funding streams for Developing positive community Disability Access Improvements, delays attitudes and behaviours the delivery of improvements. • training provided to Senior Leadership ° Increasing the level of awareness and Team on Disability Awareness and understanding among landowners and Confidence business occupiers as to why greater • celebration of significant calendar events accessibility is required in our CBD’s. in the community, including the Lost Bird ° Financial constraints on land owners Found Project and International Day of and business occupiers to make People with Disability modifications to buildings.

150 Creating liveable communities • Upgrade to Miller Street bus stop, one of the Amongst many ongoing actions, 12 actions principal access links to Council Chambers were completed this year, with some great • Upgrade to paths of travel surrounding progress across all focus areas. Council Chambers Developing positive community • Upgraded signage in and around Council attitudes and behaviours Chambers • A new staff learning module was developed • Refurbishment of Primrose Park Arts and on disability awareness, with content Craft Centre from the Human Rights Commission and experts in job access, inclusive culture and Supporting access to meaningful behaviours. employment • Staff across five teams were trained in • Ongoing access to health and wellbeing accessible and inclusive events. programs for all staff, including access to the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) • Our inclusive programs include those Counselling Service run by the events team, community development, children’s centres, libraries, • Celebration of significant calendar events, environmental educators, bushcare and such as R U OK? Day and International aquatic centres. Day of People with Disability • This year we held the Disabled Surfing Improving access to mainstream Competition at Collaroy Beach in our services through better systems and accessibility precinct. processes • Our Access and Inclusion Award will • Ongoing use of software to identify access recognise inclusive businesses in the 2020 barriers on Council’s website Northern Beaches Local Business Awards, • Training to staff who author web content later in the year. on creating accessible content, as well as • We are also developing a business seminar training on producing accessible documents on inclusive employment practices. International Day of People with a Creating liveable communities Disability • This year four new accessible playgrounds • Local school children participated in this full were completed at Lionel Watts Reserve day event held at the Coal Loader Centre (Belrose), , for Sustainability to celebrate International () and Birdwood Park Day of People with Disability. (North ). • In line with the theme ‘Everyone is a • New accessible amenities include North Superhero’, students and teachers Narrabeen Rockpool, sports facilities experienced first hand some of the at Nolans Reserve and Balgowlah challenges of living with a disability. Oval, Queenscliff Surf Life Saving Club, Students got the chance to get close and Beacon Hill Community Centre, Jacka personal with a guide dog and speak with Park (Freshwater) and Bilarong Reserve her owner, before navigating an obstacle (Narrabeen). course blindfolded. Wheelchair basketball • Various paths, kerbs, bus shelters and trails was the most popular event of the day. have been improved, and the final section of the Narrabeen Lagoon Trail circuit was completed as an accessible boardwalk. • Disability inclusion is now embedded in our planning and project management frameworks for future plans and works, 151 including plans to encourage affordable and Oberon Council adaptable housing. Creating liveable communities • Our disability liaison staff direct key • Implemented provide more regular cleaning community programs, advocacy, host the of toilets. disability information hub on our website and provide a regular newsletter for the • Implemented overall better maintenance community. of public toilets with focus on Oberon Common, Cunynghame Oval and Cook Supporting access to meaningful Park facilities. employment • Consideration of access to toilets in • We provide a wide range of opportunities playground and review width of pathways for volunteering and student placements, to accommodate wheelchairs and prams including for people with disability – key implemented during playground equipment areas include libraries, community services replacement program. and the Coastal Environment Centre. • Improved lighting and signage included in • Our Local Strategic Planning Statement council toilet facility upgrade. will guide the development of commercial centres, and includes specific actions for • Considerations for more disabled access access and inclusion to help increase local toilets around the region-access upgraded employment opportunities. to all facilities. • We are also developing more inclusive • Council has commenced program to and flexible employment practices for the upgrade and increase footpaths in and Council workforce. around Oberon local government area. The new paths are slightly wider to allow access Improving access to mainstream for prams and walking frames. services through better systems and • processes Council is currently developing a master plan for The Common which will include • Ongoing reviews have improved our online facilities for disabled, such as lower tables forms and booking systems for consistency, and barbeques. readability and ease of use. • Council has automatic doors at most • All new Council documents online are facilities. The Community Centre will be meeting new standards for visual content upgraded during the development of the and readability, including the use of a range Community Hub. of formats. • Council continues to advocate for a taxi • Media such as video is developed with service and improved bus services in audio descriptors, transcripts and closed and around Oberon. Oberon Community captions. Transport (LiveBetter) provide transport • Customer Service Centres continue to services to elderly and disabled. provide computers for customers’ use as an • There has been an increase of four alternative to paper forms. disabled car parking spots around Oberon. • Our website is compliant with industry • Council’s community services team guidelines for web accessibility to a high ensure that all events are accessible and standard, and our library website was promotional material is placed in written improved to enhance user experience and and verbal format on social media. accessibility. • Sensory garden/water play areas to be developed in consultation with PWD and services. Assist with planning, planting and maintenance - this will be undertaken as part of the common master plan.

152 • Council has increased ramp access within • A new concrete path has been installed the business district to allow easy access to along the Autumn Street frontage of shops and footpaths. Newman Park – linking the amenities, accessible picnic table and children’s play Improving access to mainstream facility. services through better systems and processes • Accessible play equipment with consideration to the NSW ‘Everyone Can • Council is in the process of developing Play’ guidelines has been installed at Cook a new website and will consider hearing/ Park and at Reserve. vision impaired. • Ramp at Lucknow Men’s Shed ramp • Create opportunities for staff members brought into compliance with new design. to participate in courses and information session to assist people with disabilities. • Renovation to the Jack Brabham amenities This is considered when considering block to include an accessible toilet. training opportunities for staff. Supporting access to meaningful • Council produces its Community Newsletter employment in large print and makes it available at the • Information on Council’s recruitment Oberon Library. processes are available on our website. Human Resources also includes both Orange City Council phone numbers and email addressed Developing positive community on all job advertisements so interested attitudes and behaviours candidates can make contact if they have any questions or require any assistance. • Business group meetings included • Council considers and supports a broad awareness regarding the importance range of requests for work experience of inclusion for people with disability for placements for students enrolled in business outcomes. A ‘Missed Business’ education institutions. guide was developed to provide to local business owners. • The Volunteer Policy includes reference to equal employment legislation and ensuring • The Council Event Kit and application volunteers are appropriately supported. form provide requirements for access and Each area promotes their volunteering inclusion. opportunities and applications are assessed • The Disability Inclusion Action Plan is on a case by case basis in accordance covered in the employee induction including with the policy. If necessary and deemed a video on diversity and inclusion. appropriate, reasonable adjustments are • Staff completed online disability inclusion made to the work environment to suit the training in the period. needs of the individual. • • Council develops a comprehensive annual All job candidates are asked when applying training plan for all staff. Council’s Learning for positions to outline any reasonable and Development Officer can also provide adjustments they may require to participate career development advice and support to in the recruitment process. staff. Improving access to mainstream Creating liveable communities services through better systems and processes • Council’s Future City project launched. The project addresses barriers and inclusion • The Access and Inclusion Learn to Swim in design considerations for the future program members integrated with Learn to development of the city including renewed Swim classes. street furniture in the CBD. • Audio loops regularly maintained. • Mobility Map update funded. 153 • Hoist maintenance and repair completed in informal feedback, and also have input into the Changing Places accessible. bathroom Council’s programs, initiatives and events. at the Orange Aquatic Centre Six meetings were attended by council representatives during the reporting period. • After School and Vacation Care program for young people with disability expanded to a younger age group. Penrith City Council • Council continues to support people with • Council was successful in being awarded disability through providing group homes for “Everyone Can Play” grant funding of adults with intellectual disability, services $140,000 to upgrade three playgrounds in to provide support in home for people with Oxley Park, Cranebrook, and Glenmore disability and after school and vacation care Park, in order to improve accessibility and for people with disability. inclusiveness of these play spaces. Other access improvement initiatives undertaken this past year include upgraded toilet Parkes Shire Council amenities at Ripples pools in St Marys, and • Provisions for accessibility and inclusion installation of a hearing loop at the St Marys were developed for the Parkes Elvis library branch. Festival, with designated accessible “drop • off zones” and viewing areas at the Main Council has demonstrated a commitment Stage in Cooke Park to allow for good to progressively improve the provision of visibility for disabled festival goers. publicly available adult change facilities across the LGA which include a hoist and • The Parkes Library is currently being change table, in addition to an accessible upgraded. The building will be accessible toilet. They have been installed in the on completion. arcade off Triangle Park in Penrith, East • Parkes Shire Council Access Committee Lane, St Marys, Jordan Springs Community was re-established in 2017/18 continues to Hub and Thornton Community Centre. function. Council funds the administration of • Additionally, through Council’s Development Interagency and ensures a representative Assessment process, some private of Council is in attendance at meetings. developers have upgraded their accessible • Council strives to make all community toilet amenities to include adult change events and facilities as inclusive as facilities including at Nepean Village resources currently permit. It is estimated Shopping Centre. This is a great outcome over 62% of its events provide accessibility for residents, having a place to shop options for wheelchair attendees. New without the need to go home if they need to Wheel chair accessible amenities have use the toilet. been constructed in Lions Park during the • During public consultation about adult year and tourist maps that Council provide change facilities within Penrith in early in places such as the Destination Guide 2020, Mayor Ross Fowler OAM received and Town Map signs include information on a letter from The Disability Council NSW accessible parking and toilet facilities. commending the excellent leadership • Parkes Shire Council Website is WCAG shown by Council around accessibility for 2.0 level A compliant. Its use of fonts and people with disability, specifically adult colour in documents and publications are changing facilities, and for becoming the considered to be in “easy read” format. first council to exceed National Standards A CMS upgrade and redesign of the Visit in NSW for constructing these facilities in Parkes Website to these standards was venues not currently requiring them. also undertaken in March 2018. • Penrith City Council continues to lead the • Council attends quarterly interagency way on projects related to accessibility in meetings where people with disabilities and the community, providing amenities for disability advocates have the opportunity those with special needs that enable them to provide Council with both formal and 154 to participate in the vibrant community life usage bus stop locations, tactile indicators that Penrith offers. have also been installed. Developing positive community • 1,230m of shared pathway, and 4,135m of attitudes and behaviours footpath installed during 2019/2020. • Council’s 2019 Volunteer Expo was an • Improve accessibility to the river at Tench opportunity to showcase the contribution Reserve – project has been completed. of local people with disability and promote • Penrith’s Sport and Recreation Strategy volunteering. was adopted by Council in April 2020. • Council continues to support Nepean No ‘Everyone Can Play guidelines’ have been Boundaries Art Group, Art West exhibition, embedded in the strategy to guide future and other cultural programs that are playspace design. Council has recently inclusive of people with disability. received three Everyone Can Play grants to improve inclusive opportunities at The • The capacity of a range of Council staff Carriageway (Glenmore Park), Ironbark is being increased to achieve the priority Reserve (Cranebrook), and Brian King actions for the DIAP. Reserve (Oxley Park). • Council officers are investigating best • Boarding points and tactile indicators at practice for provision of adaptable housing, six bus-stops in high priority locations as part of developing Council’s Affordable (including construction of paths to connect Housing Strategy, and are also examining with existing path network) were delivered how to best achieve accessibility and in 2019/2020. Footpath widening occurred inclusion outcomes through the review of at three primary schools in Cambridge Council’s Development Control Plan. Park, Colyton and South Penrith. • A comprehensive analysis of Council’s Supporting access to meaningful front counter operations has also employment been undertaken, with new processes being trialed by staff before the staged • The Nepean Jobs For All (NJFA) project was refurbishment (including increased amenity completed in September 2018. Extensive and accessibility features) commences. information about NJFA is available on • Development of the e-learning module for Council’s website. staff training in Disability Confidence. • Council’s 2020 traineeship program employed two trainees who identified as Creating liveable communities having a disability. • Development of Council’s affordable Improving access to mainstream housing strategy has commenced and will services through better systems and be completed in 2020-21. processes • This review, of accessibility elements • within Council’s Development Control When writing to the Mayor in early 2020, Plan, has commenced, and an initial The Disability Council NSW commended community consultation about adult change the excellent leadership shown by Penrith facilities lead to the Mayor receiving a City Council, and the Access Committee, letter of commendation from The Disability on accessibility for people with disability. Council NSW commending the excellent The Access Committee continued to advise leadership shown by Penrith City Council Council on a range of access matters. on accessibility for people with disability, • The staged process of refurbishment for specifically with adult changing facilities. Penrith Civic Centre has commenced. • Four accessible bus shelters were installed Expected completion date for this project is during 2019/2020, at sites in Werrington, mid-2021. South Penrith and Kingswood (2). At high • Improve website accessibility - This project was completed in February 2019, and

155 Council staff continue to maintain the • International Day of People with Disability accessibility of the website. held at McInherney Park with a BBQ lunch, • In September 2019, Council engaged the Finska competition and trophy presentation. Centre for Inclusive Design to facilitate In attendance were disability service training in Creating Accessible Documents in providers Aces Foundation and NewIDAFE, Word, Excel, and PDF format. Twenty staff plus members of the Hastings Access Sub- members have undertaken this training, and Committee. resources are being developed that will be • Due to COVID-19 only three local available on Council’s staff intranet site. businesses were visited: Wauchope Country Club, Lake Cathie Bowling Club Port Macquarie-Hastings Council and Northpoint Apartments Port Macquarie • Developing positive attitudes and In 2018 Economic Development completed behaviours the Port Macquarie- Hastings Skills Audit which outlined the significant employment • Council community events and engagement growth - and likely skills gaps - in the Health meetings are held at accessible venues. and Social Services Sector. Council has • Seniors Expo held at Panthers, free since directed efforts to growing the number sponsored venue. 1450 attendees and 102 and capability of providers operating stallholders. under the NDIS program, and attracting skills to meet the demands of this growing • Access Committee (PMHC Function industry. Support to NDIS start-ups includes Room). Cr Peter Alley, Chairperson and 11 selection of a disability transport provider members. in the PMHC/CSU Hackathon, and in • Attended NDIS Interagency Network 2019 Council worked with NDIS providers meeting. to support the trial of a monthly NDIS Industry network at The Hub Business • Attended two Dementia Friendly and Co-Working Centre. Efforts to attract Communities Steering Committee skills for the Health and Social Services Meetings. Sector include development of a relocation • COVID Recovery Wellbeing Group attraction video targeting the health sector, and plans for a flyer-drop of the Live, Grow, • MNC Health and Wellbeing Recovery Be industry attraction brochure at the 2020 Committee X 12 National Disability Services Conferences • Healthy Communities MNC X three3 in NSW and QLD (both cancelled due to • Due to COVID we were only able to hold COVID). three Access Committee meetings. Focus Creating liveable communities included prioritisation of projects such as footpath and kerb ramp requests from • Footpaths completed in 2019/2020 include: residents and reviews of draft Council ° Hill Street, from Parker Street to Lake works designs. Road (Port Macquarie, 150m) • Three X access-friendly business excursion ° Ocean Drive, from Brotherglen Drive to days Sirius Drive (Lakewood, 700m) • 27 X car parks audited and data collected ° Mooney Street, from Telegraph Point to be entered into an ‘app’ that will enable Public School to Log Wharf (Telegraph those with a disability to easily locate Point, 800m). disability- friendly carparks across the local • government area. 13 kerb ramps at: ° • Annual report card and Council report Port Macquarie: Hollingworth & Bridge submitted to State Government Street, Ackroyd & Gore Street, Parker & Savoy Street, Heather & Morton Street, Table & Gore Street

156 ° Wauchope: Glenview Drive, Cameron ° Continuous accessible paths of travel & Azalea Street, High Street & Gowrie and circulation space. Street ° Provision of low-height DDA compliant • Port Macquarie Senior Citizen Hall has check in counter and car rental service been reviewed and only the toilet in the desk. Pioneer Room is suitable to bring up to ° Provision of low-height DDA complainant DDA compliance at a cost of $15,000 flight information display screen to • Comboyne Hall installed new toilet at $77k departures lounge. (2018/2019). Completed ° Inclusion of hearing loops to the check in • amenities reconstructed due to and departure lounge areas vandalism. Completed ° Statutory signage inclusion. • Grant received through the Stronger ° Access Committee undertook an Country Communities Fund ($255,030) inspection of the new facility. for new amenities at PMQ Plaza car park. An additional contribution from the Access • Additional changes to the security and Committee resulted in the inclusion of an being accessible will be part of the adult change table & gantry hoist within this 2020/2021 report. facility. Completed • Reviewed. Access Committee decided not • Pilot Beach Amenities to be rebuilt to meet to proceed due to cost of mobi-mat ($26k all current standards Construction to start in for 60metres), inefficiencies of set up and October 2020. pack down requiring four staff twice per day and beach tractor, and difficulties with high • Blackbutt toilets to be upgraded in and low tide requiring different lengths of 2020/2021. Construction to start in matting. November 2020. • During 2020/2021 Recreation & Buildings • Allocated Grant for 2019/2020 to develop are to explore other options such as more off-leash dog exercise park in Port permanent solutions with recycled tyre Macquarie (Stuart Park Regional Sporting ramps. Precinct) Completed. • 2018/19 Budget $170 for 450 x brochures • Wauchope Dog Park Completed. These distributed to Visitor Information Centre, facilities will also be used by people with CSC’s & disability groups. assistance animals and guide dogs to train their puppies. Both Dog Parks include • 2019/2020 Budget $200 for signage to be seating and easy access for people with displayed at Shelly Beach. disability. • Detailed design of these facilities is • Wheelchair ramp to outdoor play space underway - completed installed. • $50k DIAP budget allocated for wheelchair- • DIAP Budget: $13k. Completed friendly carousel and playground fencing completed November 2018. • The terminal has been completed to meet requirements of AS1428, with specific • $10k DIAP budget contribution to Liberty access and mobility features incorporated Swing, Town Beach completed 2017/18. into the design including: • Site selection complete. Tender for detailed ° Provision of compliant ambulant and design and approval has closed, currently disabled amenities to both the male and reviewing submissions. Note: disability female landside and airside areas. access to be included within the facility’s design. ° Compliance with thresholds, walkways, ramps and landing grade requirements. • All council-owned buildings and facilities have been scoped and prioritised for

157 any access improvements. The Access • Supportive practices are used in Council’s Committee reviews this on an annual basis. recruitment processes, to remove potential • Port Macquarie Seniors Facility barriers to employment. investigating costings to install • A Health Plan template and process has • Compliant wheelchair-accessible amenities been introduced and is being actively 2020/2021 as per item 2.2. used. A health plan is a tool that supports reasonable adjustment in the workplace • $30k DIAP budget allocated for Town and documents adjustments and support Beach accessible picnic setting completed for employees who may have a temporary 2020/2021 or permanent disability or medical condition • $15k DIAP budget allocated to Kew that requires support. wheelchair-accessible picnic table and • During 2019/2020 there have been 23 shelter 2019/2020 employees who have been provided with • Auditing commenced with over 90 bus flexible working arrangements, adjusted stops reviewed. duties and other supports due to temporary and permanent disabilities acquired. • In 2019/2020 we installed five new bus shelters, funded via the NSW Government • Carer’s Leave Procedure reviewed and CPTIGS program, at: adopted June 2018. ° Port Macquarie x 2. • New Flexible Working Arrangements Policy is currently in draft, with consultation with ° Laurieton x 1. staff expected during 2020/2021. ° Wauchope x 1 Herons Creek x 1. Improving access to mainstream • Grate for Coles Port Macquarie taxi zone services through better systems and found to be not feasible and kerb ramp processes installed instead at taxi zone. • Council’s website is compliant with the • Rangers have continued to enforce illegal WCAG 2.0 AA checklist. Auto review parking in disabled zones. reminders are set for every 12 months. • 44 infringements were issued in the • Staff attended National Relay online 2019/2020 year for disability access training in late 2018 with updates set out to offences. Note: parking infringements staff regularly. were suspended for four months due to • COVID-19 We have the new staff familiarise themselves with the site and provide them • Access Committee has audited 127 with the link to the website and access to accessible parking spaces in Port the Tip Sheet. The online training is no Macquarie. An App is in early development longer available however there is a PDF stage with Geospatial Information Systems that shows an introduction to the relay calls team to input data on accessible car parks and we go through that with the new staff. in our local government area. Upon project • completion the app will be available for the The tip sheet& introduction information is in community and will be widely promoted. our team room for easy access. • No requests have come in for an alternative Supporting access to meaningful format to receive information. employment • Information is distributed in pdf format, • The Equity and Diversity Strategy recognised universally as the most 2019/2024 was adopted in November 2019. accessible format. The strategy outlines initiatives to promote diversity and inclusion within Council’s • In 2019/2020 $55,000 was allocated workforce. to large print, $27,000 was allocated to audio and $10,000 to Eaudio. The delivery

