Port Stephens Council DIAP 2016 - facs.nsw.gov.au · In 2016, Port Stephens had a population of...

36
ACTION PLAN Disability Inclusion [email protected] | 02 4980 0255 PORTSTEPHENS.NSW.GOV.AU

Transcript of Port Stephens Council DIAP 2016 - facs.nsw.gov.au · In 2016, Port Stephens had a population of...

Page 1: Port Stephens Council DIAP 2016 - facs.nsw.gov.au · In 2016, Port Stephens had a population of 64,807 at the 2016 Census. This igure is predicted to rise by up to 23,000 over the

ACTION PLAN

DisabilityInclusion

councilportstephensnswgovau | 02 4980 0255

PORTSTEPHENSNSWGOVAU

Port Stephens Council 2

Contents Mayoral message 4

Executive summary 5

Background 6

Guiding principles 8

Policy and legislative context 9 Definition Legislation

Councilrsquos responsibilities and roles 11 Role of council Executive responsibility and project coordination

Integrated planning and reporting 12

Document review 13

Consultation and engagement 13 Need for assistance Consultation with the community Stakeholders Summary of priorities

Action planning 16

Governance monitoring and evaulation 20

Conclusion 21

Appendix 22

Disability Inclusion ACTION PLAN 3

We are committed to disability inclusion and to building a community where everyone is able to easily access opportunities and to connect and fully participate in their community

I would like to thank everyone from our community who contributed their time ideas and opinions during the development of this Plan these ongoing connections and partnerships are vital in the ongoing development of a more inclusive community where all people are supported to participate fully

This Disability Inclusion Action Plan will be reviewed regularly and reported on annually Council is committed to ensuring the Action Plan is implemented and that this document remains an important focus for our community now and into the future

Mayoral message Port Stephens Council is pleased to present its Disability Inclusion Action Plan which replaces the Port Stephens Disability Action Plan (2014-2018) and aligns with the Disability Act 2014

This document recognises the commitment that Port Stephens Council has to an inclusive and accessible community for all people and it defines actions (both direct and indirect) that will encourage and enhance inclusion

Ryan Palmer Mayor Port Stephens

Port Stephens Council 4

Executive summary The Port Stephens Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) outlines Councils commitment to support the right of choice for people with a disability and to live their lives with access to opportunities and to enjoy the benefits of living and working in our society as all residents do

Development of the DIAP has given Council an opportunity to focus on enriching Councils commitment to creating a place that is more inclusive accessible and provides opportunities for all abilities and backgrounds

Port Stephens Council consulted extensively with people in the local government area who have a disability their families carers and disability groups to identify challenges barriers and issues for inclusion The consultation process enabled discussion and feedback and provided ideas and suggestions for change and improvement

Stakeholder priorities were established through external consultation as well as mapping of existing Council functions services and assets to identify potential opportunities to achieve a more inclusive and accessible society Community consultation and mapping outcomes were then analysed to identify actions A further risk management process was undertaken before incorporating appropriate actions into existing Port Stephens Council Integrated Plans

The implementation of these actions will be reviewed on an annual basis to ensure disability inclusion is given appropriate

consideration including in in other plans policies and procedures

This DIAP is underpinned by Councilrsquos policies programs and regulatory responsibilities including a commitment to social justice principles which are integrated within the Integrated Planning and Reporting framework (IPampR) Port Stephens Integrated Plans encompass the Community Strategic Plan 2013-2023 the Delivery Program 2013-2017 and the Operational Plan 2016-2017

The DIAP and actions within it are framed around four focus areas These areas were developed during development of the NSW Disability Inclusion Plan by people with a disability These focus areas and actions are outlined below will be delivered through Councils Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework

1 Liveable communities (including physical access to buildings and facilities and transport)

2 Attitudes and behaviours 3 Supporting access to meaningful

employment and 4 Improving access to services through

better systems and processes (which is about availability and accessibility of information regarding services)

In line with the Disability Inclusion Act 2014 the Port Stephens DIAP will be reported on annually to the Minister for Disability Furthermore Council will review the disability inclusion action planning process every four years as a minimum

Live their lives access opportunities and enjoy the benefits of living and working in our society as all residents do

Disability Inclusion ACTION PLAN 5

Background Port Stephens Local Government Area (LGA) is in the Hunter Region of New South Wales within the Port Stephens and Great Lakes Marine Park It is approximately two hours drive north of Sydney and 30 minutes from Newcastle In 2016 Port Stephens had a population of 64807 at the 2016 Census This figure is predicted to rise by up to 23000 over the next 15 years1

Port Stephens has grown as a regional centre with a mix of coastal and rural villages and larger regional centres including coastal centres which presents a diverse range of opportunities for everyone in the LGA

The proportion of people who experience disability can be correlated to Need for Assistance (Has need for assistance with core activities) census data In Port Stephens the proportion of people who identify as having a Need for Assistance in Port Stephens is 64 of the population Comparatively NSW has 537 of the population and the Hunter notes 639 who identify as having a Need for Assistance

Council is already a direct provider of services for people with a disability and their carers through

bull Leasing of the Ngioka Centre to the Endeavour Foundation who will provide disability support services under the NDIS scheme

bull Leasing of the Grahamstown Dam Aquatic Reserve to Sailability

bull Provision of Wheel in Wheel Out garbage bin service

1 Retrieved wwwportstephensnswgovau 2 Source wwwportstephenscouncilnswgovauvolunteering

Port Stephens Council

bull Provision of programs for children with additional needs at Outside School Hours Care (Raymond Terrace Medowie) Port Stephens Activity Van and Family Day Care

bull Provision of large print books talking books and audit and visual navigation aids from libraries (Raymond Terrace Salamander Bay Mobile Library) and

bull Provision of equipment at Aquatic Centres that enable safe entry into and out of heated swimming pools

Council owns and maintains a large asset portfolio that includes the following asset classes

bull Civil assets (bridges depots drainage pathways)

bull Road pavements

bull Transport facilities

bull Waste facilities and

bull Community and recreation assets (aquatic centres cemeteries libraries multipurpose facilities childcare centres parks and reserves playgrounds public amenities skate parks sport facilities surf lifesaving clubs waterways)

Mapping of functions services and assets (Appendix 3) enables identification of assets and services with potential to contribute to achievement of a more inclusive society

Council provides opportunities for partnerships and volunteering in the care and management of community facilities parklands and in public services

6

Volunteer opportunities are available in areas such as

bull Halls and community centres bull Parks reserves and Landcare groups bull Cemetery committees bull Sports council and clubs and bull Advisory and cultural groups and

libraries (among others)2

This DIAP defines strategies and provides a planning framework and actions to promote inclusion and equity for people with a disability so they may fully participate in and contribute to social business and community life The DIAP will enhance and complement the existing services provided by Port Stephens Council and will encourage an ongoing focus on building a socially inclusive and

Port Stephens Council will encourage an ongoing focus on building a socially inclusive and accessible place for all

ACTION PLANDisability Inclusion

7

accessible place for all

Carry out its functions in a way that provides best possible outcomes for the local community Plan strategically within the integrated planning and reporting framework for present

summarised below Strong and effective

representation leadership planning and decision making

Inclusive communities where individuals can fully participate in social business and community life

The community vision for the Port Stephens Community Strategic Plan is to have ldquoa great lifestyle in a treasured environmentrdquo This vision can only truly be achieved in a society that is inclusive and accessible for people of all abilities and

This Plan is critical to achieve positive

Guiding principles

backgrounds

change and create a more inclusive society A more inclusive society is diverse stronger and more sustainable

To achieve this the following principles underpin and reinforce the actions and desired outcomes within the DIAP and align with the philosophy behind the NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014 the Community Strategic Plan and the communities vision

bull Social justice principles of Equity Access Participation Rights

bull Guiding principles for Councils in accordance with Chapter 3 of the Local Government Act 1993 which are

and future populations Working with others to secure

appropriate services for local community needs and

Fairly ethically and without bias in the interests of the local community

bull Business Excellence principles Port Stephens Council applies the

Business Excellence principles to inform continuous improvement and strengthen the organisations ability to deliver more efficient and effective services to the community

Port Stephens Council8

Policy and legislative context Definition The Disability Inclusion Act 2014 defines disability as lsquoThe long-term physical mental intellectual or sensory impairment which in interaction with various barriers may hinder the full and effective participation in society on an equal basis with othersrsquo

In the context of the DIAP lsquodisabilityrsquo includes functional impairments or limitations which may be present from birth acquired by accident or illness or due to the process of ageing The impairments may be substantial or seemingly minor temporary or permanent

Legislation In 1993 all NSW government departments and some other government bodies were required to undertake disability action planning when the NSW Disability Services Act 1993 (DSA) was introduced

In 2008 the Australian Government committed to implementing the United Nations (UN) Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities

In 2014 a strengthened commitment to inclusion better consultation with people with disability and protection of their rights was propelled with the introduction of the Disability Inclusion Act 2014 which replaced the DSA

There is a suite of further Commonwealth and State legislation that promotes and drives improving access and inclusion for people with a disability

INTERNATIONAL bull Principles of the UN Convention on the

Rights of People with a Disability

COMMONWEALTH bull Disability Discrimination Act 1992 bull Australian Government NDIS Act 2013 bull Australian Government Aged Care

(Living Longer Living Better) Act 2013

NSW bull NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014

The most recent legislation and amendments reflect a shift towards the view that while a disability may affect the way that a person interacts with others and their environment it should not define a person and it should not limit their capacity to become an integral part of the community Although the rights of a person with a disability have been defined as the same rights as those of all people since the early 1990s it is understood that upholding these rights must include promotion of individual choice about what is important to them universal access to services and facilities and inclusive communities where individuals can fully participate in social business and community life

The NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014 promotes the view that lsquoinclusionrsquo is not only a goal for service providers and public and private sector organisations it is a responsibility of the whole community It legislates for the rights of people with a disability to full participation in every-day life with enhanced community connection independence empowerment and wellbeing It is the role of local government through a Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) to promote and support inclusion in their communities

ADDITIONAL LEGISLATION bull Carers (Recognition) Act 2010 (NSW)

Disability not only affects people who have a disability but also people who care for them The Carers (Recognition) Act 2010 acknowledges the significance of carers including respect and recognition inclusion in decision making and access to services they may need

bull Local Government Act 1993 The Local Government Act 1993 sets out the framework and responsibilities of Councils and provides guidance to enable councilrsquos to carry out their functions in a way that facilitates local communities that are strong healthy and prosperous

Disability Inclusion ACTION PLAN 9

Draw together diverse interests and strive towards attaining greater consensus on sustainable outcomes for the local government area

10 Port Stephens Council

Councilrsquos responsibilities and roles Role of council New South Wales (NSW) is entering a new era in disability inclusion planning Councilrsquos role in implementation of the DIAP will include as a direct service provider as a leader an advocate and facilitator

bull As leader Council acts as a role model for others through its own actions strategic organisational responses and way of doing things In its dialogue with the communities and other stakeholders Council can act to draw together diverse interests and strive towards attaining greater consensus on sustainable outcomes for the local government area

bull As advocate Council seeks to improve services facilities and opportunities for the local government area and its communities by lobbying agencies and other levels of government In discussions with others there are opportunities to reinforce Port Stephens sense of identity and resilience and collaborate on achieving a more sustainable local government area

bull As facilitator Council assists interaction amongst stakeholders and forms strategic alliances aimed at promoting sustainability initiatives focussing on elements including social economic environmental

cultural and governance which demonstrate positive ways of moving forward

bull As service provider Council has a strong commitment to delivering the services needed by its communities and ensuring that Council resources are responsibly managed Councilrsquos role as a service provider aims to assist in building the long-term health of the local government area

Executive responsibility and project coordination Port Stephens Council supports the development and implementation of the DIAP The General Manager has responsibility to oversee the various functionsgroups of Council

The DIAP will be coordinated by the Social Planning Unit within the Strategy and Environment section of the Development Services team Responsibility for implementation and resourcing of the DIAP will be across all sections of Council

Disability Inclusion ACTION PLAN 11

systems and processes Focus Area 4

Integrated planning and reporting Goals and strategies of Port Stephens Council are underpinned by five themes which provide focus and direction for the Integrated Planning and Reporting (IPR) framework The four focus areas for the DIAP may be positioned within those five focus areas of Integrated Planning framework

UN Convention on the Right of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD)

National Disability Strategy (NDS)

National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)

NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014 (DIA)

Operational plan

Delivery program

Community strategic plan

Local government disability inclusion action planning

NSW Disability Inclusion Plan 1 Attitudes and behaviours 2 Employment 3 Liveable communities 4 Systems and processes

Port Stephens CSP-themes CSP1 Our citizens

CSP2 Our lifestyle

CSP3 Our environment

CSP4 Our economy

CSP5 Our Council

An inclusive NSW

Focus Areas for DIAP bull Liveable communities Focus Area 2 bull Positive community attitudes and behaviours

Focus Area 1 bull Liveable communities Focus Area 2

bull Liveable communities Focus Area 2

bull Supporting access to meaningful employment Focus Area 3

bull Improving access to services through better

Port Stephens Council 12

ACTION PLAN

Document review As background to the consultation and to confirm issues which have been previously identified in the Port Stephens LGA a review of documents was undertaken Council has a suite of documents which reflect their commitment to an inclusive and connected society in an environment that facilitates opportunities for contribution by all those who live in the Port Stephens Region Reviewed documents included

bull Port Stephens Integrated Plans incorporating Community Strategic Plan

2013-2023 Delivery Program 2013-2017 Operational Plans 2016-2020

bull Port Stephens Strategic Asset Management Plan (2016-2026)

bull Port Stephens Disability Action Plan 2014-2018

bull NSW Disability Inclusion Action Planning Guidelines

Consultation and engagement According to 2016 census data the population of Port Stephens was 69556 which is an increase of 4746 or 732 from 2011 (64810) As the table below notes there are distinct differences in the proportion of people who stated a Need for Assistance between each of Port Stephens planning catchments However community

Need for Assistance

consultation with people who experience a disability their families carers and disability groups show that the barriers challenges and needs of people with a disability to fully participate in community life are similar throughout the LGA

Suburb 2006 2011 2016 Fern Bay 74 87 789

Karuah Swan Bay 53 83 859

Medowie 32 35 393

Raymond Terrace 52 63 775

Rural East 53 47 611

Rural West 29 31 307

Tilligerry 64 73 797

Tomaree 55 55 653

Port Stephens LGA 50 55 640

Disability Inclusion 13

Consultation with the community In seeking to fully understand and identify the barriers to inclusion and access and to find solutions information was sought from key stakeholders Key stakeholders are people within the Port Stephens community who identify as experiencing a disability their carersrsquo and support workers

A survey was completed and distributed within the community from November

2016 to January 2017 The period of the survey was extended over the Christmas periodschool holiday period 71 surveys completed surveys were received from the community

The following table sets out who and how the survey was distributed to key stakeholders

Stakeholder Engagement Processes Council website Surveys could be accessed through Councilrsquos website using

Engagement HQ

Council Facebook page

A link to the survey was placed on Councilrsquos Facebook page The link was lsquoboostedrsquo which meant the page connected anyone in the LGA who had clicked on anything to do with disability which significantly broadened the surveys reach

MyLink Group Advice and information about the DIAP including a link to the survey was distributed to Councils MyLink group MyLink is an email group of members including Not for Profit Groups and Non-Government Organisations (NGOs) such as disability service and support providers The MyLink email group keeps its members informed of upcoming meetings local events professional development opportunities and other important information Notifications of updates are sent to the MyLink email list weekly

Libraries Paper copies of the surveys were provided to the Tomaree and Raymond Terrace Libraries for distribution to disability groups (including disability support groups) who use the library

Media release Media release in the Port Stephens Examiner and online version of the Port Stephens Examiner

Schools Every school in the LGA was contacted via telephone and the survey and link distributed via email Schools then placed the information about the survey and the link in school community newsletters and on Facebook pages

Eagleton Ridge Respite Centre

Eagleton Ridge Respite Centre was contacted and information forwarded about the survey along with a link

Flyer Flyers were developed to help promote the project which contained information about the survey and where to access it Flyers were delivered to doctors surgeries disability service providers and Council run pools

Internal stakeholder meeting

Internal stakeholder meeting and ongoing consultation to go over elements of the DIAP

14 Port Stephens Council

Summary of priorities Returned surveys and consultation meetings presented a clear picture of priorities with suggestions and solutions Looking across all questions in the survey the following outlines the most important priorities for the Port Stephens community

1 Footpathsramps 2 Accessibility to eventsactivities

shops sporting and recreation facilities and parks

3 Provision of venues services events 4 Public toilets 5 Parking 6 Public transport 7 Public education 8 Respectful and inclusive community

and services

Some of the priorities for the community in the consultation for the DIAP were also identified in the Port Stephens Disability Action Plan 2014-2018 Furthermore the Port Stephens Integrated Plans aims to ldquomake future provisions for people with disabilities their families and carersrdquo via several actions including implementing the Disability Inclusion Action Plan

Results of the community consultation were arranged in to the DIAPrsquos four focus groups and actions were developed that align with these areas These focus areas were identified as part of extensive community consultation during development of the NSW Disability Inclusion Plan As such these focus areas became a requirement to be in all NSW agency DIAPs These actions recognise the rights of people with a disability to full and effective participation in an inclusive society the same as those without a disability The following action plan outlines Councilrsquos role and action and priority level

Results of the community consultation were arranged into the DIAPrsquos four focus groups and actions were developed that contribute a more inclusive accessible and liveable society

ACTION PLANDisability Inclusion

15

Act

ion

plan

ning

Liveable Communities

Item for

improvement Priority

Time-

frame

Coun-

cilRole

Action

Outcome

IPRRefer-

ence

Responsibility

Foot

path

s an

d1

-2 y

ears

Se

rvic

eU

nder

take

revi

ew o

f foo

tpat

hs a

nd ra

mps

Upd

ated

and

impl

emen

tatio

n of

42

13

Asse

ts

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ps th

roug

hout

Prov

ider

th

roug

hout

LG

A to

det

erm

ine

a pr

iorit

ised

the

Pede

stria

n Ac

cess

and

Mob

ility

LGA

appr

oach

to im

plem

enta

tion

of g

aps

Plan

con

side

rs a

nd p

riorit

ises

peo

ple

upgr

ades

and

new

foot

path

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stru

ctur

e

with

dis

abilit

y

0-1

year

U

pdat

ed a

nd im

plem

enta

tion

of th

e Pe

dest

rian

13

16

Stra

tegi

c Pl

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ngAc

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Mob

ility

Plan

con

sider

s an

d pr

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ises

peop

le w

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isabi

lity

Out

door

spa

ces

and

1 -2

yea

rs

Serv

ice

Prio

rise

revi

ew a

nd a

udit

Cou

ncil

build

ings

Pr

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er

man

aged

out

door

spa

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and

build

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to d

eter

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whe

re w

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y m

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ce a

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2- 4

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t tw

o lib

erty

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Loc

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nsPr

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to b

e pr

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col

labo

ratio

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ithSo

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lope

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e co

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e w

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isabi

lity

Two

liber

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win

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stal

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ns s

o fa

mily

and

car

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e w

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e to

acc

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recr

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nal

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ties

(peo

ple

in w

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chai

rs i

nclu

ding

adul

ts c

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e a

sens

e of

free

dom

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52

12

Faci

litie

s an

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rvic

es

52

12

Faci

litie

s an

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rvic

es

Prov

isio

n of

0 ndash

1Ad

voca

te

Dev

elop

the

Plan

of M

anag

emen

t to

The

Ngi

oka

Cen

tre is

man

aged

and

ope

rate

d 1

31

1 Fa

cilit

ies

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ram

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rmin

e an

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ng te

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End

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e of

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land

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ch th

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is a

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sabi

lity

Ngi

oka

Cen

tre to

by

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er N

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Ong

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e of

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31

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ve fo

r use

by

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crea

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ities

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dis

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Ong

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rvic

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ng p

rovi

sion

of w

heel

in w

heel

out

The

Blue

Dot

Ser

vice

13

13

Com

mun

ity S

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ces

Lead

er

garb

age

bin

serv

ice

(Blu

e D

ot S

ervi

ce)

