PARRAMATTA CITY COUNCIL ACCESS & EQUITY POLICY

JUNE 2013 Acknowledgements Abbreviations

> Parramatta City Councils’ Staff and Committees: CALD – Culturally and Linguistically Diverse

– Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander GLBTI – Gay, Lesbian, Bi-Sexual, Transgender and Intersex Advisory Committee LGA – Local Government Area – Access Advisory Committee LGBTI – Lesbian, Gay, Bi-Sexual, Transgender and Intersex – Community Capacity Building Team PCC – Parramatta City Council – Community Engagement TIS – Translating and Interpreting Service – Granville Youth and Community Recreation Centre

– Home Support and Community Services Team

– Human Resources

– Marketing and Communications Team

– Library Service

> City of Sydney Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender Project Coordinator

> Granville Multicultural Community Centre

> Granville Multicultural Disability Advocacy Association

> NSW Police Force Senior Programs Officer – Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender and Intersex Issues

> Parramatta Queer Forum

> The Hills Holroyd Parramatta Migrant Resource Centre

> Twenty10

Access and Equity Policy

Owner Area POL No. Social Outcomes City Strategy 60

Date of Approval authority Date approved commencement Council 24 June 2013 20 June 2013 Minute No. 13934

Amendment No. Date of next review Review 2 August 2014 Annually

Parramatta City Council: Access and Equity Policy 2013 2 Contents

Section 1 1.1 Scope 5 Background 1.2 Purpose of Document 5 1.3 Why Should Council be concerned with Access and Equity Issues 5 1.4 Who does this policy specifically support? 6 1.5 Definitions 7 1.6 Legislative and Strategic Planning Context 8 – Commonwealth of Australia 8 – New South Wales 8 – Parramatta City Council’s Principles 8

Section 2 2.1 Supporting People of Parramatta to Flourish – Local Stories The Benefits of a Diverse and Inclusive Community 10

Section 3 3.1 Policy Intention 18 Access and Equity 3.2 Policy Aim 18 3.3 Policy Objectives 19 Policy 3.4 Implementation Principles 20 – Objective 1: Diversity 20 – Objective 2: Communications 20 – Objective 3: Consultation and Engagement 21 – Objective 4: Training and Awareness 21 – Objective 5: Planning, Data and Research 22 – Objective 6: Budgeting and Resources 22 – Objective 7: Public Participation 22 3.5 Policy Compliance 23 3.6 Policy Review 23 3.7 Related Documents 23 3.8 Bibliography 24

Section 4 4.1 Parramatta LGA’s Population 26 Attachments – General Information 26 – City of Parramatta Snapshot Tables 26 – Indigenous people 30 – People of diverse genders and/or sexuality (GLBT) 31 – Children (under 12 years) 32 – Younger People (12 – 17 years) 34 – Post-School Youth (18 – 24 years) 35 – Disengaged Youth 36 – Older people 37 – People with a disability 38 – People from different cultural backgrounds 39 4.2 Further Information and Support 41 – Council 41 – Federal and NSW Government 42

Parramatta City Council: Access and Equity Policy 2013 3 1 Background

Parramatta City Council: Access and Equity Policy 2013 4 1 Background

1.1 This policy applies to all employees of Parramatta City Council (PCC or ‘Council’). Scope This document replaces and supersedes the original Access and Equity Cultural and Linguistic Diversity Policy and Action Plan [POLICY060] adopted by Council in 2003.

1.2 This Access and Equity Policy is concerned with the removal of barriers in the design and delivery of information, programs, services and facilities and Purpose of Document endeavouring to ensure that all community members have opportunities to enhance their overall social, cultural and economic wellbeing.

1.3 As the heart of greater Sydney and the central driving force of our nation’s most signifi cant economic region, Parramatta is a generator of growth and Why should Council be potential. Working with our partners, Parramatta City Council in its role concerned with Access as custodian of the local community is acting now to build a signifi cant and sustainable future for our City. Council is committed to working with and Equity Issues government, business and the community to build better environments and experiences for all the people who live, work, invest, visit and learn in our City.

Council is committed to growing the City’s prosperity, at the same time ensuring opportunities for individuals and community groups to prosper as well, recognising that communities where all individuals function well are likely to be more successful.

Council further recognises that there are some groups of individuals within our Community who have greater diffi culty in fully participating in community life, and in maximising opportunities to succeed, unless they have certain supports to do so.

As Parramatta City Council positions itself to take its place as the major Service Centre for business, employment, tourism and lifestyle options in Western Sydney, it is critical that we can support the whole community, including those that may be considered more disadvantaged or at risk, to maximise opportunities to improve their circumstances, not only for themselves, but for the benefi t of their families and the greater community.

Parramatta City Council: Access and Equity Policy 2013 5 1.4 Council acknowledges that the people of Parramatta LGA are a very diverse group. Specifi c groups within the Parramatta LGA that Council acknowledges Who does this policy and seeks to support and accommodate in terms of appropriate delivery of specifi cally support? programs, services and information as well as opportunities include: > Indigenous people (0.8%)

> People of diverse genders and/or sexuality (2%)

> Children under 12 years (15.6 %)

> Young people 12 – 24 years (16.6%)

> People over 55 years (21.2%)

> People with disabilities (18% – 22%)

> People from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse backgrounds (50.2%)

See Attachments (page 27) for further information.

Source for all data: Parramatta Community Profi le id, 2006 Census

Further to this, Council also recognises that there are a number of groups within our Community who may be classed as disadvantaged and at high risk, due to diff erent circumstances that have led to fi nancial diffi culties, isolation from others and a reliance on formal support services and programs. These include but are not limited to, some in the community who fall within one or more of:

> Unemployed people

> Disengaged youth

> People with mental health issues

> Older people living alone

> Carers

> People who are homeless

> Single parent families, and

> People in Government Housing.

Source: Profi le id, City of Parramatta Fact Sheet – Disadvantage in Parramatta

These groups in particular are recognised as requiring additional supports in order to assist them to interact and engage in community life, and ultimately to have the capacity to change their circumstances to result in a better future.

Parramatta City Council: Access and Equity Policy 2013 6 1.5 Access – implies fair and equitable access to programs and services in areas essential to achieving and maintaining social, cultural and economic well- Defi nitions being.

Equity – implies distribution of economic, social and political resources in ways that are not restricted by age, gender, race, ethnicity, disability or income.

Multiculturalism – the NSW Government’s policy on multiculturalism is set out in the NSW Community Relations Commission and Principles of Multiculturalism Act 2000. The Principles of Multiculturalism are:

> All individuals in New South Wales should have the greatest possible opportunity to contribute to, and participate in, all aspects of public life in which they may legally participate.

> All individuals and institutions should respect and make provision for the culture, language and religion of others within an Australian legal and institutional framework where English is the common language.

> All individuals should have the greatest possible opportunity to make use of and participate in relevant activities and programs provided or administered by the Government of New South Wales.

> All institutions of New South Wales should recognise the linguistic and cultural assets in the population of New South Wales as a valuable resource and promote this resource to maximise the development of the State.

Social Disadvantage – Social Disadvantage includes the following:

> Poverty – poverty means that a person has an inadequate standard of living and faces an increased risk of poor health, and experience low self- esteem and social isolation.