158 service for people who are housebound activities on Australia Day 2020 providing continued as normal except during the an inclusive sailing experience for all along COVID-19 lockdown. the . • Eight sessions delivered in 2019/2020 with • Ground level viewing areas made 44 participants up until February. March available adjacent to Town Square and on -June were cancelled due to COVID-19. Town Green as part of Council’s Annual • Annual budget spend for this program is Countdown to Christmas Celebrations held $1,062. in the CBD • • There was a shift in programming to digital Celebrations held in Wauchope and PMQ in programming and the following were 2020. delivered via digital platforms: • Collaboration between SailAbility NSW - ° 3D interactive digital tours - creating PMQ Branch and PMHC staged aquatic an opportunity for anyone to get up activities on Australia Day 2020 providing close and personal with the artworks on an inclusive sailing experience for all along display digitally. the Hastings River. • ° Zoom Craftanoons- an accessible Ground level viewing areas made program that assisted and delivered available adjacent to Town Square and on interactive learning. Town Green as part of Council’s Annual Countdown to Christmas Celebrations held • Attendants included elderly, young children in the CBD or teens and visually impaired, and people with mobility issues. Often attending the sessions with their carer each participant Port Stephens Council had access to personalised instruction. • Thanks to a $600,000 grant from the NSW Government, we built a new 750 metre-long ° Short films- digital up close and personal shared pathway to increase access to one with local and established artists. of our most popular parks. Boomerang Park Accessible to all. covers over 20 hectares and this pathway ° Online downloadable kids and makes it easier to access more areas craft activities - free resources with of this incredible regional park,’ said our instructions. Accessible to all. Mayor Ryan Palmer. The pathway has been • 215 companion card tickets issued in designed to meet accessibility requirements 2019/2020, noting the venue was only and provides better connections to operating for nine months due to COVID-19 accessible playground equipment, public toilets and rest areas. • JR Richards currently provides Wheel Out • - Wheel Back services to 48 residences We opened a new playground at Bagnalls and the service is available to any residents Beach East with inclusive play elements that require it (based on a property and accessible pathways connecting the assessment). car park, playground and BBQ. • • Opportunities will continue to be explored to We made access improvements to our include better viewing areas or platforms for public amenities at and future event design plans if the site permits. Mallabula tennis club. They now include an accessible toilet, shower and adult change • Ground level viewing areas made available facilities at side of VIP tents/side of stage at • Australia Day. We built a new recreation area at Robinson Reserve Anna Bay. The new park includes • Celebrations held in Wauchope and PMQ in accessible public amenities and an 2020. accessible basket swing. • Collaboration between SailAbility NSW - • We drafted a Public Domain Plan for PMQ Branch and PMHC staged aquatic Raymond Terrace. It includes accessible

159 parking and ways to promote accessibility • A mobility parking bay near St Gregory’s and mobility in the town centre and along school gate in Queanbeyan was relocated the riverside. to create two designated bays, an access • Our Council endorsed the Port Stephens area and a kerb ramp. Local Strategic Planning Statement — a • A mobility parking bay was completed at long-term vision for land use. It includes Jerrabomberra tennis courts. actions to encourage accessible tourism • A new inclusive playground was opened and the development of a Community at Braidwood Ryrie Park, catering for all Wellbeing Plan to promote accessibility and ages and abilities including a basket swing, inclusivity. accessible carousel, double flying fox with • We built a new multipurpose amenities an inclusive seat and the signature windmill building at Karuah’s Lionel Morton Oval combination climber. including accessible public amenities and • Funding has been secured for an adult accessible car parking. change table at Braidwood public toilets in • We’re continuing to make our Ryrie Park. communication channels user-friendly • A mobility parking bay near St Gregory’s for all by writing in plain English, making school gate in Queanbeyan was relocated our website and social media content to create two designated bays, an access accessible, and creating easy-read area and a kerb ramp. summaries for complex documents. • A mobility parking bay was completed at Jerrabomberra tennis courts. Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council Supporting access to meaningful employment Developing positive community attitudes and behaviours • Council’s Equal Employment Opportunity and Diversity Policy and Council documents • Council supported the annual celebration of were updated to encompass current diversity and inclusion event ‘Festival ONE’. language and requirements for workplace • Council employment application packs diversity. included inclusive statements encouraging • 92 Queanbeyan Palerang Regional Council applications from individuals with diverse (QPRC) staff completed the e-learning backgrounds or those with disability. disability module in 2019/2020. • Members of the public were consulted • New employees were provided information to resolve issues raised in relation to on a range of mental health support improving road safety and access for organisations, through the Employee pedestrians, cyclists and people with Assistance Program and Peer Support mobility scooters on a number of roads and Program. intersections in the region. Improving access to mainstream Creating liveable communities services through better systems and • A new inclusive playground was opened processes at Braidwood Ryrie Park, catering for all • Accessibility outcomes were incorporated ages and abilities including a basket swing, into the QPRC Community Engagement accessible carousel, double flying fox with and Participation Plan. an inclusive seat and the signature windmill combination climber. • ‘ReadSpeaker’ web reader was made available for users of the QPRC website. • Funding has been secured for an adult change table at Braidwood public toilets in • Council meetings were streamed online, Ryrie Park. making them accessible to all of the community.

160 • The Home Library Service was provided to • Held two Older Persons and Access any community members with disabilities, Advisory Committee meetings. These mobility or age-related limitations, meetings provided a forum for raising health conditions, or who were transport community issues of concern regarding disadvantaged. access; and also gave council the • Library staff consulted with people with opportunity to seek comments on specific disabilities to provide a range of programs projects and policies, e.g. the Recreation and resources relevant to their abilities, Needs Study. The number of Older Persons interests and needs. and Access Advisory Committee meetings held was lower than planned due to • In early 2020, Council established the COVID-19 restrictions COVID-care program to support residents affected by COVID-19. The program Creating liveable communities was established as a conduit between • Provided 25 designated accessible the community and service providers, parking spaces for residents with mobility with residents put in touch with suitable limitations, following an assessment of agencies. The program was advertised their needs. Information on applying for via social media, newspaper advertising, a designated accessible/mobility parking letterbox drop and Council’s e-newsletter. space is available on Council’s website. • Held National Disability Insurance Randwick City Council Scheme (NDIS) information sessions in Developing positive community partnership with St Paul’s Society NDIS attitudes and behaviours Area Coordinators to learn more about their role and how they can help people with a • Coordinated the Creative Opportunities disability and their carers, in understanding and Challenges COVID-19 Online forum and accessing the NDIS. for Aged and Disability Services and • Consumers. Held Safe TALK – Suicide Prevention Awareness Training Seminars in partnership • Coordinated the Advance Care Planning, with Lifeline providing suicide prevention Older People, Pain and Medication training for carers of someone with a mental seminars; as well as Safe Talk Suicide illness. Prevention Awareness Training for people • caring for someone at risk of suicide. Convened and resourced Eastern Sydney Aged and Disability Services Interagency • Delivered seminars on Healing Grief & meetings involving: Community service Loss, New treatments for Depression and providers, State and Federal Government other Psychotic Disorders, Understanding officers, and Local Government officers. Anxiety and Depression in COVID-19 and Regional issues are discussed at these Coping with COVID-19 for Carers. meetings, and opportunities for joint • Issued 262 infringement notices to persons projects are developed. parking illegally in designated accessible • Designed and built new and upgraded parking spaces. buildings in accordance with the relevant • Promoted a range of community and Building Code of Australia (BCA) and development-run programs through eNews Australian Standard access requirements. and Facebook. • Provided accessible transport to Council • Featured a story on accessibility in events such as the Eco Living Expo. Randwick City Council’s SCENE magazine Council events also provide accessible that listed a range of facilities, parks, entry and exit paths for people using buildings and beaches which are accessible wheelchairs, preferred wheelchair seating to everybody. allocation and accessible toilets.

161 • Held a Stay Standing six week falls greater use of on-line forms, reviewing the prevention program for people with mobility visibility of web pages, and making the impairments. Council’s website more readable on mobile • Held ‘Chasing Away the Black Dog’ seminar devices. on new treatment for depression to 90 • Council’s Brand Guidelines are also being participants. updated to ensure use of photography, language and typography is accessible and • Enabled persons with limited accessibility to representative of the diverse communities access activities through live streaming of of Randwick City. community events such as the Anzac Day Service, Virtual Spot Festival and a virtual • Provided a virtual tour of the Spot Festival, tour of the La Perouse Museum exhibition. live streamed events, and produced a virtual tour of the La Perouse Museum and • Installed ‘No Parking’ zones in preference its displays. to ‘No Stopping’ zones to allow for persons to drop off and pickup persons – which can • Rescheduled the production of an access be helpful for persons with limited mobility. map pending audit of access infrastructure. • Constructed 1.65km of new concrete This is to ensure that the newly constructed footpaths; renewed 1.34km of footpaths; access facilities are included in the access constructed 72 new kerb ramps; (including map. upgrade of non-compliant ramps) and • Promoted local accessible facilities, for upgraded 30 bus stops to comply with DDA example the installation of the new all- requirements. access beach mat at Malabar Beach. This • Provided financial support through included a front page photograph and story Council’s grants programs, and workshops in Council’s Scene Magazine. to assist persons to navigate the NDIS, and a community dance to celebrate Richmond Valley Council International Day of People with a Disability. Our highlights: Supporting access to meaningful • Accessible elements included in employment playground upgrades • Reviewed and amended Council’s • Analysis of key events to improve employment policies and practices to accessibility minimise barriers and improve opportunities for a diverse workforce, including persons • Continuous accessible paths of travel with a disability. included in new master planning exercises and continue to increase in regular • Advertised all major procurement maintenance of current paths opportunities in the Sydney Morning Herald, the tendering portal, and also on Council’s • Further improvements to Council’s website website to enable opportunities for relevant to standardise access social enterprises to tender. • Council also works with ON-Q which is • Two Disability Awareness sessions were a not for profit organisation, providing scheduled for staff but cancelled due to Disability Employment Support to enable COVID-19 restrictions. These are now being people to realise their full potential delivered virtually through meaningful employment, with one candidate achieving permanent Improving access to mainstream employment in 2019/2020. services through better systems and processes • Council’s recruitment processes now include a variety of Equal Employment • Made ongoing improvements to the opportunity questions in its initial application accessibly of website content by ensuring form. These include Do you have a the use of plain English, integrating a disability? 162 • Council also continued upgrades of playground renewals and upgrades the Stan Payne Oval playground area featured many accessible and inclusive ($80,000) in Evans Head with a new features. The new farm themed playground toilet, footpath network, barbecue and at McDonald Park, Albion Park Rail, is a picnic shelters, and a disability access highlight. The space incorporates a variety ramp to connect the site with the Evan of play opportunities suitable for a range Head Aquatic Centre carpark. Upgrades of ages and abilities. It includes a fusion were carried out to the Stan Payne Oval climber, an inclusive carousal, an activity playground in Evans Head. The works tower with a slide and interactive sensory included approximately 60m of replacement panels, a nature play trail and picnic shelter. footpath linking the nearby sealed carpark The new playground was officially opened with the playground, three new picnic on 3 July 2020. tables, a bench, barbecue area and a new Supporting access to meaningful disability access ramp from the carpark. employment • Main Beach foreshore ($185,510) in front • of the Evans Head-Casino Surf Life Saving Council participated in a cross council Club. The project was made possible forum including Wollongong, Shoalhaven, by a successful grant application to the Kiama and Shellharbour Councils as NSW Government’s Stronger Country well as representatives from LGNSW Communities Fund and delivered a raft of and Campbell Page recruitment to modern improvements to the busy area discuss strategies for reducing barriers to including redesigned beach access points employment for people with disabilities. and viewing platforms, new showers with This work was put on hold due to COVID raised decks, a new sandstone retaining and will recommence again shortly. wall, and wheelchair and pram accessibility. Improving access to mainstream services through better systems and Shellharbour City Council processes Developing positive community Many of Council’s systems and processes attitudes and behaviours are being improved to ensure they are more • One of the key ways Council promotes accessible and inclusive. Incorporating positive community attitudes and access and inclusion considerations during behaviours towards people with disability preliminary planning ensures that that the is through the support of International needs of people with disabilities and their Day of People with Disability. In support support networks are key considerations in all of this event, Council coordinated the stages of land use and project development. production and distribution of the ‘Calendar Highlights include developing: of Events’. The calendar covered the period • A Local Strategic Planning Statement of 23 November to 11 December 2019 (LSPS) that includes a range of planning and featured 22 events hosted by eight priorities and actions on how Council will organisations. Several hundred people deliver the land use planning vision over attended the range of events on offer. the next 20 years. It demonstrates an • Council hosted activities included free use understanding of the changes that will of Council’s pools for the calendar period, shape Shellharbour City’s future, so that a craft session, movie marathon, as well as we can create a future that is desirable for information sessions on the NDIS (National our community and visitors. This includes Disability Insurance Scheme). recognition of the needs of people with disability. Creating liveable communities • An updated Open Space and Recreation • The Disability Access and Inclusion Needs Study and Strategy, that has looked Plan advocates that inclusive parks are at the open spaces across the City. The needed across the City. This year, Council study has reviewed what open spaces we 163 have and provides actions on how we can • National construction code has been improve these spaces to best meet the updated in 2019. Lift and change facilities needs of growing population. are now required for large sports stadiums • Master Plans for key recreational areas at and large shopping Centres. Council McDonald Park and Reddall Reserve, to adopted a lift and change masterplan include destination inclusive facilities. in 2020 to increase facilities across the Shoalhaven for the next 10 years. A priority list of twenty public toilets was adopted Shoalhaven City Council in June 2018. Out of those 20 four toilets are to accommodate people living with Demonstrate and promote a culture of disabilities. disability awareness and inclusion • National toilet map is updated annually • Staff have previously completed online to include locations of all accessible content creation training. Disability toilets in the Shoalhaven. The locations of awareness training planned for Council accessible toilets can be found at https:// staff, training was planned to commence toiletmap.gov.au/. mid 2020. Due to COVID training was postponed, currently reviewing how to Plan to progressively increase the amount incorporate the training to an online of continuous accessible paths of travel to platform for all staff. key destinations within the Shoalhaven • Work is currently underway with Councils • A formal structure for community Senior Business Improvement Specialist consultation exists through IAAG and to ensure future funding prioritisation for report will be provided through assets and actions. traffic as required. A workshop was held • Council’s corporate documents do 28th October for IAAG to view priority incorporate on a regular basis a range maps for selected locations throughout the of abilities, ages, cultures, and disability Shoalhaven. diversity. This approach will continue and • Council has re-established an annual ongoing enhancements to our photo library allocation of funds for new footpaths and are continuing. works with the State Government (RMS) to • Council continually promote and support maximise the amount of grant funding that events promoting disability and inclusion as allows a continual extension of the cities part of our ongoing work. network of cycleways and accessible paths. • Council reviewed the accessible pathway Progressively increase the availability of and cross in the vicinity of Nowra Aquatic accessible toilets across the Shoalhaven Park. Existing path network deemed to be • Council current priority with public toilets is accessible under national code. to replace • Council’s first accessible and inclusive ° Existing. event policy was completed. Meeting ° Highly utilised toilets. Guidelines being developed. • ° At the end of their life or before their Further work occurring on improvement condition detracts patronage. internal meeting rooms and meeting space. • ° That do not comply with current Commenced - Community Development accessibility standards. Council has currently investigating options to develop a 120 Public amenities of which 78 meet template for an accessible event checklist the needs of persons with disabilities to ensure increased inclusion options for enabling inclusivity. Council’s strategy is SCC events to provide toilets that can be modified or • Ensure NAIDOC Organiser have inclusive replaced by accessible toilets. event guidelines.

164 Progressively increase accessibility and the Shoalhaven with posted signage inclusion of places of recreation, learning at all locations notifying community of and leisure. chairs. This information is also available throughout SCC website and promoted • Nowra Library attended inclusive service throughout the media leading into the training and sought grant funding to summer holiday season. purchase accessible computer desks for each library branch • Barfleur beach Vincentia beach access is currently in initial concept design. This • Libraries acquired several resources for was sourced through grant funding. Other people with print disabilities including: locations are on hold. ° Dyslexia-friendly collection of 180 youth • Currently All-inclusive Play and junior books held at Shoalhaven space is the only fully fenced park. Marriot Libraries. Park Masterplan includes a fenced Play ° eBook service (Overdrive) has dyslexic Space and Clifton Park is partially fenced. font as an option on platform/eMagazine. This Information is on Councils website. ° eNewspaper database/ (Pressreader) • The major Boongaree Oval masterplan has text to voice capabilities. includes for all facilities to be fully ° Large print books have been purchased accessible, including parking, amenities, and are available for loan at Shoalhaven children’s play areas and other recreational Libraries areas. This requirement is specifically identified in the Brief to the project’s Project ° A growing collection of audio books in Manager. The project is scheduled to various formats have been added to the be completed in 2021.Accessible BBQs collection installed at. ° Extension of Council’s Home Library ° Parkes Crescent Reserve, Tilbury Service to members of the community Reserve, that are not able to physically access ° library services. Moona Creek Reserve Accessible toilets at. ° Information on accessible library ° resources. Clifton Park, Parkes Crescent, Moona Creek Accessible Picnic Tables/Shelters. • Engagement being done under Pop-up ° art workshops, accessible and inclusive Moona Creek, Mark Radium Park, workshops that can cater to people living Crookhaven Headland, with a disability. ° Accessible Playgrounds; Clifton Park, • In 2020 Shoalhaven Regional Gallery Gumley Reserve, Yulunga Reserve. hosted an exhibit ‘An Unending Shadow’ • Council are working on a range of projects exploring the impact of dementia on which seek to increase or improve families and communities and a solo show accessibility of public spaces, some by local artist Bernard McGrath who has significant projects include (but are not early on-set Parkinson’s Disease. limited to): • Self-managed NDIS funded patrons are ° Plantation Point installation of new continuing to undertake programs in Learn inclusive playground with accessible to Swim and Teen gym programs. Self- equipment including carousel and liberty managed patrons also utilise the swim and swing, and construction of new amenities fitness centers facilities, engaging with building fit with adult lift and change physiotherapists and exercise physiologists. facilities. • Council have beach wheelchairs available ° Adoption of Marriott Park Masterplan for hire from seven locations throughout and preparation of concept plan of an inclusive play space. The Masterplan