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

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y liv

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at h

ome

Ong

oing

O

ngoi

ng a

cces

s to

chi

ldre

ns

serv

ices

13

14

Com

mun

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prog

ram

s fo

r chi

ldre

n w

ith a

dditio

nal n

eeds

at O

utsid

e Sc

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rs C

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(Ray

mon

dTe

rrace

and

Med

owie

) P

ort S

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nd F

amily

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Car

e

16

Ong

oing

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rvic

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ng p

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sion

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exp

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on o

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ple

13

15

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mun

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ces

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gyw

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bilit

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ions

incl

udin

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sbull

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text

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een

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er s

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are

bull La

rge

prin

t boo

ksbull

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ic to

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2

ndash 4

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t of p

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ts to

iden

tify

loca

tions

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oved

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essib

ility

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disa

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52

14

Faci

litie

s an

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ovid

er

whe

re a

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ge fa

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ies

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orks

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n

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rt St

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n Pu

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trsquos s

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rvic

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w d

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ility

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es a

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ovid

er identified to ensure compliance against

the

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nt s

tand

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relo

catin

g to

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1 -2

yea

rs

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view

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s of

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ent

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e di

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sion

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ovin

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ks a

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isab

ility

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ssib

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Incr

ease

in c

ompl

iant

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y pa

rkin

g so

52

14

Faci

litie

s an

d As

sets

pe

ople

who

exp

erie

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disa

bilit

y ca

n en

joy

am

ore

seam

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erie

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is n

avig

able

and

man

agea

ble

ther

eby

bein

g m

ore

incl

usiv

ean

d va

lue

addi

ng

52

14

Fa

cilit

ies

and

Asse

ts

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ic tr

ansp

ort

1 -2

yea

rs

Advo

cate

M

eet w

ith p

ublic

tran

spor

t pro

vider

s to

Impr

oved

legi

bilit

y an

d ac

cess

to p

ublic

13

16

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ngpr

ovid

e fe

edba

ck fr

om D

IAP

and

addr

ess

trans

port

optio

ns a

nd im

prov

ed p

atro

nage

of

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conc

erns

whe

re p

ossib

le

peop

le w

ith a

dis

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y

Fund

ing

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oing

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rvic

eAc

tivel

y se

ek g

rant

fund

ing

for p

roje

cts

An in

crea

se in

ser

vice

s in

frast

ruct

ure

and

52

14

Faci

litie

s an

dop

portu

nitie

s pr

ovid

er

whi

ch e

ncou

rage

acc

ess

and

incl

usio

n in

activ

ities

that

ens

ure

incl

usiv

enes

s an

dSe

rvic

esLe

ader

th

e co

mm

unity

ac

cess

ibilit

y fo

r peo

ple

who

exp

erie

nce

Com

mun

itydi

sabi

lity

thei

r fam

ilies

and

care

rs

Dev

elop

men

t and

Enga

gem

ent

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ng

Acce

ssib

le e

vent

s O

ngoi

ng

Serv

ice

Form

alis

e a

12 m

onth

tria

l pro

gram

Incr

ease

in th

e nu

mbe

r of e

vent

s th

at a

re2

11

5C

omm

unity

prov

ider

of

the

Even

t Ten

t w

hich

pro

mot

esac

cess

ible

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

y D

evel

opm

ent a

nd5

31

5Ad

voca

te

and

enab

les

grea

ter p

artic

ipat

ion

atEn

gage

men

t5

41

1co

mm

unity

eve

nts

of p

eopl

e an

d fa

milie

sTo

uris

m a

nd E

vent

s w

ho h

ave

a di

sabi

lity

17

18

Improving access to services through better systems and processes

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Alig

ning

Act

ion

Ong

oing

Le

ader

En

sure

that

the

DIA

P al

igns

with

This

pla

n m

eets

the

Loca

l5

31

13

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ngPl

an w

ith In

tegr

ated

the

Inte

grat

ed R

epor

ting

Fram

ing

Gov

ernm

ent D

IAP

guid

elin

eR

epor

ting

and

that

the

actio

ns in

this

Act

ion

requ

irem

ents

and

act

ions

are

Fram

ewor

k Pl

an a

re in

clud

ed in

the

(4 y

ear)

impl

emen

ted

Del

iver

y Pr

ogra

m a

nd th

e An

nual

Ope

ratio

nal P

lan

Info

rmat

ion

to th

e0

ndash 1

year

Le

ader

and

Enab

le th

e ab

ility

to p

rovi

de a

ndM

ore

peop

le a

re a

ble

to a

cces

s5

31

6 Office of the General

publ

ic

Serv

ice

rece

ive

info

rmat

ion

to a

nd fr

om th

ein

form

atio

n an

d pa

rticip

ate

in th

eir

Man

ager

Pr

ovid

er

publ

ic in

a ra

nge

of fo

rmat

s R

evie

wlo

cal c

omm

unity

and

the

affa

irs o

fpu

blic

exh

ibiti

on te

mpl

ate

to m

ake

loca

l gov

ernm

ent

clea

rer t

hat w

e ac

cept

sub

mis

sion

sin

all

form

ats

not

just

writ

ten

eg

vide

o v

oice

rec

ordi

ng

Mai

ntai

n w

ebsi

te a

cces

sibi

lity

55

18

Com

mun

icat

ions

(WAA

G) 2

0 A

A le

vel

Polic

ies

and

1 -2

yea

rs

Lead

erS

ervi

ceC

ounc

il inv

estig

ates

opt

ions

toR

emov

e ob

stac

les

for p

eopl

e w

ith1

31

6 St

rate

gic

Plan

ning

pr

oced

ures

Pr

ovid

er

impr

ove

unde

rsta

ndin

g of

pol

icies

and

a di

sabi

lity

to e

nabl

e ac

hiev

emen

tpr

oced

ures

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

disa

bility

of

pos

itive

and

sus

tain

able

empl

oym

ent o

utco

mes

Supporting access to meaningful employment

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Volu

ntee

ring

1 -2

yea

rs

Lead

er

Rev

iew

vol

unte

erin

g pr

oces

ses

for

Incr

ease

d ac

cess

to v

olun

teer

ing

16

13

Com

mun

ity S

ervi

ces

proc

esse

s Po

rt St

ephe

ns C

ounc

il to

ens

ure

oppo

rtuni

ties

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

that

they

are

wel

com

ing

of p

eopl

edi

sabi

lity

w

ith d

isab

ility

Rec

ruitm

ent

Ong

oing

Le

ader

C

ontin

ue to

offe

r can

dida

tes

anO

ngoi

ng e

mpl

oym

ent o

ppor

tuni

ties

51

42

Org

anis

atio

nal

proc

esse

s op

tion

to d

iscl

ose

whe

ther

or n

otfo

r peo

ple

who

hav

e a

disa

bilit

y w

ithD

evel

opm

ent

they

hav

e a

disa

bilit

y du

ring

the

Port

Step

hens

Cou

ncil

appl

icat

ion

proc

ess

so th

at C

ounc

ilar

e ab

le to

ens

ure

that

app

lican

tsw

ith a

dis

abilit

y ar

e an

d fe

elsu

ppor

ted

thro

ugho

ut th

e pr

oces

s

Attitudes and Behaviours

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Educ

atio

n fo

r sho

p0

- 1 y

ear

Advo

cate

Aw

aren

ess

and

educ

atio

nO

utco

me

is a

rais

ed a

war

enes

s of

41

24

Econ

omic

owne

rsb

usin

esse

sca

mpa

igns

targ

etin

g bu

sine

ss

the

need

s of

peo

ple

with

a d

isab

ility

Dev

elop

men

ton

acc

ess

issue

s fo

row

ners

via

Biz

Lin

k ne

twor

kac

cess

issu

espe

ople

with

disa

bility

ne

wsl

ette

rs a

nd b

usin

ess

cham

bers

to fo

ster

and

enc

oura

ge th

efo

llow

ing

initi

ativ

es

bull D

evel

op c

ompa

nion

car

d fri

endl

yin

itiat

ive

whi

ch e

nabl

es fr

ee e

ntry

to c

erta

in v

enue

sev

ents

for

care

rs to

acc

ompa

ny p

eopl

e w

itha

disa

bilit

y

1-2

year

s Ad

voca

te

bull Pr

efer

red

empl

oyer

aw

ards

for

41

24

Econ

omic

disa

bilit

y ac

cess

ible

wor

kpla

ce

Dev

elop

men

t

Sta

ff ar

e su

pp

orte

d a

nd h

ave

gre

ater

know

led

ge

of th

e va

riety

of n

eed

s of

peo

ple

with

a d

isab

ility

and

the

need

for i

nclu

sion

Staf

f aw

aren

ess

of1

-2 y

ears

Le

ader

To

pro

vide

train

ing

for C

ounc

il sta

ffSt

aff a

re s

uppo

rted

and

have

51

42

Org

anis

atio

nal

the

need

s of

peo

ple

on h

ow to

wor

k w

ith a

nd u

nder

stan

dgr

eate

r kno

wle

dge

of th

e va

riety

of

Dev

elop

men

tw

ith d

isab

ility

peop

le w

ith d

isabi

lity th

roug

h C

ounc

ilsne

eds

of p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

y an

d

The

prio

rity

timef

ram

e ra

ting

indi

cate

s th

at a

Hig

h pr

iorit

y sh

ould

be

com

plet

ed w

ithin

1 y

ear

Med

ium

prio

rity

with

in 2

yea

rs a

nd L

ow p

riorit

y w

ithin

3 to

4 y

ears

Wor

kpla

ce E

quity

amp D

ivers

ityC

omm

ittee

and

Gui

de (a

ttach

ed)

the

need

for i

nclu

sion

19

Governance monitoring and evaulation To ensure implementation of the Plan an internal working group made up of stakeholders who have responsibility for implementing actions with the plan will be ongoing The working group will meet quarterly to discuss the Action Plan and linkages to both current and future projects and programs including

bull Each new capital works project will consider disability improvements to inclusion and accessibility within the Project Management Plan scoping and procurement document (in addition to Disability Discrimination Act compliance) Improvements for consideration include Location of the

proposed project and Improvements to carpark access to

and from kerb ramp location and availability and pathwayrsquos etc that enable more seamless connectivity

Progress of the plan will be monitored and implementation of actions within the Plan will be reported through a range of governance processes including

bull Six monthly reporting to Councils Executive Leadership team and Council

bull Operational Plan annual reporting as part of the Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework

bull Annual Report bull End of Term Reporting bull Customer satisfaction annual survey and

reporting To enable effective measurement and monitoring of actions within the plan the Port Stephens Customer Satisfaction Survey will include a section within the survey of questions that people who experience disability their families carers and people who work in the disability sector can elect to answer

20 Port Stephens Council

Conclusion Port Stephens Council has a strong commitment to enhancing life experience of people with a disability in the Local Government Area

In developing the Disability Inclusion Action Plan Port Stephens Council has built on the strengths of existing Council resources Council structurestaff plans policies and the local closely connected community by consulting with a broad range of stakeholders

The priorities identified above reflect Council values and principles The individual objectives once approved by Council are to be included in the 2017-2021 Delivery Program and the Annual Operational Plans for each of those four (4) years Within the Integrated and Strategic Planning framework the responsibility reporting and resourcing for the objectives will be defined

Draw together diverse interests and strive towards attaining greater consensus on sustainable outcomes for the local government area

ACTION PLANDisability Inclusion

21

understanding of your requirements and helpful (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

11a Please provide details of your experiences with Council staff

12 Any other comments

Appendix 1 DIAP Survey 1 What is your age 2 What suburb do you live in

(Required) 3 Gender 4 Language used at home 5 Are you a carer or a person with

disability (Choose all that apply) a Carer b Person with disability c Family member

6 Do you think the Port Stephens Community is welcoming of people with disabilities Eg businesses shops etc (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

6a Please give us some examples of positive or negative experiences you have had

7 Have you encountered any problems barriers or issues in using transport options (Choose all that apply) a Walking or wheelchair use b Local buses c Electric Scooter d Other

7a Please give us some examples of positive or negative experiences you have had

8 Do you think facilities and services are accessible and inclusive in Port Stephens a Councilrsquos Administration Building Yes No b Community centres Yes No c Events Yes No d Libraries Yes No e Parks Yes No f Pools Yes No g Other Yes No

22 Port Stephens Council

8a Can you give us any examples for improvements

9 Do you find Councilrsquos information publications accessible

Website Yes No Newsletters Yes No

9a Do you have suggestions for improvements

10 Would you like to see an improvement in online services through Councilrsquos website such as the electronic payment of rates andor fees and charges (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

11 Do you find Council staff at all of its locations and facilities approachable

Appendix 2 community consultation Results from consultation and the survey The areas identified for improvement by were framed around the four priority areas the Port Stephens community are (in order for an inclusive community Liveable of priority) communities Attitudes and behaviours Employment and Systems and processes

Liveable Communities

Focus Area Comments Foot pathsramps ldquoFootpathsramps ndash uneven rough need ramps to access

roads need lighting on paths and stairs need more footpaths wider footpaths some ramps too steeprdquo

ldquoAll new kerb ramps should have no step between the bottom of the ramp and the gutterroad The small step that is still mostly used at the bottom of curb ramps is completely unnecessary (it doesnrsquot improve water flow in the gutter as some people think it does) but it makes it harder for a wheelchair user even if the step is only 2cm or less The same argument applies to drivewaysrdquo

ACTION PLAN

Accessibility to ldquoCluttered walkways access to beaches (wheelchair accessible eventsactivities ramps) Braille on signage audio description at places of shops sporting interest Henderson Park upgrade (steep steps to pontoon facilities parks no disability parking) access to pontoons for fishing (Karuah

good example of how to do it) Wider access passageways and doorways (eg some places have double doors but keep one door locked eg Salamander library)rdquo

Provision of venues ldquoLack of disability services in parks (eg Liberty swingswing services events with 5-point harness) lack of covered areas in parks (many

sun-sensitive due to medication plus rain cover) hydrotherapy pool fences around parks disability friendly slide at parks audio loop neededrdquo

ldquoI would like to see more programs that support carers and the families of people with disabilities in the Port Stephens Local Government Area as their (sic) simply isnrsquot enough I would also like more programs to support people with disabilities so that as a community we can start supporting each other through the hardship of living with a disabilityrdquo

Disability Inclusion 23

Focus Area Comments Public toilets ldquoThere are lack of amenities in disabled toilets (eg adults who

need help changing continence aids hoists in toilets) need more (eg Nelson Bay)rdquo

ldquoDisabled toilets do not cater for older persons with a disability who require nappy changing facilities It is not nice to change on the floor of a disabled toilet and parents room tables are too smallrdquo

Parking ldquoThere is a lack of disabled parking some disabled parks are not wheelchair friendlyrdquo

ldquoSubstandard pavement surfaces for walker frames and mobility scooters Lack of disability parking spaces at Soldiers Point Boat ramp and Salamander Bay wharf and various other areas within the Port Stephens areardquo

Public transport ldquoInfrastructure improvements for more and better transport limited timetables too many transfers to get to destination want regular community bus (low cost or for free)rdquo

Attitudes and Behaviours

Focus Area Comments Respectful and It should be noted that most people reported positive encounters inclusive community with the public and council staff One comment stated ldquocould and services improve empathy and understanding from public on what it is

like to have a disabilityrdquo

ldquoHearing impaired when asked to speak slower shop people yell and pull faces as if trying to mouth out each word very embarrassingrdquo

ldquoStaring commentingrdquo

Public education ldquoEducation for people in shops about disability disabled amenitiesfacilities being used by public (change-rooms toilets parking) but consideration needed so as not to discriminate against those who do not ldquoappearrdquo to have a disabilityrdquo

It should be noted that most people reported positive encounters with the public and council staff

24 Port Stephens Council

Employment

Focus Area Comments No issues identified however it was acknowledged in internal communication with staff that Council could lead the way in more employment of people with a disability this could include recruitment processes which are lsquomore welcomingrsquo and encourage people to apply for positions It also was acknowledged that Council policies procedures systems and processes could be reviewed for lsquoeasy readrsquo format

Systems and Processes

Focus Area Comments Range of information dissemination

Promotion and awareness of activitesevents services

ldquoNot everyone gets newspaper so send information in other ways (emailed with rates) need to consider information dissemination for people with hearing and vision impairedrdquo

ldquoI have rarely seen a Council newsletter Also the website needs to be cleaner clearer more navigable and user friendlyrdquo

ldquoLeft-aligning text might seem like a visual imposition to the sighted person but this simple change is the difference between being able to read for people who are blind or who have low visionrdquo

ldquoEye level display for people using wheelchairsrdquo

Some people were confused or unaware of services amenities available to them

In some areas ldquoFor those of us who get their bills via email it would be great if we were emailed regularly about items on public exhibition etc to replace what other residents would see in your adds in the Examinerrdquo

ldquoMore information areas to access helprdquo

ldquoDidnrsquot know you had a newsletterrdquo

Consulation on council infrastructure

Respondents welcomed the Council distributing this survey for comment but others felt more consideration of disability issues was needed

ldquoPlanning doesnrsquot seem to include disabled accessibility issues for new projectsrdquo

ldquoConsideration of people who are blind or low vision in future planning ie Braille on all signage (or on poles or mounts for elevated signage) Audio description at places of interest geographical cultural or historical significance Blind people miss out on our beautiful views they deserve to be catered to with regard to what else PS has to offer Infrastructure improvements that support more and better public transport to Port Stephensrdquo

Disabilit y Inclusion ACTION PLAN 25

Do you think the Port Stephens Community is welcoming of people with disabilities Eg businesses shops etc Most people felt Port Stephens is welcoming (68)

Have you encountered any problems barriers or issues in using transport options

68

0 10 20 30 40 50

Electric Scooter

Walking or wheelchair use

Local buses

Other

Do you think facilities and services are accessible and inclusive in Port Stephens

