Whyalla City Council is seeking input from the community in developing its inaugural Disability Access and Inclusion Plan (DAIP).
To gain community views, Council is undertaking a survey of residents to inform the DAIP.
“Council has a vision of being a disability friendly city, this survey will help us understand what the community would like to see here,” said Whyalla City Council, Acting CEO, Mr Kristen Clark.
“Council recognises that social inclusion is fundamental to a person’s quality of life and critical to achieving positive life outcomes across all areas.”
“This plan will ensure Council is meeting its strategic direction of providing a range of services and facilities that promote a safe and engaged community,” he said.
Whyalla City Council already leads the way in providing facilities for those living with a disability.
The foreshore playground, new ramp and the disability-friendly Liberty swing, as well as multi-access toilet block in the Ada Ryan Gardens and the beach mats for wheelchairs are just some of the recent Council works that have improved disability services.
The DAIP will assist Council in improving access and inclusion to all residents while setting the framework to ensure that those people living with a disability will be able to access and participate in mainstream services and programs.
The plan will also ensure Council is aligning with the Disability Inclusion Act 2018, the Disability Inclusion Regulations 2019 (SA) and the State Disability Inclusion Plan.
The Act specifically focuses on developing strategies in the areas of access to built environs, events and facilities, access to information and communications, address the specific needs of people with disability in its programs and services and employment.
“We are looking forward to receiving feedback to assist in identify current gaps and suggestions for Council to ensure it is placing a Disability and Inclusive’ friendly lens on all of its operations,” said Mr Clark.
Electronic copies can be accessed at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/67H6B3P or hard copies can be sourced at the Council Office, Whyalla Public Library or Visitors Information Centre.
To assist those in the community who may have difficulty in completing the survey, or require it in any other format, Council’s Community Services Team is here to help you, please call 8640 3444 for assistance.