165 includes a range of accessible • Front counter of the Nowra information components including new accessible Centre has been redesigned to meet amenities building, new inclusive accessible standard and display stands play space fit with various accessible have been placed to allow access for equipment pieces, accessible car people with mobility limitations. parking, improved and widened footpath that circulates around the entire park. Continue to encourage, support and promote accessible tourism in the ° Conjola Park improvements are being Shoalhaven delivered at Hoylake Grove Reserve following the allocation of grant funds • The ‘Shoalhaven Visitor Guide’ is an annual towards establishing an accessible publication with 100,000 copies printed electric BBQ and accessible picnic table and distributed and thousands downloaded and shelter. online per year. The Tourism team is committed to promoting accessible tourism ° The development of Boongaree at throughout the guide. Berry has commenced with Stage 1 commencing in September 2020, • A double page spread was published in which includes inclusive play space the 2018 visitor guide showcases inclusive with accessible equipment including itinerary, product, and a link to itsheaven. carousel and flying fox, construction of org for further inclusive detail. A double new amenities building fit with adult lift page spread in the 2019 guide highlighting and change facilities and inclusion of accessible experiences and linking out improved parking including accessible to our long-time partner itsheaven.org. parking spaces. shoalhaven.com/guide. 2020 guide covers a range of inclusive and accessible Increase awareness of accessible parking activities, as well as continuing to promote • Rangers proactively patrol known inclusive tourism. accessible parking areas throughout the • Landing page with accessible product and City concentrating in our towns, villages, inclusive itineraries prominent on Tourism and coastal areas seven days a week. website homepage, and continued project Active enforcement action has been taken to collect accessible information from to deter, detect, raise awareness, and operators for itsheaven.org/shoalhaven. provide education. In 2019 Rangers have com/inclusive. Website continues to update issued 172 penalty notices and 72 warnings and provide accessible itineraries. for vehicles found parked within accessible • Tourism website has been upgraded and is parking areas without a valid permit currently at WCAG 2.0 AA Standard. or reason. Rangers also report on any defective or vandalised signage observed Progressively enable the provision of to ensure accessible spaces are maintained inclusive forms of communications and to standard and clearly identified. alternative formats when required Improve access to Council operated • Council branding guidelines host buildings and providing better way finding information on accessibility and inclusion. Executive Strategy staff attended • The Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre Accessible Content Creation Training. has increased the number of accessible Council new website meets WCAG 2.1 seats in the Auditorium from two to 10. This AA standards and the platform used to new seating plan has been used for all build the site has a certification from Vision performances from January 2018. Internet Australian. bookings are not possible for reserving accessible seats; however, telephone • Council offer translation services in over booking fees are waived for people 150 languages through TIS. Further requiring an accessible seat. resource allocation needed to create

166 additional guidelines. Several details are an inclusive approach. Human Resources already included in existing guidelines and to finalize the review before reporting to documentation. Council Executive Management Team. • Council web developer has obtained • Council work with disability employment WCAG accreditation and Council new agencies to promote available opportunities website meets WCAG 2.1 AA standards within the organisations. This is part of and the platform used to build the site has a Council’s workforce plan. Council have certification from Vision Australian. collated list of disability employment • Council page has been updated to services. However, under the Local include information on speech, hearing Government Act recruitment is based on and interpreter services when contacting merit and all applicants must meet these Council. requirements • Data being collected in relation to disability Review all Council complaint and feedback access and inclusion as part of the on-line processes to ensure they are accessible to recruitment process. No disability declared people with disability during the reporting period. • Council currently have three options for reporting complaints and problems, those Singleton Council include online, in person and phone, • These plans have been developed in Further work is required to scope out other collaboration with the Disability Advisory ways for people to leave feedback such Committee and the community to ensure as Talk to Text capabilities.’ This requires greater participation for people with a costing. disability in all aspects of life in Singleton. Develop a process to ensure that • Disability Advisory Committee meetings access and inclusion is systematically ° Bi-monthly meetings held August 2019, incorporated into policy development October 2019, December 2019, February • Review of council polices to identify public/ 2020, April 2020, and June 2020. community facing polices. Next step is ° International Day of People with ensuring Community Development are Disability Project subcommittee consulted with these policies are reviewed. continues to plan an annual event. Community Development will provide feedback to the policy custodian in relation ° Access Audit sub-committee formed to to access and inclusion practices monitor the development of Access Audit 2020. • Review of council polices to identify public/ community facing polices. Next step is ° Meetings attended by community ensuring Community Development are members, councillors, community consulted with these policies are reviewed. development officers, Asset Community Development will provide management officer and various guest feedback to the policy custodian in relation speakers including Singleton Track and to access and inclusion practices. Field, Accessibility in the City, Spinal Life Australia, Harry Kirkwood. Review recruitment and employment • Accessible Events checklist developed processes to ensure they are barrier free to and implemented for each event held by candidates who have a disability Singleton Council and made available • Equal Employment Opportunity to event organisers within the local Management Plan draft was reviewed to government area includes; reflect Councils core values. Community ° Provisions for accessible toilets, signage, Development staff have reviewed and seating, public transport, parking and provided feedback on the plan to ensure assistance dogs.

167 • Including You are accessible elements • Spot checks have been completed on including the Tepee with soft toys, council community facilities which have weighted pillows, fidgets, noise cancelling resulted in; headphones and vision kits are available ° Kerb and footpath works including pram for use at the Library, the Visitor Centre, ramps have been installed in various community events and council facilities. locations to increase accessibility. • Accessible events planned during ° Disability parking has been upgraded 2019/2020 included Christmas on at Singleton Mall to meet Australian John Street, Twilight on 25th January, Standards Emergency Services Day on 16th March, Singleton Festival in April and Firelight in • The completion of the all-abilities May however due to catastrophic bushfires playgrounds at Rose Point Park and and COVID-19 these were cancelled. Riverside Park are significant achievements in providing accessible facilities for the • An International Day for People with community and have been featured in state Disability sub-committee formed to hold awards. a high tea with Harrison Kirkwood (Past member of the State Youth Advisory • Council has also supported Singleton Track Council, youth ambassador for Save Sight and Field to address accessibility elements institute, past member National Disability at Alroy Oval. and Carer Advisory Council, current • Address access issues with the Town member of Guide Dog Advisory Council) as Centre Revitalisation guest speaker on 3 December 2019. ° Presentation on stage two design and • Sponsorship received from Glencore consultation held with Disability Access Hunter Valley Operations $1500, Hello Committee. world Travel $800, Arts Upper Hunter $500, ° Majestic Cinemas $50 voucher. Submissions on design called for. • • In lieu of Singleton Stories for 2019/2020, Singleton Public Library provides resources a high tea was held on 3rd. December to assist people with vision or hearing to celebrate International Day for People impairment as well as those residents with with Disability and recognise the efforts of reduced mobility. committee members and guest speakers ° In 2019/2020 the library had 1,953 who have contributed to the work of the large print books and 779 audio books Disability Advisory Committee over the past available for loan. Access to 1,392 12 months. The event showcased guest electronic audio books and 5,000 speaker Harrison Kirkwood at the event and electronic magazine titles (and their back through local media. issues) was also offered. • The Disability Advisory Committee ° The Home Library Service provided commissioned an updated Accessibility regular home deliveries to residents with Audit on 14 Council owned buildings which reduced mobility, including 700 individual was delivered in two stages. Part one was and 174 institutional visits throughout delivered by June 30th and included six of the year, resulting in a combined total of the 14 buildings. 88,694 loans delivered. • The Access Audit sub-committee was ° During COVID-19 restrictions the Library formed to monitor the progress of the introduced new programs to continue Audit and report regularly to the Disability servicing the community throughout. Advisory Committee. ° LIB-olation resulted in 224 deliveries • The Access Audit sub-committee throughout the local government area of recommended actions on the audit as it 2,352 items, covering 1,768kms. proceeded. ° 95 Call & Collect requests produced

168 937 loans and 85 digital programming installed in various locations to increase sessions were delivered, with 4,500 accessibility. Disability parking has been views over 80,000 minutes. upgraded at Singleton Mall to meet ° The Library Service saw an increase Australian Standards in home lending, due to COVID-19 • Council partnered with Ability Links to restrictions include a number of innovative elements which improve inclusivity at our events and • Council supported Singleton Track and facilities. Elements of the ‘Including You’ Field to address accessibility elements at Tent including the Tepee with soft toys, Alroy Park and Oval. weighted pillows and fidgets are available • Singleton Track and Field successfully at the Library to encourage accessibility. gained funding for a regional level all The noise cancelling headphones and abilities long jump pit. vision kits are available for use at the • Establishing Council as a disability friendly Library, the Visitor Centre, community employer - Adjustable workspaces including events and council facilities. desks installed • Assist with the transition of people with Snowy Monaro Regional Council disability into the workforce - Ongoing Developing positive community support for programs, such as the Careers attitudes and behaviours pathway Programs which support all • abilities employment Successful International Day of People with Disability events held in Cooma and • Council website enhances the accessibility Jindabyne. of Council information to both staff and • residents. Website meets the principles Ongoing engagement with schools has and standards outlined in the Web Content been productive. Accessibility Guidelines 2.0. Features • Continued direct service provision of NDIS include use of plain English, change text services. size, navigate pages using their keyboard, Creating liveable communities photo captions, and page design and page structure with assistant technologies in • Accessibility upgrades to pedestrian mind. infrastructure during maintenance and as • Staff training to enhance understanding of BAU. disability access is ongoing. • Achieved access upgrades to Council • Provision of a single source of information facilities e.g. electric door at Head Office, online through a quality website for council Cooma. - https://www.singleton.nsw.gov.au/507/ • Visitors Centre upgrades, streetscape Disability-Services projects. • Council’s Asset Management Plan contains • Inclusive and Accessible Community elements of the DIAP objectives and Events policy drafted. recognises Council’s access and inclusion vision and objectives Supporting access to meaningful employment • Council’s customer service delivery continues to meet best practice standards • Information on inclusion and Inclusive for quality. Communities made available on staff intranet. • A number of priority access issues have been addressed in the Singleton CBD and • The move to increased working from home street scapes including the Queen Street and use of online platforms has enabled connection and cycle way on Allan Bull new types of participation for many Council reserve. In addition, kerb and footpath employees. works including pram ramps have been 169 Improving access to mainstream • Competing priorities, especially bushfire services through better systems and recovery. processes • Changing environment, especially • The bushfire season highlighted gaps in COVID-19 related (many events cancelled communication and information processes or postponed e.g. Business Awards). for people with disability, older people, • Engagement: we were unable to recruit and people with vulnerabilities. Our a suitably representative membership for communication actions, in partnership with an Inclusion Action Committee so this has other stakeholders such as the LEMC, been postponed. aimed to ensure that information was • Organisational awareness of the DIAP and accurate, timely and accessible. We worked its objectives. with local service providers to ensure that emergency services were aware of vulnerable people where appropriate, and Snowy Valleys Council that additional supports were deployed. Developing positive community • Through the Health and Wellbeing attitudes and behaviours Recovery Subcommittee we have • There has been a shift across the capitalised on existing resources for organisation in awareness of the plan and recovery and preparedness such as the responsibility for actions. AIDER program and Red Cross RediPlan. • The shift towards online platforms has Creating liveable communities expanded on the offering of physical spaces, • The surfacing of the pathway for Adelong e.g. Library programs. There are now more Creekscape was changed from the services easily accessible from home and original plans to a surface that would be has led to increased engagement with the wide enough and be smooth and level to physical spaces where possible. accommodate mobility devices. How have you determined that you’re • The Rail Trail has been developed with meeting the needs of people with all abilities in mind, enabling access to disability? the outdoors that is safe and provides • Continued engagement with community opportunities for exercise or to be able to groups and networks that include people enjoy as everyone else does. with a disability and service providers. • Upgrades to gardens and facilities were • Consultation with service recipients and undertaken with disability access in mind. their families/carer. Plants that allow sensory function through smell, sight and touch have been planted, • Feedback included in community disability accessible toilets installed, all development scoping documents abilities play equipment and parking spaces Describe your successes in delivering to accommodate vehicles that carry mobility on the DIAP devices created. • Partnerships with service-providing Supporting access to meaningful organisations Increase in positive employment behaviours and attitudes; more people • Council renewed Resource Recovery seeing inclusion as a fundamental principle Services Agreement with VALMAR Support and actively working towards. Services VALMAR for recycling services in Describe your challenges in delivering the Local Government Area. on the DIAP • Council Human Resources have agreement • Staff capacity. with Snowy Valleys School to accept • Cost, in particular retrospective accessibility students on work placement. upgrades. 170 • Council has staff who have disability are in facilities and carpark areas, trip hazards employed in meaningful work across the for sight impaired and the elderly and organisation. general access issues to businesses and facilities. Improving access to mainstream services through better systems and Describe your challenges and processes successes in delivering on your parts of the DIAP • A hearing loop was installed at the refurbished Counter customer service • COVID -19 has brought changes to the counter in . way the DIARG interact. Most of the meetings were via ZOOM which inhibited • The council’s website continues relationship participation for some members. At the with IDEAS disability services, with a same time this created a change in thinking direct link to local and Australian disability and achieving actions of the DIAP services. • The council’s website has ReadSpeaker Is there anything else you’re doing or installed to help people that suffer from planning for the future to contribute reading difficulties, dyslexia, visual to greater outcomes for people with impairment, but also non-native English disability users and Seniors to access council’s • Disability access and facilities at the website information. refurbishment of the Tumut Swimming Pool. How have you determined that you’re • Evaluation and further development of the meeting the needs of people with DIARG for 2021 – 2025. disability? • Inviting feedback from people with disability • This has been achieved through monthly on draft plans before proceeding to gain meetings of the Disability Inclusion insight into possible issues and what needs Access Reference Group (DIARG). The to be considered for people with disability. membership is people with disability, • Creation of Equal Opportunities plan. carers of people with disability, disability organisations and community members. The DIARG consults with the wider Strathfield Municipal Council community and feeds back to the monthly • Strathfield Council developed a new meetings. Council has a Community Disability Inclusion Action Plan for 2020- Welfare group who meet bi-monthly, they 2024 feed identified disability issues to the • Strathfield Council became a member of DIARG, who in turn identify solutions or Australian Network on Disability in June make recommendations to Council. 2020 • When issues or ideas arise about council • facilities and events, the relevant people Worked in partnership with Settlement within council are invited to DIARG Services International, Chalmers Road meetings to discuss and identify possible School and Strathfield South High School solutions. to create an educational video for our local community in celebration of International • Another indication is that this year saw the Day of People with Disability start of all thirty six actions of the Disability • Inclusion Action Plan and completion of 13 EOI for membership to join Access and actions. Mobility Committee in late 2020. First meeting to commence in March 2021. • Besides the thirty-six actions of the plan, • Launch of new Community Directory other issues for people with disability have been fed back such as off – leash areas for ° Will include a section on disability dogs, the need for installation of hand rails services

171 • Disability page on the website Sutherland Shire Council ° Kept with up to date information Our Disability Inclusion Action Plan 2017- • Synthetic Sports field Strathfield Park 2020 outlines our commitment to ensuring and Cooke Park build November 2019. that people with disability are provided with Pathways built around the field to make it the facilities and services that enable them more accessible to the whole community for to participate fully in the community. Below viewing purposes. is a report on outcomes achieved during 2019/2020: • Bark Huts amenities building built in June 2019 & Cooke Park amenities building built Developing positive community November 2019 attitudes and behaviours ° Both include disabled toilets and • Community Development staff give advice improved accessibility with pathways to and guidance regarding issues related to the buildings access and inclusion. • The new Strathfield Park amenities building • An inclusion guideline has been developed has been designed to enable disabled within our Children’s Services, to inform access daily practices. • The new Maze project at Hudson park is • Autism Unpacked community seminar designed to enable disabled access. This provided in collaboration with the St George will include a large sensory garden for the and Sutherland Disability Interagency whole community to enjoy. • Accessing NDIS for people with • The Strathfield Library and Innovation Hub Psychosocial Disability webinar held in underwent a new refurbishment. collaboration with the St George and ° Includes accessible toilets Sutherland Shire Mental Health Interagency and Disability Interagency ° Ensured all areas of the library are accessible including a ramp and lift • Two NDIS Help Desk events held in collaboration with St Vincent de Paul NDIS ° Sensory Oasis Tents are available which Local Area Coordinator provides a sanctuary for children and young adults who become overwhelmed • Early Childhood Early Intervention webinar by noise, smells, lights, crowds and held in collaboration with Lifestart NDIS other types of sensory input. These were Partner in the Community donated by St Vincent De Paul Society. • ShireAbility Film Competition celebrating ° Xtra Eyes are available which provide ‘ability and inclusion’ for International Day an inclusive and comfortable space for of People with Disability with screenings people who may have low vision. These held at Hazelhurst Art Gallery and Cronulla were donated by St Vincent De Paul Cinemas. Society. • ShireAbility Family Fun Day held • Council audited all 1106 pram /pedestrian at Centenary Park in celebration of ramps towards the end of last year and International Day of People with Disability. have come up with a plan to repair and • Council supported Tune In Festival for make good those that are non-compliant Mental Health Month providing 13 in-person • New bus stop covered sheds are currently and online events for the community. being rolled out that have the latest • Disability Confidence Training provided for disabled code features employees with 20 attendees exploring • Town centre was concepts of disability, its definitions and the upgraded with new footpaths, that are level myths and facts surrounding it, as well as and without trips respectful language and communication.

172 Creating liveable communities Supporting access to meaningful employment • Our libraries and community services are providing Auslan interpreter services at their • We have a varied range of employment key events. types and employees to add diversity to • Accessible beaches program included over Council’s makeup. Meaningful employment $30,000 of accessibility improvements opportunity is provided, giving a sense of for Cronulla beach, including electric and purpose, belonging and value. beach wheelchairs and Mobi Mat providing • Children’s Services have continued to access to Cronulla Beach for people with a provide employment and volunteer work to disability. support people with disability. • A ‘Changing Places’ accessible toilet is • Through our annual Access and Inclusion planned for North Cronulla Surf Life Saving Award, Shire businesses are motivated Club. to consider access and inclusion and a • A ‘planning accessible events’ checklist is diverse workforce as good for business. included in our events tool kit, available on • Employment webinar provided in our website to assist event planners. The collaboration with the St George and event application also includes reference to Sutherland Shire Disability Interagency. recognition of the Companion Card. • Disability employment provider used for • Access Audits were undertaken on Council’s internal catering. Sutherland and Cronulla Libraries. Improving access to mainstream • Hearing Loops available in Council services through better processes and Chambers. systems • Customers can communicate with Council • Action items from the Access Committee via the National Relay Service. are investigated and outcomes reported • Accessibility considerations have been back to the Committee in a timely manner. made for the Cronulla Masterplan. • Access Committee formed the ShireAbility • Accessibility considerations have been Working Party to organise events for made for the Sutherland Entertainment International Day of People with Disability Centre. and promote inclusive events across Sutherland Shire. • Playground by Children’s Services, to ensure accessibility for all children • Council’s Children’s Services staff continue regardless of ability. to provide quality inclusive practices so that children’s needs are being met and • Sport Services have updated the website responded to appropriately. We work to provide an All Abilities page highlighting collaboratively with the Inclusion Support inclusive opportunities to play sport. program agency to embed inclusion • Home library services deliver to any strategies and practices, increase community member with disability who knowledge, skills and confidence of requests the service. Format and content educators, all centres have developed a is tailored to customer preferences and Service Support Plan. assistance is provided to use technology to • Community consultations for Masterplans access content. have included accessibility considerations • Library purchases dyslexic-friendly formats and focus groups with people with disability and readers/audiobooks, hold regular have been undertaken to inform design for sessions for school groups with disability accessible and inclusive facilities. and children’s programs include content • We continue to strengthen our connection that portrays children of all abilities e.g. with disability services in the local area books, song sheets.

173 and investigate ways we can respond • Year 1 - approximately 2.5km of new proactively to the NDIS via the Disability shared path- of the Cycling Towns and Interagency. Priority Cycleways funding programs • Creation of DIAP Working Party to review has been delivered -. Years 2 & 3 of the the 2017-2021 DIAP and provide input for program expected to be delivered in next the 2021-25 DIAP. 12 months (remaining $2 million). • Forest Road shared path which provides a safe route to the Mountain Bike Park has Tamworth Regional Council been completed. Awaiting finalisation of • The last update to the Disability Action design from TfNSW to complete Goonoo Working Group (DAWG) terms of reference Goonoo Road project. was in 2019. • Secured $850,000 for the construction of a • ‘Auslan signing events at the Library in 2.5m wide shared path along Kent Street 2019. from Duri Road through to Goonoo Goonoo • Read Aloud Accessible software included in Road. Council website. • 32 new pram ramps were constructed: • Five TRC venues have hearing loops North Barraba 4; West Barraba: 3; Manilla installed: The YOUTHIE, Capitol Theatre, 2; North Tamworth 8; East Tamworth 8; Community Centre, AELEC, and Sports South Tamworth 7. Dome. • Mobility Maps for the region are available • Tamworth Regional Council Sports Dome in Council’s website https://www.tamworth. organised and delivered the Disability nsw.gov.au/live/community/aged-and- Expo in partnership with Rugby NSW, Jack disability/access-and-inclusion. Newton Junior Golf, Pickleball NSW and • Tamworth Access Guide is available online. Country Rugby League. It is estimated that 50 community members participated in sports activities. Temora Shire Council • Regular DAWG meetings were held. Developing positive community attitudes and behaviours • A transport provider is a permanent member of the Disability Action Working • Ongoing progress in relation to creation of Group. accessibility guidelines for events in Temora Shire. • The Regional Disability Transport Hub working group are facilitating the • Access and inclusion criteria have been construction of a Disability Hub at a site included in the Event Application Form. within Taminda. • Direct Me guide has been developed and • Council has been unsuccessful with funding updated in early 2020. Direct Me uses applications and continues to explore a diverse range of images and includes funding opportunities for the construction of information on NDIS & disability services. a Disability Hub at Bicentennial Park. • Review access to public buildings and • The Tamworth CBD High Pedestrian Activity businesses in conjunction with TBEG - Zone (HPAZ), reducing the speed limit to ongoing review and improvements where 40km/hour and the construction/installation new development requires upgrades to of various pedestrian improvements such existing entrances. as kerb blisters, concrete medians, line • New accessible toilets provided at Temora marking, lighting and signage have been Memorial Town Hall. New ramp entry to completed building. • 3.5km of new footpath across the region completed.