Focus Area Yes No

Councils Administration Building 57 6

Community centres 53 8

Events 36 21

Libraries 60 2

Parks 38 27

Pools 43 15

Other 18 13

26 Port Stephens Council

Do you find Councilrsquos information publications accessible

Focus area website

Would you like to see an improvement in online services through Councilrsquos website such as the electronic payment of rates and or fees and charges

Do you find Council staff at all of its locations and facilities approachable understanding of your requirements and helpful

Most comments in this section indicated council staff was very helpful and polite

Any other comments

Items for improvement (in order of priority)

Yes 36

Yes 55

Yes 48

No 6

No 18

No 11

1 Provision of venues services events 2 Roadscrossings 3 Footpathsramps 4 Public toilets 5 Public education The following summary outlines the priorities identified across all questions of the survey

ACTION PLANDisabilit y Inclusion

27

App

endi

x 3

Func

tions

ser

vice

s an

d as

sets

Function Area Community Services Sector

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Man

ager

Ngi

oka

Com

mun

ityH

ortic

ultu

ral

Serv

ices

Th

erap

yC

entre

Volu

ntee

r wor

kfor

ce o

f up

to80

0 p

rovi

sion

of lsquo

whe

el in

whe

el o

utrsquo g

arba

ge c

olle

ctio

nfo

r peo

ple

with

dis

abilit

y liv

ing

at h

ome

Pro

visi

on o

fpr

ogra

ms

for c

hild

ren

with

addi

tiona

l nee

ds a

t Out

side

of S

choo

l Hou

rs C

are

Chi

ldre

nsrsquo a

ctiv

ity V

an a

ndFa

mily

Day

Car

e P

rovi

sion

of la

rge

prin

t boo

ks t

alki

ngbo

oks

and

audi

o an

d vi

sual

navi

gatio

n ai

ds a

t lib

rarie

sLe

ar to

sw

im p

rogr

ams

atco

unci

l aqu

atic

cen

tres

Info

rmat

ion

on w

ebsi

te re

Leas

e of

Gra

ham

stow

nVo

lunt

eer s

trate

gy35

5vo

lunt

eers

Aqua

tic R

eser

ve fo

r use

by

Part

A an

d Pa

rt B

com

mitt

ees

Saila

bilit

y (P

SC le

ase

the

Larg

e te

xt fo

rmat

ting

onla

nd fr

om H

unte

r Wat

er a

ndw

ebsi

te

Saila

bilit

y su

b-le

ase

the

land

of P

SC)

Link

s to

vol

unte

er re

sour

ces

in J

ob a

genc

ies

TAF

Eot

her a

reas

bus

ines

ses

etc

univ

ersi

ties

sch

ools

Brai

lle a

nd la

rge

font

com

pute

rs

Rev

iew

pol

icie

spr

oced

ures

toen

sure

they

are

lsquoeas

y re

adrsquo f

orm

at

Busi

ness

lead

ersh

ipto

enh

ance

Ngi

oka

as a

mul

ti-pu

rpos

ece

ntre

and

to p

rom

ote

and

alig

n w

ith N

DIS

pers

onal

pla

ns

28

Function Area Community Services ndash Library Services

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Resource

Libr

ary

Civ

il Ass

ets

Serv

ices

Sect

ion

Man

ager

M

anag

erC

omm

unity

and

Rec

reat

ion

Assets Officer

Paid

Lib

rary

Sta

ff x

24C

asua

l Lib

rary

Sta

ff x

11Li

brar

y Vo

lunt

eers

x 5

5As

sist

ive

Adap

tive

tech

nolo

gy(A

udio

Rea

d na

viga

tors

Zoo

mTe

xt s

cree

n re

ader

sof

twar

ela

rge

prin

t boo

ks a

udio

boo

ks

IInfo

rmat

ion

on a

ll Li

brar

ySe

rvic

es re

late

d to

ser

vice

spr

ogra

ms

and

activ

ities

ndashdi

spla

yed

in b

ranc

hes

via

(flyerspostersTV monitors)

and

on

bull Fa

cebo

ok W

ebsi

tebull

Scho

ol N

ewsl

ette

rs W

hatrsquos

on in

our

Bac

kyar

dbull

PS E

xam

iner

bull N

ews

of th

e Ar

ea (T

eaG

arde

ns N

elso

n Ba

y an

dM

edow

ie)

Thou

Wal

la S

choo

ls a

sC

omm

uniti

es C

entre

New

cast

le R

egio

n Li

brar

y C

o-op

erat

ive

Cen

tral E

ast Z

one

(Reg

iona

lLi

brar

ies

Gro

up)

Publ

ic L

ibra

ries

NSW

Hun

ter W

EAH

isto

rical

and

Fam

ily H

isto

rySo

ciet

ies

RT

Art S

pace

Gro

upR

eal F

utur

es F

ound

atio

n

Inte

rnet

Usa

ge P

olic

yW

aivi

ng O

verd

ueC

harg

esSo

cial

Med

ia P

olic

yLi

brar

y U

ser

Gui

delin

esPS

C L

ibra

ry B

roch

ure

New

cast

le re

gion

Libr

ary

Broc

hure

Volu

ntee

r Pos

ition

Des

crip

tions

and

Han

dboo

kH

isto

rical

Soc

iety

Fa

mily

His

tory

Gro

upAg

reem

ents

Wor

k H

ealth

and

Safe

tyC

omm

ittee

WH

S R

ep-

rese

ntat

ives

Com

mitt

eeW

orkp

lace

Equi

ty a

ndD

iver

sity

Com

mitt

eeC

onsu

ltativ

eC

omm

ittee

Her

itage

Advi

sory

Com

mitt

ee

Dis

able

d to

ilets

do

not c

ater

for o

lder

per

sons

with

a d

isab

ility

who

req

uire

nap

py

chan

gin

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30

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31

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32

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35

Disability Inclusion

ACTION PLAN

Disability InclusionInclusionDisability InclusionInclusionDisability

For more information please contact Development Services councilportstephensnswgovau | 02 4980 0255 | PORTSTEPHENSNSWGOVAU

Page 2: Port Stephens Council DIAP 2016 - facs.nsw.gov.au · In 2016, Port Stephens had a population of 64,807 at the 2016 Census. This igure is predicted to rise by up to 23,000 over the

Port Stephens Council 2

Contents Mayoral message 4

Executive summary 5

Background 6

Guiding principles 8

Policy and legislative context 9 Definition Legislation

Councilrsquos responsibilities and roles 11 Role of council Executive responsibility and project coordination

Integrated planning and reporting 12

Document review 13

Consultation and engagement 13 Need for assistance Consultation with the community Stakeholders Summary of priorities

Action planning 16

Governance monitoring and evaulation 20

Conclusion 21

Appendix 22

Disability Inclusion ACTION PLAN 3

We are committed to disability inclusion and to building a community where everyone is able to easily access opportunities and to connect and fully participate in their community

I would like to thank everyone from our community who contributed their time ideas and opinions during the development of this Plan these ongoing connections and partnerships are vital in the ongoing development of a more inclusive community where all people are supported to participate fully

This Disability Inclusion Action Plan will be reviewed regularly and reported on annually Council is committed to ensuring the Action Plan is implemented and that this document remains an important focus for our community now and into the future

Mayoral message Port Stephens Council is pleased to present its Disability Inclusion Action Plan which replaces the Port Stephens Disability Action Plan (2014-2018) and aligns with the Disability Act 2014

This document recognises the commitment that Port Stephens Council has to an inclusive and accessible community for all people and it defines actions (both direct and indirect) that will encourage and enhance inclusion

Ryan Palmer Mayor Port Stephens

Port Stephens Council 4

Executive summary The Port Stephens Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) outlines Councils commitment to support the right of choice for people with a disability and to live their lives with access to opportunities and to enjoy the benefits of living and working in our society as all residents do

Development of the DIAP has given Council an opportunity to focus on enriching Councils commitment to creating a place that is more inclusive accessible and provides opportunities for all abilities and backgrounds

Port Stephens Council consulted extensively with people in the local government area who have a disability their families carers and disability groups to identify challenges barriers and issues for inclusion The consultation process enabled discussion and feedback and provided ideas and suggestions for change and improvement

Stakeholder priorities were established through external consultation as well as mapping of existing Council functions services and assets to identify potential opportunities to achieve a more inclusive and accessible society Community consultation and mapping outcomes were then analysed to identify actions A further risk management process was undertaken before incorporating appropriate actions into existing Port Stephens Council Integrated Plans

The implementation of these actions will be reviewed on an annual basis to ensure disability inclusion is given appropriate

consideration including in in other plans policies and procedures

This DIAP is underpinned by Councilrsquos policies programs and regulatory responsibilities including a commitment to social justice principles which are integrated within the Integrated Planning and Reporting framework (IPampR) Port Stephens Integrated Plans encompass the Community Strategic Plan 2013-2023 the Delivery Program 2013-2017 and the Operational Plan 2016-2017

The DIAP and actions within it are framed around four focus areas These areas were developed during development of the NSW Disability Inclusion Plan by people with a disability These focus areas and actions are outlined below will be delivered through Councils Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework

1 Liveable communities (including physical access to buildings and facilities and transport)

2 Attitudes and behaviours 3 Supporting access to meaningful

employment and 4 Improving access to services through

better systems and processes (which is about availability and accessibility of information regarding services)

In line with the Disability Inclusion Act 2014 the Port Stephens DIAP will be reported on annually to the Minister for Disability Furthermore Council will review the disability inclusion action planning process every four years as a minimum

Live their lives access opportunities and enjoy the benefits of living and working in our society as all residents do

Disability Inclusion ACTION PLAN 5

Background Port Stephens Local Government Area (LGA) is in the Hunter Region of New South Wales within the Port Stephens and Great Lakes Marine Park It is approximately two hours drive north of Sydney and 30 minutes from Newcastle In 2016 Port Stephens had a population of 64807 at the 2016 Census This figure is predicted to rise by up to 23000 over the next 15 years1

Port Stephens has grown as a regional centre with a mix of coastal and rural villages and larger regional centres including coastal centres which presents a diverse range of opportunities for everyone in the LGA

The proportion of people who experience disability can be correlated to Need for Assistance (Has need for assistance with core activities) census data In Port Stephens the proportion of people who identify as having a Need for Assistance in Port Stephens is 64 of the population Comparatively NSW has 537 of the population and the Hunter notes 639 who identify as having a Need for Assistance

Council is already a direct provider of services for people with a disability and their carers through

bull Leasing of the Ngioka Centre to the Endeavour Foundation who will provide disability support services under the NDIS scheme

bull Leasing of the Grahamstown Dam Aquatic Reserve to Sailability

bull Provision of Wheel in Wheel Out garbage bin service

1 Retrieved wwwportstephensnswgovau 2 Source wwwportstephenscouncilnswgovauvolunteering

Port Stephens Council

bull Provision of programs for children with additional needs at Outside School Hours Care (Raymond Terrace Medowie) Port Stephens Activity Van and Family Day Care

bull Provision of large print books talking books and audit and visual navigation aids from libraries (Raymond Terrace Salamander Bay Mobile Library) and

bull Provision of equipment at Aquatic Centres that enable safe entry into and out of heated swimming pools

Council owns and maintains a large asset portfolio that includes the following asset classes

bull Civil assets (bridges depots drainage pathways)

bull Road pavements

bull Transport facilities

bull Waste facilities and

bull Community and recreation assets (aquatic centres cemeteries libraries multipurpose facilities childcare centres parks and reserves playgrounds public amenities skate parks sport facilities surf lifesaving clubs waterways)

Mapping of functions services and assets (Appendix 3) enables identification of assets and services with potential to contribute to achievement of a more inclusive society

Council provides opportunities for partnerships and volunteering in the care and management of community facilities parklands and in public services

6

Volunteer opportunities are available in areas such as

bull Halls and community centres bull Parks reserves and Landcare groups bull Cemetery committees bull Sports council and clubs and bull Advisory and cultural groups and

libraries (among others)2

This DIAP defines strategies and provides a planning framework and actions to promote inclusion and equity for people with a disability so they may fully participate in and contribute to social business and community life The DIAP will enhance and complement the existing services provided by Port Stephens Council and will encourage an ongoing focus on building a socially inclusive and

Port Stephens Council will encourage an ongoing focus on building a socially inclusive and accessible place for all

ACTION PLANDisability Inclusion

7

accessible place for all

Carry out its functions in a way that provides best possible outcomes for the local community Plan strategically within the integrated planning and reporting framework for present

summarised below Strong and effective

representation leadership planning and decision making

Inclusive communities where individuals can fully participate in social business and community life

The community vision for the Port Stephens Community Strategic Plan is to have ldquoa great lifestyle in a treasured environmentrdquo This vision can only truly be achieved in a society that is inclusive and accessible for people of all abilities and

This Plan is critical to achieve positive

Guiding principles

backgrounds

change and create a more inclusive society A more inclusive society is diverse stronger and more sustainable

To achieve this the following principles underpin and reinforce the actions and desired outcomes within the DIAP and align with the philosophy behind the NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014 the Community Strategic Plan and the communities vision

bull Social justice principles of Equity Access Participation Rights

bull Guiding principles for Councils in accordance with Chapter 3 of the Local Government Act 1993 which are

and future populations Working with others to secure

appropriate services for local community needs and

Fairly ethically and without bias in the interests of the local community

bull Business Excellence principles Port Stephens Council applies the

Business Excellence principles to inform continuous improvement and strengthen the organisations ability to deliver more efficient and effective services to the community

Port Stephens Council8

Policy and legislative context Definition The Disability Inclusion Act 2014 defines disability as lsquoThe long-term physical mental intellectual or sensory impairment which in interaction with various barriers may hinder the full and effective participation in society on an equal basis with othersrsquo

In the context of the DIAP lsquodisabilityrsquo includes functional impairments or limitations which may be present from birth acquired by accident or illness or due to the process of ageing The impairments may be substantial or seemingly minor temporary or permanent

Legislation In 1993 all NSW government departments and some other government bodies were required to undertake disability action planning when the NSW Disability Services Act 1993 (DSA) was introduced

In 2008 the Australian Government committed to implementing the United Nations (UN) Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities

In 2014 a strengthened commitment to inclusion better consultation with people with disability and protection of their rights was propelled with the introduction of the Disability Inclusion Act 2014 which replaced the DSA

There is a suite of further Commonwealth and State legislation that promotes and drives improving access and inclusion for people with a disability

INTERNATIONAL bull Principles of the UN Convention on the

Rights of People with a Disability

COMMONWEALTH bull Disability Discrimination Act 1992 bull Australian Government NDIS Act 2013 bull Australian Government Aged Care

(Living Longer Living Better) Act 2013

NSW bull NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014

The most recent legislation and amendments reflect a shift towards the view that while a disability may affect the way that a person interacts with others and their environment it should not define a person and it should not limit their capacity to become an integral part of the community Although the rights of a person with a disability have been defined as the same rights as those of all people since the early 1990s it is understood that upholding these rights must include promotion of individual choice about what is important to them universal access to services and facilities and inclusive communities where individuals can fully participate in social business and community life

The NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014 promotes the view that lsquoinclusionrsquo is not only a goal for service providers and public and private sector organisations it is a responsibility of the whole community It legislates for the rights of people with a disability to full participation in every-day life with enhanced community connection independence empowerment and wellbeing It is the role of local government through a Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) to promote and support inclusion in their communities

ADDITIONAL LEGISLATION bull Carers (Recognition) Act 2010 (NSW)

Disability not only affects people who have a disability but also people who care for them The Carers (Recognition) Act 2010 acknowledges the significance of carers including respect and recognition inclusion in decision making and access to services they may need

bull Local Government Act 1993 The Local Government Act 1993 sets out the framework and responsibilities of Councils and provides guidance to enable councilrsquos to carry out their functions in a way that facilitates local communities that are strong healthy and prosperous

Disability Inclusion ACTION PLAN 9

Draw together diverse interests and strive towards attaining greater consensus on sustainable outcomes for the local government area

10 Port Stephens Council

Councilrsquos responsibilities and roles Role of council New South Wales (NSW) is entering a new era in disability inclusion planning Councilrsquos role in implementation of the DIAP will include as a direct service provider as a leader an advocate and facilitator

bull As leader Council acts as a role model for others through its own actions strategic organisational responses and way of doing things In its dialogue with the communities and other stakeholders Council can act to draw together diverse interests and strive towards attaining greater consensus on sustainable outcomes for the local government area

bull As advocate Council seeks to improve services facilities and opportunities for the local government area and its communities by lobbying agencies and other levels of government In discussions with others there are opportunities to reinforce Port Stephens sense of identity and resilience and collaborate on achieving a more sustainable local government area

bull As facilitator Council assists interaction amongst stakeholders and forms strategic alliances aimed at promoting sustainability initiatives focussing on elements including social economic environmental

cultural and governance which demonstrate positive ways of moving forward

bull As service provider Council has a strong commitment to delivering the services needed by its communities and ensuring that Council resources are responsibly managed Councilrsquos role as a service provider aims to assist in building the long-term health of the local government area

Executive responsibility and project coordination Port Stephens Council supports the development and implementation of the DIAP The General Manager has responsibility to oversee the various functionsgroups of Council

The DIAP will be coordinated by the Social Planning Unit within the Strategy and Environment section of the Development Services team Responsibility for implementation and resourcing of the DIAP will be across all sections of Council

Disability Inclusion ACTION PLAN 11

systems and processes Focus Area 4

Integrated planning and reporting Goals and strategies of Port Stephens Council are underpinned by five themes which provide focus and direction for the Integrated Planning and Reporting (IPR) framework The four focus areas for the DIAP may be positioned within those five focus areas of Integrated Planning framework

UN Convention on the Right of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD)

National Disability Strategy (NDS)

National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)

NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014 (DIA)

Operational plan

Delivery program

Community strategic plan

Local government disability inclusion action planning

NSW Disability Inclusion Plan 1 Attitudes and behaviours 2 Employment 3 Liveable communities 4 Systems and processes

Port Stephens CSP-themes CSP1 Our citizens

CSP2 Our lifestyle

CSP3 Our environment

CSP4 Our economy

CSP5 Our Council

An inclusive NSW

Focus Areas for DIAP bull Liveable communities Focus Area 2 bull Positive community attitudes and behaviours

Focus Area 1 bull Liveable communities Focus Area 2

bull Liveable communities Focus Area 2

bull Supporting access to meaningful employment Focus Area 3

bull Improving access to services through better

Port Stephens Council 12

ACTION PLAN

Document review As background to the consultation and to confirm issues which have been previously identified in the Port Stephens LGA a review of documents was undertaken Council has a suite of documents which reflect their commitment to an inclusive and connected society in an environment that facilitates opportunities for contribution by all those who live in the Port Stephens Region Reviewed documents included

bull Port Stephens Integrated Plans incorporating Community Strategic Plan

2013-2023 Delivery Program 2013-2017 Operational Plans 2016-2020

bull Port Stephens Strategic Asset Management Plan (2016-2026)

bull Port Stephens Disability Action Plan 2014-2018

bull NSW Disability Inclusion Action Planning Guidelines

Consultation and engagement According to 2016 census data the population of Port Stephens was 69556 which is an increase of 4746 or 732 from 2011 (64810) As the table below notes there are distinct differences in the proportion of people who stated a Need for Assistance between each of Port Stephens planning catchments However community