> Deprivation – deprivation exists when a person lacks the resources to access the goods and activities that are essential to a basic quality of life.

> Social Exclusion – Social exclusion exists when a person cannot participate in key societal activities1.

Factors of Disadvantage include: > Inability to communicate in English

> A sustained disability; physical, intellectual, sensory or psychiatric

> An addictive disorder; drug related, alcohol, gambling, etc

> Isolation

> Unemployment

> Lack of access to aff ordable housing

> Lack of access to transport

1. State Environmental Planning Policy (Aff ordable Rental Housing) 2009 and the Standard Instrument Principal Local Environmental Plan.

Parramatta City Council: Access and Equity Policy 2013 7 1.6 There are separate legislative requirements that govern Councils in providing services in an accessible and equitable manner, particularly in reference to Legislative and disadvantaged groups within the community.

Strategic Planning Commonwealth of Australia Context > Affi rmative Action (Equal Opportunity for Women) Act 1986 > Carer Recognition Act 2010

> Disability Discrimination Act 1992

> Equal Employment Opportunity (Commonwealth Authorities) Act 1987

> Human Rights (Sexual Conduct) Act 1994

> Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission Act 1986

> Privacy Act 1988

> Privacy and Personal Information Act 1998 Commonwealth of Australia

> Racial Discrimination Act 1975

> Racial Hatred Act 1995

> Sex Discrimination Act 1984

New South Wales > Anti Discrimination Act 1977 and Amendments – set out specifi c grounds for unlawful discrimination based on race, sex, marital status, transgender status, physical or intellectual disability, pregnancy, homosexuality, compulsory retirement and age.

> Community Relations Commission and Principles of Multiculturalism Act 2000 – outlines principles of Multiculturalism and responsibilities of all public authorities in their implementation in NSW.

> Disability Services Act 1993 – requires public authorities to prepare and implement disability policy and plans for the provision of services for people with disabilities.

> The Local Government Act 1993 – requires Council (directly or on behalf of other levels of government) to exercise its functions with due regard to the cultural diversity of the community.

Parramatta City Council’s Principles Parramatta Twenty25 is the name of Council’s 20 Year Community Strategic Plan. It has been developed around the concept of sustainability.

In this document, Council sets out a number of principles to guide its decision making and the way it will behave. These principles encourage access and equity:

Equity – address structural disadvantage through social, economic, political and gender equity; ensure universal access to education, health care and economic opportunity; use natural resources equitably and effi ciently. Ensure intergenerational equity whereby future generations have a right to an inheritance suffi cient to allow them to generate a level of wellbeing no less than that of the current generation.

Parramatta City Council: Access and Equity Policy 2013 8 Inclusiveness – provide opportunities for participation that create a strong sense of belonging, where, regardless of diff erence, prejudice and persecution is not tolerated.

Respect for Place – recognise and build on the distinctive characteristics of cities and neighbourhoods including their human and cultural values, histories and natural systems.

Protecting Life and Systems – adopt patterns of production and consumption that safeguard human rights, community wellbeing and the earth’s regenerative capacity. Enable communities to minimise their ecological footprint and social impact.

Precautionary Principle – adopt precautionary measures to anticipate, prevent or minimise the causes of adverse eff ects. Where there are threats of serious or irreversible damage, a lack of full scientifi c certainty should not be used as a reason for postponing such measures.

Biodiversity – Protect and enhance the variety of life in all its forms. Recognise and conserve the intrinsic value of biodiversity and natural ecosystems, and protect and restore them. This includes ecosystem diversity, species diversity, and genetic diversity.

Ethics – acting with respect, honesty, compassion, integrity, and in the interest of the community which we represent.

Good Governance – empower people and foster participation, strengthen democratic societies and institutions, provide transparency and accountability in governance.

Capacity – expand and enable cooperative networks and social capacity building to work towards a common sustainable future.

Basic Rights – respect basic rights for all, social justice, diversity and freedom of expression, identity and belonging.

Parramatta City Council: Access and Equity Policy 2013 9 Local 2 Stories

Parramatta City Council: Access and Equity Policy 2013 10 Local 2 Stories

2.1 The stories outlined below are based on real people and their real life Supporting People of situations. They tell of the positive experiences of local people from diverse backgrounds and level of need, who have found value and Parramatta to Flourish great benefi t from the provision of information, services, programs and – The Benefi ts of a facilities in such a way that accommodated their needs and allowed them the opportunity to easily engage in and contribute to local Diverse and Inclusive community life. Community

Emigrating from China to Australia Traditional and simplifi ed script Jian. seven years ago was a massive step Chinese was just one of its eight A person from a for 40-year-old Jian and her family community language collections for CALD background who have now been living in North linguistically diverse members of the Parramatta for the past fi ve years. community that include Arabic, Hindi, Korean Turkish, Italian, Vietnamese, While she understood a little English Greek. And it wasn’t just books that Jian when she fi rst arrived in Australia, she was able to access, with Chinese DVDs, found it extremely diffi cult to master VCDs, videos, audio tapes, CD ROMs and a new language, especially one so CDs to choose from. diff erent to her native Chinese. Unable to communicate eff ectively in a world For Jian, going to the library on a dominated by English, isolation and regular basis has become an ongoing loneliness became big issues for Jian, source of enjoyment that gives her though less so for her children who a sense of belonging to the wider integrated into society through their community. She also loves the fact schooling. that the library regularly holds events and programs that provide her with Determined to break the cycle of ongoing social contact, stimulation and feeling on the outer, Jian fi nally joined enjoyment, enhancing the quality of her the Parramatta City Library and was day-to-day life. surprised and delighted to fi nd that it off ered so many resources to choose from.

Parramatta City Council: Access and Equity Policy 2013 11 Living in Sydney’s Inner West, 32-year- A clear statement in Council’s Alan. old Alan has worked for Parramatta application pack that it was an equal A person of diverse City Council for two years and enjoys opportunity employer helped allay sexuality and/or gender his role in the Community, Library some of these concerns, as did and Social Services Unit. When he his knowledge of how Council had applied, he was confi dent that he had supported a number of Gay, Lesbian, the appropriate experience to fulfi l the Bisexual & Transgender (GLBT) role as set out in the job description. community initiatives. This reassurance But with most of his work experience that he would be treated fairly when in gay and lesbian organisations, he applying for a job with Council boosted was concerned that the personal views Alan’s confi dence during the interview of employers may limit his chance to process. secure a job. As the successful candidate in a While he knew that the Equal competitive fi eld, Alan’s skills and Employment Opportunity (EEO) policy experience are highly valued by his had been in place since the 1980s, colleagues and the community, and and that discriminating on the basis directly applicable to his work with of gender, sexuality, ability and so on, people of diverse sexuality and gender was unlawful, Alan was well aware that in the local government area. Through discrimination operates at the covert its commitment to EEO principles, level, under the radar so to speak. Parramatta City Council’s workforce genuinely refl ects the rich diversity of the wider community.