174 Creating liveable communities past months with staff working remotely due to COVID restrictions. Flexible work • Accommodation for people with disability - practices are also the norm given the new home under construction – estimated number of part time positions. The impact move in date for clients is February 2021. on the rest of the organisation always Will have vacancy for one additional needs to be considered in these instances. client (pending individualised Supported Independent Living funding). • HR officer investigating options for suitable disability awareness training to staff as well • Upgrades to Temora Recreation Centre as Councillors. completed with new accessible change room and toilets, new paths and automatic Improving access to mainstream door entry, accessible gate exit. services through better systems and • Access improved at upgraded sporting processes facilities – Nixon Park accessible toilet, • Stock photo images have been taken to paths and club house entry, Temora West include people with disability engaging Sports field accessible toilet, in the community. Publications including Recreation Ground. Direct Me and News, along with • Access improved at Gloucester Park social media and websites all include a playground – new paths around equipment. diverse range of images. • • Access improved at Lake Centenary Pinnacle Community Services promotes playground – new paths around equipment. NDIS and continues to support clients to navigate the NDIS system through • New playground at Nixon Park including assistance with plan reviews, plan rubber soft fall and path access. implementation and support to liaise with • Plans for upgrades to community facilities allied health and GPs. are presented to the Access and Equity • Pinnacle Community Services promotes Committee for their review and input at the available NDIS support services through design stage – including Temora Library social media and other opportunities as outdoor reading room and toilet upgrades, they arise. Temora Arts Centre extension and • refurbishment. Pinnacle Community Services has a presence at local interagency meetings. • Review existing accessible car space • provision – ongoing in conjunction with Council’s website also provides linkages to Access and Equity Committee. NDIS. • • New accessible car parking spaces Health services are promoted through provided at Lake Centenary and Temora Direct Me. Memorial Town Hall. • Client survey undertaken – poor response • Ongoing improvements to Council footpaths to extending the hours of operation of in accordance with footpath plan and in community transport. response to new development demands. • Meeting held with Taxi providers in March Supporting access to meaningful 2020. Discussions on how collaboration may be possible between Pinnacle and Taxi employment service - Put on hold due to COVID-19. • Progress community-based employment • There has been an ongoing management opportunities – review council’s of staffing levels to maintain service level procurement policy to address local and provisions to meet the needs of all Pinnacle social benefit – ongoing. Community Services clients. • Working from home or remote • Encouragement and support provided to environments has been well tested in the Support staff to complete relevant training to increase knowledge and skills to enable 175 optimum client care in relation to Pinnacle • Sport and recreation access – planning Community Services clients. occurs in regard to access to sport and • Ongoing recruitment of support staff will recreation opportunities and any ways continue to be monitored to ensure ongoing that we could do better or have better service provision levels in relation to approaches. This is then reflected in access Pinnacle Community Serves clients can be planning. maintained. • The upgrade to toilet facilities at Shirley • Undertake systems mapping to support Park has been completed. collective impact for disability inclusion • Construction of a new toilet block at across the Interagency Network – ongoing. Memorial Hall which encompasses • Council representatives attend local accessibility requirements is near Interagency meetings. completion. This hall is also used as our evacuation centre therefore these changes • Narraburra News, Temora Independent are vital for creating a more accessible & facebook used to recruit volunteers. place. Pinnacle’s MOWs supports persons with disability to volunteer for Meals On Wheels Progress has been made in: (MOW) delivery to residents, enabling • Our local cinema and theatre creates social connections that would not otherwise inclusive events. have occurred. Temora Library also supports persons with disability to volunteer • All events at our local library are accessible with suitable tasks. by people with disabilities. Our toilet facilities are also accessible. Tenterfield Shire Council • Seniors Week and Youth Week planning considers access needs to ensure that the Developing positive community activities are inclusive. attitudes and behaviours • With State Government grant funding Our actions: Council has constructed new accessible • Disability Inclusion Access Advisory amenities at Legume, Liston, Urbenville and Committee meetings occurred when Drake. possible. • Our town library, Tenterfield Public Library • Distribution of information and any potential has outreach services to Drake, Torrington funding opportunities. and Urbenville. Progress has been made in: • Building infrastructure upgrades also to our Council Chambers and Council building • The library promotes the services available that includes access ramps and increased for people living with disabilities on accessibility to services. Council’s website, in Council’s newsletter and the online Tenterfield in Touch Supporting access to meaningful newsletter when and where appropriate. employment

Creating liveable communities Our actions: Our progress: • Recruitment practices – Tenterfield Shire • All events consider inclusive planning for Council has a meaningful number of staff our community. with identified disabilities on the payroll including audio visual dyslexia, autism and • Infrastructure projects are planned numeracy and literacy issues. considering creating more liveable communities. • Several employees are receiving training with a view to ultimately gaining • Funding proposals and grant applications employment. consider how to best create a liveable community for our Shire. 176 Our progress: • Website planning and information sharing • Building upgrades to our local Council takes into account all members of our chambers and main administration building community to enhance accessibility. have included enhanced access. How have you determined that you’re • The Council Works depot has had meeting the needs of people with additional works with upgrades to access disability? including an accessibility ramp. This will • Feedback has been received from provide a greater opportunity to employ our community in regard to uneven or people with disabilities and will provide incomplete footpaths and parking access in easier access for community members and our central business district in particular. people with disabilities. • Tenterfield Shire Council has upgraded • The Tenterfield Visitors Information Centre paving in our central business area to has had electronic automatic doors installed ensure accessibility of people with a for increased accessibility and has disability disability. accessible toilet facilities. • Feedback and concerns raised by the Improving access to mainstream community in regard to the needs for services through better systems and people living with disability in our Shire processes has been fed back to numerous Council departments for planning considerations. Our actions: For example parking planning, toilet • Website accessibility–our website is now upgrades and accessibility enhancement more accessible and access to information planning. is easier and more user friendly. • This has been incorporated into current • Community transport–is provided within our and future planning by reporting back to Shire and information is shared between the various departments within Council for our community organisations on events action. happening and services available. Describe your challenges and • Free access to computers is available at successes in delivering on your parts Tenterfield library for all community users. of the DIAP • Home library service for the town area is • Challenges - Some of our small businesses provided for those who may experience have toilet facilities down a number of stairs accessibility issues. and a lot of entrances into the shops are a • A wide selection of large print books big step up. Heritage considerations also and Talking books for hearing and sight apply to many. impaired community members are available • Due to the CBD listed as a heritage precinct at the town library and access to online business access can only be approved databases via the Council’s website. when building owners apply for an upgrade of their facility through the development Our progress: application process. We actively encourage • A new website for Tenterfield Shire Council building owners to upgrade their entrances has been development and is more user to their business when it is appropriate. friendly and easily accessible. • Successes – there have been a number • Drinking bowls for companion animals of upgrades of infrastructure within our are always present at our local Tourism Shire – including upgrades to our paving in Information Centre in Tenterfield. the main street on both sides and to public facilities. • Systems, information and processes are constantly reviewed to ensure ease of access to information.

177 Additional information and comments example includes the access ramp to the about the information provided operation platform at the Castle Hill remote control car club facility. • We have an ageing population in our Shire and we are in a rural regional area. This • For each financial year, the building at times comes with its own challenges in asset management team present and regard to access to services and transport. prepare a list of capital works projects to be programmed for delivery during the year. The list of capital works projects will The Hills Shire Council cover a range of community buildings and Developing positive community amenities. Any building that is listed for attitudes and behaviours capital works will be reviewed to see if there are any access to premises issues that • Positive portrayals of people with a can be improved, and therefore included disability, and information about inclusive into the scope of work. Sometimes, the services, are provided as new opportunities whole capital works project will be to solely arise. A recent story published is the accommodate an access upgrade to a repurposing of the hoist from Waves pool community or amenities building. by Warrah’s Waratah Cottage. • Due to the COVID-19 pandemic all • Disability Inclusion Awareness training has libraries within the Hills remained closed been included in the 2020-2021 calendar. during April and May 2020. Castle Hill and • Community engagement practices include Vinegar Hill Memorial Library re-opened for opportunities for engagement with groups loans and returns on 1 June 2020. Public representing people with a disability. health guidelines prevented the Library holding any in house events during this Creating liveable communities quarter however a home delivery service • Council reviews our building by way of for seniors over the age of 65yrs serviced physical inspection (either planned or 290 customers during the closure period reactive) or Council may be notified of enabling them to continue to engage with an access to premises issue by other Library services during this time. department staff or the community. If an • Council considers access and inclusion access issue is discovered at a location or essential in all Council lead events and facility, then an improvement plan is put in provides accessibility parking, seating, place, with a time frame depending on the toilets, and wheelchair access and an level of severity and impact to people with under covered easy to access area for disabilities. guests at specific events. • Council continues to work with Transport for • As part of community event applications NSW regarding accessible public transport. Council asks all event organisers to detail • Program to ensure compliance with how their events are accessible and standards for accessible public transport is strategies they will implement. Council can ongoing. provide people with the accessible events guide when needed. • Funding is provided annually in Council’s Works Program in relation to ensuring Supporting access to meaningful compliance with relevant standards for employment accessible public transport. • Council’s recruitment process continues to • Recreation Strategy adopted by Council in uphold EEO principles. late 2019, recognises the importance of • providing accessible facilities wherever Through Council’s partnership with the practical. Accessible facilities are also Sydney Hills Business Chamber, we accounted for in all projects. Most recent launched an inaugural Charity Expo. This event provided our business community an

178 opportunity to meet and learn more about • Community Development team in disability employment service providers partnership with Human Resources and other not-for- profit community conducting research of training needs organisations. A key outcome achieved at within TSC organisation, research of this event was demonstrating the value to possible providers, research of easy our local business community in matching English requirements, and research of the abilities and skills of people living with qualifications requirements. disability, with job vacancies. This event • Council’s Building and Environmental attracted over 80 businesses. Health staff supported to gain qualifications • Through Council’s business visits program, - CPP50711 Diploma of Access Consulting business owners are kept abreast of Course for Building Surveyors. opportunities and requirements for people with a disability in the workplace. Partnerships to promote access for inclusion Improving access to mainstream services through better systems and • Council’s Community Development processes team has supported connections and collaboration with the following partners: • Council’s communication and media ° Tweed Holiday Parks and The Tweed activities are inclusive of people with a Tourism Co. on access improvements disability. and accessible tourism opportunities. • Engagement opportunities are inclusive ° Show 2019 with Social of people with a disability. Throughout Futures and Equal Access Advisory COVID-19 a further opportunity to Committee. participate was provided through the launch of Council’s new ‘Have your Say’ • Council’s Planning and Regulation team e-newsletter. in preparing submissions and advice on access issues and requirements for major • Community Information Directory company development and infrastructure including (Datadiction) recently updated 800 records the proposed Kingscliff Hospital. of community services, schools and businesses, and disability services which is • Local community organisations in providing available on our website. A record update technical advice on accessible building request is sent out annually to services in standards. the Hills local government area. Council is • Local community groups and associations currently investigating if this current system in providing support and advice on is viable or not. foreshore access improvements and • EMPLAN has been recently reviewed and through Owner’s Consent for community adopted. Document includes updated tenanted facilities. listings of vulnerable facilities. Highlights Tweed Shire Council • A collaborative partnership with Council’s Equal Access Advisory Committee, Developing positive community Social Futures and organisers of the attitudes and behaviours Murwillumbah Show 2019 saw improved accessibility features introduced and (check Maintaining our skills and knowledge in main report) promoted to the public at the Council event held in November 2019. • Council’s Community and Cultural Services This included an information table staffed team in partnership with Human Resources by Council staff, Equal Access Advisory delivered a social enterprise model for the Committee members and Social Futures Brett St C.A.F.É. launched in February 2020.

179 staff to engage and educate the public on Wayfinding access and inclusion issues, new laminated • The Goorimabah Inclusive Playspace signage and mapping highlighting Concept design currently underway will accessible features, and training staff to incorporate wayfinding design, which will assist and advise patrons with access inform a Shire-wide plan. inquiries. Liveable and accessible communities Information • Hearing augmentation is included in Adopt a Universal Design approach across quarterly Auslan tours at the Museum and Council. the Gallery. • Council adopted the Open Space Strategy • Captioning is applied to all newly- 2019/2020 and Implementation Plan commissioned video material at Tweed in August 2019, which incorporates a Regional Museum. universal design approach for outdoor spaces. • Launch of “Untold Stories: Living with ability – Online Exhibition” by the Tweed Regional • Council adopted the Tweed Community Museum in May 2020. Facilities Plan 2019/2020 in March 2020. • Council is incorporating closed caption on • Upgrades of Lions Park Kingscliff, videos, expanding catalogue of video blogs. Fingal Foreshore Park and Knox Park, Murwillumbah were completed, which Highlights included accessible pathways, viewing • areas and picnic furniture. Council completed the redevelopment works to the Tweed Heads Civic and • NSW Government ‘Everyone Can Play’ Cultural Centre and officially opened the program which aims to improve access site to the public in March 2020. and inclusion in children’s playgrounds is being delivered through the concept The upgraded facility includes an outdoor design of Goorimahbah Inclusive plaza with a direct pathway for easier Playspace underway. This project also access to the library and auditorium and delivers inclusive community consultation Council’s Tweed Heads Administration and engagement of people with lived Office. experience. It also provides contemporary landscaping, • Preliminary planning is underway to an improved drop-off area, accessible redevelop of Pottsville Environment Centre. parking, better lighting and a more accessible after-hours library book return Parking facility. • Upgrades to Designated Accessible Parking The project is jointly funded by the Bays have been delivered in Kingscliff Australian Government’s Building Better foreshore, Murwillumbah and Pottsville. Regions Fund and Tweed Shire Council. Supporting access to meaningful Public transport employment • Council’s Roads & Stormwater team has led community survey and consultation Tweed Shire Council as an employer with people with lived experience to inform • Upgrade works completed of Tweed Heads and complete access upgrade works to six and Cultural Plaza completed providing new shelters at bus stops and 18 upgrades improved access to the library and Tweed at existing shelters, as part of the Country Heads Administration Office. Passenger Transport Grants Scheme. • Construction commenced to upgrade the • Council staff participate in bimonthly Tweed Murwillumbah Civic Centre Auditorium, Public and Active Transport Working Group. including the refurbishment of the foyer and provision of accessible toilets. 180 • Council’s Human Resources and accessibility as its guiding principle, will be Community Development teams developed completed. This will set new standards for a work experience program with necessary how Council writes content for the web and workplace adjustments made. other digital standards to ensure quality • A social enterprise model has been customer experiences. developed in partnership with Council’s Council as a source of information Human Resources Unit, as part of Brett St C.A.F.É. • Council’s Website Customer Experience Improvement Project is underway and • Recruitment and induction training will deliver significant improvements to protocols have been updated to accessibility of information and ways people incorporated information on an unconscious can get access to Council information. This bias and raise awareness about inclusion. involves the redesign of Council’s main Highlights website and three facility sites (Gallery, Museum and TRAC) to improve access • Brett Street C.A.F.É. (Community Access to online information, achieve a Gold Star For Everyone) is a social enterprise Plain language certification benchmark initiative and accessible café which opened and be compliant with the Web Content to the public in February 2020 at Tweed Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). It also Civic and Cultural Centre. includes an independent accessibility audit The social enterprise framework funds and customer user testing. programs to help disadvantaged people • Council has shifted delivery of some in the Tweed to enter the workforce and community services, activities and thrive. resources to online platforms and other Brett St C.A.F.É also supports the different formats to cater for a variety of community providing nutritious, subsidised needs. and affordable takeaway meals during Highlights COVID-19 crisis. • “Untold Stories: Living with ability – Online Improving access to mainstream Exhibition” is a Tweed Regional Museum services through better systems and project exploring some extra-ordinary processes stories of living with disability, told through audio, video and text recordings. Council as a provider of information The online exhibition was launched in • Council’s Communications and Customer May 2020 during COVID-19 lockdown Experience Unit has delivered initiatives period which saw the closure of community to improve customer experience including facilities. reforms to social media platforms, the launch of a web-chat online tool, improved Along with the “History at Home” initiative, after-hours service, and supported training this online exhibition gives community of two web developers in web accessibility access to information and resources on the and user experiences. rich and diverse history and heritage of the Tweed. • A project to focus on plain language has commenced and will see the introduction of a revised Communication Style Guide, review of the current in-house business writing skills training and consideration of plain language champions across the organisation. • As part of the website improvement project a set of Digital and Web Standards, with

181 Upper Hunter Shire Council through the Special Olympics Committee Developing positive attitudes and and Inclusion in Sport training with Sport NSW. behaviours • Staff attended Understanding Dementia What the issue is about and Preventing Dementia through University of and Seniors Mental • The attitudes and behaviours of the general Health Webinar. community towards people with disability have been described as the single greatest • Community Services Officers participate barrier to full access and inclusion. Attitudes in the Upper Hunter Community Services and behaviour permeate all aspects of life. Interagency and the Mental Health Network to enhance knowledge of service availability Consultation to date has identified that in the sector. attitudes towards people with disability are often determined by ignorance, fear or lack • Children’s services staff attended training of opportunity to interact. with Where’s there’s a Will - Strength Stars Curriculum to support positive education Developing positive attitudes involves and well-being in the community. increasing awareness and changing negative perceptions over time. This is a • A Council representative is a member of long term goal that may need to be dealt Transcare Board of Directors to support with in stages. governance of this local NDIS provider. • What the community told us Worked collaboratively with Ability Links to provide resources to the Library, Youth • We need to raise the awareness of our staff Centres and Children’s Services to raise so they can be more empathic and provide awareness of and support people living with more appropriate services for people with a disability. disabilities • Council has included inclusiveness as a • We need to raise awareness in the general project aim in the Cultural Activity Grants. community about people with disabilities • Council hosted a range of inclusive well- • Our media-social and hardcopy needs to being activities across the Shire e.g. support raising awareness and presenting Ukulele Learning Circle, craft workshops, positive role models who have a disability Computer classes, seniors festival and • We need to highlight the achievements of yoga. people with disabilities • First Aid with St John’s Ambulance plus a • We need to provide information for people session with Sarah Green from RAMHPs with disabilities about facilities and activities for community members. in our Shire in a range of accessible forms • Partnership with Rebecca Mcalister from • We need to consult or have access to Uniting to produce the Sporty Kids in Profile specialist staff (SKIP) which was sent to our local clubs for them to give to their coaches an easy way • We need to support the work of other for parents to provide info on their child’s disability services in the Shire. needs. Our actions • Access and Inclusion Committee has been developed to focus on community • 36 staff attended Disability Access & concerns, achievements and support Inclusion workshop at Council to raise awareness raising projects. awareness and enhance skills, in partnership with Ability Links. • Family Fun Day / Colour Run in Scone included a service expo for families and • Council’s Sports Participation officer young people who are vulnerable or have attended Autism Awareness training additional needs.