Need for Assistance

consultation with people who experience a disability their families carers and disability groups show that the barriers challenges and needs of people with a disability to fully participate in community life are similar throughout the LGA

Suburb 2006 2011 2016 Fern Bay 74 87 789

Karuah Swan Bay 53 83 859

Medowie 32 35 393

Raymond Terrace 52 63 775

Rural East 53 47 611

Rural West 29 31 307

Tilligerry 64 73 797

Tomaree 55 55 653

Port Stephens LGA 50 55 640

Disability Inclusion 13

Consultation with the community In seeking to fully understand and identify the barriers to inclusion and access and to find solutions information was sought from key stakeholders Key stakeholders are people within the Port Stephens community who identify as experiencing a disability their carersrsquo and support workers

A survey was completed and distributed within the community from November

2016 to January 2017 The period of the survey was extended over the Christmas periodschool holiday period 71 surveys completed surveys were received from the community

The following table sets out who and how the survey was distributed to key stakeholders

Stakeholder Engagement Processes Council website Surveys could be accessed through Councilrsquos website using

Engagement HQ

Council Facebook page

A link to the survey was placed on Councilrsquos Facebook page The link was lsquoboostedrsquo which meant the page connected anyone in the LGA who had clicked on anything to do with disability which significantly broadened the surveys reach

MyLink Group Advice and information about the DIAP including a link to the survey was distributed to Councils MyLink group MyLink is an email group of members including Not for Profit Groups and Non-Government Organisations (NGOs) such as disability service and support providers The MyLink email group keeps its members informed of upcoming meetings local events professional development opportunities and other important information Notifications of updates are sent to the MyLink email list weekly

Libraries Paper copies of the surveys were provided to the Tomaree and Raymond Terrace Libraries for distribution to disability groups (including disability support groups) who use the library

Media release Media release in the Port Stephens Examiner and online version of the Port Stephens Examiner

Schools Every school in the LGA was contacted via telephone and the survey and link distributed via email Schools then placed the information about the survey and the link in school community newsletters and on Facebook pages

Eagleton Ridge Respite Centre

Eagleton Ridge Respite Centre was contacted and information forwarded about the survey along with a link

Flyer Flyers were developed to help promote the project which contained information about the survey and where to access it Flyers were delivered to doctors surgeries disability service providers and Council run pools

Internal stakeholder meeting

Internal stakeholder meeting and ongoing consultation to go over elements of the DIAP

14 Port Stephens Council

Summary of priorities Returned surveys and consultation meetings presented a clear picture of priorities with suggestions and solutions Looking across all questions in the survey the following outlines the most important priorities for the Port Stephens community

1 Footpathsramps 2 Accessibility to eventsactivities

shops sporting and recreation facilities and parks

3 Provision of venues services events 4 Public toilets 5 Parking 6 Public transport 7 Public education 8 Respectful and inclusive community

and services

Some of the priorities for the community in the consultation for the DIAP were also identified in the Port Stephens Disability Action Plan 2014-2018 Furthermore the Port Stephens Integrated Plans aims to ldquomake future provisions for people with disabilities their families and carersrdquo via several actions including implementing the Disability Inclusion Action Plan

Results of the community consultation were arranged in to the DIAPrsquos four focus groups and actions were developed that align with these areas These focus areas were identified as part of extensive community consultation during development of the NSW Disability Inclusion Plan As such these focus areas became a requirement to be in all NSW agency DIAPs These actions recognise the rights of people with a disability to full and effective participation in an inclusive society the same as those without a disability The following action plan outlines Councilrsquos role and action and priority level

Results of the community consultation were arranged into the DIAPrsquos four focus groups and actions were developed that contribute a more inclusive accessible and liveable society

ACTION PLANDisability Inclusion

15

Act

ion

plan

ning

Liveable Communities

Item for

improvement Priority

Time-

frame

Coun-

cilRole

Action

Outcome

IPRRefer-

ence

Responsibility

Foot

path

s an

d1

-2 y

ears

Se

rvic

eU

nder

take

revi

ew o

f foo

tpat

hs a

nd ra

mps

Upd

ated

and

impl

emen

tatio

n of

42

13

Asse

ts

ram

ps th

roug

hout

Prov

ider

th

roug

hout

LG

A to

det

erm

ine

a pr

iorit

ised

the

Pede

stria

n Ac

cess

and

Mob

ility

LGA

appr

oach

to im

plem

enta

tion

of g

aps

Plan

con

side

rs a

nd p

riorit

ises

peo

ple

upgr

ades

and

new

foot

path

infra

stru

ctur

e

with

dis

abilit

y

0-1

year

U

pdat

ed a

nd im

plem

enta

tion

of th

e Pe

dest

rian

13

16

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ngAc

cess

and

Mob

ility

Plan

con

sider

s an

d pr

iorit

ises

peop

le w

ith d

isabi

lity

Out

door

spa

ces

and

1 -2

yea

rs

Serv

ice

Prio

rise

revi

ew a

nd a

udit

Cou

ncil

build

ings

Pr

ovid

er

man

aged

out

door

spa

ces

and

build

ings

to d

eter

min

e ar

eas

whe

re w

ork

isre

quire

d an

d pr

iorit

y m

aint

enan

ce a

reas

2- 4

yea

rs

Serv

ice

Impl

emen

t tw

o lib

erty

sw

ings

Loc

atio

nsPr

ovid

er

to b

e pr

iotis

ed in

col

labo

ratio

n w

ithSo

cial

Pla

nnin

g

Out

door

spa

ces

and

build

ings

inc

ludi

ng a

cces

sto

are

mai

ntai

ned

and

deve

lope

d to

ena

ble

anin

clusiv

e co

mm

unity

for p

eopl

e w

ith d

isabi

lity

Two

liber

ty s

win

gs a

re in

stal

led

in a

ppro

pria

telo

catio

ns s

o fa

mily

and

car

ers

of p

eopl

e w

ithhi

gh n

eeds

are

abl

e to

acc

ess

recr

eatio

nal

oppo

rtuni

ties

(peo

ple

in w

heel

chai

rs i

nclu

ding

adul

ts c

an e

xper

ienc

e a

sens

e of

free

dom

)

52

12

Faci

litie

s an

dSe

rvic

es

52

12

Faci

litie

s an

dSe

rvic

es

Prov

isio

n of

0 ndash

1Ad

voca

te

Dev

elop

the

Plan

of M

anag

emen

t to

The

Ngi

oka

Cen

tre is

man

aged

and

ope

rate

d 1

31

1 Fa

cilit

ies

and

prog

ram

s an

dye

ars

dete

rmin

e an

d fo

rmal

ise

futu

re lo

ng te

rmby

the

End

eavo

ur F

ound

atio

n by

way

of

Serv

ices

se

rvic

es th

atus

e of

the

land

on

whi

ch th

e N

giok

alic

ense

agr

eem

ent w

ith P

ort S

teph

ens

Cou

ncil

su

ppor

t peo

ple

with

Cen

tre is

loca

ted

Th

is a

rran

gem

ent n

ow e

nabl

es th

e en

tire

a di

sabi

lity

Ngi

oka

Cen

tre to

by

utili

sed

for d

isab

ility

serv

ices

und

er N

DIS

Ong

oing

Se

rvic

eM

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e th

e us

e of

Gra

ham

stow

n Aq

uatic

Con

tinua

tion

of S

aila

bility

and

ong

oing

acc

ess

to1

31

2 C

omm

unity

Ser

vice

sLe

ader

R

eser

ve fo

r use

by

Saila

bility

re

crea

tion

activ

ities

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

y

Ong

oing

Se

rvic

eO

ngoi

ng p

rovi

sion

of w

heel

in w

heel

out

The

Blue

Dot

Ser

vice

13

13

Com

mun

ity S

ervi

ces

Lead

er

garb

age

bin

serv

ice

(Blu

e D

ot S

ervi

ce)

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

y liv

ing

at h

ome

Ong

oing

O

ngoi

ng a

cces

s to

chi

ldre

ns

serv

ices

13

14

Com

mun

ity S

ervi

ces

prog

ram

s fo

r chi

ldre

n w

ith a

dditio

nal n

eeds

at O

utsid

e Sc

hool

Hou

rs C

are

(Ray

mon

dTe

rrace

and

Med

owie

) P

ort S

teph

ens

Activ

ity V

an a

nd F

amily

Day

Car

e

16

Ong

oing

Se

rvic

eO

ngoi

ng p

rovi

sion

and

exp

ansi

on o

fIn

crea

sed

awar

enes

s an

d su

ppor

t for

peo

ple

13

15

Com

mun

ity S

ervi

ces

Prov

ider

as

sist

ive

and

adap

tive

tech

nolo

gyw

ith a

dis

abilit

y an

d in

crea

sed

livea

bilit

y

Cus

tom

er R

elat

ions

incl

udin

gbull

Audi

o re

ad n

avig

ator

sbull

Zoom

text

scr

een

read

er s

oftw

are

bull La

rge

prin

t boo

ksbull

Audi

o bo

oks

Publ

ic to

ilets

2

ndash 4

year

s

Serv

ice

Audi

t of p

ublic

toile

ts to

iden

tify

loca

tions

Impr

oved

acc

essib

ility

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

disa

bility

52

14

Faci

litie

s an

dPr

ovid

er

whe

re a

dult

chan

ge fa

cilit

ies

for p

eopl

ean

d as

sista

nce

for c

arer

s c

arin

g fo

r peo

ple

with

Serv

ices

w

ith a

dis

abilit

y ar

e w

arra

nted

- or

whe

rehi

gh n

eeds

an area could be modified to cater for

peop

le w

ith a

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h ne

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isab

ility

durin

gFo

rwar

d W

orks

Pla

n

Advo

cate

Po

rt St

ephe

ns d

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ility

acce

ss to

ilets

are

incl

uded

on

the

Aust

ralia

n Pu

blic

Toile

trsquos s

oftw

are

appl

icat

ion

Dis

abilit

y pa

rkin

g1

-2 y

ears

Se

rvic

eR

evie

w d

isab

ility

park

ing

spac

es a

ssp

aces

thro

ugho

utPr

ovid

er identified to ensure compliance against

the

LGA

curre

nt s

tand

ards

and

or

relo

catin

g to

meet compliance (via traffic committee)

1 -2

yea

rs

At re

view

upd

ate

Plan

s of

Man

agem

ent

to in

clud

e di

scus

sion

of d

isab

ility

park

ing

and

impr

ovin

g ac

cess

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y be

twee

ndi

sabi

lity

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ing

par

ks a

nd d

isab

ility

acce

ssib

le to

ilets

Incr

ease

in c

ompl

iant

dis

abilit

y pa

rkin

g so

52

14

Faci

litie

s an

d As

sets

pe

ople

who

exp

erie

nce

disa

bilit

y ca

n en

joy

am

ore

seam

less

exp

erie

nce

that

is n

avig

able

and

man

agea

ble

ther

eby

bein

g m

ore

incl

usiv

ean

d va

lue

addi

ng

52

14

Fa

cilit

ies

and

Asse

ts

Publ

ic tr

ansp

ort

1 -2

yea

rs

Advo

cate

M

eet w

ith p

ublic

tran

spor

t pro

vider

s to

Impr

oved

legi

bilit

y an

d ac

cess

to p

ublic

13

16

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ngpr

ovid

e fe

edba

ck fr

om D

IAP

and

addr

ess

trans

port

optio

ns a

nd im

prov

ed p

atro

nage

of

any

conc

erns

whe

re p

ossib

le

peop

le w

ith a

dis

abilit

y

Fund

ing

Ong

oing

Se

rvic

eAc

tivel

y se

ek g

rant

fund

ing

for p

roje

cts

An in

crea

se in

ser

vice

s in

frast

ruct

ure

and

52

14

Faci

litie

s an

dop

portu

nitie

s pr

ovid

er

whi

ch e

ncou

rage

acc

ess

and

incl

usio

n in

activ

ities

that

ens

ure

incl

usiv

enes

s an

dSe

rvic

esLe

ader

th

e co

mm

unity

ac

cess

ibilit

y fo

r peo

ple

who

exp

erie

nce

Com

mun

itydi

sabi

lity

thei

r fam

ilies

and

care

rs

Dev

elop

men

t and

Enga

gem

ent

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ng

Acce

ssib

le e

vent

s O

ngoi

ng

Serv

ice

Form

alis

e a

12 m

onth

tria

l pro

gram

Incr

ease

in th

e nu

mbe

r of e

vent

s th

at a

re2

11

5C

omm

unity

prov

ider

of

the

Even

t Ten

t w

hich

pro

mot

esac

cess

ible

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

y D

evel

opm

ent a

nd5

31

5Ad

voca

te

and

enab

les

grea

ter p

artic

ipat

ion

atEn

gage

men

t5

41

1co

mm

unity

eve

nts

of p

eopl

e an

d fa

milie

sTo

uris

m a

nd E

vent

s w

ho h

ave

a di

sabi

lity

17

18

Improving access to services through better systems and processes

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Alig

ning

Act

ion

Ong

oing

Le

ader

En

sure

that

the

DIA

P al

igns

with

This

pla

n m

eets

the

Loca

l5

31

13

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ngPl

an w

ith In

tegr

ated

the

Inte

grat

ed R

epor

ting

Fram

ing

Gov

ernm

ent D

IAP

guid

elin

eR

epor

ting

and

that

the

actio

ns in

this

Act

ion

requ

irem

ents

and

act

ions

are

Fram

ewor

k Pl

an a

re in

clud

ed in

the

(4 y

ear)

impl

emen

ted

Del

iver

y Pr

ogra

m a

nd th

e An

nual

Ope

ratio

nal P

lan

Info

rmat

ion

to th

e0

ndash 1

year

Le

ader

and

Enab

le th

e ab

ility

to p

rovi

de a

ndM

ore

peop

le a

re a

ble

to a

cces

s5

31

6 Office of the General

publ

ic

Serv

ice

rece

ive

info

rmat

ion

to a

nd fr

om th

ein

form

atio

n an

d pa

rticip

ate

in th

eir

Man

ager

Pr

ovid

er

publ

ic in

a ra

nge

of fo

rmat

s R

evie

wlo

cal c

omm

unity

and

the

affa

irs o

fpu

blic

exh

ibiti

on te

mpl

ate

to m

ake

loca

l gov

ernm

ent

clea

rer t

hat w

e ac

cept

sub

mis

sion

sin

all

form

ats

not

just

writ

ten

eg

vide

o v

oice

rec

ordi

ng

Mai

ntai

n w

ebsi

te a

cces

sibi

lity

55

18

Com

mun

icat

ions

(WAA

G) 2

0 A

A le

vel

Polic

ies

and

1 -2

yea

rs

Lead

erS

ervi

ceC

ounc

il inv

estig

ates

opt

ions

toR

emov

e ob

stac

les

for p

eopl

e w

ith1

31

6 St

rate

gic

Plan

ning

pr

oced

ures

Pr

ovid

er

impr

ove

unde

rsta

ndin

g of

pol

icies

and

a di

sabi

lity

to e

nabl

e ac

hiev

emen

tpr

oced

ures

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

disa

bility

of

pos

itive

and

sus

tain

able

empl

oym

ent o

utco

mes

Supporting access to meaningful employment

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Volu

ntee

ring

1 -2

yea

rs

Lead

er

Rev

iew

vol

unte

erin

g pr

oces

ses

for

Incr

ease

d ac

cess

to v

olun

teer

ing

16

13

Com

mun

ity S

ervi

ces

proc

esse

s Po

rt St

ephe

ns C

ounc

il to

ens

ure

oppo

rtuni

ties

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

that

they

are

wel

com

ing

of p

eopl

edi

sabi

lity

w

ith d

isab

ility

Rec

ruitm

ent

Ong

oing

Le

ader

C

ontin

ue to

offe

r can

dida

tes

anO

ngoi

ng e

mpl

oym

ent o

ppor

tuni

ties

51

42

Org

anis

atio

nal

proc

esse

s op

tion

to d

iscl

ose

whe

ther

or n

otfo

r peo

ple

who

hav

e a

disa

bilit

y w

ithD

evel

opm

ent

they

hav

e a

disa

bilit

y du

ring

the

Port

Step

hens

Cou

ncil

appl

icat

ion

proc

ess

so th

at C

ounc

ilar

e ab

le to

ens

ure

that

app

lican

tsw

ith a

dis

abilit

y ar

e an

d fe

elsu

ppor

ted

thro

ugho

ut th

e pr

oces

s

Attitudes and Behaviours

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Educ

atio

n fo

r sho

p0

- 1 y

ear

Advo

cate

Aw

aren

ess

and

educ

atio

nO

utco

me

is a

rais

ed a

war

enes

s of

41

24

Econ

omic

owne

rsb

usin

esse

sca

mpa

igns

targ

etin

g bu

sine

ss

the

need

s of

peo

ple

with

a d

isab

ility

Dev

elop

men

ton

acc

ess

issue

s fo

row

ners

via

Biz

Lin

k ne

twor

kac

cess

issu

espe

ople

with

disa

bility

ne

wsl

ette

rs a

nd b

usin

ess

cham

bers

to fo

ster

and

enc

oura

ge th

efo

llow

ing

initi

ativ

es

bull D

evel

op c

ompa

nion

car

d fri

endl

yin

itiat

ive

whi

ch e

nabl

es fr

ee e

ntry

to c

erta

in v

enue

sev

ents

for

care

rs to

acc

ompa

ny p

eopl

e w

itha

disa

bilit

y

1-2

year

s Ad

voca

te

bull Pr

efer

red

empl

oyer

aw

ards

for

41

24

Econ

omic

disa

bilit

y ac

cess

ible

wor

kpla

ce

Dev

elop

men

t

Sta

ff ar

e su

pp

orte

d a

nd h

ave

gre

ater

know

led

ge

of th

e va

riety

of n

eed

s of

peo

ple

with

a d

isab

ility

and

the

need

for i

nclu

sion

Staf

f aw

aren

ess

of1

-2 y

ears

Le

ader

To

pro

vide

train

ing

for C

ounc

il sta

ffSt

aff a

re s

uppo

rted

and

have

51

42

Org

anis

atio

nal

the

need

s of

peo

ple

on h

ow to

wor

k w

ith a

nd u

nder

stan

dgr

eate

r kno

wle

dge

of th

e va

riety

of

Dev

elop

men

tw

ith d

isab

ility

peop

le w

ith d

isabi

lity th

roug

h C

ounc

ilsne

eds

of p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

y an

d

The

prio

rity

timef

ram

e ra

ting

indi

cate

s th

at a

Hig

h pr

iorit

y sh

ould

be

com

plet

ed w

ithin

1 y

ear

Med

ium

prio

rity

with

in 2

yea

rs a

nd L

ow p

riorit

y w

ithin

3 to

4 y

ears

Wor

kpla

ce E

quity

amp D

ivers

ityC

omm

ittee

and

Gui

de (a

ttach

ed)

the

need

for i

nclu

sion

19

Governance monitoring and evaulation To ensure implementation of the Plan an internal working group made up of stakeholders who have responsibility for implementing actions with the plan will be ongoing The working group will meet quarterly to discuss the Action Plan and linkages to both current and future projects and programs including

bull Each new capital works project will consider disability improvements to inclusion and accessibility within the Project Management Plan scoping and procurement document (in addition to Disability Discrimination Act compliance) Improvements for consideration include Location of the

proposed project and Improvements to carpark access to

and from kerb ramp location and availability and pathwayrsquos etc that enable more seamless connectivity

