International Day of People with Disability 2025

Central Coast Council is proud to mark International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD) on Wednesday 3 December. This United Nations-recognised event aims to increase public awareness, understanding, and acceptance of people with disabilities.

This year’s theme is ‘Fostering disability inclusive societies for advancing social progress.’

To mark this occasion, Council has put together a calendar of free events across the Central Coast aimed at increasing awareness and promoting inclusion. All residents and visitors are warmly invited to participate.

Council Mayor Lawrie McKinna said that the day is a reminder of the collective responsibility to ensure the Central Coast is inclusive and supportive for everyone.

“International Day of People with Disability is an opportunity to reflect on how far we’ve come as a community and recognise how much more we can achieve by working together,” Mayor McKinna said.

“The Central Coast is home to thousands of residents living with disability, whose contributions enrich our culture, workforce and community life. Council is committed to creating spaces, services and opportunities that are accessible, inclusive and designed for all.”

Council would like to extend its congratulations to Maree Jenner, member of Council’s Access and Inclusion Reference Group, and a tireless advocate and educator, on being named a national ambassador for International Day of People with Disability. Maree’s work in school inclusion, Accessible Arts NSW, and Short Statured People of Australia continues to inspire positive change.

Council Director Community and Recreation Services, Melanie Smith said that Council is dedicated to promoting accessibility and inclusion by welcoming all to participate in the free events taking place locally.

“As part of our celebrations for International Day of People with Disability, we’re thrilled to invite the community to join us at Gosford Regional Gallery for a special event featuring an Artist Talk by Archibald Finalist Katherine McGuiness, hands-on workshops, and a Meet & Mingle afternoon tea.” Ms Smith said.

These activities are a wonderful opportunity for people of all abilities to come together, connect, and get creative while fostering a truly inclusive community.”

To book your spot at the event, visit this link.

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