182 • Digital and hard copy media promote • Community Services Officers participate positive media information about people in the Upper Hunter Community Services with disabilities is ongoing. Interagency and the Mental Network to • No requests to date have been made in share information within the sector. relation to producing documents in an • Council staff supported the Transition to alternate format (large print, easy read School Seminar, with Children’s Services documents etc) highlighting local service providers who can • Disability services brochure reviewed for assist parents who are concerned about area. possible developmental delays of their children. • Council subscribed to SportNSW and is • therefore able to access resources from A key role of the Access and Inclusion their Disability Sport Inclusion Department Committee is to support Council consultation processes. • Hunter Community Services Interagency and the Mental Network distribute relevant Creating liveable communities information. What the issue is about • Regular updates to the Community • directory on the Council website Creating liveable communities will focus attention and resources on the elements • Access and Inclusion Committee has of community life that most people desire. been developed to focus on community Creating liveable communities for people concerns, achievements and support with disability is more than modifying the awareness raising partnerships. physical environment, it covers areas such • Australia Day special award to as accessible housing, access to transport, acknowledge achievements nomination and community recreation, social engagement acknowledgement of a local of people living and universal design. with a disability. What the community told us • Special Guest Invitation to a young person living with a disability to present at the We need to: International Women’s Day event. • Improve our pathways of travel and the • Recognition of achievements of people with paths themselves. a disability through community awards and • Work on transport options for people with a the Rural Women Hidden Treasures roll. disability getting around our Shire. • Australia Day Ambassador for UHS Council • Look at how we can improve access into was a Paralympian who spoke at the shops and services in our towns. Australia Day Ceremony and joined in activities at the Pool Party • Increase the number of accessible toilets and adult change tables in key areas of the • Support the Neighbourhood Centre to central business districts. source funding to install an all ability inclusive playground at the sports complex • Improve access to our buildings. in Scone • Provide more parking for people with a • Worked collaboratively with Ability Links to disability. provide resources to the Library, Children’s • Consult more with people with a disability Services and Youth Centres to raise and experts working in the disability design awareness of and support people living with field. a disability. • Improve access to our pools and other • Council’s Sports Participation Officer community recreation areas and facilities. supported access for people with disabilities to a range of opportunities.

183 Our actions • Disabled access toilet designed for Murrurundi Gold Club – awaiting funding • A key role of the Access and Inclusion Committee is to support Council • Disabled access toilet upgrade at Wilson consultation processes. Memorial Oval, Murrurundi – to be completed 2021 • Presentation from a representative of the Town Revitalisation Committee at the • Investigated funding opportunities for Access and Inclusion Committee to discuss further improvement to facilities across the plans and consultation opportunities. Shire. • A planning discussion was facilitated in • A key role of the Access and Inclusion the Upper Hunter Community Services Committee is to support Council Interagency to consider gaps in service consultation processes. delivery. • Representatives from disability sector • Purchase of new bus with improved access. attend Councils S355 Community Services Committee. • Town Revitalisation Committee are active in each district. Planning to consult with • Inclusion & Access Committee formed but Committee regarding access issues. COVID-19 has delayed some discussions with significant staff. • Ongoing through revitalisation planning. • Bus upgraded with improved accessibility • Meeting convened with Chambers/Progress for Hostel and community. Associations in each town to highlight issue (representatives with a disability to be • Manager (Manager Business Enterprise included) and Tourism) position filled. Work to be undertaken including improve disability • Applied requirement to ensure footpath access into business. entry into businesses where footpath improvements and CBD upgrades have • Hall inspections undertaken and priority been planned. works developed. • Reviewed Council halls and community • Scone Library replacement site purchased centres in regard to standards is continuing and accessible planning being undertaken to be enforced. – survey of residents to seek information on priorities completed. • Council infrastructure projects include consideration and provision for accessibility • Murrurundi Library upgraded with and inclusion issues. Accessible features. • Pram ramp upgrades have been completed • Planning for major Council infrastructure in various locations in the Shire. projects has included consideration and provision for accessibility and inclusion • Footpath extension completed in Graeme issues at: Scone Saleyards, White Park St, Mackenzie St and Segenhoe St Centre, Proposed Horse Display Centre, Aberdeen. . • Upgrade to the curb, gutter and footpath • Accessible Upgrades undertaken at access to Hill St Scone, adjacent to Scone Merriwa and Murrurundi Libraries. Public School. • Planning progressing for new Scone • New library purchased to develop Library. accessible library in Scone. • Review of Council pools in consultation • Disabled access toilets for Old Court with the Disability Advisory Committee – to Theatre - complete be reviewed by the Access and Inclusion • Scone Gymnastics Centre – disabled Committee when able to meet. access facilities Upgrade complete.

184 • Disabled access toilets installed for Old What the community told us Court Theatre. We should: • Disabled access toilet installed for Murrurundi Library. • Employ more people with disabilities where possible and adapt the environment and • Disabled access toilet installed for work conditions to the individuals special Murrurundi Gold Club. needs • Disabled access toilet upgrade at Wilson • Ensure our employment systems enable Memorial Oval, Murrurundi – awaiting people with disabilities to apply and be funding (SCCF). considered for positions • Disabled access toilet upgrade to Merriwa • Provide opportunities for people with Skate Park. disabilities to increase their employment • Disabled access toilet upgrade to Jefferson skills Park, Aberdeen – awaiting funding (SCCF). • Set an example to other businesses in • Disabled access toilet upgrade to Merriwa our Shire and promote the employment of Oval – awaiting funding (SCCF). people with disabilities • Disabled access toilet for Merriwa • Provide training for our current staff to raise Showground – awaiting funding (SCCF). its awareness of dealing with people with • Scone Gymnastics Centre – disabled disabilities. access including toilets completed. Our actions • Shire Accessible toilets placed on National • Review of human resources policies and Toilet list by Ability Links. procedure around diversity and inclusion • Inclusion and Access Committee formed workforce planning is ongoing. and commenced meeting until COVID-19 • 36 staff attended Disability Access & Pandemic limitations impacted Inclusion workshop at Council to raise • Representatives from disability sector awareness and enhance skills, in attend Councils S355 Community Services partnership with Ability Links. Committee Improving access to services through Supporting access to meaningful better systems and processes employment What the issue is about What the issue is about • A common issue for people with disability • While there are many aspects to consider is the difficulty in navigating systems and in executing a diversity and inclusion processes to access the services and employment agenda, most benefit supports they need in the community. will come from taking an ‘inclusion by Some of these difficulties stem from the design’ approach. That is, employers and quality of service and training of front line managers will maximise their ability to personnel, the systems and processes employ and retain a diverse workforce required to access services, and the lack if they build inclusion into work design, of accessible options for communicating, workforce strategy and system-level accessing information or providing input or decision making (as opposed to simply feedback. making reasonable adjustments to accommodate persons with disability on a There is often confusion about what case-by-case basis). services are provided across the three levels of government, and there is frequent repetition of information to be provided to public authorities and services.

185 What the community told us • When seeking nominations to all Council S355 Committees, advertising promotes We need to: opportunities for people with disabilities to • Improve our documentation, digital media join or participate is ongoing. and communication methods so information • Inclusion and Access Committee formed can be can be accessed by more people and met but COVID-19 has limited with disabilities meetings and project development. • Improve opportunities for inclusion of How have you determined that you’re people with disabilities in community meeting the needs of people with activities such as sports, workshops, and disability? community events • Council has received limited feedback from • Continue to communicate face to face with members of the community with a disability. the community (as the DPOP consultations have been appreciated) and build further • Council will need to identify strategies to links with disability organisations more effectively reach members of the community with a disability. • Ensure that people with disabilities are represented on Council committees. Describe your challenges and successes in delivering on your parts Our actions of the DIAP • Inclusion & Access Committee working • Council has limited resources and funding party met to determine interest in reviewing to provide meaningful projects / initiatives. options for having key documents in a choice of accessible formats e.g. large Is there anything else you’re doing or print, braille, spoken word, plain English planning for the future to contribute language (will be functioning in year 3). to greater outcomes for people with disability? • Funding application submitted to Sport Australia Grant – Tai Chi for Ageing • Council will need to effectively engage Community (not successful). with the community as part of the review of the DIAP to ensure meaningful projects / • Grant application to upgrade accessibility in initiatives are adopted. Murrurundi Library successful and project completed • Grant application to upgrade accessibility Uralla Shire Council in Merriwa Library Stage 2 was successful Input into the Glen Innes Severn Council and project completed Annual Report • Council received funding to subsidise Developing positive attitudes and registrations to sporting groups for people behaviours with a disability • Uralla Shire Council considers disability • Council’s sports participation Officer inclusion in all aspects of business. has supported access for people with disabilities to Gymnastics and futsal . Creating liveable communities • A large number of applications submitted • Planning was completed for an accessible for funding accessible toilets . change room for the Uralla swimming pool incorporating toilet, shower and basin in • Inclusion & Access Committee working accordance with AS 1428.1. Tenders will party met to determine interest in relation be called for construction in the 2020-21 to establishing and seeking nominations for financial year. a Disability Advisory Committee of council (will be functioning in year 3). • The most often quoted difficulty was access to shops in the main street. Access is now available to some shops in Bridge Street via 186 access installed in the kerb near the local Supporting access to meaningful pharmacy. The pharmacy itself can then employment be accessed through the rear door. Some • shops have notices to call and are happy to No specific initiatives were undertaken by deliver services e.g. coffee and food to the USC in relation meaningful employment for footpath where the building isn’t accessible. people with disability. • There were also opportunities for Improving access to mainstream improvements at Alma Park and the services through better systems and swimming pool. processes • For Alma Park it was suggested: • Council meetings were broadcast live during this year. ° Shade over the picnic tables. Some shade is available, the rotunda was How have you determined that you’re renovated. Covered picnic tables at meeting the needs of people with Hampden Park. disability? ° Access across the kerb, to the Liberty • Most feedback from people with a Swing, and to the public toilets. disability has come through the Library Completed. and Tablelands Community Support and ° Fencing for the playground. Only around Transport. All very accessible to community the Liberty swing members and visitors. The feedback has largely been positive around the caring and ° Upgraded playground equipment. Yes accommodating nature of the services and including nest swings for children of all facilities. ages to improve foundational development of agility, balance and coordination. Describe your challenges and successes in delivering on your parts ° Outdoor Gym equipment-either at Alma of the DIAP Park or elsewhere. Installed at Hampden Park during a general upgrade of facilities. • Group activities were limited by COVID • For the swimming pool: restrictions and social distancing but it is positive that the feedback in this area has ° Access into the pool for people with a remained positive. disability. Is currently only suitable for people who can walk but a lifter is being Is there anything else you’re doing or sourced. planning for the future to contribute to greater outcomes for people with ° Heated pool. Solar heated. disability? ° Improvements to change rooms, • Planning is not yet complete for the new including access. Plans are developed Operational Plan or the new Delivery and tenders will be called in 2020-21. Program. • There is a high priority for a disability • The swimming pool accessible change park at the Hill Street Medical Clinic with room is one proposed future development access to cross the kerb. Council’s role is for 2020-21. to advocate. The responsibility sits with the business owner. Additional information and comments • Transport was also seen as a high about the information provided priority and changes to aged care and • A Mobility Map was developed as part of the introduction of the NDIS has seen a a Main Street Project. Businesses were reduction in transport availability. Council also surveyed, issues identified and ideas has two accessible vehicles and the rail bus collected for improvement. is accessible if identified at time of booking. • Uralla Shire Council considers disability inclusion in all aspects of business. 187 Wagga Wagga City Council • Promote programming in cultural facilities Highlights to services working with people with disabilities and included in council news. Wheelchair accessible lift This is complete. • Our latest refurbishment at the Civic Include images that represent the diversity Theatre means that the whole theatre is of our community in future plans and now accessible for all community members publications e.g. people with disabilities whether they are on stage or in the audience. and culturally, socially diverse groups – in Recently a member of the Riverina Comedy progress Club provided us some great feedback on our • Promote days and weeks that celebrate facility improvements. ability and diversity such as Mental Health Month, International Day of people with Playground upgrades a disability to our community. This is Our recent park upgrades saw the upgrade of complete. seven (7) local playgrounds include replacing • Work with local agencies and organisations old equipment, installing connection pathways that provide awards e.g. Wagga Wagga and installing rubber softfall within the Seniors festival community service playgrounds to make them more accessible. awards, service clubs, business chamber to advocate for an accessibility award to Levee Bank Project recognise businesses increasing access As a part of the Levee Bank Project Council through redesign, policies and process to installed five (5) accessible ramps leading increase access for people with disabilities. up to the walkway along the levee at This is complete. multiple locations including near the Visitors • Raise awareness with local services and Information Centre, Narrung Street, between businesses about how they can become Wiradjuri and Hampden Bridge, Hammond more inclusive in the layout of their design Avenue and Mason Street. (e.g. shops) and how they can attract the “Oliver has been a part of our comedy club business of people with a disability. for four years and recently used the Civic • Review options to increase accessibility to Theatre’s wheelchair lift. It was easy to use Lake Albert for recreational fishing etc. and made every feel safe and comfortable. • Increase number of accessible parking Oliver really enjoyed his time at the Civic spaces to reflect proportion of permit Theatre and said it is one of the best venues” holders in the community. Dane Simpson, Riverina Comedy Club. • Supply and install of one fixed accessible 2019/2020 progress adult change facility is located in the CBD. • A permanent accessible lift is fitted to the This is complete. access area and accessible backstage • Supply and install accessible toilet in the toilet. Bolton Park precinct to service the all • Promote the recharge scheme with local abilities playground. This is complete. businesses and shopping centres to • Promote subsidised schemes and increase access for people with mobility community transport. This is complete. devices through promoting locations to recharge their devices. This is complete. • Improve bus shelters to be accessible (rolling scheme upgrades). This is • A suite of inclusive programs are offered complete. across the ’s cultural facilities that include targeted programs, • Promote what council has achieved in shows and exhibitions for people with accessibility in the community through disabilities. This is complete. council news and online. This is complete.

188 • Publicise the availability of accessible services Auslan Interpreters. This is facilities through online mapping e.g. complete. accessible parking spaces and toilets and • Promote the companion card to reduce cost hearing loops. This is complete. for carers required to accompany a person • Upgrades to existing parks and playgrounds with a disability. This is complete. are undertaken in line with existing works schedule to increase accessibility where Walcha Council possible. This is complete. Developing positive community • Support funding for community groups and attitudes and behaviours services to improve accessibility and apply • Key Council staff have undertaken Mental principles of universal design in buildings Health First Aid courses. and service delivery. This is complete. • Our Community has suffered through • Develop a maintenance schedule to ensure drought and bushfires. Several community all access devices are well signed and events were held to increase social maintained to appropriate standards or inclusion and provide people with updated when required. This is complete. information and key contacts for accessing • Provide training to all employees on mental health support. bullying and harassment. This is complete. Creating liveable communities • Provide mental health first aid training to • The disabled toilets have been upgraded in identified employees. This is complete. one additional local park • Review recruiting and volunteering policies • The access into shops has been improved and procedures to include equitable by removing steps and creating ramp provisions for improved access by people access. with a disability. This is complete. • The installation of an automatic door into • Undertake annual employee opinion survey the local library. This has enable mobility of employees to gauge workplace diversity challenged people better access to this and employees attitudes to inclusion and service. accessibility. This is complete. • Work is continuing on upgrading the • Maintain support to employees through footpaths throughout the community. the training of Employee Support Officers (ESO) and through the provision of the Supporting access to meaningful Employee Assistance Program (EAP). This employment is complete. • Council continues to employ a person • Provide Equal Employment Opportunity with a disability who was on a temporary training to all employees as part of placement, in a permanent part-time corporate training package. This is position. He has changed his work role and complete. is a valuable and reliable employee. • Develop the Council website to level AAA Improving access to mainstream on all consultation forums. This is complete. services through better systems and • Conduct annual consultation both internally processes and externally to monitor Councils progress • No signification changes have been made in delivering commitments outlined in the to our website. This is planned for early Disability Inclusion Action Plan and inform 2021. the community of these. This is complete. • Community Care brochures are available in • Amend Events guide to include an large print and easy to read formats accessibility checklist for anyone organising an event include recommendation for • Audio and large print books are available at accessibility resources and support the local library

189 • During COVID shut downs, borrowings Walgett Shire Council were home delivered to allow people to Developing positive community continue to access materials. attitudes and behaviours How have you determined that you’re • Our community development team have meeting the needs of people with staged numerous community engagement disability? events across the Shire with people with • Several items identified in our DIAP have disability encouraged to participate. been completed • Our team also promote opportunities • Customer requests regarding access other service provider’s offer through our are actioned as soon as is possible. The extensive community contacts and email installation of the new door at the library is lists/interagency groups. one example. • We generally participate and play the lead Describe your challenges and role in annual events (International Day of successes in delivering on your parts People with a Disability (IDPD) however of the DIAP this year was postponed due to COVID • It is time to reengage and connect with concerns. We look to showcase abilities people with disabilities and their carers to of all and acknowledge the important part update and review our DIAP. In preparing people with disability play in our community. our initial DIAP our response rate was quite Creating liveable communities disappointing. We have implemented some • of the key items raised in the original DIAP, The walk ways, paths and accesses and we need to reach out to the community points to the parks within our Shire have to seek further input and direction. undergone extensive improvements. Sitting alongside and complimentary to these • Taking DIAP items to our Community improvements are several local residents Care advisory group for their input and that are wheelchair bound. They are our suggestions is also challenging as there are source of identification and feedback. no people with disabilities (or their carer’s) Along with these improvements are new on our committee at this stage. playgrounds with DIAP alignment in Ridge, • COVID has created many challenges for all Collie and Walgett accessibility is foremost people in the community. Essential services in Council direction regarding facilities and where continued and modified to ensure amenities going forward. vulnerable (disabled and aged) continued to receive assistance. Supporting access to meaningful employment Is there anything else you’re doing or planning for the future to contribute • Council is proud to inform we have several to greater outcomes for people with young people with disabilities within the disability? workforce here at Council. We have one gentlemen working on the outdoor staff • The replacement of footpaths and and another working within our youth improvement to shop access will continue development team. in the future • Both are community role models and we • The Community Care Advisory Committee are making the necessary adjustments membership will be reviewed and an and changes to make the workplace an advertisement placed encouraging people enjoyable experience for both. with a disability to apply. This was planned for early 2020, however COVID halted our • We have been advised by their carers that plans. It is now planned for 2021. we are to offer employment for a set of hours that does not hinder their Disability • There are future plans in 2021 to redesign payments and enhanced their role within the council website and to include more the community sector when working within accessibility features. our teams. 190 Improving access to mainstream Additional information and comments services through better systems and about the information provided processes • We will continue to commit and deliver as per action plans and reviews for our Focusing of accessibility and information: residents, those with disabilities, carers and • Our Libraries and youth centres now offer families to improve the life for all within our equipment for those with disabilities to Shire. engage in actions and have the same / equal opportunities to play, recreate and engage in our youth centres and Warren Shire Council community spaces. • Council has delivered the ‘Paths and Cycleways’ project in 2019. This project • We are working on systems in relation to is developed as a result of the findings of “contact council” ( as a rate payer) and the ‘Warren Health, Sporting and Cultural placing concerns for those with speech/ Precinct Connections Study 2016’ and ‘The hearing impairments and along with Pedestrian Access and Mobility Plan 2015’. further supporting mechanisms things are The project included the installation of solar looking positive and real for our information lighting and CCTV cameras to improve dissemination to whole of community. safety of those using the pathways. How have you determined that you’re • Via the website, which is compliant with meeting the needs of people with accessibility requirements, the community disability? can utilise an online form to request • As mentioned previously we have a group services. that advise of our work, our direction and • The Macquarie Park Revitalisation Project offer us is simply put,” priceless feedback” has improved the safety and appearance of into areas we are addressing and working Warren Shire’s largest and most frequented towards. We as a Council are under no park, Macquarie Park. The works included illusions that things can change overnight construction of pathways, installation and are working towards our action plans of new playground equipment as well with commitment and a positive attitude to as landscaping trees/gardens and park improve the lives of people with disabilities furniture (accessible BBQs and seating). in our Shire and community as a whole. The upgrades were jointly funded by the Describe your challenges and NSW Government and Warren Shire successes in delivering on your parts Council. This project was completed in of the DIAP 2019. • Pathways and Cycleways Around Warren Council believes we are heading in the right, - This project has significantly improved positive direction with services, accessibility, pedestrian and cyclist conditions and inclusion, liveability for those with disabilities connections. It has created a more within our Shire. accessible, connected and safe network Is there anything else you’re doing or through Warren to the Warren health, planning for the future to contribute sporting and cultural precinct. This project to greater outcomes for people with is developed as a result of the findings of the ‘Warren Health, Sporting and Cultural disability? Precinct Connections Study 2016’ and • This is a “live area”….. We work to deliver ‘The Pedestrian Access and Mobility Plan actions and at the same time seek further 2015’. The project was funded by the NSW feedback from our advisory group/people in Government. This project was completed in relation to big picture. We measure what is 2019. feasible to do so, and review our actions on • Work is progressing rapidly on the new implementation and completion of project. Council Chambers/Community Centre/