74-year-old David lives in Winston In early 2009 David joined Council’s David. Hills, Parramatta, with his long time Outreach Library Service, and now An older person companion, Becky, a Chihuahua. At the looks forward to regular visits from with a disability age of nine, David lost both his legs the ‘library on wheels’, a service that above the knee in a vehicle accident. has renewed and invigorated his Ending up in a wheelchair, he worked appetite for reading. In his well-earned hard to ensure that his disability didn’t retirement, he has been delighted to interfere with enjoying life to the full, rediscover the simple pleasures of and not only carved out a successful reading for leisure across the wide administration career with Sydney range of genres that appeal to him. Water but also excelled on the sporting David frequently comments to front. Council staff that their service has Travelling the world, he competed in immeasurably enhanced and enriched disabled sporting activities and won his quality of life. The free ‘home four gold medals in swimming and delivery’ of books and other resources table tennis events at the Paralympic helps him to feel more socially and Summer Games in 1980. culturally connected, and he has become an active member of the A keen reader earlier in life, in recent Parramatta Library online reading years David fell out of the habit group. For housebound members of while he concentrated on writing his the community like David, Council’s autobiography. library service has become quite simply indispensible.

Parramatta City Council: Access and Equity Policy 2013 12 Born in Pakistan, 85-year-old Mrs She appreciates that Parramatta City Mrs Ibrahim. Ibrahim moved to Australia 50 years Council provides accessible parking Older person from ago and has been living in North near the Parramatta City Library and a CALD background Parramatta for 30 years. She regards the Over 55s Leisure and Learning Parramatta as a great place to live as Centre activities that she attends in the it has the ‘busy city feeling’ without the nearby Council Chambers. She also big city price tag, essential for someone likes the fact that the pavements she of her limited fi nancial means. Mrs regularly uses in central Parramatta Ibrahim also likes Parramatta’s strong are well-maintained and level, reducing sense of community and the aff ordable her risk of tripping up and causing activities on off er that get her out of the herself an injury. house and in touch with other people, Having outlived most of her friends including Council’s Thursday and and family, Mrs Ibrahim has been able Saturday Farmers Markets. to maintain her independence with While still driving, due to her increasing the help of Council’s diverse range of frailty and unsteadiness, she is unable support services, including regular to walk long distances without taking visits from a home support service a break, and needs to be able to park volunteer. With a weekly timetable of close to her destination. Over 55s Leisure and Learning classes to choose from, she has plenty of reasons to be out and about.

18-year-old Jason lives at Pendle And as an environmentalist, one of the Jason. Hill, Parramatta, with his parents and tasks he loves most is creating jotting A young man with siblings. Born with Downs Syndrome, pads out of discarded sheets of paper intellectual diffi culties one of his proudest achievements was from Council’s print room. to fi nish his schooling with the support Being part of a busy workplace means of his family and Down Syndrome NSW. a lot to Jason and he is very proud of As the end of Year 12 rolled around, the wearing his offi ce attire and being part big question mark hanging over Jason of a team working on common goals. was what kind of work he might be And best of all, he loves earning a able to secure. His family was over the salary and being able to pay a modest moon when he secured a job placement amount of board to his parents. at Parramatta City Council with the Council’s commitment to EEO principles support of a community organisation and employing people of diversity who provided the ongoing training he has made a huge diff erence to this needed for undertaking offi ce work. young man’s sense of wellbeing. As The job was a perfect match for Jason’s his parents can attest, his mood has skill set and comfort zone. He loves risen in line with the knowledge that the variety of tasks that fall under when he gets up fi ve days a week, he his responsibility, ranging from photo has somewhere to go and something to copying, fi ling and helping with the contribute. offi ce mail outs.

Parramatta City Council: Access and Equity Policy 2013 13 67-year-old Don is an Indigenous Concerned about his welfare, she Don. man who lives in Merrylands within contacted Parramatta City Council’s An Indigenous the Parramatta LGA, with his oldest Meals on Wheels and arranged for person daughter, a single mother, and her regular home deliveries so that he is three school-aged children. An aged well nourished and has someone who pensioner, he lives in a small granny will call in every day. This is especially fl at at the back of their house, an important as he is having problems arrangement that works well for remembering people’s names and everyone. socialising.

Don is in the early stages of dementia, As well as having meals come to a cause of concern for his daughter him, Don belongs to Council’s Social Serena who is away from the house for Support program and very much enjoys much of the day as she works full-time social outings with Meals on Wheels in the Parramatta CBD. volunteers and team members. This helps him to feel connected with his With a young family to support, community and engaged in life, despite including a child diagnosed with his condition. Aspergers Syndrome, Serena is not in a position to stay at home to look after her father.

At 77 years of age, Mary is supporting The Carer Support group meets in the Mary. her 93-year-old frail and infi rm Council Chambers, an easily accessible An older person mother, Robyn, to live at home as building that is close to public transport who is a carer long as possible. At a time of life and other community networks. In when most of her cohorts are taking between these social outings, Mary it easy, Rydalmere-based Mary has looks forward to Council’s monthly no siblings to share the load and not newsletter that keeps her up to date surprisingly, she feels isolated and about carer-specifi c services and often overwhelmed by her around-the- available resources. clock responsibilities. One of the highlights of the year for Mary realised that staying healthy is Mary is National Carers Week, an vital in her older age. Mary sought annual event held in October where the a lifeline through Parramatta City Lord Mayor of Parramatta and Council Council’s Carer Support program. Twice staff recognise the dedicated service of a month, Mary attends Carer Support carers. For someone like Mary who has group get togethers so that she can very little time for herself, being with connect with other carers. While only other carers is uplifting, encouraging a short break from her ongoing duties, and provides a much-needed break these gatherings provide a welcome from the her daily responsibilities. opportunity to catch up with friends, swap stories and empathise with others who fi nd themselves in a similar situation.

Parramatta City Council: Access and Equity Policy 2013 14 67-year-old Margaret from Northmead, The couple’s sphere of infl uence Margaret. Parramatta, has lived in the area extends well beyond Parramatta, Person who supports for over 40 years and raised three with Margaret and her husband gay and lesbian people children with her husband. One of the travelling around Australia to educate reasons why her family fi rst settled individuals, groups, service providers, in the heart of Sydney was because it police and school communities about off ered access to aff ordable housing, understanding and accepting diversity. employment, established schools, Parramatta City Council supports community facilities, shopping and Margaret’s eff orts to increase services, all accessible by public awareness about sexual diversity by transport. introducing her to new partnerships Over the years, Margaret has worked that have assisted her eff orts to tirelessly to educate the wider spread the word. To promote greater community about the importance of understanding about human rights accepting diversity when it comes to and social justice messages, Council sexuality and gender. Margaret and has helped broker new relationships her husband are active members of between PFLAG and a broad range Parents and Friends of Lesbians and of community stakeholders that it Gays (PFLAG), a non-profi t voluntary interacts with on a regular basis. In organisation whose members share addition, Council supports PFLAG the common goal of keeping families projects and programs that focus on together. Linked in with the Parramatta positive community outcomes including Queer Forum, PFLAG provides help, healthy communities. support and information to families and friends of gay people.