Progress of the plan will be monitored and implementation of actions within the Plan will be reported through a range of governance processes including

bull Six monthly reporting to Councils Executive Leadership team and Council

bull Operational Plan annual reporting as part of the Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework

bull Annual Report bull End of Term Reporting bull Customer satisfaction annual survey and

reporting To enable effective measurement and monitoring of actions within the plan the Port Stephens Customer Satisfaction Survey will include a section within the survey of questions that people who experience disability their families carers and people who work in the disability sector can elect to answer

20 Port Stephens Council

Conclusion Port Stephens Council has a strong commitment to enhancing life experience of people with a disability in the Local Government Area

In developing the Disability Inclusion Action Plan Port Stephens Council has built on the strengths of existing Council resources Council structurestaff plans policies and the local closely connected community by consulting with a broad range of stakeholders

The priorities identified above reflect Council values and principles The individual objectives once approved by Council are to be included in the 2017-2021 Delivery Program and the Annual Operational Plans for each of those four (4) years Within the Integrated and Strategic Planning framework the responsibility reporting and resourcing for the objectives will be defined

Draw together diverse interests and strive towards attaining greater consensus on sustainable outcomes for the local government area

ACTION PLANDisability Inclusion

21

understanding of your requirements and helpful (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

11a Please provide details of your experiences with Council staff

12 Any other comments

Appendix 1 DIAP Survey 1 What is your age 2 What suburb do you live in

(Required) 3 Gender 4 Language used at home 5 Are you a carer or a person with

disability (Choose all that apply) a Carer b Person with disability c Family member

6 Do you think the Port Stephens Community is welcoming of people with disabilities Eg businesses shops etc (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

6a Please give us some examples of positive or negative experiences you have had

7 Have you encountered any problems barriers or issues in using transport options (Choose all that apply) a Walking or wheelchair use b Local buses c Electric Scooter d Other

7a Please give us some examples of positive or negative experiences you have had

8 Do you think facilities and services are accessible and inclusive in Port Stephens a Councilrsquos Administration Building Yes No b Community centres Yes No c Events Yes No d Libraries Yes No e Parks Yes No f Pools Yes No g Other Yes No

22 Port Stephens Council

8a Can you give us any examples for improvements

9 Do you find Councilrsquos information publications accessible

Website Yes No Newsletters Yes No

9a Do you have suggestions for improvements

10 Would you like to see an improvement in online services through Councilrsquos website such as the electronic payment of rates andor fees and charges (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

11 Do you find Council staff at all of its locations and facilities approachable

Appendix 2 community consultation Results from consultation and the survey The areas identified for improvement by were framed around the four priority areas the Port Stephens community are (in order for an inclusive community Liveable of priority) communities Attitudes and behaviours Employment and Systems and processes

Liveable Communities

Focus Area Comments Foot pathsramps ldquoFootpathsramps ndash uneven rough need ramps to access

roads need lighting on paths and stairs need more footpaths wider footpaths some ramps too steeprdquo

ldquoAll new kerb ramps should have no step between the bottom of the ramp and the gutterroad The small step that is still mostly used at the bottom of curb ramps is completely unnecessary (it doesnrsquot improve water flow in the gutter as some people think it does) but it makes it harder for a wheelchair user even if the step is only 2cm or less The same argument applies to drivewaysrdquo

ACTION PLAN

Accessibility to ldquoCluttered walkways access to beaches (wheelchair accessible eventsactivities ramps) Braille on signage audio description at places of shops sporting interest Henderson Park upgrade (steep steps to pontoon facilities parks no disability parking) access to pontoons for fishing (Karuah

good example of how to do it) Wider access passageways and doorways (eg some places have double doors but keep one door locked eg Salamander library)rdquo

Provision of venues ldquoLack of disability services in parks (eg Liberty swingswing services events with 5-point harness) lack of covered areas in parks (many

sun-sensitive due to medication plus rain cover) hydrotherapy pool fences around parks disability friendly slide at parks audio loop neededrdquo

ldquoI would like to see more programs that support carers and the families of people with disabilities in the Port Stephens Local Government Area as their (sic) simply isnrsquot enough I would also like more programs to support people with disabilities so that as a community we can start supporting each other through the hardship of living with a disabilityrdquo

Disability Inclusion 23

Focus Area Comments Public toilets ldquoThere are lack of amenities in disabled toilets (eg adults who

need help changing continence aids hoists in toilets) need more (eg Nelson Bay)rdquo

ldquoDisabled toilets do not cater for older persons with a disability who require nappy changing facilities It is not nice to change on the floor of a disabled toilet and parents room tables are too smallrdquo

Parking ldquoThere is a lack of disabled parking some disabled parks are not wheelchair friendlyrdquo

ldquoSubstandard pavement surfaces for walker frames and mobility scooters Lack of disability parking spaces at Soldiers Point Boat ramp and Salamander Bay wharf and various other areas within the Port Stephens areardquo

Public transport ldquoInfrastructure improvements for more and better transport limited timetables too many transfers to get to destination want regular community bus (low cost or for free)rdquo

Attitudes and Behaviours

Focus Area Comments Respectful and It should be noted that most people reported positive encounters inclusive community with the public and council staff One comment stated ldquocould and services improve empathy and understanding from public on what it is

like to have a disabilityrdquo

ldquoHearing impaired when asked to speak slower shop people yell and pull faces as if trying to mouth out each word very embarrassingrdquo

ldquoStaring commentingrdquo

Public education ldquoEducation for people in shops about disability disabled amenitiesfacilities being used by public (change-rooms toilets parking) but consideration needed so as not to discriminate against those who do not ldquoappearrdquo to have a disabilityrdquo

It should be noted that most people reported positive encounters with the public and council staff

24 Port Stephens Council

Employment

Focus Area Comments No issues identified however it was acknowledged in internal communication with staff that Council could lead the way in more employment of people with a disability this could include recruitment processes which are lsquomore welcomingrsquo and encourage people to apply for positions It also was acknowledged that Council policies procedures systems and processes could be reviewed for lsquoeasy readrsquo format

Systems and Processes

Focus Area Comments Range of information dissemination

Promotion and awareness of activitesevents services

ldquoNot everyone gets newspaper so send information in other ways (emailed with rates) need to consider information dissemination for people with hearing and vision impairedrdquo

ldquoI have rarely seen a Council newsletter Also the website needs to be cleaner clearer more navigable and user friendlyrdquo

ldquoLeft-aligning text might seem like a visual imposition to the sighted person but this simple change is the difference between being able to read for people who are blind or who have low visionrdquo

ldquoEye level display for people using wheelchairsrdquo

Some people were confused or unaware of services amenities available to them

In some areas ldquoFor those of us who get their bills via email it would be great if we were emailed regularly about items on public exhibition etc to replace what other residents would see in your adds in the Examinerrdquo

ldquoMore information areas to access helprdquo

ldquoDidnrsquot know you had a newsletterrdquo

Consulation on council infrastructure

Respondents welcomed the Council distributing this survey for comment but others felt more consideration of disability issues was needed

ldquoPlanning doesnrsquot seem to include disabled accessibility issues for new projectsrdquo

ldquoConsideration of people who are blind or low vision in future planning ie Braille on all signage (or on poles or mounts for elevated signage) Audio description at places of interest geographical cultural or historical significance Blind people miss out on our beautiful views they deserve to be catered to with regard to what else PS has to offer Infrastructure improvements that support more and better public transport to Port Stephensrdquo

Disabilit y Inclusion ACTION PLAN 25

Do you think the Port Stephens Community is welcoming of people with disabilities Eg businesses shops etc Most people felt Port Stephens is welcoming (68)

Have you encountered any problems barriers or issues in using transport options

68

0 10 20 30 40 50

Electric Scooter

Walking or wheelchair use

Local buses

Other

Do you think facilities and services are accessible and inclusive in Port Stephens

Focus Area Yes No

Councils Administration Building 57 6

Community centres 53 8

Events 36 21

Libraries 60 2

Parks 38 27

Pools 43 15

Other 18 13

26 Port Stephens Council

Do you find Councilrsquos information publications accessible

Focus area website

Would you like to see an improvement in online services through Councilrsquos website such as the electronic payment of rates and or fees and charges

Do you find Council staff at all of its locations and facilities approachable understanding of your requirements and helpful

Most comments in this section indicated council staff was very helpful and polite

Any other comments

Items for improvement (in order of priority)

Yes 36

Yes 55

Yes 48

No 6

No 18

No 11

1 Provision of venues services events 2 Roadscrossings 3 Footpathsramps 4 Public toilets 5 Public education The following summary outlines the priorities identified across all questions of the survey

ACTION PLANDisabilit y Inclusion

27

App

endi

x 3

Func

tions

ser

vice

s an

d as

sets

Function Area Community Services Sector

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Man

ager

Ngi

oka

Com

mun

ityH

ortic

ultu

ral

Serv

ices

Th

erap

yC

entre

Volu

ntee

r wor

kfor

ce o

f up

to80

0 p

rovi

sion

of lsquo

whe

el in

whe

el o

utrsquo g

arba

ge c

olle

ctio

nfo

r peo

ple

with

dis

abilit

y liv

ing

at h

ome

Pro

visi

on o

fpr

ogra

ms

for c

hild

ren

with

addi

tiona

l nee

ds a

t Out

side

of S

choo

l Hou

rs C

are

Chi

ldre

nsrsquo a

ctiv

ity V

an a

ndFa

mily

Day

Car

e P

rovi

sion

of la

rge

prin

t boo

ks t

alki

ngbo

oks

and

audi

o an

d vi

sual

navi

gatio

n ai

ds a

t lib

rarie

sLe

ar to

sw

im p

rogr

ams

atco

unci

l aqu

atic

cen

tres

Info

rmat

ion

on w

ebsi

te re

Leas

e of

Gra

ham

stow

nVo

lunt

eer s

trate

gy35

5vo

lunt

eers

Aqua

tic R

eser

ve fo

r use

by

Part

A an

d Pa

rt B

com

mitt

ees

Saila

bilit

y (P

SC le

ase

the

Larg

e te

xt fo

rmat

ting

onla

nd fr

om H

unte

r Wat

er a

ndw

ebsi

te

Saila

bilit

y su

b-le

ase

the

land

of P

SC)

Link

s to

vol

unte

er re

sour

ces

in J

ob a

genc

ies

TAF

Eot

her a

reas

bus

ines

ses

etc

univ

ersi

ties

sch

ools

Brai

lle a

nd la

rge

font

com

pute

rs

Rev

iew

pol

icie

spr

oced

ures

toen

sure

they

are

lsquoeas

y re

adrsquo f

orm

at

Busi

ness

lead

ersh

ipto

enh

ance

Ngi

oka

as a

mul

ti-pu

rpos

ece

ntre

and

to p

rom

ote

and

alig

n w

ith N

DIS

pers

onal

pla

ns

28

Function Area Community Services ndash Library Services

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Resource

Libr

ary

Civ

il Ass

ets

Serv

ices

Sect

ion

Man

ager

M

anag

erC

omm

unity

and

Rec

reat

ion

Assets Officer

Paid

Lib

rary

Sta

ff x

24C

asua

l Lib

rary

Sta

ff x

11Li

brar

y Vo

lunt

eers

x 5

5As

sist

ive

Adap

tive

tech

nolo

gy(A

udio

Rea

d na

viga

tors

Zoo

mTe

xt s

cree

n re

ader

sof

twar

ela

rge

prin

t boo

ks a

udio

boo

ks

IInfo

rmat

ion

on a

ll Li

brar

ySe

rvic

es re

late

d to

ser

vice

spr

ogra

ms

and

activ

ities

ndashdi

spla

yed

in b

ranc

hes

via

(flyerspostersTV monitors)

and

on

bull Fa

cebo

ok W

ebsi

tebull

Scho

ol N

ewsl

ette

rs W

hatrsquos

on in

our

Bac

kyar

dbull

PS E

xam

iner

bull N

ews

of th

e Ar

ea (T

eaG

arde

ns N

elso

n Ba

y an

dM

edow

ie)

Thou

Wal

la S

choo

ls a

sC

omm

uniti

es C

entre

New

cast

le R

egio

n Li

brar

y C

o-op

erat

ive

Cen

tral E

ast Z

one

(Reg

iona

lLi

brar

ies

Gro

up)

Publ

ic L

ibra

ries

NSW

Hun

ter W

EAH

isto

rical

and

Fam

ily H

isto

rySo

ciet

ies

RT

Art S

pace

Gro

upR

eal F

utur

es F

ound

atio

n

Inte

rnet

Usa

ge P

olic

yW

aivi

ng O

verd

ueC

harg

esSo

cial

Med

ia P

olic

yLi

brar

y U

ser

Gui

delin

esPS

C L

ibra

ry B

roch

ure

New

cast

le re

gion

Libr

ary

Broc

hure

Volu

ntee

r Pos

ition

Des

crip

tions

and

Han

dboo

kH

isto

rical

Soc

iety

Fa

mily

His

tory

Gro

upAg

reem

ents

Wor

k H

ealth

and

Safe

tyC

omm

ittee

WH

S R

ep-

rese

ntat

ives

Com

mitt

eeW

orkp

lace

Equi

ty a

ndD

iver

sity

Com

mitt

eeC

onsu

ltativ

eC

omm

ittee

Her

itage

Advi

sory

Com

mitt

ee

Dis

able

d to

ilets

do

not c

ater

for o

lder

per

sons

with

a d

isab

ility

who

req

uire

nap

py

chan

gin

g fa

cilit

ies

It is

not

nic

e to

cha

nge

on th

e flo

orof

a d

isab

led

toile

t and

par

ents

room

tab

les

are

too

smal

l

29

Function Area Assets Section

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Asse

t Sec

tion

Man

ager

C

omm

unity

land

man

age-

men

t pu

blic

toile

ts p

arks

pl

aygr

ound

sre

serv

es

fore

shor

es

mar

ine

ac-

cess

spo

rting

fields sports

faci

litie

sco

mm

unity

build

ings

co

mm

unity

halls

sig

nage

Mai

ntai

n an

d up

grad

e pu

blic

Asse

ts re

gist

er c

ondi

tion

Gov

ernm

ent a

genc

ies

gra

ntVa

rious

pla

ns o

fsp

aces

fac

ilitie

s a

sset

s an

dra

ting

syst

em

fund

ing

sche

mes

pro

perty

Management (specific

plac

es in

line

with

legi

slat

ive

deve

lope

rs c

omm

unity

and

gene

ric)

Cou

ncil

Ope

ns S

pace

Stra

tegy

requ

irem

ents

and

com

mun

itygr

oups

int

eres

t gro

ups

polic

ies

Man

agem

ent

(und

erw

ay)

need

s D

irect

ives

Spor

ts C

oun-

cils

355

Com

-m

ittee

sC

omm

unity

grou

ps P

arks

and

Res

erve

sC

omm

ittee

s

Ensu

reth

at th

ede

sign

and

cons

truct

ion

of n

ewfa

cilit

ies

and

infra

stru

ctur

eis

con

side

rate

to li

mite

dac

cess

com

mun

itym

embe

rs

Ensu

re th

at u

pgra

des

and

mai

nten

ance

to c

omm

unity

faci

litie

s ar

e al

igne

d w

ithpr

iorit

ies

for i

nclu

sion

Prep

are

the

Ope

n Sp

ace

Stra

tegy

pla

ns fo

r upg

rade

s to

com

mun

ity fa

cilit

ies

and

area

sw

here

infra

stru

ctur

e ne

eds

to b

e co

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35

Disability Inclusion

ACTION PLAN

Disability InclusionInclusionDisability InclusionInclusionDisability

For more information please contact Development Services councilportstephensnswgovau | 02 4980 0255 | PORTSTEPHENSNSWGOVAU

Page 3: Port Stephens Council DIAP 2016 - facs.nsw.gov.au · In 2016, Port Stephens had a population of 64,807 at the 2016 Census. This igure is predicted to rise by up to 23,000 over the

Contents Mayoral message 4

Executive summary 5

Background 6

Guiding principles 8

Policy and legislative context 9 Definition Legislation

Councilrsquos responsibilities and roles 11 Role of council Executive responsibility and project coordination

Integrated planning and reporting 12

Document review 13

Consultation and engagement 13 Need for assistance Consultation with the community Stakeholders Summary of priorities

Action planning 16

Governance monitoring and evaulation 20

Conclusion 21

Appendix 22

Disability Inclusion ACTION PLAN 3

We are committed to disability inclusion and to building a community where everyone is able to easily access opportunities and to connect and fully participate in their community

I would like to thank everyone from our community who contributed their time ideas and opinions during the development of this Plan these ongoing connections and partnerships are vital in the ongoing development of a more inclusive community where all people are supported to participate fully

This Disability Inclusion Action Plan will be reviewed regularly and reported on annually Council is committed to ensuring the Action Plan is implemented and that this document remains an important focus for our community now and into the future

Mayoral message Port Stephens Council is pleased to present its Disability Inclusion Action Plan which replaces the Port Stephens Disability Action Plan (2014-2018) and aligns with the Disability Act 2014

This document recognises the commitment that Port Stephens Council has to an inclusive and accessible community for all people and it defines actions (both direct and indirect) that will encourage and enhance inclusion

Ryan Palmer Mayor Port Stephens

Port Stephens Council 4

Executive summary The Port Stephens Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) outlines Councils commitment to support the right of choice for people with a disability and to live their lives with access to opportunities and to enjoy the benefits of living and working in our society as all residents do

Development of the DIAP has given Council an opportunity to focus on enriching Councils commitment to creating a place that is more inclusive accessible and provides opportunities for all abilities and backgrounds

Port Stephens Council consulted extensively with people in the local government area who have a disability their families carers and disability groups to identify challenges barriers and issues for inclusion The consultation process enabled discussion and feedback and provided ideas and suggestions for change and improvement

Stakeholder priorities were established through external consultation as well as mapping of existing Council functions services and assets to identify potential opportunities to achieve a more inclusive and accessible society Community consultation and mapping outcomes were then analysed to identify actions A further risk management process was undertaken before incorporating appropriate actions into existing Port Stephens Council Integrated Plans

