Addressing and reducing obstacles for people living with disabilities will be a key area of focus for the next three years in Edward River Council, with the adoption of the Disability Inclusion Action Plan 2023-2026 by Council during its ordinary council meeting on Tuesday 20 February.
The plan is an important step towards making the Edward River community more accessible and inclusive for everyone, and ensuring Edward River is a welcoming place to live, work and visit.
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, one in five Australians have a disability.
Aligned with the NSW Government's Disability Inclusion Plan 2022-2025, the DIAP encourages positive change in the lives of people with disabilities and advocates for the full participation of all community members in every aspect of the Edward River community.
This whole-of-Council strategy outlines the steps that the Council will take to build a more inclusive and accessible community and workplace, including developing positive community attitudes and behaviours towards people with disability, creating more liveable communities, supporting meaningful access to employment, and improving access to services.
Mayor Cr Peta Betts highlighted the importance of the community engagement that has helped to formulate the plan, stating "Thank you to the Council team and community members who have worked to bring this plan to life - together we have developed an actionable strategy that will increase liveability, quality of life and foster a sense of wellbeing for community members living with disability across Edward River region."
Edward River Council is committed to ongoing collaboration and actions designed to building an inclusive community where diversity is celebrated, and all can thrive.