41 year-old Gabby, an Indigenous She is full of praise for Parramatta Gabby. woman who is renting in Mount Druitt City Council’s ongoing implementation An Indigenous with her family, is working fulltime as of access and equity practices that person well as studying. While she doesn’t live support Indigenous people in Western within the Parramatta local government Sydney. As the Parramatta Central area, she feels strongly connected to Library ambassador for reading, she is the river suburb because a number of always on the look out for opportunities her ancestors were born in, and grew to participate in Council-run activities up in, Parramatta. that promote awareness of Indigenous culture. One of the things she likes about Parramatta is the way the community Supported by her Indigenous culture celebrates the City’s diverse cultural studies, she is proud to be in a position mix and rich local European and to pass on and share what she has Indigenous history. learned to the wider community. The fi rst to admit that she doesn’t come Just walking along the river in the from a wealthy background, Gabby footsteps of her ancestors makes feels that her journey has provided her Gabby feel at home. She regularly with a wealth of a diff erent kind, namely visits the Bush Tucker Garden in Lake the knowledge and understanding Parramatta Reserve, and is an active about her unique Indigenous culture participant in the Burramatta Family that has made her the person she is. Fun Day celebrations, as well as the Indigenous activities on off er on Australia Day.

Parramatta City Council: Access and Equity Policy 2013 15 66-year-old Peter lives in Epping, within In addition, Peter’s committee argued Peter. the Parramatta LGA, and relies on a for the need to provide wheelchair An older person wheelchair to get around. An active access to Council’s monthly meetings with a disability member of the community, he belongs because the elevated public gallery to Parramatta Computer Pals for was only accessible by stairs. Initially Seniors and is a long-standing member the committee considered creating a of Parramatta City Council’s Access dedicated area for wheelchair users on Advisory Committee. This committee the fl oor of the Council Chambers, on plays a vital role in advising staff level with Councillors. While practical on the special needs of people with and cost-eff ective, they had second physical disabilities, as well as access thoughts about this strategy as it would issues associated with intellectual, have separated wheelchair users from sensory, aural, visual and psychological other members of the public, and by challenges. These range from being able singling them out, made some too to access Council buildings to installing uncomfortable to attend on a regular equipment for people who are hard of basis. hearing or sight-impaired. Seeking further advice from an Guided by its access committee, Council access consultant, the committee was installed a Hearing Loop System on the delighted with an engineering outcome, ground fl oor of its Council chambers a ramp that allowed wheelchair users in rooms used for council meetings to join the public gallery without by night and the Over 55 Leisure and attracting undue attention. Learning Service by day, allowing hearing impaired users to hear more clearly.

Six-year-old Marie lives in South Inspired by their positive experience, Marie. Granville, Parramatta, with her three the family involved themselves in A young person from older siblings and parents. Following voluntary work to support other a CALD background years of civil confl icts that led to a newly arrived refugees from Southern mass exodus of refugees, her family Sudan. As well as educating the wider emigrated from Sudan eight years community, the family helped establish ago. They were initially attracted to an Australian- Parramatta because it was culturally based charity that purchases essentials diverse, had good public transport and for people in their homeland, including access to employment and shops. food, water and educational resources, while keeping the lines of communication However, the family’s fortunes took open between the two countries. a dive when the rent on their original accommodation doubled in line with Actively supported by Council’s steep increases across Sydney. With Community Capacity Building Team to Marie’s mother eight months pregnant progress their social justice messages and experiencing contractions, the and improve the situation of vulnerable family were forced to move into their people, Marie’s family have established old family vehicle. strong relationships with Western Sydney’s not-for-profi t organisations, Worried about their future, Marie’s including ANGLICARE, The Hills Holroyd father contacted a Council offi cer who Parramatta Migrant Resource Centre, put him in touch with local support church groups and local schools. services. To their immense relief, the family found emergency assistance and temporary accommodation through the not-for-profi t Wesley Mission and were able to settle in South Granville, a base for the Sudanese community.

Parramatta City Council: Access and Equity Policy 2013 16 Access and 3 Equity Policy

Parramatta City Council: Access and Equity Policy 2013 17 Access and 3 Equity Policy

3.1 This policy recognises that people are key assets of the Parramatta Local Government Area. Council encourages and supports diversity within the Policy Intention community and aims to provide equity, better access and wider participation for all members of the community, including people from disadvantaged groups (refer to list Section 1.4).

3.2 This policy aims to enhance the relationships between Council and disadvantaged groups in the Parramatta LGA through: Policy Aim 1. Recognition and appreciation that Parramatta’s LGA is diverse

2. Ensuring all the community, including people from disadvantage groups have opportunities to participate in decision making

3. Ensuring all the community, including people from disadvantage groups have appropriate and equitable opportunities to access Council’s full range of information, activities, services and facilities

Parramatta City Council: Access and Equity Policy 2013 18 3.1 Policy Objectives

1 Diversity Council will value and celebrate diversity of the Parramatta LGA and work to facilitate access and equity for all of the community.

2 Communications Council will communicate eff ectively with the community to enhance access to information, services and enable greater participation.

3 Consultation Council will actively include all the community of the LGA in public and Engagement consultation, in particular those from disadvantaged groups.

4 Training and Council will provide staff training which helps employees to be Awareness aware and professionally responsive to all residents of the LGA, in particular those from disadvantaged groups.

5 Planning, Data Council will have appropriate standards of data collection which will and Research enable it to target, plan, develop and evaluate programs to support accessibility and equity for the community.

6 Budgeting and Council will establish budgeting processes that ensures access and Resources equity needs of disadvantaged people are considered and included in resource allocation.

7 Public Council will actively seek to support all members of the community Participation to participate in public life through accessible decision making and physical infrastructure.

Parramatta City Council: Access and Equity Policy 2013 19 3.4 Implementation Principles

Objective 1 Principles Diversity 1. Community events will be held to promote and celebrate Parramatta LGA’s diversity, for example: International Day for People with a Disability, Council will value and celebrate Multicultural programs, Indigenous, Youth and Seniors Week and diversity of the Parramatta LGA and International Day Against Homophobia work to facilitate access and equity for all of the community. 2. Council’s approach to design and building of public spaces, infrastructure and buildings will comply with the Building Code of Australia to refl ect the principles of accessibility and inclusiveness

3. Accessible parking will be available at Council facilities that are utilised by the public

4. New information, programs and services will refl ect and accommodate requirements of disadvantaged groups in the community as appropriate

5. Adaptive technology will be available in Council facilities used by the public i.e. hearing and visual assistive technology

6. Council employees will proactively work in partnership with Government and Non-Government organisations who provide services to disadvantaged groups, to support and encourage local service delivery to meet local needs

7. Council’s human resources policies refl ect and support staff of diverse and disadvantaged backgrounds.

Objective 2 Principles Communications 1. ‘Plain English’ will be used in all external documents where possible Council will communicate eff ectively 2. Council’s website will meet accessibility standards and comply with with the community to enhance Web Content Accessibility Guidelines and standards developed by the access to information, services and World Wide Web Consortium so it is accessible to people who have vision enable greater participation. impairments and other disabilities 3. Directories of services for disadvantaged groups will be available from Council

4. Council’s rates notices and letterhead will contain Telephone Interpreter Services details in relevant languages and the National Relay Number

5. Publicising of Council’s programs, services and important information will include translated information in relevant community languages, when appropriate and target a full range of media (including community and ethnic media)

6. Council employees will be encouraged to promote and use the services of the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS) and the Council Language Aide Program as appropriate

7. Audio loop will be provided in key Council meeting / performance areas and assisted and adaptive technology is available in Council facilities and workplaces.

