NSW councils will meet with experts this week to ensure their communities are accessible and inclusive as part of International Day of People with Disability on December 3.
Local Government NSW (LGNSW) President Linda Scott said the webinar event, organised by the Disability Council NSW and NSW Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ) and supported by LGNSW, would help councils ensure their Disability Inclusion Action Plans (DIAPs) met the needs of their communities.
“Councils are proud to showcase the work we do in line with our DIAPs, facilitating and supporting the removal of barriers for people with disability to access services and employment in each local community in NSW,” Cr Scott said.
“NSW councils strongly support the right of people with a disability to have equal access to services and infrastructure.
“Having had the privilege of growing up with a sister born with Down Syndrome, I have a personal motivation to drive change to create a more equal world for those with a disability.
“This week’s webinar follows an online forum held recently with Minister for Families, Communities and Disability Services, the Hon. Gareth Ward MP.
“LGNSW welcomes partnering with the NSW Government to support local governments sharing best practice ideas with other councils and experts to improve access and disability services.”
Cr Scott said LGNSW had worked with the State Government to provide funding support for councils to improve access for people with disability through initiatives such as inclusive tourism and lift and change facilities.
“Businesses and councils that provide better information, physical access and employment opportunities, as well as respectful customer service, create more opportunities for their communities to thrive,” she said.
“It’s wonderful to see councils providing access to lift and change facilities in public restrooms, with larger-than-standard access, extra features and more space to meet the needs of people with disability and their carers.
“This week’s International Day of People with Disability is a perfect opportunity to celebrate the work councils do to create more equality for people with a disability, and reflect on the needs of their community to ensure we plan for what needs to be done in future. LGNSW is proud to support this work.”
Councils across NSW are marking International Day of People with Disability with a range of events including an inclusive film festival, a series of videos celebrating achievements and encouraging inclusion, an online talent showcase and an awards night.
International Day of People with Disability Webinar details
