Central Coast Council is developing a new Disability Inclusion Action Plan, in accordance with the NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014, that aims to remove the barriers for people with disability.

With over 1.3 million people in NSW living with disability, this Plan will outline what needs to be done over the next four years to make our own community more inclusive and accessible for all of its members.

As part of this important work, council is calling for real input and direction from people with disability and those who work closely with people with disabilities, to help build a more genuinely inclusive community for all residents.

Council’s Group Leader Customer & Community Relations, Judy Jaeger said the involvement of people living and working with disability is critical to the overall effectiveness of the Plan.

“This Plan aims to bring about long-term, significant change and will continue to evolve in response to feedback and changes in our external environment.

“The ongoing participation of people living and working with disability is crucial to the overall success and level of impact the Plan will have on people’s lives,” Ms. Jaeger said.

Ms. Jaeger said there are various ways people can contribute including forums, surveys, informal and online discussions.

“We would like to hear from a diverse range of people with disabilities, carers, parents of people with disabilities, representatives from disability service providers and peak disability groups.

“All of the information we gather will shape the development of the new Plan and how it will impact within our own community,” Ms. Jaeger added.

Commencing this September, there are several ways people can become involved including:

• Community forums featuring guest speaker Leigh Creighton from NSW Disability Council and Central Coast Living Life My Way Ambassador Alanna Julian;
• Online engagement tools at www.haveyoursaycentralcoast.com.au; and
• Sip and Says informal events - opportunities for further input and discussion over coffee at various times and venues.

Full details for all activities, events and opportunities to be a part of the conversation can be found at www.haveyoursaycentralcoast.com.au

Further information and bookings for community forums can be made by contacting council’s Disability Inclusion Officer on 43258109 or by emailing katie.butler@centralcoast.nsw.gov.au