Parramatta City Council: Access and Equity Policy 2013 20 Objective 3 Principles Consultation 1. Council’s consultation and engagement policies and plans will refl ect the and Engagement importance and include the voice of disadvantaged people 2. Council will incorporate formal and informal mechanisms into its planning, Council will actively include all decision making and evaluation processes to ensure it utilises the expertise residents of the LGA in public and advice of people and organisations representing disadvantaged groups consultation, in particular those from disadvantaged groups. 3. Council will implement formal consultation structures to facilitate provision of formal advice to the Council Chamber on matters relevant to specifi c target groups. Currently formal committees include the Access Advisory Committee, Granville Youth and Community Centre Management Advisory Committee, Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee, Heritage Advisory Committee, Youth Forums and Parramatta Cycle Way Advisory Committee

4. Council will conduct consultations using appropriate methods to enable participation for all i.e. accesible venues

5. Council will keep up to date contact information on organisations that provide expertise and opportunities for consultation on access and equity issues, for Council staff to access.

Objective 4 Principles Training and 1. Staff induction programs will incorporate an access, equity and values and Awareness attitudes component 2. Staff Workplace Health and Safety training will cover information relating to Council will provide staff training people with disabilities i.e. emergency evacuation procedures which helps employees to be aware and professionally responsive to all 3. Customer service and front line staff will be trained in eff ective residents of the LGA, in particular communication with people from disadvantaged backgrounds. This those from disadvantaged groups. includes non-English speakers (eg including use of interpreters, language aides, ethno-specifi c services and other communication resources), people who are visually and hearing impaired, people with mental health symptoms and people with disabilities

4. High level training will be provided for staff and volunteers within direct resident service areas of Council, such as Libraries and Home Support and Community Services to cover access, equity, attitude and values issues and expectations of professional service delivery

5. Information on the following will be readily accessible to Council staff as needed:

a. Using professional telephone interpreting and translation services b. Community and ethnic media outlets c. Council’s advisory committees

6. Council staff involved in land use planning, design, development assessment and building regulations will be trained and kept up to date with the Building Code of Australia and the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 as they relate to access and equity principles.

Parramatta City Council: Access and Equity Policy 2013 21 Objective 5 Principles Planning, Data and 1. Council’s key planning documents and processes will consider and incorporate the needs of people from disadvantaged backgrounds Research 2. Council’s formal research with residents will include representation from Council will have appropriate all disadvantaged groups in the community as appropriate standards of data collection which will enable it to target, plan, develop 3. Key statistics relating to the diverse population will be available to the and evaluate programs to support general public and Council staff accessibility and equity for the 4. Data collection, including usage, customer demographics, eff ectiveness community. and satisfaction levels, will be a permanent feature of Council’s service and program delivery

5. Council’s program and service review and evaluation will consider the relevance to, and participation levels of, people from all key demographic groups in the LGA, and where there are gaps in meeting needs, appropriate changes will be made

6. Personal data will be kept confi dential in accordance with Council’s data and record management requirements i.e. transgender or disability related information.

Objective 6 Principles Budgeting and 1. Preparation of program and service budget estimates will incorporate costs of access and equity strategies Resources 2. Council’s tender processes will incorporate access and equity principles as Council will establish budgeting part of decision making processes that ensures access and equity needs of disadvantaged 3. Council’s grant and other community funding opportunities will be made residents are considered and included available to disadvantaged groups and support is provided to individuals in resource allocation. and organisations to make applications as necessary. Funds are distributed in a fair and equitable manner across all target groups as relevant.

Objective 7 Principles Public Participation 1. Council’s approach to provision of information about public participation and governance opportunities will include and be targeted to Council will actively seek to support disadvantaged groups all members of the community to participate in public life through 2. Council’s approach to design will refl ect the principles of accessibility and accessible decision making and inclusiveness physical infrastructure. 3. Council’s buildings, open and public space and other infrastructure will comply with Building Code of Australia requirements that support accessibility standards i.e. ramps, shared pathways, accessible toilets, disabled parking and recreational facilities

4. Council’s emergency evacuation policy and procedures will include provision for people with disabilities

5. Council staff are aware of and sensitive to the needs of the diversity of the community groups using Council buildings, programs, services and facilities, including those from disadvantaged groups

6. Wherever possible Council will seek to encourage other community services to adopt strategies that will lead to greater access and participation for all Parramatta LGA residents.

Parramatta City Council: Access and Equity Policy 2013 22 3.5 A copy of this Policy will be sent to Senior Managers annually to review and ensure their staff are informed and meeting Council’s and Government’s Policy Compliance Legislation and other appropriate frameworks.

3.6 The Access and Equity Policy will be reviewed bi-annually by Council’s Social Outcomes Team. Policy Review

3.7 Council has a number of other policies and planning documents in place already that link to the Access and Equity Policy. Related Documents > Code off Conduct / POLICY218 [V4]

> Customer Service / POLICY281

> Customers Compliments and Complaints Policy / POLICY216 [v3]

> Education And Public Programs / POLICY080

> Equal Access Play Facilities Policy / POLICY081

> Equal Employment Opportunity EEO Policy / POLICY038 [v3]

> Home Support & Community Services Policy / POLICY120 [v2]

> Homelessness Policy / POLICY324

> Housebound Readers Service Policy / POLICY304

> Leasing / Licensing Council Facilities / Community Access / POLICY128

> Parramatta Development Control Plan 2011

> Parramatta Twenty25 – Community Strategic Plan

> Public Domain Guidelines and Urban Design 2011

> Recruitment and Selection Policy / POLICY002 [v3]

> Residents Panel Policy / POLICY189

> Working With Children Policy / POLICY004 [V2]