The implementation of these actions will be reviewed on an annual basis to ensure disability inclusion is given appropriate

consideration including in in other plans policies and procedures

This DIAP is underpinned by Councilrsquos policies programs and regulatory responsibilities including a commitment to social justice principles which are integrated within the Integrated Planning and Reporting framework (IPampR) Port Stephens Integrated Plans encompass the Community Strategic Plan 2013-2023 the Delivery Program 2013-2017 and the Operational Plan 2016-2017

The DIAP and actions within it are framed around four focus areas These areas were developed during development of the NSW Disability Inclusion Plan by people with a disability These focus areas and actions are outlined below will be delivered through Councils Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework

1 Liveable communities (including physical access to buildings and facilities and transport)

2 Attitudes and behaviours 3 Supporting access to meaningful

employment and 4 Improving access to services through

better systems and processes (which is about availability and accessibility of information regarding services)

In line with the Disability Inclusion Act 2014 the Port Stephens DIAP will be reported on annually to the Minister for Disability Furthermore Council will review the disability inclusion action planning process every four years as a minimum

Live their lives access opportunities and enjoy the benefits of living and working in our society as all residents do

Disability Inclusion ACTION PLAN 5

Background Port Stephens Local Government Area (LGA) is in the Hunter Region of New South Wales within the Port Stephens and Great Lakes Marine Park It is approximately two hours drive north of Sydney and 30 minutes from Newcastle In 2016 Port Stephens had a population of 64807 at the 2016 Census This figure is predicted to rise by up to 23000 over the next 15 years1

Port Stephens has grown as a regional centre with a mix of coastal and rural villages and larger regional centres including coastal centres which presents a diverse range of opportunities for everyone in the LGA

The proportion of people who experience disability can be correlated to Need for Assistance (Has need for assistance with core activities) census data In Port Stephens the proportion of people who identify as having a Need for Assistance in Port Stephens is 64 of the population Comparatively NSW has 537 of the population and the Hunter notes 639 who identify as having a Need for Assistance

Council is already a direct provider of services for people with a disability and their carers through

bull Leasing of the Ngioka Centre to the Endeavour Foundation who will provide disability support services under the NDIS scheme

bull Leasing of the Grahamstown Dam Aquatic Reserve to Sailability

bull Provision of Wheel in Wheel Out garbage bin service

1 Retrieved wwwportstephensnswgovau 2 Source wwwportstephenscouncilnswgovauvolunteering

Port Stephens Council

bull Provision of programs for children with additional needs at Outside School Hours Care (Raymond Terrace Medowie) Port Stephens Activity Van and Family Day Care

bull Provision of large print books talking books and audit and visual navigation aids from libraries (Raymond Terrace Salamander Bay Mobile Library) and

bull Provision of equipment at Aquatic Centres that enable safe entry into and out of heated swimming pools

Council owns and maintains a large asset portfolio that includes the following asset classes

bull Civil assets (bridges depots drainage pathways)

bull Road pavements

bull Transport facilities

bull Waste facilities and

bull Community and recreation assets (aquatic centres cemeteries libraries multipurpose facilities childcare centres parks and reserves playgrounds public amenities skate parks sport facilities surf lifesaving clubs waterways)

Mapping of functions services and assets (Appendix 3) enables identification of assets and services with potential to contribute to achievement of a more inclusive society

Council provides opportunities for partnerships and volunteering in the care and management of community facilities parklands and in public services

6

Volunteer opportunities are available in areas such as

bull Halls and community centres bull Parks reserves and Landcare groups bull Cemetery committees bull Sports council and clubs and bull Advisory and cultural groups and

libraries (among others)2

This DIAP defines strategies and provides a planning framework and actions to promote inclusion and equity for people with a disability so they may fully participate in and contribute to social business and community life The DIAP will enhance and complement the existing services provided by Port Stephens Council and will encourage an ongoing focus on building a socially inclusive and

Port Stephens Council will encourage an ongoing focus on building a socially inclusive and accessible place for all

ACTION PLANDisability Inclusion

7

accessible place for all

Carry out its functions in a way that provides best possible outcomes for the local community Plan strategically within the integrated planning and reporting framework for present

summarised below Strong and effective

representation leadership planning and decision making

Inclusive communities where individuals can fully participate in social business and community life

The community vision for the Port Stephens Community Strategic Plan is to have ldquoa great lifestyle in a treasured environmentrdquo This vision can only truly be achieved in a society that is inclusive and accessible for people of all abilities and

This Plan is critical to achieve positive

Guiding principles

backgrounds

change and create a more inclusive society A more inclusive society is diverse stronger and more sustainable

To achieve this the following principles underpin and reinforce the actions and desired outcomes within the DIAP and align with the philosophy behind the NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014 the Community Strategic Plan and the communities vision

bull Social justice principles of Equity Access Participation Rights

bull Guiding principles for Councils in accordance with Chapter 3 of the Local Government Act 1993 which are

and future populations Working with others to secure

appropriate services for local community needs and

Fairly ethically and without bias in the interests of the local community

bull Business Excellence principles Port Stephens Council applies the

Business Excellence principles to inform continuous improvement and strengthen the organisations ability to deliver more efficient and effective services to the community

Port Stephens Council8

Policy and legislative context Definition The Disability Inclusion Act 2014 defines disability as lsquoThe long-term physical mental intellectual or sensory impairment which in interaction with various barriers may hinder the full and effective participation in society on an equal basis with othersrsquo

In the context of the DIAP lsquodisabilityrsquo includes functional impairments or limitations which may be present from birth acquired by accident or illness or due to the process of ageing The impairments may be substantial or seemingly minor temporary or permanent

Legislation In 1993 all NSW government departments and some other government bodies were required to undertake disability action planning when the NSW Disability Services Act 1993 (DSA) was introduced

In 2008 the Australian Government committed to implementing the United Nations (UN) Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities

In 2014 a strengthened commitment to inclusion better consultation with people with disability and protection of their rights was propelled with the introduction of the Disability Inclusion Act 2014 which replaced the DSA

There is a suite of further Commonwealth and State legislation that promotes and drives improving access and inclusion for people with a disability

INTERNATIONAL bull Principles of the UN Convention on the

Rights of People with a Disability

COMMONWEALTH bull Disability Discrimination Act 1992 bull Australian Government NDIS Act 2013 bull Australian Government Aged Care

(Living Longer Living Better) Act 2013

NSW bull NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014

The most recent legislation and amendments reflect a shift towards the view that while a disability may affect the way that a person interacts with others and their environment it should not define a person and it should not limit their capacity to become an integral part of the community Although the rights of a person with a disability have been defined as the same rights as those of all people since the early 1990s it is understood that upholding these rights must include promotion of individual choice about what is important to them universal access to services and facilities and inclusive communities where individuals can fully participate in social business and community life

The NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014 promotes the view that lsquoinclusionrsquo is not only a goal for service providers and public and private sector organisations it is a responsibility of the whole community It legislates for the rights of people with a disability to full participation in every-day life with enhanced community connection independence empowerment and wellbeing It is the role of local government through a Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) to promote and support inclusion in their communities

ADDITIONAL LEGISLATION bull Carers (Recognition) Act 2010 (NSW)

Disability not only affects people who have a disability but also people who care for them The Carers (Recognition) Act 2010 acknowledges the significance of carers including respect and recognition inclusion in decision making and access to services they may need

bull Local Government Act 1993 The Local Government Act 1993 sets out the framework and responsibilities of Councils and provides guidance to enable councilrsquos to carry out their functions in a way that facilitates local communities that are strong healthy and prosperous

Disability Inclusion ACTION PLAN 9

Draw together diverse interests and strive towards attaining greater consensus on sustainable outcomes for the local government area

10 Port Stephens Council

Councilrsquos responsibilities and roles Role of council New South Wales (NSW) is entering a new era in disability inclusion planning Councilrsquos role in implementation of the DIAP will include as a direct service provider as a leader an advocate and facilitator

bull As leader Council acts as a role model for others through its own actions strategic organisational responses and way of doing things In its dialogue with the communities and other stakeholders Council can act to draw together diverse interests and strive towards attaining greater consensus on sustainable outcomes for the local government area

bull As advocate Council seeks to improve services facilities and opportunities for the local government area and its communities by lobbying agencies and other levels of government In discussions with others there are opportunities to reinforce Port Stephens sense of identity and resilience and collaborate on achieving a more sustainable local government area

bull As facilitator Council assists interaction amongst stakeholders and forms strategic alliances aimed at promoting sustainability initiatives focussing on elements including social economic environmental

cultural and governance which demonstrate positive ways of moving forward

bull As service provider Council has a strong commitment to delivering the services needed by its communities and ensuring that Council resources are responsibly managed Councilrsquos role as a service provider aims to assist in building the long-term health of the local government area

Executive responsibility and project coordination Port Stephens Council supports the development and implementation of the DIAP The General Manager has responsibility to oversee the various functionsgroups of Council

The DIAP will be coordinated by the Social Planning Unit within the Strategy and Environment section of the Development Services team Responsibility for implementation and resourcing of the DIAP will be across all sections of Council

Disability Inclusion ACTION PLAN 11

systems and processes Focus Area 4

Integrated planning and reporting Goals and strategies of Port Stephens Council are underpinned by five themes which provide focus and direction for the Integrated Planning and Reporting (IPR) framework The four focus areas for the DIAP may be positioned within those five focus areas of Integrated Planning framework

UN Convention on the Right of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD)

National Disability Strategy (NDS)

National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)

NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014 (DIA)

Operational plan

Delivery program

Community strategic plan

Local government disability inclusion action planning

NSW Disability Inclusion Plan 1 Attitudes and behaviours 2 Employment 3 Liveable communities 4 Systems and processes

Port Stephens CSP-themes CSP1 Our citizens

CSP2 Our lifestyle

CSP3 Our environment

CSP4 Our economy

CSP5 Our Council

An inclusive NSW

Focus Areas for DIAP bull Liveable communities Focus Area 2 bull Positive community attitudes and behaviours

Focus Area 1 bull Liveable communities Focus Area 2

bull Liveable communities Focus Area 2

bull Supporting access to meaningful employment Focus Area 3

bull Improving access to services through better

Port Stephens Council 12

ACTION PLAN

Document review As background to the consultation and to confirm issues which have been previously identified in the Port Stephens LGA a review of documents was undertaken Council has a suite of documents which reflect their commitment to an inclusive and connected society in an environment that facilitates opportunities for contribution by all those who live in the Port Stephens Region Reviewed documents included

bull Port Stephens Integrated Plans incorporating Community Strategic Plan

2013-2023 Delivery Program 2013-2017 Operational Plans 2016-2020

bull Port Stephens Strategic Asset Management Plan (2016-2026)

bull Port Stephens Disability Action Plan 2014-2018

bull NSW Disability Inclusion Action Planning Guidelines

Consultation and engagement According to 2016 census data the population of Port Stephens was 69556 which is an increase of 4746 or 732 from 2011 (64810) As the table below notes there are distinct differences in the proportion of people who stated a Need for Assistance between each of Port Stephens planning catchments However community

Need for Assistance

consultation with people who experience a disability their families carers and disability groups show that the barriers challenges and needs of people with a disability to fully participate in community life are similar throughout the LGA

Suburb 2006 2011 2016 Fern Bay 74 87 789

Karuah Swan Bay 53 83 859

Medowie 32 35 393

Raymond Terrace 52 63 775

Rural East 53 47 611

Rural West 29 31 307

Tilligerry 64 73 797

Tomaree 55 55 653

Port Stephens LGA 50 55 640

Disability Inclusion 13

Consultation with the community In seeking to fully understand and identify the barriers to inclusion and access and to find solutions information was sought from key stakeholders Key stakeholders are people within the Port Stephens community who identify as experiencing a disability their carersrsquo and support workers

A survey was completed and distributed within the community from November

2016 to January 2017 The period of the survey was extended over the Christmas periodschool holiday period 71 surveys completed surveys were received from the community

The following table sets out who and how the survey was distributed to key stakeholders

Stakeholder Engagement Processes Council website Surveys could be accessed through Councilrsquos website using

Engagement HQ

Council Facebook page

A link to the survey was placed on Councilrsquos Facebook page The link was lsquoboostedrsquo which meant the page connected anyone in the LGA who had clicked on anything to do with disability which significantly broadened the surveys reach

MyLink Group Advice and information about the DIAP including a link to the survey was distributed to Councils MyLink group MyLink is an email group of members including Not for Profit Groups and Non-Government Organisations (NGOs) such as disability service and support providers The MyLink email group keeps its members informed of upcoming meetings local events professional development opportunities and other important information Notifications of updates are sent to the MyLink email list weekly

Libraries Paper copies of the surveys were provided to the Tomaree and Raymond Terrace Libraries for distribution to disability groups (including disability support groups) who use the library

Media release Media release in the Port Stephens Examiner and online version of the Port Stephens Examiner

Schools Every school in the LGA was contacted via telephone and the survey and link distributed via email Schools then placed the information about the survey and the link in school community newsletters and on Facebook pages

Eagleton Ridge Respite Centre

Eagleton Ridge Respite Centre was contacted and information forwarded about the survey along with a link

Flyer Flyers were developed to help promote the project which contained information about the survey and where to access it Flyers were delivered to doctors surgeries disability service providers and Council run pools

Internal stakeholder meeting

Internal stakeholder meeting and ongoing consultation to go over elements of the DIAP

14 Port Stephens Council

Summary of priorities Returned surveys and consultation meetings presented a clear picture of priorities with suggestions and solutions Looking across all questions in the survey the following outlines the most important priorities for the Port Stephens community

1 Footpathsramps 2 Accessibility to eventsactivities

shops sporting and recreation facilities and parks

3 Provision of venues services events 4 Public toilets 5 Parking 6 Public transport 7 Public education 8 Respectful and inclusive community

and services

Some of the priorities for the community in the consultation for the DIAP were also identified in the Port Stephens Disability Action Plan 2014-2018 Furthermore the Port Stephens Integrated Plans aims to ldquomake future provisions for people with disabilities their families and carersrdquo via several actions including implementing the Disability Inclusion Action Plan

Results of the community consultation were arranged in to the DIAPrsquos four focus groups and actions were developed that align with these areas These focus areas were identified as part of extensive community consultation during development of the NSW Disability Inclusion Plan As such these focus areas became a requirement to be in all NSW agency DIAPs These actions recognise the rights of people with a disability to full and effective participation in an inclusive society the same as those without a disability The following action plan outlines Councilrsquos role and action and priority level

Results of the community consultation were arranged into the DIAPrsquos four focus groups and actions were developed that contribute a more inclusive accessible and liveable society

ACTION PLANDisability Inclusion

15

Act

ion

plan

ning

Liveable Communities

Item for

improvement Priority

Time-

frame

Coun-

cilRole

Action

Outcome

IPRRefer-

ence

Responsibility

Foot

path

s an

d1

-2 y

ears

Se

rvic

eU

nder

take

revi

ew o

f foo

tpat

hs a

nd ra

mps

Upd

ated

and

impl

emen

tatio

n of

42

13

Asse

ts

ram

ps th

roug

hout

Prov

ider

th

roug

hout

LG

A to

det

erm

ine

a pr

iorit

ised

the

Pede

stria

n Ac

cess

and

Mob

ility

LGA

appr

oach

to im

plem

enta

tion

of g

aps

Plan

con

side

rs a

nd p

riorit

ises

peo

ple

upgr

ades

and

new

foot

path

infra

stru

ctur

e

with

dis

abilit

y

0-1

year

U

pdat

ed a

nd im

plem

enta

tion

of th

e Pe

dest

rian

13

16

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ngAc

cess

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Mob

ility

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con

sider

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d pr

iorit

ises

peop

le w

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Out

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1 -2

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rs

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Prio

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Cou

ncil

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Pr

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ce a

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2- 4

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rs

Serv

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Impl

emen

t tw

o lib

erty

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ings

Loc

atio

nsPr

ovid

er

to b

e pr

iotis

ed in

col

labo

ratio

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ithSo

cial

Pla

nnin

g

Out

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ces

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ng a

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clusiv

e co

mm

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e w

ith d

isabi

lity

Two

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ty s

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gs a

re in

stal

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catio

ns s

o fa

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of p

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e w

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e to

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ties

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rs i

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ts c

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xper

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e a

sens

e of

free

dom

)

52

12

Faci

litie

s an

dSe

rvic

es

52

12

Faci

litie

s an

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rvic

es

Prov

isio

n of

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te

Dev

elop

the

Plan

of M

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t to

The

Ngi

oka

Cen

tre is

man

aged

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d 1

31

1 Fa

cilit

ies

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ng te

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omm

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Ong

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ng p

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The

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Dot

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vice

13

13

Com

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Lead

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e D

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for p

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13

14

Com

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mon

dTe

rrace

and

Med

owie

) P

ort S

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ens

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an a

nd F

amily

Day

Car

e

16

Ong

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rvic

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ng p

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sion

and

exp

ansi

on o

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d su

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t for

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ple

13

15

Com

mun

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Prov

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as

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and

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ith a

dis

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bilit

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Cus

tom

er R

elat

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incl

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gbull

Audi

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ad n

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sbull

Zoom

text

scr

een

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oftw

are

bull La

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prin

t boo

ksbull

Audi

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ic to

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2

ndash 4

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ts to

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tify

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tions

Impr

oved

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ility

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e w

ith a

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52

14

Faci

litie

s an

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ovid

er

whe

re a

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chan

ge fa

cilit

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d as

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ices

w

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e w

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gh n

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an area could be modified to cater for

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orks

Pla

n

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rt St

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uded

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trsquos s

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Dis

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ears

Se

rvic

eR

evie

w d

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ility

park

ing

spac

es a

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thro

ugho

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ovid

er identified to ensure compliance against

the

LGA

curre

nt s

tand

ards

and

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relo

catin

g to

meet compliance (via traffic committee)