191 administration areas of Council’s main • Organisational Development ensured office building. Council commenced relevant discrimination legislation was planning 15 years ago and this year articulated in EEO Policy, Staff Induction through restricted funding will complete this and Recruitment Training. $1.6 million project. The new chambers will • A development application for the Sport allow all members of the public to attend Centre considered how to improve this building as it is fully accessible. accessibility of the parking area, and • Council website is accessible. reconsidered the quality and type of the play equipment to enhance accessibility. • Works are underway as part of the Carter Oval Youth Development area include the • The Coonabarabran Pool ensured that the construction of a splash park, playground, electronic lifting harness was maintained cricket and soccer fields, LED lighting and so that people in a wheelchair could be amenities, BBQs shade structures, tree effectively lifted in and out of the pool. planting, accessible footpaths and parking. All new lifeguards were trained in its This park will be accessible and ‘everyone operation. Toilets, change rooms and can play’ friendly. It allows all age groups to wheelchair accessibility into the facility were mix and grow as a community. maintained. • A Tender and development application for Warrumbungle Shire Council an improved and safer wheelchair access Developing positive attitudes and was approved for the main office at Coolah. behaviours • Pedestrian Access Mobility Plans accompany major development applications • Council through provision of the 2017-2021 to integrate local pathways. Warrumbungle Shire Council Disability Inclusion Action Plan provides a sound Supporting access to meaningful advocacy for an inclusive and welcoming employment community, and for advocating for access • Council has developed Organisational and equity for all residents within our Development strategic policies and communities. The DIAP is made available practices that articulate fairness. Potential on Council’s website. employees are ensured equal access to • Warrumbungle Shire Council’s Children employment opportunities with Council Services facilitate a Social Inclusion vacancies. Organisational Development policy and practice, with individualised staff provide support where required, and social inclusion plans for children with the organisation will make the necessary specific disabilities and sensory, cognitive, physical and ergonomic adjustments in a developmental or needs for early work environment where required. WSC intervention. made significant adjustments to the store • Council has established a DIAP staff environment to accommodate a staff working group to review the organisations person in a wheelchair to provide them with commitment to the DDA (1992). stores management opportunity. • Council made a submission into the NSW • The Organisational Development team Parliament Inquiry regarding Health to facilitated an Employee Engagement report on health outcomes and access Survey 2020 to seek feedback from to health and hospital services in rural, individual staff as to how council can regional and remote . enhance and support them at the workplace, and seek recommendations for Creating liveable communities improved inclusive practices. • Council facilitated an examination of signage on Council buildings to ensure they were accessible, clear and easy to read.

192 Improving access to mainstream their feedback and recommendations about services through better systems and how best to meet the needs of residents, processes including people with disability. • Council sought an Expression of Interest • Warrumbunlge Community Care is from individual staff to form a Disability facilitating two focus groups with their Inclusion Committee in November 2020. diverse customers and volunteers to access Agenda and Terms of Reference were the lived experience of disability and how to distributed in early December 2020 for the improve access to the range of services on inaugural meeting rescheduled to February offer. One focus group is being facilitated 26th 2021.The group will meet twice a year in Coolah for service users in Mendooran, to provide a layer of internal review of our Dunedoo and Coolah; whilst a second work place practices, WSC Social Plan, focus group is facilitated in Coonabarabran and to monitor community feedback to our for local, Binnaway and Baradine clients. organisation about disability themed issues. • Council ratified funding for the facilitation These will be summaries and provided the of a consultant for a whole of shire WSC Executive Leadership team. Stakeholder Engagement/Consumer • Council has created a tender/DA process Satisfaction Survey. The tender process to engage a concreting company to under way. improve the access into our office complex • Council facilitated community consultations at Coolah with the installation of a new twice in each of its six towns with several Disabled Access Ramp to be built in staff participating. Minutes are uploaded February 2021. on Council’s website and staff action the • Council chambers has the capacity for a recommendations. hearing loop to be utilised when required. Describe your challenges and • WSC Council meetings are audio recorded successes in delivering on your parts and uploaded onto Councils’ website for of the DIAP ease of access to residents across the local • The Warrumbungle Aged and Disability government area; and are live-streamed EXPO was cancelled due to the precarious using Face Book. impacts of COVID. Most of our exhibitors How have you determined that you’re cancelled their attendance. We didn’t meeting the needs of people with have much choice. Since, then, all disability? regular participants have deepened our understanding of how to monitor our • Council facilitates monthly Warrumbungle own behaviours with social distancing in Interagency meetings. A broad range delivering such an important community of community services are represented event. The guidance from NSW Health including agencies with a disability focus. A during 2020 has provided us with a keen number of sub-committees/working groups strategic awareness of event management address particular individual and group in a COVID type space to ensure we keep needs and advocate for the same, such as: visitors/staff and residents’ safe; and the 1. National Disability Insurance Scheme requirements for COVID Safety Plans by (NDIS). Warrumbungle Shire Council, will permit us to convene the event in 2021. 2. Little Persons task force – 0-8 years. • Council facilitates and support the OZ Tag 3. Coonabarabran Yarn, Support, Connect disability knock out day held each year (not Suicide Prevention Network. 2020 due to COVID) This is a whole day of 4. Warrumbungle Community Drug Action league tag that is put on for the inclusion of Team (WCDAT). people with Disabilities - not only Coona but • Council has a social media process to Tamworth/Dubbo and any other disability communicate to the community and seek services that wish to attend. Council support the Breakthru group, but the High 193 School and Public Schools also participate. Safety Plans in place. We intend to provide Challenge and Northcott organisations more people with access to the event, who provide services to young people extend opening hours from 10.00am to with disabilities from Tamworth and Dubbo 2.00pm to 10.00am to 7pm, and provide a also bring buses over for the day. This is booked accessible transport service. a Disability specific day, and other like- Additional information and comments minded services participate with information about the information provided stalls on the day. • • A major challenge in delivering services Unfortunately, we had to cancel the 11 to people who are wheel chair bound November 2020 Aged and Disability EXPO and transport disadvantaged in our local due to the impacts of COVID. We are government area, is that our current fleet clear and confident in our understanding has only 1-wheel chair accessible bus. of event management within a pandemic Going forward, however, as vehicles reach context, that we can now safely deliver this their 300,000kms turn over, we will enter important event in 2021. into lease back arrangement for more • We will ensure greater access to the versatile vehicles and locate a wheelchair information provided by the various accessible vehicle in each of the six towns services on the day by establishing across our local government area. a booking system for Warrumbungle • In response to community feedback, residents, increasing the hours the event Council provided new accessible parking will run, and deliver information to out and signage in Baradine near the shopping of town residents via the established centre. community hub network. • Is there anything else you’re doing or Little consultation work has been undertaken with regards to Youth (12-24 planning for the future to contribute years) with disabilities. We will progress to greater outcomes for people with communications during 2021. disability? • The Coonabarabran main street pedestrian • During 2020 the Western Wellbeing crossing for people to use in a wheelchair Initiative facilitated Trusted Advocate will need to have a risk assessment. Training on the Weathering Well App, which is funded by the Federal Government. An outcome planned for 2021 by the Western Waverly Council Wellbeing Initiative, is a plan to create Developing positive community opportunities for Trusted Advocates in each attitudes and behaviours location/town in our local government area. • A number of early intervention and • Council’s Manager of Community Services prevention awareness initiatives were held and the Community Services Connections including: Officer are planning to facilitate a ‘disability’ focus group in each town in ° Sixty parents attended seminars on the Warrumbungle’s to gather specific communication and speech development information and identify disability types by for children 0 – 3. location and what gaps in service delivery ° A Principal’s symposium focusing on exist. prevention strategies to identify and • Council will seek expressions of interest support young people at risk of poor from residents following the individual mental health and anxiety. town focus groups to form a DIAP Advisory ° Eastern Youth Network and Committee or Working Party. Inner Sydney and Eastern Sydney Aged • November 2021 the Aged and Disability and Disability Interagency focused on EXPO will be staged at the Coonabarabran support for people at risk of mental Town Hall or the Showground with COVID health and anxiety conditions including 194 people not eligible for the National Creating liveable communities Disability Insurance Scheme. • Waverley Community and Seniors Centre • Stage two of the Access Bondi initiative implemented actions within the Wellness aims to increase access and inclusion and Enablement plan and commenced at Bondi Beach by partnering with key a review of the Centre’s policies and agencies. A memorandum of understanding procedures. was signed with Bondi Surf Bathers • Life Saving Club to assist with beach The Waverley Community Living Program access at Bondi on weekends. Work with successfully completed a quality and Royal Rehab and Spinal Cord Injuries safeguarding assessment and audit commenced to promote beach access and required to retain National Disability inclusion. Insurance Scheme (NDIS) registration to 2022. The programs, policies and • A consultation forum was held in procedures were updated to better reflect partnership with Inner Sydney Voice and current practice under the NDIS. surrounding councils to understand the • impacts and support required for local Waverley Early Education Centre aged care and disability services due to the successfully completed a quality impact of COVID-19. assessment. • • The Waverley Community Living Program‘s Waverley Family Day Care initiated a new personal stories project Our Vision for Intergenerational Playgroup in partnership Inclusion was completed. The launch with Uniting Edina Nursing Home. The is placed on hold due to COVID-19 monthly playgroup was a great success restrictions. fostering understanding and building respect between generations. It is hoped • The positive image library continues to the program can be expanded next year assist Council to better reflect the diversity with more children and other Uniting of the community in its publications. facilities. • An eLearning package is integrated into • Council’s Community Services continued Council’s learning framework to develop to operate throughout the COVID-19 staff confidence and skills in relation to pandemic. Significant work was required workplace modifications and working with by each service area to modify their people who have a disability. Council’s staff business models and operations, including induction program includes information on remote operations and face to face service disability awareness and responsibility for provision. DIAP implementation. • Council endorsed a new Community Grants • Job specific training attended by Policy to support the delivery of essential approximately 30 staff from across the community services, cultural activities, and organisation included: how to develop small projects. easy read information, National Disability • Insurance Scheme(NDIS) worker Council continued to support the Sculpture orientation modules, supported decision by the Sea -Tactile Tours and funded Bondi making and risk enablement, dealing with Surf Bathers Life Saving Club to provide challenging behaviour and professional lifesaving experience for children with boundaries to support for people with autism and learn to swim programs at Little intellectual disability during the pandemic, Heroes Swim Academy for children with beach matting and roll ‘n stow usage and disability. how to hold inclusive events and meetings. • A targeted grant that aims to support • The Business Awards were cancelled participation and inclusion of people with due to COVID-19. A new package is in disability in mainstream initiatives is in development to include a stronger focus on development awarding businesses for inclusive practices.

195 • Support was provided for the regional Singers continued to be well supported and Commonwealth Home Support Program since going online both music groups have (CHSP) conference You Ain’t Seen Nothing attracted large numbers of participants... Yet Futures Australia Conference held in • Due to COVID-19 many face to face February 2020 with more than 200 people programs were suspended from March in attendance. 2020. The Home Library Service continued • Information promoting local services, NDIS, and some classes transitioned to online My Aged Care and Carers Gateway were sessions. promoted through networks, online and at • Waverley Community and Seniors Centre the Seniors Centre. organised seven weekly gentle exercise • An access map for Bondi Beach was classes and provided on call support for developed. people who needed such support. • An online mapping system is available • Council continues to provide a social showing the location of mobility parking and housing program for people aged over 55 accessible toilet facilities. years and nine places for people with an intellectual disability. • Council’s Events Policy was reviewed and endorsed. An access and inclusion • Plans to redevelop a social housing checklist and guide will be included in property at Edmund Street is in progress Council’s Events Management Guidelines and this project will include one fully which are currently in development. accessible unit. • An internal events policy was developed • Waverley Local Housing Strategy was which integrate disability awareness and adopted in June 2020. Key priorities include best practice strategies when holding improving liveability, sustainability and internal events accessibility through high-quality residential • Council continued to provide a broad design and increasing the amount of range of recreation, social and cultural affordable rental and social housing. programs at Bondi Pavilion, Margaret • Waverley’s Local Strategic Planning Whitlam Recreation Centre and Waverley Statement (LSPS) was endorsed in March. Community and Seniors Centre. Waverley The LSPS notes the increasing demand for Community Seniors Centre provided gentle a diversity of housing options and need for exercise classes and social activities for the planning system to intervene to ensure people aged 55 years and over. Margaret the delivery of diverse and suitable housing Whitlam Recreation Centre provided low such as adaptable and accessible housing, cost fitness classes for people aged 50 seniors housing and larger dwellings for years and over. downsizers and families with children. • Waverley Library provided three Movie • Waverley, in partnership with Woollahra and Club film screenings with closed captions, Randwick Councils co-ordinated the first and fortnightly deliveries to home library eastern beaches street count in February members. There are also large print and 20, identifying 28 people sleeping rough audio collections for people who are across the . visually impaired. • Council is preparing an Open Space and • Arts programs included a pottery program Recreation Strategy (OSRS) to ensure for people with an intellectual disability. these spaces and facilities meet community Eight workshops were held as part of the needs and expectations, including Sydney Children’s Hospital Art Ex Program accessibility improvements. and the Art of Ageing Exhibition at the • An Inclusive Play Study was initiated to Waverley Library. inform the design of play spaces and • A make music day held was inclusive of all playgrounds to be inclusive for everyone. ages. The Seniors Concerts and Sunshine The project has included targeted consultation with younger and older people 196 with a range of disability and service • Council is partnering with Transport for networks. NSW to implement a number of transport • Marks Park was upgraded and provides projects such as sharing data between a continuous accessible path to the community transport, Transport for NSW playground, amenities block, seats and and Council to better understand and an accessible lookout providing access address the transport need of all people in to coastal views. The upgrade will enable the area. people with physical disability to participate • Discussion with stakeholders continue in in events held in the park such as relation to creating direct access from the Sculptures by the Sea. train station to Bondi Junction Mall. • Bondi Pavilion upgrade is in progress. • A walking strategy which will include an Access improvements include accessible audit to identify accessible continuous toilet and change amenities and a recharge paths of travel has been delayed. point for mobility scooters. • Twenty pick-up and drop-off (PUDO) • The Boot Factory redevelopment in spaces were installed across the local conjunction with updating facilities at the government area. Ten bays were installed Mill Hill Centre was approved. Upgrades as a trial to provide safe access for ride will include a new lift to access upper share vehicles, taxis and the general public levels and accessible toilet upgrades. A to pick-up and drop-off passengers safely in commitment to improve the accessibility high traffic areas. The trial spaces are not of the courtyard, community bus parking yet accessible but there is a commitment and pick up and drop off parking to support to make spaces accessible if the project is people attending the Senior’s Centre are continued. also planned. • Accessible parking spaces were increased • The Street Design Manual was updated to across the local government area to include universal design principles which support access to facilities and to meet will support improved accessibility to verifiable individual requests. streetscape upgrades. • One hundred and ninety-one infringements • Streetscape improvements to Spring Street were issued for misuse of mobility parking Bondi Junction are in progress. spaces (MPS) including for using lost, stolen or expired permits and using while • The new access ramp at Bondi Beach was not transporting the MPS holder. Five completed, providing access to the beach hundred and one infringements were issued and children’s pool for wheelchair users. for parking in a mobility space without a • Plans are in progress to improve access valid permit. to the southern end of the promenade • A wayfinding initiative is planned for 2021. from Bondi Pavilion and to new southern amenities. Supporting access to meaningful • Council launched Access Bondi on 1 employment February 2020 to celebrate inclusion and • Waverley Community Living Program promote the infrastructure improvements to (WCLP) continued to deliver skills make Bondi Beach accessible for everyone. development program which includes The launch was held in partnership with independent living skills, cooking Bondi Surf Bathers Life Saving Club and classes, tenancy management, finance supported by Waverley Community Living management, cyber safety and infection Program participants, Royal Rehab and control. Spinal Cord Injury Australia. • Living the Dream is a group of people • Motorised mobility scooters recharge living with intellectual disability that meets stations were trialled at the Mill Hill Centre, regularly to work on projects that raise Waverley Library and Bondi Pavilion.

197 awareness of inclusion and human rights identify and resolve issues within the public for people with disability. domain. • In 2019, participants created a • A wayfinding application to assist people documentary video featuring their personal accessing Council facilities buildings was stories about bullying, inclusion and social investigated. stigma. Participants told their stories while • The Access Committee reviewed learning new skills such as storytelling and recruitment and reporting processes. scriptwriting. Review progress was delayed due to • Information for employers is in COVID-19. development. The focus has been to • Council endorsed the Waverley’s promote financial assistance packages Community Participation Plan. The plan since the outbreak of COVID-19. commits to support diverse community • Council continues to implement its representation in consultation processes Diversity and Inclusion Policy and Plan. and tailored consultations in relation to HR resources were reviewed. Job urban planning and development in the advertisements encourage people of area. all abilities to apply and assistance are • Targeted consultation was undertaken provided for applicants who request in the development of the Inclusive Play assistance. Study. • A staff survey held in 2019 included • Waverley Community Living participants questions to identify the number of staff with were involved in the development of the disability and any support requirements. program’s policies and procedures review. • Staff reporting a disability were low suggesting a need for more work in this area to identify how best to recruit, support Weddin Shire Council and retain staff with disability. Outcomes achieved through the Weddin Shire • Council’s Procurement Policy was reviewed Council DIAP include: and includes options to procure from • New and improved footpaths, including disability enterprises. widening, handrails and ramps for ease • A project with NSW Council for Intellectual of access as well as the provision of Disability to improve mainstream more accessible car spaces as part of the employment for people with disability is Grenfell Main Street Renewal project. planned. • New accessible toilets at Taylor Park • Review of the Council’s volunteer policy is (Grenfell’s first MLAK keyed accessible in progress. toilet), Henry Lawson Oval amenities building and the amenities block at the Improving access to mainstream Grenfell Racecourse. services through better systems and • Council’s communications incorporate processes language and formats that promote • Web content is reviewed and updated inclusion. regularly and significant documents are made available in alternative formats if The underlying basis of Council’s DIAP is requested. about supporting the fundamental basic right of choice for people with disability in our • A read / speak plug-in was trialed. Further community. Council’s desire is to recognise work to increase the accessibility of the and ensure people with disability have the website is planned. same right to choose how to live, work and • Council utilises the National Relay Service enjoy community life as we all do. and Snap Send Solve application to help