Parramatta City Council: Access and Equity Policy 2013 23 3.8 Bibliography

> .id informed decisions, > Department of Families, Housing, > Parramatta City Council, City of Parramatta Communities Community Services and Access & Equity Framework, of Interest 2010 Indigenous Affairs June 2003 www.fahcsia.gov.au > ABS Census data > Parramatta City Council, > Forecast.id, Council Population Access Advisory Committee > ACON Forecasts 2012 Terms of Reference 2009 www.acon.org.au/home > Gay and Lesbian Health Victoria > Parramatta City Council, > Australia Human Rights (GLHV) Access and Equity Policy, Commission website www.glhv.org.au/ May 2009 www.hreoc.gov.au > Gay and Lesbian Rights Lobby > Parramatta City Council, > Australian Local Government www.glrl.org.au Parramatta Development Association website Control Plan 2011 www.alga.asn.au > GLHV ‘How well does Australian Democracy serve sexual and > Parramatta City Council, > Australian Local Government gender minorities?’ Public Domain Guidelines and Association, (2010). Services for all, www.glhv.org.au/files/democratic_ Urban Design 2011 promotion access and equity audit.pdf in Local Government. > Parramatta Twenty25 > Holroyd City Council, > Australian Policy Online > Penrith City Council, Access & Equity Policy www.apo.org.au/notice/access- Inclusive Plan, People with and-equity-inquiry > National Disability Strategy Disability 2009—2013 2010 – 2020 > Blacktown City Council, > Pitt, Marian; Smith, Anthony; www.fahcsia.gov.au/sa/disability/ Access & Equity Policy Mitchell, Anne; Patel, Sunil, (2006). progserv/govtint/pages/nds.aspx & Action Plan 2003 Private lives: A report on the health > National LGLBT Health Alliance and wellbeing of GLBTI Australians, > Carers Recognition Act 2010 www.lgbthealth.org.au The Australian Research Centre in www.fahcsia.gov.au/about/ Sex, Health and Society, La Trobe news/2010/Pages/carer_ > NSW Gay & lesbian Rights Lobby University, Melbourne recognition_bill_2010_passed.aspx and University of Sydney, The Pink Ceiling Report > Services for people with > City of Ryde Access and Equity gender issues Policy 2009 > NSW Police Force, Policy on www.gendercentre.org.au Sexuality and Gender Diversity, 2011 > Community Profile id 2006 Census /index.htm — 2014. Working with gay, lesbian, > Council of Australian Governments’ bisexual, transgender and intersex (COAG) website people. www.coag.gov.au www.police.nsw.gov.au/ community_issues/gay,_lesbian_ and_transgender_issues

Parramatta City Council: Access and Equity Policy 2013 24 4 Attachments

Parramatta City Council: Access and Equity Policy 2013 25 4 Attachments

4.1 General Information The 2001 Census listed the total population of Parramatta at 144,490 with the Parramatta LGA’s 2006 Census listing it at 151,297. Over this period there has been a population Population growth of 4.7%, a total of 6,807. people. The population forecast for 2012 is 171,936, a population growth of 13.6% a total of 20,639.

City of Parramatta Key Statistics / City of Parramatta 2011 Snapshot Tables Usual residence data Number % Sydney statistical division %

Males 83,563 50.1 49.2

Females 83,293 49.9 50.8

Total population 166,856 100 100

Australian citizens 126,527 75.8 82.5

Australian citizens aged 18+ 95,641 57.3 62.4

Indigenous population 1,403 0.8 1.2

Age Structure / City of Parramatta 2011

Usual residence data Number % Sydney statistical division %

Infants 0 to 4 years 12,553 7.5% 6.8

Children 5 to 17 years 24,630 14.8 14.8

Adults 18 to 64 years 110,055 65.8 64.2

Mature adults 65 to 84 years 16,575 9.9 10.9

Senior citizens 85 years and over 3,043 1.8 1.8

Total persons 166,856 100 100

Parramatta City Council: Access and Equity Policy 2013 26 City of Parramatta Birthplace / City of Parramatta 2011 Snapshot Tables Usual residence data Number % Sydney statistical (continued.) division %

Australia 81,142 48.6 59.9

Overseas born 74,801 44.8 34.2

Mainly English speaking 67,244 4.5 7.9 countries

Non-English speaking 7,557 40.3 26.3 backgrounds

Total persons 166,856 100 100

Religion / City of Parramatta 2011

Usual residence data Number % Sydney statistical division %

Christian Total 86,788 52.0 60.9

Non-Christian Total 40,712 24.4 13.2

No Religion 25,117 15.1 17.6

Total persons 166,860 100 100

Profi ciency in English (overseas born) / City of Parramatta 2011

Usual residence data Number % Sydney statistical division %

Speaks English only 72,433 43.4 62.2

Speaks English well or very well 68,512 41.1 26.7

Not Fluent in English 15,035 9.0 5.8

Total overseas born 166,860 100 100

Parramatta City Council: Access and Equity Policy 2013 27 City of Parramatta Labour Force / City of Parramatta 2011 Snapshot Tables Usual residence data Number % Sydney statistical (continued.) division %

Total employed 74,144 93.0% 94.3%

Total unemployed 5,543 5.7% 5.7%

Total labour force 79,687 100 100

Education / City of Parramatta 2011

Usual residence data Number % Sydney statistical division %

Attending pre-school or primary 14,517 27. 30. school

Attending secondary school 9,656 18.2 20.3

Attending a tertiary institution 13,794 26.0 24.1

Total persons attended 52,992 100 100 an education institute

Families / City of Parramatta 2011

Usual residence data Number % Sydney statistical division %

Couple without child(ren) 12,801 31.1 32.5

Couple with child(ren) 21,046 51.1 50.0

One parent family 6,339 15.4 15.5

Total families 41,168 100 100

Parramatta City Council: Access and Equity Policy 2013 28 City of Parramatta Household income (gross weekly) / City of Parramatta 2011 Snapshot Tables Enumerated data Number % Sydney statistical (continued.) division %

Less than $400 7,139 12.5 10.7

$400 to $999 13,409 23.4 21.5

$1000 and over 31,047 54.2 57.4

Total households 57,235 100 100

Housing tenure / City of Parramatta 2011

Enumerated data Number % Sydney statistical division %

Owned 14,314 23.9 29.1

Purchasing 18,147 30.4 33.2

Renting 22,565 37.7 30.4

Total dwellings (OPDs) 59,775 100 100

Dwelling Structure / City of Parramatta 2011

Enumerated data Number % Sydney statistical division %

Separate house 32,541 51.3 58.9

Medium density 15,468 24.4 19.7

High density 15,159 23.9 20.7

Caravans, cabin, houseboat 3 0.0 0.2

Other 203 0.3 0.4

Not stated 112 0.2 0.1

Occupied private dwellings 59,775 94.2 93.1

Unoccupied private dwellings 3,709 5.8 6.9

Total private dwellings 63,486 100 100

Parramatta City Council: Access and Equity Policy 2013 29 Indigenous people In summary, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population in Parramatta has the following characteristics:

> A small group of about 1,400 people in 2011, but increasing due to higher fertility and greater propensity to identify on the Census.

> Highly disadvantaged on almost all measures of disadvantage, relative to the wider population, and also more disadvantaged than the Sydney indigenous average on many measures.

> A much younger population than the average, in line with the age of the ATSI population across New South Wales.

> Large and increasing numbers living in single parent families, which was the biggest household type for the indigenous community in Parramatta in 2011.

> A higher than average proportion counted in non-private dwellings, mainly due to the presence of a prison in the area (indigenous are over- represented in prisons across Australia).

> Most (67%) of the population are renting, with a fairly even split between public and private rental. A higher proportion is in public housing than any other community of interest (35%).

> Very low education levels, with only 3.1% having a university level qualifi cation.

> Most speak English, while just a handful people reported speaking an Australian Indigenous language at home.