1 -2

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rs

At re

view

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ent

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e di

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ovin

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ks a

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Incr

ease

in c

ompl

iant

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y pa

rkin

g so

52

14

Faci

litie

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pe

ople

who

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erie

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bilit

y ca

n en

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is n

avig

able

and

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agea

ble

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eby

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g m

ore

incl

usiv

ean

d va

lue

addi

ng

52

14

Fa

cilit

ies

and

Asse

ts

Publ

ic tr

ansp

ort

1 -2

yea

rs

Advo

cate

M

eet w

ith p

ublic

tran

spor

t pro

vider

s to

Impr

oved

legi

bilit

y an

d ac

cess

to p

ublic

13

16

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ngpr

ovid

e fe

edba

ck fr

om D

IAP

and

addr

ess

trans

port

optio

ns a

nd im

prov

ed p

atro

nage

of

any

conc

erns

whe

re p

ossib

le

peop

le w

ith a

dis

abilit

y

Fund

ing

Ong

oing

Se

rvic

eAc

tivel

y se

ek g

rant

fund

ing

for p

roje

cts

An in

crea

se in

ser

vice

s in

frast

ruct

ure

and

52

14

Faci

litie

s an

dop

portu

nitie

s pr

ovid

er

whi

ch e

ncou

rage

acc

ess

and

incl

usio

n in

activ

ities

that

ens

ure

incl

usiv

enes

s an

dSe

rvic

esLe

ader

th

e co

mm

unity

ac

cess

ibilit

y fo

r peo

ple

who

exp

erie

nce

Com

mun

itydi

sabi

lity

thei

r fam

ilies

and

care

rs

Dev

elop

men

t and

Enga

gem

ent

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ng

Acce

ssib

le e

vent

s O

ngoi

ng

Serv

ice

Form

alis

e a

12 m

onth

tria

l pro

gram

Incr

ease

in th

e nu

mbe

r of e

vent

s th

at a

re2

11

5C

omm

unity

prov

ider

of

the

Even

t Ten

t w

hich

pro

mot

esac

cess

ible

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

y D

evel

opm

ent a

nd5

31

5Ad

voca

te

and

enab

les

grea

ter p

artic

ipat

ion

atEn

gage

men

t5

41

1co

mm

unity

eve

nts

of p

eopl

e an

d fa

milie

sTo

uris

m a

nd E

vent

s w

ho h

ave

a di

sabi

lity

17

18

Improving access to services through better systems and processes

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Alig

ning

Act

ion

Ong

oing

Le

ader

En

sure

that

the

DIA

P al

igns

with

This

pla

n m

eets

the

Loca

l5

31

13

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ngPl

an w

ith In

tegr

ated

the

Inte

grat

ed R

epor

ting

Fram

ing

Gov

ernm

ent D

IAP

guid

elin

eR

epor

ting

and

that

the

actio

ns in

this

Act

ion

requ

irem

ents

and

act

ions

are

Fram

ewor

k Pl

an a

re in

clud

ed in

the

(4 y

ear)

impl

emen

ted

Del

iver

y Pr

ogra

m a

nd th

e An

nual

Ope

ratio

nal P

lan

Info

rmat

ion

to th

e0

ndash 1

year

Le

ader

and

Enab

le th

e ab

ility

to p

rovi

de a

ndM

ore

peop

le a

re a

ble

to a

cces

s5

31

6 Office of the General

publ

ic

Serv

ice

rece

ive

info

rmat

ion

to a

nd fr

om th

ein

form

atio

n an

d pa

rticip

ate

in th

eir

Man

ager

Pr

ovid

er

publ

ic in

a ra

nge

of fo

rmat

s R

evie

wlo

cal c

omm

unity

and

the

affa

irs o

fpu

blic

exh

ibiti

on te

mpl

ate

to m

ake

loca

l gov

ernm

ent

clea

rer t

hat w

e ac

cept

sub

mis

sion

sin

all

form

ats

not

just

writ

ten

eg

vide

o v

oice

rec

ordi

ng

Mai

ntai

n w

ebsi

te a

cces

sibi

lity

55

18

Com

mun

icat

ions

(WAA

G) 2

0 A

A le

vel

Polic

ies

and

1 -2

yea

rs

Lead

erS

ervi

ceC

ounc

il inv

estig

ates

opt

ions

toR

emov

e ob

stac

les

for p

eopl

e w

ith1

31

6 St

rate

gic

Plan

ning

pr

oced

ures

Pr

ovid

er

impr

ove

unde

rsta

ndin

g of

pol

icies

and

a di

sabi

lity

to e

nabl

e ac

hiev

emen

tpr

oced

ures

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

disa

bility

of

pos

itive

and

sus

tain

able

empl

oym

ent o

utco

mes

Supporting access to meaningful employment

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Volu

ntee

ring

1 -2

yea

rs

Lead

er

Rev

iew

vol

unte

erin

g pr

oces

ses

for

Incr

ease

d ac

cess

to v

olun

teer

ing

16

13

Com

mun

ity S

ervi

ces

proc

esse

s Po

rt St

ephe

ns C

ounc

il to

ens

ure

oppo

rtuni

ties

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

that

they

are

wel

com

ing

of p

eopl

edi

sabi

lity

w

ith d

isab

ility

Rec

ruitm

ent

Ong

oing

Le

ader

C

ontin

ue to

offe

r can

dida

tes

anO

ngoi

ng e

mpl

oym

ent o

ppor

tuni

ties

51

42

Org

anis

atio

nal

proc

esse

s op

tion

to d

iscl

ose

whe

ther

or n

otfo

r peo

ple

who

hav

e a

disa

bilit

y w

ithD

evel

opm

ent

they

hav

e a

disa

bilit

y du

ring

the

Port

Step

hens

Cou

ncil

appl

icat

ion

proc

ess

so th

at C

ounc

ilar

e ab

le to

ens

ure

that

app

lican

tsw

ith a

dis

abilit

y ar

e an

d fe

elsu

ppor

ted

thro

ugho

ut th

e pr

oces

s

Attitudes and Behaviours

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Educ

atio

n fo

r sho

p0

- 1 y

ear

Advo

cate

Aw

aren

ess

and

educ

atio

nO

utco

me

is a

rais

ed a

war

enes

s of

41

24

Econ

omic

owne

rsb

usin

esse

sca

mpa

igns

targ

etin

g bu

sine

ss

the

need

s of

peo

ple

with

a d

isab

ility

Dev

elop

men

ton

acc

ess

issue

s fo

row

ners

via

Biz

Lin

k ne

twor

kac

cess

issu

espe

ople

with

disa

bility

ne

wsl

ette

rs a

nd b

usin

ess

cham

bers

to fo

ster

and

enc

oura

ge th

efo

llow

ing

initi

ativ

es

bull D

evel

op c

ompa

nion

car

d fri

endl

yin

itiat

ive

whi

ch e

nabl

es fr

ee e

ntry

to c

erta

in v

enue

sev

ents

for

care

rs to

acc

ompa

ny p

eopl

e w

itha

disa

bilit

y

1-2

year

s Ad

voca

te

bull Pr

efer

red

empl

oyer

aw

ards

for

41

24

Econ

omic

disa

bilit

y ac

cess

ible

wor

kpla

ce

Dev

elop

men

t

Sta

ff ar

e su

pp

orte

d a

nd h

ave

gre

ater

know

led

ge

of th

e va

riety

of n

eed

s of

peo

ple

with

a d

isab

ility

and

the

need

for i

nclu

sion

Staf

f aw

aren

ess

of1

-2 y

ears

Le

ader

To

pro

vide

train

ing

for C

ounc

il sta

ffSt

aff a

re s

uppo

rted

and

have

51

42

Org

anis

atio

nal

the

need

s of

peo

ple

on h

ow to

wor

k w

ith a

nd u

nder

stan

dgr

eate

r kno

wle

dge

of th

e va

riety

of

Dev

elop

men

tw

ith d

isab

ility

peop

le w

ith d

isabi

lity th

roug

h C

ounc

ilsne

eds

of p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

y an

d

The

prio

rity

timef

ram

e ra

ting

indi

cate

s th

at a

Hig

h pr

iorit

y sh

ould

be

com

plet

ed w

ithin

1 y

ear

Med

ium

prio

rity

with

in 2

yea

rs a

nd L

ow p

riorit

y w

ithin

3 to

4 y

ears

Wor

kpla

ce E

quity

amp D

ivers

ityC

omm

ittee

and

Gui

de (a

ttach

ed)

the

need

for i

nclu

sion

19

Governance monitoring and evaulation To ensure implementation of the Plan an internal working group made up of stakeholders who have responsibility for implementing actions with the plan will be ongoing The working group will meet quarterly to discuss the Action Plan and linkages to both current and future projects and programs including

bull Each new capital works project will consider disability improvements to inclusion and accessibility within the Project Management Plan scoping and procurement document (in addition to Disability Discrimination Act compliance) Improvements for consideration include Location of the

proposed project and Improvements to carpark access to

and from kerb ramp location and availability and pathwayrsquos etc that enable more seamless connectivity

Progress of the plan will be monitored and implementation of actions within the Plan will be reported through a range of governance processes including

bull Six monthly reporting to Councils Executive Leadership team and Council

bull Operational Plan annual reporting as part of the Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework

bull Annual Report bull End of Term Reporting bull Customer satisfaction annual survey and

reporting To enable effective measurement and monitoring of actions within the plan the Port Stephens Customer Satisfaction Survey will include a section within the survey of questions that people who experience disability their families carers and people who work in the disability sector can elect to answer

20 Port Stephens Council

Conclusion Port Stephens Council has a strong commitment to enhancing life experience of people with a disability in the Local Government Area

In developing the Disability Inclusion Action Plan Port Stephens Council has built on the strengths of existing Council resources Council structurestaff plans policies and the local closely connected community by consulting with a broad range of stakeholders

The priorities identified above reflect Council values and principles The individual objectives once approved by Council are to be included in the 2017-2021 Delivery Program and the Annual Operational Plans for each of those four (4) years Within the Integrated and Strategic Planning framework the responsibility reporting and resourcing for the objectives will be defined

Draw together diverse interests and strive towards attaining greater consensus on sustainable outcomes for the local government area

ACTION PLANDisability Inclusion

21

understanding of your requirements and helpful (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

11a Please provide details of your experiences with Council staff

12 Any other comments

Appendix 1 DIAP Survey 1 What is your age 2 What suburb do you live in

(Required) 3 Gender 4 Language used at home 5 Are you a carer or a person with

disability (Choose all that apply) a Carer b Person with disability c Family member

6 Do you think the Port Stephens Community is welcoming of people with disabilities Eg businesses shops etc (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

6a Please give us some examples of positive or negative experiences you have had

7 Have you encountered any problems barriers or issues in using transport options (Choose all that apply) a Walking or wheelchair use b Local buses c Electric Scooter d Other

7a Please give us some examples of positive or negative experiences you have had

8 Do you think facilities and services are accessible and inclusive in Port Stephens a Councilrsquos Administration Building Yes No b Community centres Yes No c Events Yes No d Libraries Yes No e Parks Yes No f Pools Yes No g Other Yes No

22 Port Stephens Council

8a Can you give us any examples for improvements

9 Do you find Councilrsquos information publications accessible

Website Yes No Newsletters Yes No

9a Do you have suggestions for improvements

10 Would you like to see an improvement in online services through Councilrsquos website such as the electronic payment of rates andor fees and charges (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

11 Do you find Council staff at all of its locations and facilities approachable

Appendix 2 community consultation Results from consultation and the survey The areas identified for improvement by were framed around the four priority areas the Port Stephens community are (in order for an inclusive community Liveable of priority) communities Attitudes and behaviours Employment and Systems and processes

Liveable Communities

Focus Area Comments Foot pathsramps ldquoFootpathsramps ndash uneven rough need ramps to access

roads need lighting on paths and stairs need more footpaths wider footpaths some ramps too steeprdquo

ldquoAll new kerb ramps should have no step between the bottom of the ramp and the gutterroad The small step that is still mostly used at the bottom of curb ramps is completely unnecessary (it doesnrsquot improve water flow in the gutter as some people think it does) but it makes it harder for a wheelchair user even if the step is only 2cm or less The same argument applies to drivewaysrdquo

ACTION PLAN

Accessibility to ldquoCluttered walkways access to beaches (wheelchair accessible eventsactivities ramps) Braille on signage audio description at places of shops sporting interest Henderson Park upgrade (steep steps to pontoon facilities parks no disability parking) access to pontoons for fishing (Karuah

good example of how to do it) Wider access passageways and doorways (eg some places have double doors but keep one door locked eg Salamander library)rdquo

Provision of venues ldquoLack of disability services in parks (eg Liberty swingswing services events with 5-point harness) lack of covered areas in parks (many

sun-sensitive due to medication plus rain cover) hydrotherapy pool fences around parks disability friendly slide at parks audio loop neededrdquo

ldquoI would like to see more programs that support carers and the families of people with disabilities in the Port Stephens Local Government Area as their (sic) simply isnrsquot enough I would also like more programs to support people with disabilities so that as a community we can start supporting each other through the hardship of living with a disabilityrdquo

Disability Inclusion 23

Focus Area Comments Public toilets ldquoThere are lack of amenities in disabled toilets (eg adults who

need help changing continence aids hoists in toilets) need more (eg Nelson Bay)rdquo

ldquoDisabled toilets do not cater for older persons with a disability who require nappy changing facilities It is not nice to change on the floor of a disabled toilet and parents room tables are too smallrdquo

Parking ldquoThere is a lack of disabled parking some disabled parks are not wheelchair friendlyrdquo

ldquoSubstandard pavement surfaces for walker frames and mobility scooters Lack of disability parking spaces at Soldiers Point Boat ramp and Salamander Bay wharf and various other areas within the Port Stephens areardquo

Public transport ldquoInfrastructure improvements for more and better transport limited timetables too many transfers to get to destination want regular community bus (low cost or for free)rdquo

Attitudes and Behaviours

Focus Area Comments Respectful and It should be noted that most people reported positive encounters inclusive community with the public and council staff One comment stated ldquocould and services improve empathy and understanding from public on what it is

like to have a disabilityrdquo

ldquoHearing impaired when asked to speak slower shop people yell and pull faces as if trying to mouth out each word very embarrassingrdquo

ldquoStaring commentingrdquo

Public education ldquoEducation for people in shops about disability disabled amenitiesfacilities being used by public (change-rooms toilets parking) but consideration needed so as not to discriminate against those who do not ldquoappearrdquo to have a disabilityrdquo

It should be noted that most people reported positive encounters with the public and council staff

24 Port Stephens Council

Employment

Focus Area Comments No issues identified however it was acknowledged in internal communication with staff that Council could lead the way in more employment of people with a disability this could include recruitment processes which are lsquomore welcomingrsquo and encourage people to apply for positions It also was acknowledged that Council policies procedures systems and processes could be reviewed for lsquoeasy readrsquo format

Systems and Processes

Focus Area Comments Range of information dissemination

Promotion and awareness of activitesevents services

ldquoNot everyone gets newspaper so send information in other ways (emailed with rates) need to consider information dissemination for people with hearing and vision impairedrdquo

ldquoI have rarely seen a Council newsletter Also the website needs to be cleaner clearer more navigable and user friendlyrdquo

ldquoLeft-aligning text might seem like a visual imposition to the sighted person but this simple change is the difference between being able to read for people who are blind or who have low visionrdquo

ldquoEye level display for people using wheelchairsrdquo

Some people were confused or unaware of services amenities available to them

In some areas ldquoFor those of us who get their bills via email it would be great if we were emailed regularly about items on public exhibition etc to replace what other residents would see in your adds in the Examinerrdquo

ldquoMore information areas to access helprdquo

ldquoDidnrsquot know you had a newsletterrdquo

Consulation on council infrastructure

Respondents welcomed the Council distributing this survey for comment but others felt more consideration of disability issues was needed

ldquoPlanning doesnrsquot seem to include disabled accessibility issues for new projectsrdquo

ldquoConsideration of people who are blind or low vision in future planning ie Braille on all signage (or on poles or mounts for elevated signage) Audio description at places of interest geographical cultural or historical significance Blind people miss out on our beautiful views they deserve to be catered to with regard to what else PS has to offer Infrastructure improvements that support more and better public transport to Port Stephensrdquo

Disabilit y Inclusion ACTION PLAN 25

Do you think the Port Stephens Community is welcoming of people with disabilities Eg businesses shops etc Most people felt Port Stephens is welcoming (68)

Have you encountered any problems barriers or issues in using transport options

68

0 10 20 30 40 50

Electric Scooter

Walking or wheelchair use

Local buses

Other

Do you think facilities and services are accessible and inclusive in Port Stephens

Focus Area Yes No

Councils Administration Building 57 6

Community centres 53 8

Events 36 21

Libraries 60 2

Parks 38 27

Pools 43 15

Other 18 13

26 Port Stephens Council

Do you find Councilrsquos information publications accessible

Focus area website

Would you like to see an improvement in online services through Councilrsquos website such as the electronic payment of rates and or fees and charges

Do you find Council staff at all of its locations and facilities approachable understanding of your requirements and helpful

Most comments in this section indicated council staff was very helpful and polite

Any other comments

Items for improvement (in order of priority)

Yes 36

Yes 55

Yes 48

No 6

No 18

No 11

1 Provision of venues services events 2 Roadscrossings 3 Footpathsramps 4 Public toilets 5 Public education The following summary outlines the priorities identified across all questions of the survey

ACTION PLANDisabilit y Inclusion

27

App

endi

x 3

Func

tions

ser

vice

s an

d as

sets

Function Area Community Services Sector

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Man

ager

Ngi

oka

Com

mun

ityH

ortic

ultu

ral

Serv

ices

Th

erap

yC

entre

Volu

ntee

r wor

kfor

ce o

f up

to80

0 p

rovi

sion

of lsquo

whe

el in

whe

el o

utrsquo g

arba

ge c

olle

ctio

nfo

r peo

ple

with

dis

abilit

y liv

ing

at h

ome

Pro

visi

on o

fpr

ogra

ms

for c

hild

ren

with

addi

tiona

l nee

ds a

t Out

side

of S

choo

l Hou

rs C

are

Chi

ldre

nsrsquo a

ctiv

ity V

an a

ndFa

mily

Day

Car

e P

rovi

sion

of la

rge

prin

t boo

ks t

alki

ngbo

oks

and

audi

o an

d vi

sual

navi

gatio

n ai

ds a

t lib

rarie

sLe

ar to

sw

im p

rogr

ams

atco

unci

l aqu

atic

cen

tres

Info

rmat

ion

on w

ebsi

te re

Leas

e of

Gra

ham

stow

nVo

lunt

eer s

trate

gy35

5vo

lunt

eers

Aqua

tic R

eser

ve fo

r use

by

Part

A an

d Pa

rt B

com

mitt

ees

Saila

bilit

y (P

SC le

ase

the

Larg

e te

xt fo

rmat

ting

onla

nd fr

om H

unte

r Wat

er a

ndw

ebsi

te

Saila

bilit

y su

b-le

ase

the

land

of P

SC)

Link

s to

vol

unte

er re

sour

ces

in J

ob a

genc

ies

TAF

Eot

her a

reas

bus

ines

ses

etc

univ

ersi

ties

sch

ools

Brai

lle a

nd la

rge

font

com

pute

rs

Rev

iew

pol

icie

spr

oced

ures

toen

sure

they

are

lsquoeas

y re

adrsquo f

orm

at

Busi

ness

lead

ersh

ipto

enh

ance

Ngi

oka

as a

mul

ti-pu

rpos

ece

ntre

and

to p

rom

ote

and

alig

n w

ith N

DIS

pers

onal

pla

ns

28

Function Area Community Services ndash Library Services

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Resource

Libr

ary

Civ

il Ass

ets

Serv

ices

Sect

ion

Man

ager

M

anag

erC

omm

unity

and

Rec

reat

ion

Assets Officer

Paid

Lib

rary

Sta

ff x

24C

asua

l Lib

rary

Sta

ff x

11Li

brar

y Vo

lunt

eers

x 5

5As

sist

ive

Adap

tive

tech

nolo

gy(A

udio

Rea

d na

viga

tors

Zoo

mTe

xt s

cree

n re

ader

sof

twar

ela

rge

prin

t boo

ks a

udio

boo

ks

IInfo

rmat

ion

on a

ll Li

brar

ySe

rvic

es re

late

d to

ser

vice

spr

ogra

ms

and

activ

ities

ndashdi

spla

yed

in b

ranc

hes

via

(flyerspostersTV monitors)

and

on

bull Fa

cebo

ok W

ebsi

tebull

Scho

ol N

ewsl

ette

rs W

hatrsquos

on in

our

Bac

kyar

dbull

PS E

xam

iner

bull N

ews

of th

e Ar

ea (T

eaG

arde

ns N

elso

n Ba

y an

dM

edow

ie)