198 Wentworth Shire Council; Coronavirus pandemic, as it allowed the Libraries to continue providing services Ensure public consultation is undertaken to their members. During this period staff • Council continues to provide all information regularly checked in with members to seeking community input on its website. see how they were, exploring options of how they could continue to deliver library • This year Council has also expanded services to them during this time in a its advertising in the local newspaper COVID-safe manner. to include a full-page advertisement on Saturday’s, promoting the range of activities Proactively deliver services which cater for and consultations seeking community all residents feedback. • Council’s Disability Inclusion Plan continues • Council’s Facebook presence also to be available to the public on Council’s continues to increase, with a growing website. number of posts providing information on Council activities and a growing number of Communicate effectively to the public followers. • During the year Council has upgraded its Identify and remove barriers to entry website to be more user friendly. • Council also continues to increase its social • During 2019/2020 Council purchased 24 media presence through Facebook, where Bariatric height adjustable chairs to cater information is provided in easy English for people with mobility issues. These wherever possible. chairs have been placed across Council’s facilities including the libraries, function • The weekly What’s On full page venues and Council Chambers. advertisement in the Sunraysia Daily each Saturday also helps increase the range Convenience under the stronger country of information available about Council’s • Communities Fund Council has sourced activities in an easy to read format, with funding to increase disabled access to pictures to help explain where possible. public conveniences across the Shire. This • Council has also undertaken an increased includes the addition of disabled access media campaign with regular media toilet cubicles at both James King Park in releases produced throughout the year and Gol and Darling Street in Wentworth. an increased presence on the local radio updating residents on what is happening. Public buildings and spaces are accessible to all Willoughby City Council • Council continues to upgrade its shared ways and footpaths across the . Developing positive community This has included improvements to access attitudes and behaviours at the following locations: Pitman Avenue, • Training sessions for the Lower North Buronga, Darling Street, Wentworth and Shore Commonwealth Home Support Devenport Street, Dareton. Program volunteers were provided. Training Libraries including: • Wentworth Shire Libraries continued to ° Volunteer Practical Practices - to help increase the stock of large-print, audio and support clients with disabilities. digital products available for borrowers ° Effectively navigating client during the 2019/2020 financial year. This conversations – for volunteers assisting included $7,825 of large-print, $9,600 of clients with mental health issues. audio and $7,000 of digital products. ° Volunteer Induction – one-on-one • This was particularly valuable when training on inclusion and working with Council was required to close during the clients with diverse needs. 199 At Home with Willoughby Volunteer enjoyed live music provided by the band Handbook updated with a greater focus on Evergreen from their recording studio. inclusion. ° Connect, Collaborate, Celebrate art • The National Relay Service is a standing completion aimed at celebrating Social agenda item on the Customer Service team Inclusion week and International Day of meetings. This ensures knowledge/training People with a Disability. The competition on of the use of this service is kept up to saw 24 entrants with the winner receiving date and offered by Customer Service Staff a solo exhibition at the accessible when required. Dougherty Community Centre’s Blend Art Space. Customer Service currently liaising with other Councils and National Relay Services ° Seniors Festival with 30 plus events on customer service inclusive practices and across the month of February at various assistive technology as there is minimal accessible facilities across the local requests for the National Relay service. government area. • NSW Inclusion Agency provided training ° Willoughby City Council Men’s and to all Youth and Children Services staff on Women’s Shed. inclusion practices. ° Be Connected Tea and Tech Sessions. Willoughby City Council Youth team and ° Lower Disability Interagency Willoughby Youth Action team attended Forums. Youth Council Conference and gained a greater understanding on issues such as ° Blend Art Exhibition Space Exhibition. mental health and social inclusion. ° Chatter Cino Dementia Café. Further training scheduled for Youth Council provides community services for Services staff development day on inclusion people with a disability including Meals on of children with disabilities in Youth and Wheels, Linen and Out & About transport Children services. and Social Support group services. Resources and publications promoted • Council launched its new website which has to all Youth and Children services at the option to include an on-screen ‘text to staff meetings and through electronic speech’ reader. This appears to be the most communications. efficient way to make all documents on • Positive images of people with disabilities Council’s website accessible and available were used in promotional material across in an alternative format. Please see the year. Marketing materials were attached link for example https://willoughby. available in a number of formats and social prelive.opencities.com/Tests/General-Page- media influencers were sourced to promote; Test the Seniors Festival program, ‘Connect, • Council’s People with Disability page Collaborate, Celebrate’ art competition, was updated with links to various support Pride of Workmanship Rotary Awards, services including the NDIA, Carers ‘Little Actions, Big Difference’ dementia Gateway, providers and employment awareness event, Dance to the Nines services. disability dance. Creating liveable communities • Council has partnered with a number of organisations to provide events that raise • Access and Inclusion committee continued awareness of and promote access and to meet on a monthly basis and have inclusion. These include: provided advice on access and inclusion issues within the local government area on ° Dance to the Nines Disability Dance. projects such as: During COVID-19 lockdown this was event was provided through a virtual ° Spring Street and Harden Road Disability platform. Over 45 people with a disability Parking. linked in from their living rooms and 200 ° Pedestrian Safety Fencing – Mowbray https://www.willoughby.nsw.gov.au/ Road. Residents/Parks-and-Recreation/Parks- ° Chatswood Chase car park upgrade. Reserves-and-Playgrounds/Gore-Hill-Park ° Council’s Bus Stop Audit. The Willoughby City Council Access & Inclusion Committee continued to meet on ° Willoughby City Council Integrated a monthly basis with the aim of increasing Transport Strategy 2036. inclusion and access across the Willoughby ° Willoughby City Council Community Local Government Area. Engagement Project. Minutes of the Committee meetings are ° Willoughby City Council Local Strategic available on the Council Website. Planning Document 2019. • The Dance to the Nines working party • The Committee reviewed and endorsed continues to meet on a quarterly basis with the annual review of DIAP actions and the aim of increasing inclusion and access measures. to entertainment activities suitable for young adults with disabilities. • A Draft 2019 Footpath Asset Management Plan was developed and is currently under Virtual Dance to the Nines activities had review. Once reviewed and changes been planned for the remained of 2020 accepted, the plan will be released for to ensure participants remain connected public consultation. to their friends and the community during COVID-19 restrictions. • A review of all bus stops throughout the local government area was completed. Supporting access to meaningful The aim of the review was to determine the employment extent of works required at each stop in • As part of WCC new corporate system order to meet the Disability Standards for Technology One implementation, People Accessible Public Transport DSAPT 2002 and Culture are currently updating the standards. Recruitment & Selection policy and Initial results indicate that works are associated training to reinforce diversity required to approximately 400 bus stops. and inclusion processes and reduce This work varies from general maintenance, unconscious bias. installation of TGSI (tactiles) and concrete • Employment Branding project currently pads. Not all of the upgrades will be done being developing and will incorporate by Council. For example Transport for NSW and promote an inclusive and diverse will also need to upgrade or install bus stop workplace. signage where missing/broken etc. • All recruitment ads will include the Due to the number of bus stops to be statement ‘Willoughby City Council is upgraded, work will be completed over committed to providing a flexible, diverse two financial years. However, work will be and inclusive workplace for all employees.’ prioritised to ensure upgrades to stops Job design and position descriptions will adjacent to retirement villages, care homes, also be reviewed. Both projects are due for hospitals etc. will be upgraded first. Bus completion by October 2020. stops identified by the Access and Inclusion Committee will be given priority. • An accessible checklist to be refined in light of the new recruitment modules. • A dedicated webpage for accessible parks/ playgrounds has been developed. As parks/ • People and Culture team continue to playgrounds are upgraded across the local identify roles that can provide work government area, accessibility features opportunities for people with disabilities are listed on the website and linked to the and remove unnecessary selection criteria People with Disability webpage. from roles to reduce barriers for people with disabilities.

201 • Council’s ‘Employment’ website page and Chatter Cino Dementia Café. includes reference to respecting diversity • Council provide a Community Development and actively encourages people with a office to support partnerships and community disability to apply. Information is also programs for people with a disability. provided various formats including softcopy, hardcopy and on-screen ‘text to speech’ • DIAP progress is embedded in the reader. Integrated Planning and Performance framework and reported bi-annually in • Council’s ‘People with Disability’ webpage Councils progress report and Council is has been reviewed and updated and reviews the delivery of the plan. contains links to Disability Employment and Job Access services. • Information regarding disability recreation and creative arts opportunities were • Council provide employment and volunteer provided under the relevant Council opportunities for people with disability Directories and including: throughout the organisation. ° Social Inclusion Week and International • Council People and Culture team Day of People - art competition titled encourage employees with a disability to Connect, Collaborate, Celebrate. The self-identify confidentially. completion saw 27 local artists with • Workplace adjustments and ergonomics are disabilities exhibit their work at the discussed during the induction process and easily accessible Dougherty Community can also be raised through Work Health & Centre. Safety, ‘Safety Matters’ system at any time. ° Visual Arts (VA) Team partnered with When necessary, external providers are to feature Art engaged to provide assessment on site. Space on The Concourse & Incinerator • Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans Art Space in their Dementia Friendly (PEEP) information system is still under Spaces booklet of accessible cultural review. People and Culture to organise spaces in Sydney. Publication distributed training to Emergency Management team for free through all participant venues. and wardens on the development of ° Both art spaces have accessible PEEPs. features; access via lifts & ramped flooring, IAS has accessible toilet; Improving access to mainstream CAS accessible toilet nearby. VA services through better systems and Team will update art space documents processes & webpages so information about • An upgrade of Council’s website was accessibility & “how to get there” is more undertaken in 2019/2020. The new website clearly stated. meets the Web Content Accessibility ° In 2019, Visual Arts partnered with Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0 of the World Wide Dougherty Community Centre to Web Consortium (W3C). provide curatorial support for Connect • Council’s webpage for People with Collaborate + Celebrate. VA Team will Disabilities provides information and links continue to offer support for 2020 to help to disability services including NDIS, Carers inclusion exhibition grow. Gateway, employment services, support ° In 2020, the hire program includes and social services and accessible parks exhibition by a Deaf artist that will offer a and playgrounds. perspective of ‘Deaf culture’ in a ‘hearing world’. • Council’s webpage for Older Adults • provides information and links to aged Information on Dance to the Nines disability services such as My Age Care, Carers dance appears on the Council’s People Gateway, support services such as Meals with Disability webpage and is distributed on Wheels, Linen, Out and Out transport, through Council’s disability networks. social support group and individual services

202 • Council’s Dougherty Community Centre Wingcarbee Shire Council provided Tea and Tech sessions and the Developing positive community Internet Kiosk program to enable greater attitudes and behaviours access to and training on accessing systems and services, information on Council supports and encourages positive Council’s website. and inclusive attitudes and behaviour towards How have you determined that you’re people with disability: meeting the needs of people with • Council partnered with Disability Services disability? Australia to hold an International Day of • Council provided an Access and Inclusion People with Disability (International Day Committee and Seniors Advisory for People with Disability) event at Lake Committee to gain feedback from Alexandra, Mittagong on 3 December 2019, community members regarding access with approximately 100 people attending. issues. • A Pop-up Information Kiosk for International Day for People with Disability was held • Council participates in and provides a in Corbett Plaza, Bowral on 5 December venue for the Northern District Disability 2019, supported by local disability service Network. providers. • Access and Inclusion is embedded within • Three meetings of the Access Community community consultation and engagement Reference Group were facilitated online, for major capital works including upgrades with the Reference Group monitoring the to parks and facilities. implementation of the Disability Inclusion • Community Wellbeing survey conducted in Action Plan and reporting to Council February with results identifying areas of through the Community Development need and improvement. Advisory Committee. • ‘Tool box talks’ about inclusive language Describe your challenges and and communication were held with successes in delivering on your parts customer service staff. of the DIAP Creating liveable communities • Ongoing review and reporting against Disability Action Plan without funding or • Council secured an additional accessible designated Disability Officer. parking space at the Moss Vale War Memorial Aquatic Centre and ensured • Retaining ongoing momentum for a supply of accessible parking spaces inclusion during COVID-19 shutdown and at the conclusion of the Kirkham Road restrictions. reconstruction project in Bowral. • Funding for upgrades of infrastructure to • Construction of the Renwick Shared improve access. Path, which will connect Renwick to • Review of all bus stops in Council’s local Mittagong Railway Station via a footpath government area completed. of approximately two kilometres in length, has commenced and will include • Collective Impact project underway with ramps at intersections that meet access Local Service providers. requirements in accordance with the Is there anything else you’re doing or Australian Standards. planning for the future to contribute • Several of the Shire’s community facilities to greater outcomes for people with and open spaces received upgrades to disability? improve access and inclusion, such as: • Adult Lift and Change facility to be ° An access ramp was constructed and incorporated into the Dougherty Community the internal toilet converted to meet Centre refit. accessibility standards at Wingello • Community Well-Being survey. Mechanics Institute. 203 ° An elevator was installed at the Bowral 24 hours a day, seven days a week access Rugby Clubhouse in Burradoo as part to a network of public facilities including of the upgrade works, to ensure for wheelchair accessible toilets. accessible access to the first floor. • Council’s webpages on Disability Services ° Improved access to toilets at Burrawang were updated to ensure that accurate Oval, Winifred West Park in Mittagong information continued to be provided to the and Leighton Gardens in Moss Vale was community. provided as part of renewal works. • The Bowral Branch Library undertook • Council was awarded a $200,000 grant by an accessibility project at Bowral Branch the NSW Government under the Everyone Library by removing and redistributing Can Play grant program to upgrade the books so that the bottom shelf of the Adult playspace and amenities at Seymour Fiction collection is not in use, thereby Park to provide an accessible playground, making books easier to access. two accessible parking spaces and an • Following a review and update, Council’s accessible toilet within the new amenities Community Engagement Strategy was building. adopted on 11 December 2019. This • The Paws N Tales program continued to references Social Justice Principles and be implemented at Bowral Branch Library the DIAP, and includes the objective to encourage children with learning and ‘Manage a proactive program of community reading difficulties to enjoy books whilst engagement, ensuring all sectors of the having support from volunteers and community are included’. specially trained dogs. Supporting access to meaningful Wollondilly Shire Council employment Developing positive community • The DisabilityAWARNESS online training attitudes and behaviours module for disability awareness has been • Wollondilly Library Services have been incorporated in the new online training working in collaboration with members platform for Council staff, which will be of the Inclusion and Access Advisory implemented in 2020/2021. Committee to provide Auslan Story time. • Council continued to apply the principles A video is released each week on the outlined in the Equal Employment Wollondilly Library Facebook page of the Opportunity General Manager Practice Children and Youth Librarian reading a story Note and Procedure to ensure that or reciting a nursery rhyme whilst a deaf recruitment and employment processes are staff member translates in Auslan. accessible to people with disability. The short videos have been a very • Council’s Branch Libraries continued to popular addition to the Library Facebook offer free computer and wireless access with aspirations for an inclusive storytime as well as Tech Time, a program providing to continue in person once COVID-19 help with technology problems to build restrictions have eased. confidence and skills in using computers and mobile devices. Creating liveable communities Improving access to mainstream • Accessibility upgrades to public transport services through better systems and including railway stations and bus stops is a processes key desire for Council supported through its Transport Advisory Committee. • The Master Locksmith Access Key (MLAK) • process was revised, including updates Council has been carrying out detailed made to the application form in August design of intersection upgrades, including 2019, to ensure that the key is easier to increased pedestrian safety, for the Station obtain for residents with disability to gain St and Menangle St intersection in Picton 204 and have recently commenced a transport ° Adding alternate text to all images and study of Tahmoor to increase accessibility to documents being uploaded to site. the Tahmoor Railway Station. ° Provide training to those who have edit • Council renewed a number of bus stops access on the website to ensure they are including a facility at Mt Hunter and aware of accessibility requirements. Camden Park. ° Overall accessibility compliance sits at • Council has applied through the Country 63.17%. Passenger Transport Infrastructure Grants Describe your challenges and Scheme (CPTIGS) for future upgrades in successes in delivering on your parts Appin. of the DIAP Supporting access to meaningful • employment A recent community survey highlighted that the Wollondilly community has been heavily • The Wollondilly Youth Advisory Committee impacted by COVID-19, bushfires, floods (YAC) were successful in obtaining the Youth and drought of 2019/2020. Consequences Opportunities State Government grant to roll have included increased social isolation, out a project targeted at up-skilling young mental health concerns such as anxiety and people in the Wollondilly to prepare them for depression and shortages of food/household future career pursuits. ‘ items. • Adulting 101’ will offer free training in • COVID-19 has impacted Council’s ability Responsible Service of Alcohol, Responsible to meaningfully engage and support face Conduct of Gambling and barista training to face community based projects that courses available to young people in aim to support the disability community. Wollondilly including young people with a Due to ongoing restrictions and increased disability. vulnerabilities, Council has been unable to • To complement these courses, the YAC is facilitate face to face community projects also organising resume and interview skills since March 2020. workshops, free printing cards, a clothing • The ongoing effect of bushfires and other pool for interview-appropriate clothes and natural disasters living in a semi-rural fortnightly ‘Study Cram’ tutoring sessions. community include the emergence of post- Improving access to mainstream traumatic stress disorder and other anxiety associated impacts for residents. Residents services through better systems and have highlighted that local service provision processes including access to health and wellbeing • Council is committed to ensuring the services is at capacity and they have been implementation of the Monsido accessibility unable to access immediate supports at program which is being rolled out across the their most vulnerable time. main council website. Is there anything else you’re doing or Council identified the need to monitor the planning for the future to contribute accessibility on the website daily especially to greater outcomes for people with during covid-19 restrictions when residents disability? were encouraged to engage with council • using council’s website. DIAP be promoted to development process through the Development Application • Accessibility changes to the website during process is on track. the 2019/2020 period have included: • Playground upgrade in Warragamba to be ° Fixed 66 level A compliance issues with an Inclusive playground in partnership with 67 left. Touched by Olivia Foundation is completed. ° Fixed 8 level AA compliance issues with • Advocacy for completion of access 25 left. upgrades to all bus stops is completed.

205 • Advocacy for upgrade of all train stations is • Customer Service Training delivered to on track. all staff (including new starters) to include • Strategic Commitment when we work to a Disability Awareness is completed. minimum standard to upgrade our council • Use plain English in our communication buildings and facilities is completed. is completed. • Promote that Information is available in a • Utilise International Day of People with range of formats on request is completed. Disability to promote inclusion to the greater community is completed • Council internal Steering Group to implement the DIAP and track progress is • Quarterly Disability Information Forums to on track. inform the community in an inclusive and • Develop and implement plan to ensure accessible setting is active web content compliance with Web Content • Provision of Accessible Community Bus Accessibility Guidelines 2.0 of AA standard available to hire to transport and socially as required by the National Transition disadvantaged groups in the community is Strategy is completed. completed • Investigate closed captioning of Council • Provide Talking Newspaper is on track. archived videos including is completed. • Community Engagement Strategy to • Disability Access Advisory Committee is on include a checklist on inclusive consultation track. is completed. • Engage external facilitator to develop and Wollongong City Council deliver comprehensive inclusion training is Developing positive community completed. attitudes and behaviours • Continue to employ Ageing and Disability Council has worked to promote positive Officer after salary subsidy ceases 30 June community attitudes and behaviours towards 2018 is completed. people with disability, including: • Council wide annual inclusion & diversity • Collaborated with Shellharbour City month with all teams working on a mini Council to produce a calendar of events inclusion project is on track. to celebrate International Day of People • Flexible working hours for staff to facilitate with Disability. The calendar was launched and support staff work life balance, family in partnership with Dressed for Success, and caring commitments and support staff a social enterprise supporting women to who have disability is on track. achieve economic independence through the provision of support, professional • As part of Council’s Workforce attire and styling sessions. Twelve local Management Strategy, include and develop women with disability attended the launch new guidelines for inclusion and Equal and participated in a styling session and Employment Opportunities is completed. employment preparedness workshop. • Review recruitment processes, forms and • Provided and promoted accessible language for accessibility is on track. exhibitions and programs at the Art Gallery, • Identify and work with a disability including a Rosie Deacon exhibition and an employment organisation to assist with 11-week art therapy mental health program opportunities for employment and Job with Rumpus. Access to support employees in their role is • Incorporated a range of inclusive practices on track. at VIVA la Gong 2019 including an Auslan • Develop an Inclusion and Access tool for interpreter at the launch to interpret the Council staff to use when organising public Welcome to Country and Lord Mayor’s events and activities is completed. speech, the Quiet Space and a tour of the site the day before as it was being set up

206 for people with autism. The tour included an • Renewed and upgraded accessible parking explanation of what would happen on the in three Council car parks. day. • Purchased and installed wheelchair • Incorporated a range of inclusive practices accessible matting for two beaches across Council’s Library services including (Thirroul and Austinmer) and built a a Christmas Papercraft activity delivered wheelchair access ramp at Bellambi Rock by a person with disability, purchase of pool. an adjustable table to provide wheelchair • Improved access in two playgrounds, access to the sewing machines in the including installation of wheelchair makerspace in Wollongong Central library, accessible play equipment at Charles continuing to support a NSW Guide Dogs Harper Park, Helensburgh and a braille sign Association knitting group for people who at Luke’s Place Corrimal to assist people are blind or have low vision and developing who are blind to find their way around the social stories for Corrimal, Dapto, Thirroul playground. and Warrawong libraries that are now Council delivered a range of planning and included on the Wollongong City Libraries design projects, including: website. • Created a design upgrade for amenities at • Hosted a variety of programs which Austinmer Bathers Pavilion. included an Auslan interpreter, including a Gingerbread House-making workshop and • Undertook access appraisals at four pools a MyGov information talk. (Helensburgh, Corrimal, Western Suburbs and Berkeley) to inform future upgrades to Creating liveable communities the pools. Council delivered a range of infrastructure Supporting access to meaningful projects to improve access to the built employment environment for people with disability, • including: Council has provided opportunities for people with disability to participate in work • Installed four new unisex accessible toilets experience, including: at Wiseman Park, Webb Park, Russell Vale ° Community Hall and Wollongong Senior Developed and piloted an eight-week Citizens Centre. work experience program for six students from Aspect South Coast School for • Improved access at six bus stops by Autism. The students worked at a variety installing continuous accessible paths of of Council sites including the Botanic travel from the bus stop to the kerbside. Garden, Beaton Park, working with the Tactile ground surface indicators were Foreshore crew, Youth Services at the installed at four of these bus stops. Wollongong Youth Centre and in the • Completed 37 projects to install new Council administration building with the footpaths and kerb ramps. We also Community Development and Social upgraded existing footpaths and kerb Planning team. ramps in 18 locations. Improved access at ° 11 pedestrian crossings including footpaths, Provided two work placement pedestrian refuges, kerb ramps and traffic opportunities for tertiary students in lights. Council libraries. • Delivered a major access upgrade to the • Council has delivered a range of learning kerb ramps at the Railway St / Princes and development opportunities for Council Highway intersection in Corrimal Town officers to promote and support their Centre. understanding of disability, including: • Installed two new cycle/shared pathways ° Delivered Diversity Awareness Training and upgraded two existing cycle/shared for 50 Council officers. pathways.