Distribution of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the City of Parramatta, 2011 0% or N/A 0.3 — 1.2% 1.2 — 2.3% 2.3 — 8.0% 8.0 — 13.7%

Parramatta City Council: Access and Equity Policy 2013 30 People of diverse Data for this group at the LGA level is scarce. The population of people of diverse genders and/or sexuality has the following characteristics: genders and/or > It is estimated that 2% of the population are people of diverse genders and/ sexuality (GLBT) or sexuality, a total of 3,446. This fi gure is an estimate only from various research including Census data and data from the Australian Survey of Social Attitudes. It is likely this fi gure is underestimated since they rely on respondents being prepared to state their sexuality 1

> Australian gay and lesbian households control an estimated annual disposal income of $10 billion (The A to Z of the Pink Dollar, The Age, 2004).

> A NSW study (Attorney Generals Department NSW, 2003) found over 50% of people from gay, lesbian, bi-sexual and transgender groups had experienced violence, with three quarters of those participants who had experienced violence having experienced two or more incidents 2.

> Evidence shows that the poorer health outcomes that LGBTI people have are largely due to the discrimination and social isolation that they face 2.

> Discrimination and abuse lead to higher drug use, mental health issues, and other risky behaviour 3.

> Discrimination prevents GLBT from accessing mainstream health services 2.

> A number of studies have suggested that mental health issues such as anxiety, depression and self-harm are more common amongst GLBT people 2.

of lesbians and gay of lesbians and gay men experience men report restricted workplace harassment career prospects due and discrimination to their homosexuality

Jude Irwin, NSW Gay & Lesbian Rights Lobby and university of Sydney. The Pink Ceiling Report.

1. Source: Footnote 3, page 1 www.glhv. org.au/fi lesdemocratic_audit.pdf

2. Pitt, Marian; Smith, Anthony; Mitchell, Anne; Patel, Sunil, (2006). Private lives: A report on the health and wellbeing of GLBTI

3. Jude Irwin, NSW Gay & Lesbian Rights Lobby and university of Sydney. The Pink Ceiling Report.

Parramatta City Council: Access and Equity Policy 2013 31 Children In summary, the population aged 0 – 5 in Parramatta has the following characteristics: (under 12 years) > A large and increasing group, with a 22% increase between 2006 and 2011, due to a high birth rate and immigration of people of childbearing age.

> High concentrations in the southern parts of Parramatta with large family sizes, and in Westmead, near the Children’s Hospital.

> Big increases in infants recorded as dwelling in medium and high density housing – now accounting for almost half of all infants in the area, including signifi cant numbers in Parramatta CBD, which had previously been mainly an area of couples and singles.

> A corresponding increase in the proportion of renters, with 44% of infants now living in rented accommodation.

> A very diverse population with a total of 80 diff erent language groups represented. 8.2% were even born overseas, despite their young age, indicating very recent immigration.

> A very large increase in infants speaking Indian and Chinese languages at home.

> Low household incomes relative to Sydney.

> Further increases in 0 – 5 population in the next 20 years, but forecasts will be reviewed shortly.

Distribution of 0 – 5 year olds in the City of Parramatta, 2011 0% or N/A 2.4 — 6.6% 6.6 — 8.8% 8.8 — 10.8% 10.8 — 17.9%

Parramatta City Council: Access and Equity Policy 2013 32 In summary, the population aged 6 – 11 in Parramatta has the following characteristics:

> A relatively stable group overall, with just a small increase in population mainly in the established suburbs.

> A relatively high and increasing proportion in medium and high density housing.

> Unlike other groups in Parramatta it is not made up of recent immigrants, but many are the children of immigrants arriving over the last 10 – 15 years.

> A very diverse population with language diversity present in the LGA close to the adult population. Approximately 90 diff erent languages represented, but only the Indian language groups increased in number between 2006 and 2011.

> Low household incomes relative to Children across Sydney, but increases among the upper income groups indicating that households with children are becoming better off in Parramatta.

> A level of disability/need for assistance about the same as the Sydney average.

Distribution of 6 – 11 year olds in the City of Parramatta, 2011 0% or N/A 1.8 — 5.6% 5.6 — 7.5% 7.5 — 9.6% 9.6 — 15.3%

Parramatta City Council: Access and Equity Policy 2013 33 Younger People In summary, the population aged 12 – 17 in Parramatta has the following characteristics: (12 – 17 years) > A relatively stable group overall, with only a small increase mainly in the northern parts of the LGA.

> Similar overall demographic trends to the 6 – 11 year old population.

> A modest increase expected by 2031, but at a lower growth rate than the total population, due to the ageing process, and the attraction of Parramatta’s urban development to young adults rather than families.

> A very diverse population with approximately a 50/50 split between English and non-English speakers. Approximately 85 diff erent languages represented, with Arabic, Chinese and Indian languages having the largest numbers.

> The largest Korean speaking population of any of the communities of interest, mainly concentrated in the Epping-Eastwood area.

> Low household incomes relative to Sydney, but slight increases in incomes between 2006 and 2011.

> Mirroring a national trend, 12 – 17 year olds were the group least likely to be occupying medium and high density housing, but they still did so at higher levels than the Sydney average for the group.

> Though most were living in owner-occupied housing a signifi cant proportion, in excess of 32% were in rented accommodation, including a relatively high proportion (7.2%) in public housing.

Distribution of 12 – 17 year olds in the City of Parramatta, 2011 0% or N/A 0.7 — 5.9% 5.9 — 8.5% 8.5 — 16.3% 16.3 — 56.9%

Parramatta City Council: Access and Equity Policy 2013 34 Post-School Youth In summary, the population aged 18 – 24 in Parramatta has the following characteristics: (18 – 24 years) > A large group, but with only a moderate increase since 2006.

> A transitional life stage group with very diff erent characteristics to the earlier and later age groups.

> A mix of those who have left home and are mostly living in the Parramatta- Harris Park area, and those who are still living with parents, who are in the more suburban areas, particularly the north-east parts of the LGA.

> Increases since 2006 primarily among university attending children living at home with their parents in suburban separate houses with a mortgage.

> Inner areas such as Parramatta and Harris Park, while still having high proportions of 18 – 24s, declined since 2006.

> A high but declining proportion living in medium and high density housing.

> A very diverse population with over 50% of the population speaking a non- English language at home.

> There are three main language groups which are dominant for 18 – 24s: Chinese languages, Indian languages and Arabic. Smaller language groups include Korean, Nepali, Persian, Turkish and Vietnamese.

> A more highly educated population than the same age group in other areas, and more likely to be attending university. An increase in university attendance, despite a decrease in those living independently. More 18 – 24s are commuting to university from their parents’ home.

Distribution of 18 – 24 year olds in the City of Parramatta, 2011 0% or N/A 2.0 — 7.2% 7.2 — 9.4% 9.4 — 14.8% 14.8 — 37.5%

Parramatta City Council: Access and Equity Policy 2013 35 > Household incomes only a little below the Sydney average for the group. Increases in household incomes since 2006, while individual incomes for 18—24s declined.

> A moderate increase is expected by 2031, mainly concentrated in central Parramatta and those areas which are planning for an increase in apartment developments, around public transport, such as Granville.

Disengaged Youth Disengaged Youth are defi ned as those people aged 15 – 24 who are neither in employment or any form of education.

> In Parramatta, in 2011, there were 2,123 people falling into this category, representing 9.6% of the population aged 15 – 24. Across Greater Sydney, the proportion was 8.1%.

> Between 2006 and 2011, the number of disengaged youth increased slightly, but the proportion remained constant in both Parramatta and Greater Sydney.

> There were signifi cant diff erences in the proportion of disengaged youth across Parramatta. A signifi cantly larger proportion of disengaged youth are clustered in the Parramatta South SLA.

Disengaged youth — Parramatta City, 2006 0% 3.0 — 8.5% 8.5 — 14.1% 14.1 — 20.8% 20.8 — 35.7% 35.7 — 60.3%

Parramatta City Council: Access and Equity Policy 2013 36 Older people In summary, the population aged 55+ in Parramatta has the following characteristics:

> An increasing group, but not as fast as the total population. The proportion of seniors actually fell in 5 years.

> This is despite a large increase in this population across Australia and Sydney, as the baby boomers age.

> Increasing numbers of seniors in Parramatta still living in households with their children, as children stay at home longer.

> Distributed across the City of Parramatta, but more concentrated in the northern parts, and very few in the central areas.

> A large increase in number is expected by 2031, in areas with new developments, particularly those already containing retirement villages (eg. Northmead), but the overall percentage will remain about the same.

> Seniors live mainly in separate family houses, and retirement village accommodation, but very few living in high-density accommodation.

> Public housing is a very important tenure type among the lower socio- economic groups within the population aged 55+.

> A large increase in those aged 55+ who still have a mortgage and corresponding decrease in full home ownership.

> Low household incomes relative to both the total population of Parramatta and the older population across the Sydney Statistical Division, but a small increase in household incomes between 2006 and 2011.

Distribution of people aged 55+ in the City of Parramatta, 2011 0% 3.0 — 8.5% 8.5 — 14.1% 14.1 — 20.8% 20.8 — 35.7% 35.7 — 60.3%

Parramatta City Council: Access and Equity Policy 2013 37 > Lower education levels than their counterparts across Sydney.

> A diverse population with a diff erent cultural mix to the younger groups. High proportions of people speaking Lebanese, Chinese, Italian and Greek, as well as a large number of people born in the UK.

> However this mix is changing, with the largest increases among Chinese and Arabic language speakers, as the migrants of the last 20 years age.

People with a disability In summary, the population with a disability or need for assistance with core activities in Parramatta has the following characteristics:

> A small group, but representing a larger proportion (4.9%) of the population than found across Greater Sydney (4.4%). A higher level of disability among the adult population aged 25-54 in Parramatta than across Sydney.

> A large proportion (22.0%) living in institutional care, relative to the Sydney average, but the number and proportion declined over 5 years, indicating that more disabled people are now living in the community.

> Those who are not in institutional care are quite dependent on public housing, representing 22.2% of all those in private dwellings.

> Concentrated in suburbs with a high proportion of public housing or hostels and care facilities.

> Outside of non-private dwellings, the dwelling structures occupied by this group mirror the older population – primarily separate houses and some medium density.

Distribution of people who required assistance with a core activity (disability) in the City of Parramatta, 2011 0% or N/A 0.4 — 3.0% 3.0 — 4.0% 4.0 — 13.0% 13.0 — 100%

Parramatta City Council: Access and Equity Policy 2013 38 > Very low individual and household incomes, but with small increases in household incomes due to changing family circumstances.

> An increasing proportion living in families with children, refl ecting an increase in care responsibilities by family members.

> Very low education levels, with 12.2% not having attended any schooling, probably due to the more severe types of disabilities catered for in the cared facilities.

> A diverse population, with a very high proportion speaking Arabic, and less than 50% speaking English at home. A substantial increase in non-English speaking population over 5 years.

People from diff erent In summary, the population speaking a language other than English in Parramatta has the following characteristics: cultural backgrounds > A very large group with a huge level of diversity. They comprise over 50% of the population, and speak 140 diff erent languages.

> Rapid increase – the fastest growing of any of the communities of interest, up by 28.1% between 2006 and 2011.

> The rise of people born in India dominates Parramatta’s demographics now. This population doubled in 5 years and the Indian languages, including Hindi, Gujarati, Bengali and Tamil are all among the fastest increasers.

> There are also large populations from China, India, Lebanon, and Korea. Almost all the languages and countries of birth increased over 5 years, with minor declines only in Greek, Italian and German speakers.

Distribution of people speaking a language other than English at home in the City of Parramatta, 2011 0% or N/A 4.7 — 41.2% 41.2 — 56.0% 56.0 — 66.9% 66.9 — 86.6%

Parramatta City Council: Access and Equity Policy 2013 39 > Distributed across Parramatta, but with particular concentrations in the south and central areas.

> Far more likely to live in medium and higher density housing than the wider population, with large increases in these dwelling types.

> Despite the propensity for high density housing, they are more likely to be living in families with children than the English speaking community.

> Likely to be either paying off their dwelling with a mortgage, or renting privately, with a big increase in those renting between 2006 and 2011.

> Relatively highly educated compared to the general population, and more likely to be attending university or TAFE. But the overseas student population was stable between 2006 and 2011, as most of the migration was for other reasons.

> Despite high education levels, lower incomes than the wider community.

> A high level of internet connectivity at home.

Parramatta City Council: Access and Equity Policy 2013 40 4.2 Council Further Information and Support Department Contact Children & Family Services 9806 5464

Community Capacity Building Team 9806 5138 > Support for the community in the areas of family, youth, multicultural, Aboriginal, diverse gender & sexuality groups and people with disabilities. [email protected] > Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee > Access Advisory Committee

Community Engagement 9806 5726

Development Services Unit 9806 5524

Home Support & 9806 5121 Community Services [email protected]. gov.au

Human Resources Team 9806 5265

Information and Library 9806 5159 Services Directories www.parracity.nsw.gov.au/play/facilities/ library/community_information

Communications & Media Unit 9806 5070 > Language Aide Program Guidelines > Ethnic Media Communications Plan [email protected]

Urban Design and 9806 5649 Public Domain Guidelines www.parracity.nsw.gov.au/home/search_re sults?cx=000828540301290156625%3A3p ce-9s1ks8&cof=FORID%3A11&ie=UTF-8&q= Public+Domain+Guidelines&siteurl=www. parracity.nsw.gov.au%2F

Social Outcomes Team 9806 5211

Transport Planning Team 9806 5300

Parramatta City Council: Access and Equity Policy 2013 41 4.2 Federal and NSW Government Further Information and Support Department Contact Australia Human 9284 9600 Rights Commission www.hreoc.gov.au

Family and Community Services, 9841 9350 Ageing, Disability and Home Care www.adhc.nsw.gov.au

NSW Police Force Police assistance line 131 444

www.police.nsw.gov.au/community_issues

Offi ce of Communities 9219 0700 Aboriginal Aff airs www.daa.nsw.gov.au/

TIS National – Translating 131 450 and Interpreting Service www.immi.gov.au/living-in-australia/help- with-english/help_with_translating/

Transport NSW 8202 2200

www.transport.nsw.gov.au

Parramatta City Council: Access and Equity Policy 2013 42 For more information This Policy has been prepared by Parramatta City Council’s Social Outcomes Team, contactable on 02 9806 5211

© Parramatta City Council

Parramatta City Council: Access and Equity Policy 2013 43