207 ° Provided six Autism Awareness representation of people with disability and Training sessions for 51 Council their carers and provides advice to Council officers to increase staff awareness to inform our projects, policies and plans. and understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorder and how to support and work with people with Autism. Woollahra Municipal Council Developing positive community ° Provided Disability Awareness Training attitudes and behaviours as part of Council’s lifeguard induction. • Disability awareness training of all public ° Arranged an Autism Spectrum Disorder facing staff covering awareness of Workshop that was co-facilitated by disability legislation and responsibilities a person with autism, with 29 Council is incorporated into EEO presentations, officers attending. Council officers learnt comprising of a two hour module at about the challenges people with autism induction and two hour refreshers. face and about different concepts, including theory of mind. For each point • Since staff have been working from home, of theory discussed, the presenter HR have provided online ‘Woollahra cafe’ provided real-life examples to help mental health and wellbeing related topics: further explain the concept or challenge. ° Managing Your Wellbeing at Home Improving access to mainstream (16.04.20). services through better systems and ° The challenges and Necessities of processes Habits and Routines (2.06.20). • Updated the playground website to include ° A Pragmatic Guide to Meditation and information on accessibility. We have added Mindfulness (9.06.20). social stories for some of our playgrounds ° Self Confidence - Building it and to this website. rebuilding it (2 part series. 11.06.20 and • Upgraded Wollongong City Libraries and 16.06.20). Wollongong Botanic Garden websites to meet current access standards. The ° Food and Mood (30.06.20). content for both sites was completely • A new Staff Wellbeing Guide resource with rewritten using more accessible language. tips on ways to boost mental health and Information has also been added to assist reduce stress has been sent to all staff. people to access these services, such as It includes a list of websites and phone details about physical access, programs numbers to use or share with others. for people with disability, and resources • Managers and the Executive leadership to support customers with different needs. team received training from Black Dog Distributed our new Disability Access Institute about creating a Mentally Healthy Guide that provides information about the Workplace. accessible services and facilities Council provides. • An early childhood qualified Inclusion • Developed a Social Enterprise supplier Support Teacher is employed to plan and data base which is available for Council implement Individual Learning Programs for officers and the general community through each child and works closely with support Council’s website. agencies to track each child’s progress. • Council has continued to engage people with All Customer Services staff are familiar with disability, including: the use of the National RELAY Service. • • Engaged 275 people with disability and All Library, Community Development and their carers to inform the development of Cultural Development and some Customer the 2020-2025 Plan for Council. Services staff have completed Dementia Friends training. • Convened the Walking, Cycling and Mobility Reference Group. This group includes 208 • The Woollahra Dementia Alliance Care joined Council in providing activities, advocates for dementia friendly entertainment and lunch for 40 people living environments and will work in partnership with disability in Robertson Park, Watson’s with HR to coordinate wider staff training. Bay. To celebrate International Day of Members of the Woollahra Dementia People with disability. Alliance have also approached a number Creating liveable communities of local Pharmacists to encourage them to undertake the CPD on line dementia • Building condition audits are undertaken six awareness training. monthly, safety inspections are undertaken • Staff have been advised that the Pre- monthly and audits are undertaken Event Site Inspection Checklist and the annually. Any accessibility deficiencies are Event Management Plan and Checklist recorded and upgrade works are prioritised include accessibility information for all of in future Capital Works programs. Council’s parks and venues, recommended • Building designs are undertaken by sit e layouts to include accessible paths of qualified architects to ensure that facilities travel, and advice around signage, seating are built to comply with all Australian and traffic management. Standards. • There is now a section in the Style Guide • Appropriate signage, highlighting that the that references ‘Designing for Accessibility’ Customer Service Centre and Council which includes: typography (size, colour Chambers are accessible, has been contrast and legibility), use of colour and designed and installed. web design resources and tips. • Accessibility features of all three Library • The events form on the website now has a Service points are listed in the general tick-a-box for people to indicate whether or Library brochure (accessible toilets at all not their event is accessible. three Libraries; lift and hearing loop at • Staff look for images which include those Woollahra Library at Double Bay) and a list with disability when making new image of accessible features at our hire venues, purchases. The new multimedia image where applicable, is included in the Venue library (Photoshelter) used by Council Hire brochure. Hearing loop information is includes images of people living with included on Community Development and disability, some of which have been Library promotional material where it is sourced from local agencies for use in available. Council publications as appropriate. • Accessibility features of all Council’s parks, • The Skill Up program included ‘boost libraries and venues are described on your brain’ dementia awareness that was Council’s website. provided to 22 attendees in September • Upgrades consider access issues as a 2019. A 2-day accredited mental health first matter of course. Council engages access aid training was provided in October 2019 consultants for larger projects. Recent and attended by 15 people. upgrades have included: • The Access Forums have been combined ° Access improvements to the E J Ward with the Skill Up program (above) that Paddington Community Centre including provides mental health and other inclusion a lift, widening of the doors, a new information sessions. accessible toilet and improved paths of • In addition, Council has worked in travel. partnership with Holdsworth Community to ° An access upgrade to Sherbrooke Hall provide one-on-one information sessions to that includes a new accessible toilet and assist people with registering for My Aged improved paths of travel via accessible Care. ramps. • Eastern Suburbs Police Area Command, ° The former library at Double Bay is Holdsworth Community, Miroma and Jewish being redeveloped as the Woollahra Art 209 Gallery and community hub. Works have measures to improve current accessibility of commenced including a new lift providing McKell Park are: access from New South Head Road ° An upgrade of pathway and pedestrian which will also provide access between ramps on Darling Point Road leading to floors of the building. the park. • Council explored establishing a reference ° Preparation of a report to Traffic group for comment and feedback on Committee to change existing parking planned infrastructure upgrades but, signage and install a layback at the cul- as qualified consultants cognisant of de- sac of Darling Point Road to allow for accessibility guidelines and standards are passenger drop off and pick up. appointed when undertaking upgrades, it was decided not to pursue a reference ° Upgrade of the internal pathways and group. A proposal is before Council to extension of the pathway from the establish a reference group of people living circular meeting area to the existing seat with a disability, over 70 or a carer to be to create a compliant viewing area. part of an accessibility reference group. • Mitigating measures to improve current • The audit, of parks and public spaces for accessibility of Darling Point Ferry Wharf accessibility features, has been completed are: and improvement works included in a ° That Council will continue discussions schedule e.g. the public toilets at the with Sydney Ferries in relation to an Gunyah in Watsons Bay have been upgrade. identified as requiring an access upgrade ° and works have commenced. Improvement works to footpaths have been completed. The parking • The MLAK locks on Council’s accessible recommendation is in progress. public toilets have been modified so • that they can be left unlocked during the Under a feasibility study into including day. Signage with clear instructions and braille in wayfinding signage - This did not emergency contact details has been happen in2019/2020year. Council’s Active installed for when the accessible toilets are Transport Consultant will be directed to locked at night. The accessibility features consider including braille in our wayfinding of toilets throughout the Municipality are signage types. described on the Nation al Public Toilet • In relation to an access audit on footpaths Map. and develop a program of works - Council • A map of water fountains throughout the has recently undertaken a condition Municipality has been complied and is assessment of all footpaths across the available on Council’s website. The Plum Municipality which has been used to Reserve park upgrade will include water formulate future capital works renewal bubblers at accessible heights. programs that prioritise works based on a number of factors including condition and • Council has completed a major upgrade pedestrian numbers. to the Parsley Bay Reserve playground, resulting in an all–abilities inclusive play Council also has a regular inspection space featuring wetpour rubber soft fall program which is completed by Council’s to provide wheelchair and pram access Asset Inspection Officer. Any defects through the playground. identified are recorded and maintenance and repair works are prioritised and • An accessibility assessment report of completed. McKell Park and Darling Point Ferry • Wharf has revealed that it is not practically Council is currently updating Plans of achievable to make these areas Disability Management for Sir David Martin Reserve Discrimination Act compliant. Mitigating and other sites throughout the Municipality. Wayfinding signage will be referenced within these plans. 210 • In addition to one male and one female Maintenance & Modification Service toilet, an accessible toilet is now available are listed in Council’s disability services in Chiswick Gardens. directory. • The key objective of the Active Transport • In relation to the Home Library Service for Plan is to develop walking and cycling housebound people/people with limited routes across the Municipality and may mobility, after a review, a new best practice also include actions to upgrade and registration procedure was put in place to install assets such as pram ramps and allow clients or a person on their behalf to tactile indicators. Council constructs apply online for the service. approximately 80 kerb ramps each financial ° Over the 2019/2020 period, the Home year. Library loaned a total of 4578 items. At • Council promotes our accessible parks and June 2020, the Home Library had 87 facilities via the website. active members {41 living in their own home, 46 living in Aged Care). • Council continues to fund Holdsworth Community to provide a range of services ° All Envoy Connect Audio Players and programs for older people and people underwent a Firmware update with the with special needs, including the provision result being a more user-friendly device. of community transport. ° Courtesy phone calls were made to both • The Sir Roden and Lady Cutler past and present Home Library members Foundation received a Community and in the months of April and May 2020, Cultural Grant towards their ‘Pick Me Up’ which resulted in a number of Woollahra service that provides free door to door residents re-joining the service. medical related transport to people in the • Woollahra Preschool Inclusion Support Woollahra local government area who are program continues to provide priority physically, mentally, socially or financially access and reduced fees for children with disadvantaged. Each year, this provides identified additional support needs. over 5,000 free trips to residents of Woollahra. • New amenities including an accessible playroom, toilets and hydraulic children’s • Council’s Woollahra Integrated Transport change facilities, -and outdoor playground Strategy gives consideration to access for with ramps, catering for 20 children at children and people with disabilities and Woollahra Preschool have been completed. mobility issues. Council has committed to ensuring our roads, footpaths, cycleways • Council activities run at the Woollahra and transport systems accommodate, as Library at Double Bay and at Council far as is practicable, people of all ages, life Chambers are accessible and inclusive. stages and mobility abilities. We promote the hearing loop services to be requested in advance through Eventbrite • Approximately 100 residents continue registration. Inclusive images are used on to utilise the service whereby Council activity promotional materials. organises for bins to be brought out for collection. A draft policy exists and will be • Programs supported through the finalised. Community and Cultural Grants Program have included: an art exhibition showcasing • 11 residences utilise the service where the creative talents of individuals living with Council mows the road verge for those disability; peer support group meetings for unable to do so, as documented in people living with mental illness; a family Council’s Verge Mowing Policy. fun day in support and celebration of young • Calvary Community Care, Care Connect people living with disability; sailing for Ltd., Home Modification Information people with disability and their carer; and Clearinghouse and Randwick Home free door-to-door medical related transport for people who are physically, mentally, socially or financially disadvantaged. 211 • Woollahra Libraries have offered a ‘Don’t 2019 some were at capacity whilst others Forget Fridays’ program at Watson Bay had vacancies: supply was meeting Library for people living with dementia and demand: their carers. ° Based on 2019 population projections, • The Woollahra Dementia Alliance 720 beds will be needed in 2021 to meet coordinated a silent disco at Paddington the benchmark of 88 beds per 1,000 Library and two dementia friendly tours of people aged 70 years and older (NSW the Youth Photographic Award exhibition at Growth Centres Guidelines) there are Double Bay Library. currently 747 beds. • 28 Mobility Parking Spaces are available • Disability housing is not monitored across the Municipality, in addition to those as dwellings with DAs deeming them in Council car parks. accessible are not subsequently routinely • Six Health Carers Permits were issued to used as housing for people living with medical practitioners (for example Agency disability. There are no group homes for home nurses) across the Municipality. younger people living with disability in Woollahra. • Council continues its annual funding • Council maintains a disability directory and contribution to Holdsworth Community to senior’s accommodation listing, both of provide a range of services and programs which will be reviewed and updated next for older people and people with additional year. needs, including the provision of community transport, support with registering for My Supporting access to meaningful Aged Care and HomeShare information. employment • Council has worked in partnership with • HR continue to provide Interview and the State Government to implement an Selection training for staff new to accessibility upgrade at Edgecliff Station recruitment panels, as well as one-on-one that includes sheltered seating, a fully refresher training, that covers: accessible ramp to replace the old one that ° didn’t meet disability standards and the Legislation: Local Government (State) installation of a second lift to the station Award 2017, Industrial Relations Act platforms. 1996, Local Government Act 1993 and Anti-Discrimination Act 1977. • As documented in Chapter EB of the ° Woollahra Development Control Plan, all Equal Employment Opportunity: a development applications of 10 or more positive way of describing the absence dwellings are required to have at least 10% of workplace discrimination so that of those dwellings to Class A certification employment decisions, including under AS 4299- Adaptable Housing. recruitment, selection, opportunities and employment conditions, will not be made • Review works schedule to ensure s7.12 on the basis of irrelevant characteristics levy funds (previously s94A) are directed such as a person’s age, sex, marital to Council’s current buildings to improve status, race, colour, pregnancy, sexuality, disabled access - where the levy is applied, religion, political belief, impairment or contribution funds are allocated as per disability or association with a person(s) Council’s ‘Summary of Works Schedule’, having such characteristics. Basing some of which pertain to accessibility. decisions on these characteristics is both • Council contacts all organisations unfair and unlawful. offering independent/retirement village ° Merit Principle: matching the abilities living, residential aged care beds and/or and qualifications of the candidate to dementia-specific residential aged care the requirements of the position so beds in November each year to ascertain that the system of assessing is fair and capacity and the availability of beds. In consistent.

212 ° Job Access: the national hub for all • Council is currently using Zoom to host things disability employment. Funded by activities, allowing for a wider diversity of the Australian Government Department people registering and participating. of Social Services, JobAccess provides • Where possible, activities have been information on, for example: financial held at the fully accessible Woollahra support, workplace modifications, Library or at Council Chambers. Due to help with finding and changing jobs, social distancing requirements during the creating flexible work environments, pandemic, many activities March - June links to career advice and training 2020 were held via Zoom which led to an courses, connecting with employers, increase in accessibility. Some of these providers and peak bodies and a range webinars and workshops have been of other tools and resources for people recorded and made available on Council’s with disability, employers and service website, with close captioning where providers. appropriate. • The National Disability Recruitment • The current Disability Directory listing on program has ceased to exist. Job Access Council’s website will be reviewed and (the parent organisation) provide ongoing updated in consultation with local service monitoring and evaluation of opportunities providers. The current listings on Council’s within Council. website includes services provided in • Continued Council’s EEO Policy neighbouring areas. that defines disability discrimination, • Preschool staff are aware of the Supporting responsibilities of staff and Council, Children with Additional Needs Policy remedies for instances of discrimination. and Procedure and the Priority of Access • Completed and endorsed. Mental health Guidelines which give priority to children on (reasonable adjustments) t raining has the wait list with identified additional support been provided to the Executive Leadership needs. Team, Managers and Team Leaders. • A bi-monthly hard copy large print ‘Library • Added a specific disability inclusion and What’s On’ guide is available at each reasonable adjustment policy to the EEO Library service point. A large print Exhibition Management Plan to ensure a diverse Guide is produced annually for the and skilled workforce, a workplace culture Woollahra Small Sculpture Prize. displaying fair workplace practices and • An accessibility page on Council’s website behaviours and improved employment lists Council’s accessible venues, parks and access and participation by EEO groups. playgrounds, upcoming accessible events, • JewishCare’s Print35 employs people living current and planned works with accessible with intellectual disability. Council continues features and a link to additional resources to work with Print35 to produce both a such as the accessible toilets map. monthly Library brochure and the Seniors’ • Council engages in regular automated Festival brochure. and manual testing to ensure the website • Improving access to mainstream services complies with the guidelines. through better systems and processes • Event registration is available via Eventbrite Yass Valley Council online booking system on any device at any time. Registrations can also be made via The DIAP is a part of Council’s hierarchy of phone, email or in person at any Council plans and strategies and includes actions or Library service point. Council website relevant to all areas of Council. The actions and Eventbrite setup meets Web Content in the DIAP Implementation Plan have been Accessibility Guidelines. reflected in Council’s Delivery Program and Operational Plan and reported on annually.

213 Developing positive community in the development of the PAMP and attitudes and behaviours annual budget allocations. • Online Disability Awareness training • Developed and implemented a program for sourced. Community services and library installing and upgrading kerb ramps and staff promoted availability to staff. footpaths to improve continuous accessible paths of travel and deliver access • On line information, on making your event outcomes. Priority locations include: Town accessible, available on Council’s web site and village centres, Council buildings linked as part of event information. to designated accessible car parking and • Interagency meeting for all community key transport nodes. services (including disability services) in Improving access to mainstream place. Council’s Community Planner now services through better systems and Council’s representative in the forum. processes • Utlised International Day for People With • Disability to promote inclusion to the Format for printed documents altered general community. so captions included for all illustrations/ photographs and colour contrasting being • Pre and post survey to determine business used. owners attitude towards access Access • must be considered as part of any approval New website launched August 2018 for publicly accessible buildings and is compliant with the relevant standards. routinely part of pre-lodgement discussions. Website also complies with the web accessibility national transition. Access Safe and accessible community Committee representative joined working facilities group to review format. • Physical access improvements to main • Ongoing advocacy undertaken seeking entry of Council’s Administration Office upgraded facilities at Yass Hospital. design completed and approved. • All Development Applications are required • Work programmed for 2018/2019 financial to be assessed against the Disability year not completed. Project placed on hold Discrimination Act 1992 and the Building pending the design and development of a Code of Australia. new Council Precinct. (note on hold) • A disabled toilet facility provided but access to it is not compliant. No further work is planned on the present facility as Council is currently arranging for the design and development of new administrative offices as part of a new Council Precinct. • Project brief prepared for undertaking an audit of designated accessible parking spaces on-street and in car parks in the CBD, town 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. • Installed automatic doors at the Yass Visitor Information Centre. • Prioritisation of DIAP actions and integration of these actions are considered

214 215