Thou

Wal

la S

choo

ls a

sC

omm

uniti

es C

entre

New

cast

le R

egio

n Li

brar

y C

o-op

erat

ive

Cen

tral E

ast Z

one

(Reg

iona

lLi

brar

ies

Gro

up)

Publ

ic L

ibra

ries

NSW

Hun

ter W

EAH

isto

rical

and

Fam

ily H

isto

rySo

ciet

ies

RT

Art S

pace

Gro

upR

eal F

utur

es F

ound

atio

n

Inte

rnet

Usa

ge P

olic

yW

aivi

ng O

verd

ueC

harg

esSo

cial

Med

ia P

olic

yLi

brar

y U

ser

Gui

delin

esPS

C L

ibra

ry B

roch

ure

New

cast

le re

gion

Libr

ary

Broc

hure

Volu

ntee

r Pos

ition

Des

crip

tions

and

Han

dboo

kH

isto

rical

Soc

iety

Fa

mily

His

tory

Gro

upAg

reem

ents

Wor

k H

ealth

and

Safe

tyC

omm

ittee

WH

S R

ep-

rese

ntat

ives

Com

mitt

eeW

orkp

lace

Equi

ty a

ndD

iver

sity

Com

mitt

eeC

onsu

ltativ

eC

omm

ittee

Her

itage

Advi

sory

Com

mitt

ee

Dis

able

d to

ilets

do

not c

ater

for o

lder

per

sons

with

a d

isab

ility

who

req

uire

nap

py

chan

gin

g fa

cilit

ies

It is

not

nic

e to

cha

nge

on th

e flo

orof

a d

isab

led

toile

t and

par

ents

room

tab

les

are

too

smal

l

29

Function Area Assets Section

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Asse

t Sec

tion

Man

ager

C

omm

unity

land

man

age-

men

t pu

blic

toile

ts p

arks

pl

aygr

ound

sre

serv

es

fore

shor

es

mar

ine

ac-

cess

spo

rting

fields sports

faci

litie

sco

mm

unity

build

ings

co

mm

unity

halls

sig

nage

Mai

ntai

n an

d up

grad

e pu

blic

Asse

ts re

gist

er c

ondi

tion

Gov

ernm

ent a

genc

ies

gra

ntVa

rious

pla

ns o

fsp

aces

fac

ilitie

s a

sset

s an

dra

ting

syst

em

fund

ing

sche

mes

pro

perty

Management (specific

plac

es in

line

with

legi

slat

ive

deve

lope

rs c

omm

unity

and

gene

ric)

Cou

ncil

Ope

ns S

pace

Stra

tegy

requ

irem

ents

and

com

mun

itygr

oups

int

eres

t gro

ups

polic

ies

Man

agem

ent

(und

erw

ay)

need

s D

irect

ives

Spor

ts C

oun-

cils

355

Com

-m

ittee

sC

omm

unity

grou

ps P

arks

and

Res

erve

sC

omm

ittee

s

Ensu

reth

at th

ede

sign

and

cons

truct

ion

of n

ewfa

cilit

ies

and

infra

stru

ctur

eis

con

side

rate

to li

mite

dac

cess

com

mun

itym

embe

rs

Ensu

re th

at u

pgra

des

and

mai

nten

ance

to c

omm

unity

faci

litie

s ar

e al

igne

d w

ithpr

iorit

ies

for i

nclu

sion

Prep

are

the

Ope

n Sp

ace

Stra

tegy

pla

ns fo

r upg

rade

s to

com

mun

ity fa

cilit

ies

and

area

sw

here

infra

stru

ctur

e ne

eds

to b

e co

nsid

erat

e of

lim

ited

acce

ss c

omm

unity

mem

bers

Ensu

re 3

55 c

omm

ittee

sco

nsid

er a

cces

s an

d in

clus

ion

whe

n th

inki

ng a

bout

pro

gram

sEn

sure

355

Com

mitt

ees

use

fund

s pr

ovid

ed b

y C

ounc

il to

cons

ider

acc

ess

and

incl

usio

nw

hen

build

ing

infra

stru

ctur

e

Activ

ely

seek

gra

nt fu

ndin

gfor projects identified within

the

Ope

ns S

pace

Stra

tegy

in o

rder

to im

prov

e ac

cess

to in

clus

ion

to c

omm

unity

faci

litie

s an

d ar

eas

thro

ugho

utth

e LG

A

Rev

iew

and

upd

ate

exis

ting

plan

s an

dpo

licie

s in

line

with

legi

slat

ive

chan

ges

and identified needs

of th

e co

mm

unity

O

pens

Spa

ceSt

rate

gy (u

nder

way

)

Enco

urag

eco

mm

unity

grou

ps a

ndco

mm

ittee

to u

nder

take

proj

ects

and

prog

ram

s to

enco

urag

eac

cess

incl

usio

n

30

Function Area Human Resource Sector

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners

and agency

collaboration

Plans and Policies

Brochures documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

PotentialResource

Man

ager

Rec

ruitm

ent o

f new

sta

ffIn

form

atio

n on

web

site

in

Rec

ruitm

ent p

olic

ypr

oced

ures

Vo

lunt

eer

Hum

anhard file and on intra net

35

5 C

om-

Management of staffing

Res

ourc

es

mitt

ees

(leav

e A

war

d pr

ovis

ions

su

pera

nnua

tion

etc)

Rec

ruitm

ent p

roce

sses

toIn

form

atio

n in

rang

e of

Job

netw

ork

Rec

ruitm

ent p

roce

ss w

hich

isbe

wel

com

ing

of p

eopl

e w

ithfo

rmat

s in

clud

ing

soci

alag

enci

es

wel

com

ing

of p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

ydi

sabi

lity

olde

r peo

ple

med

ia e

tc P

lus

help

for

busi

ness

es

(adv

ertis

ing

whi

ch w

elco

mes

peo

ple

thos

e w

ho h

ave

a di

sabi

lity

with

a d

isab

ility

+ pr

oces

ses

whi

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31

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bility

Facilities in-

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ic tr

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35

Disability Inclusion

ACTION PLAN

Disability InclusionInclusionDisability InclusionInclusionDisability

For more information please contact Development Services councilportstephensnswgovau | 02 4980 0255 | PORTSTEPHENSNSWGOVAU

Page 4: Port Stephens Council DIAP 2016 - facs.nsw.gov.au · In 2016, Port Stephens had a population of 64,807 at the 2016 Census. This igure is predicted to rise by up to 23,000 over the

We are committed to disability inclusion and to building a community where everyone is able to easily access opportunities and to connect and fully participate in their community

I would like to thank everyone from our community who contributed their time ideas and opinions during the development of this Plan these ongoing connections and partnerships are vital in the ongoing development of a more inclusive community where all people are supported to participate fully

This Disability Inclusion Action Plan will be reviewed regularly and reported on annually Council is committed to ensuring the Action Plan is implemented and that this document remains an important focus for our community now and into the future

Mayoral message Port Stephens Council is pleased to present its Disability Inclusion Action Plan which replaces the Port Stephens Disability Action Plan (2014-2018) and aligns with the Disability Act 2014

This document recognises the commitment that Port Stephens Council has to an inclusive and accessible community for all people and it defines actions (both direct and indirect) that will encourage and enhance inclusion

Ryan Palmer Mayor Port Stephens

Port Stephens Council 4

Executive summary The Port Stephens Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) outlines Councils commitment to support the right of choice for people with a disability and to live their lives with access to opportunities and to enjoy the benefits of living and working in our society as all residents do

Development of the DIAP has given Council an opportunity to focus on enriching Councils commitment to creating a place that is more inclusive accessible and provides opportunities for all abilities and backgrounds

Port Stephens Council consulted extensively with people in the local government area who have a disability their families carers and disability groups to identify challenges barriers and issues for inclusion The consultation process enabled discussion and feedback and provided ideas and suggestions for change and improvement

Stakeholder priorities were established through external consultation as well as mapping of existing Council functions services and assets to identify potential opportunities to achieve a more inclusive and accessible society Community consultation and mapping outcomes were then analysed to identify actions A further risk management process was undertaken before incorporating appropriate actions into existing Port Stephens Council Integrated Plans

The implementation of these actions will be reviewed on an annual basis to ensure disability inclusion is given appropriate

consideration including in in other plans policies and procedures

This DIAP is underpinned by Councilrsquos policies programs and regulatory responsibilities including a commitment to social justice principles which are integrated within the Integrated Planning and Reporting framework (IPampR) Port Stephens Integrated Plans encompass the Community Strategic Plan 2013-2023 the Delivery Program 2013-2017 and the Operational Plan 2016-2017

The DIAP and actions within it are framed around four focus areas These areas were developed during development of the NSW Disability Inclusion Plan by people with a disability These focus areas and actions are outlined below will be delivered through Councils Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework

1 Liveable communities (including physical access to buildings and facilities and transport)

2 Attitudes and behaviours 3 Supporting access to meaningful

employment and 4 Improving access to services through

better systems and processes (which is about availability and accessibility of information regarding services)

In line with the Disability Inclusion Act 2014 the Port Stephens DIAP will be reported on annually to the Minister for Disability Furthermore Council will review the disability inclusion action planning process every four years as a minimum

Live their lives access opportunities and enjoy the benefits of living and working in our society as all residents do

Disability Inclusion ACTION PLAN 5

Background Port Stephens Local Government Area (LGA) is in the Hunter Region of New South Wales within the Port Stephens and Great Lakes Marine Park It is approximately two hours drive north of Sydney and 30 minutes from Newcastle In 2016 Port Stephens had a population of 64807 at the 2016 Census This figure is predicted to rise by up to 23000 over the next 15 years1

Port Stephens has grown as a regional centre with a mix of coastal and rural villages and larger regional centres including coastal centres which presents a diverse range of opportunities for everyone in the LGA

The proportion of people who experience disability can be correlated to Need for Assistance (Has need for assistance with core activities) census data In Port Stephens the proportion of people who identify as having a Need for Assistance in Port Stephens is 64 of the population Comparatively NSW has 537 of the population and the Hunter notes 639 who identify as having a Need for Assistance

Council is already a direct provider of services for people with a disability and their carers through

bull Leasing of the Ngioka Centre to the Endeavour Foundation who will provide disability support services under the NDIS scheme

bull Leasing of the Grahamstown Dam Aquatic Reserve to Sailability

bull Provision of Wheel in Wheel Out garbage bin service

1 Retrieved wwwportstephensnswgovau 2 Source wwwportstephenscouncilnswgovauvolunteering

Port Stephens Council

bull Provision of programs for children with additional needs at Outside School Hours Care (Raymond Terrace Medowie) Port Stephens Activity Van and Family Day Care

bull Provision of large print books talking books and audit and visual navigation aids from libraries (Raymond Terrace Salamander Bay Mobile Library) and

bull Provision of equipment at Aquatic Centres that enable safe entry into and out of heated swimming pools

Council owns and maintains a large asset portfolio that includes the following asset classes

bull Civil assets (bridges depots drainage pathways)

bull Road pavements

bull Transport facilities

bull Waste facilities and

bull Community and recreation assets (aquatic centres cemeteries libraries multipurpose facilities childcare centres parks and reserves playgrounds public amenities skate parks sport facilities surf lifesaving clubs waterways)

Mapping of functions services and assets (Appendix 3) enables identification of assets and services with potential to contribute to achievement of a more inclusive society

Council provides opportunities for partnerships and volunteering in the care and management of community facilities parklands and in public services

6

Volunteer opportunities are available in areas such as

bull Halls and community centres bull Parks reserves and Landcare groups bull Cemetery committees bull Sports council and clubs and bull Advisory and cultural groups and

libraries (among others)2

This DIAP defines strategies and provides a planning framework and actions to promote inclusion and equity for people with a disability so they may fully participate in and contribute to social business and community life The DIAP will enhance and complement the existing services provided by Port Stephens Council and will encourage an ongoing focus on building a socially inclusive and

Port Stephens Council will encourage an ongoing focus on building a socially inclusive and accessible place for all

ACTION PLANDisability Inclusion

7

accessible place for all

Carry out its functions in a way that provides best possible outcomes for the local community Plan strategically within the integrated planning and reporting framework for present

summarised below Strong and effective

representation leadership planning and decision making

Inclusive communities where individuals can fully participate in social business and community life

The community vision for the Port Stephens Community Strategic Plan is to have ldquoa great lifestyle in a treasured environmentrdquo This vision can only truly be achieved in a society that is inclusive and accessible for people of all abilities and

This Plan is critical to achieve positive

Guiding principles

backgrounds

change and create a more inclusive society A more inclusive society is diverse stronger and more sustainable

To achieve this the following principles underpin and reinforce the actions and desired outcomes within the DIAP and align with the philosophy behind the NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014 the Community Strategic Plan and the communities vision

bull Social justice principles of Equity Access Participation Rights

bull Guiding principles for Councils in accordance with Chapter 3 of the Local Government Act 1993 which are

and future populations Working with others to secure

appropriate services for local community needs and

Fairly ethically and without bias in the interests of the local community

bull Business Excellence principles Port Stephens Council applies the

Business Excellence principles to inform continuous improvement and strengthen the organisations ability to deliver more efficient and effective services to the community

Port Stephens Council8

Policy and legislative context Definition The Disability Inclusion Act 2014 defines disability as lsquoThe long-term physical mental intellectual or sensory impairment which in interaction with various barriers may hinder the full and effective participation in society on an equal basis with othersrsquo

In the context of the DIAP lsquodisabilityrsquo includes functional impairments or limitations which may be present from birth acquired by accident or illness or due to the process of ageing The impairments may be substantial or seemingly minor temporary or permanent

Legislation In 1993 all NSW government departments and some other government bodies were required to undertake disability action planning when the NSW Disability Services Act 1993 (DSA) was introduced

In 2008 the Australian Government committed to implementing the United Nations (UN) Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities

In 2014 a strengthened commitment to inclusion better consultation with people with disability and protection of their rights was propelled with the introduction of the Disability Inclusion Act 2014 which replaced the DSA

There is a suite of further Commonwealth and State legislation that promotes and drives improving access and inclusion for people with a disability

INTERNATIONAL bull Principles of the UN Convention on the

Rights of People with a Disability

COMMONWEALTH bull Disability Discrimination Act 1992 bull Australian Government NDIS Act 2013 bull Australian Government Aged Care

(Living Longer Living Better) Act 2013

NSW bull NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014

The most recent legislation and amendments reflect a shift towards the view that while a disability may affect the way that a person interacts with others and their environment it should not define a person and it should not limit their capacity to become an integral part of the community Although the rights of a person with a disability have been defined as the same rights as those of all people since the early 1990s it is understood that upholding these rights must include promotion of individual choice about what is important to them universal access to services and facilities and inclusive communities where individuals can fully participate in social business and community life

The NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014 promotes the view that lsquoinclusionrsquo is not only a goal for service providers and public and private sector organisations it is a responsibility of the whole community It legislates for the rights of people with a disability to full participation in every-day life with enhanced community connection independence empowerment and wellbeing It is the role of local government through a Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) to promote and support inclusion in their communities

ADDITIONAL LEGISLATION bull Carers (Recognition) Act 2010 (NSW)

Disability not only affects people who have a disability but also people who care for them The Carers (Recognition) Act 2010 acknowledges the significance of carers including respect and recognition inclusion in decision making and access to services they may need

bull Local Government Act 1993 The Local Government Act 1993 sets out the framework and responsibilities of Councils and provides guidance to enable councilrsquos to carry out their functions in a way that facilitates local communities that are strong healthy and prosperous

Disability Inclusion ACTION PLAN 9

Draw together diverse interests and strive towards attaining greater consensus on sustainable outcomes for the local government area

10 Port Stephens Council

Councilrsquos responsibilities and roles Role of council New South Wales (NSW) is entering a new era in disability inclusion planning Councilrsquos role in implementation of the DIAP will include as a direct service provider as a leader an advocate and facilitator

bull As leader Council acts as a role model for others through its own actions strategic organisational responses and way of doing things In its dialogue with the communities and other stakeholders Council can act to draw together diverse interests and strive towards attaining greater consensus on sustainable outcomes for the local government area

bull As advocate Council seeks to improve services facilities and opportunities for the local government area and its communities by lobbying agencies and other levels of government In discussions with others there are opportunities to reinforce Port Stephens sense of identity and resilience and collaborate on achieving a more sustainable local government area

bull As facilitator Council assists interaction amongst stakeholders and forms strategic alliances aimed at promoting sustainability initiatives focussing on elements including social economic environmental

cultural and governance which demonstrate positive ways of moving forward

bull As service provider Council has a strong commitment to delivering the services needed by its communities and ensuring that Council resources are responsibly managed Councilrsquos role as a service provider aims to assist in building the long-term health of the local government area

Executive responsibility and project coordination Port Stephens Council supports the development and implementation of the DIAP The General Manager has responsibility to oversee the various functionsgroups of Council

The DIAP will be coordinated by the Social Planning Unit within the Strategy and Environment section of the Development Services team Responsibility for implementation and resourcing of the DIAP will be across all sections of Council

Disability Inclusion ACTION PLAN 11

systems and processes Focus Area 4

Integrated planning and reporting Goals and strategies of Port Stephens Council are underpinned by five themes which provide focus and direction for the Integrated Planning and Reporting (IPR) framework The four focus areas for the DIAP may be positioned within those five focus areas of Integrated Planning framework

UN Convention on the Right of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD)

National Disability Strategy (NDS)

National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)

NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014 (DIA)

Operational plan

Delivery program

Community strategic plan

Local government disability inclusion action planning

NSW Disability Inclusion Plan 1 Attitudes and behaviours 2 Employment 3 Liveable communities 4 Systems and processes

Port Stephens CSP-themes CSP1 Our citizens

CSP2 Our lifestyle

CSP3 Our environment

CSP4 Our economy

CSP5 Our Council

An inclusive NSW

Focus Areas for DIAP bull Liveable communities Focus Area 2 bull Positive community attitudes and behaviours

Focus Area 1 bull Liveable communities Focus Area 2

bull Liveable communities Focus Area 2

bull Supporting access to meaningful employment Focus Area 3

bull Improving access to services through better

Port Stephens Council 12

ACTION PLAN

Document review As background to the consultation and to confirm issues which have been previously identified in the Port Stephens LGA a review of documents was undertaken Council has a suite of documents which reflect their commitment to an inclusive and connected society in an environment that facilitates opportunities for contribution by all those who live in the Port Stephens Region Reviewed documents included

bull Port Stephens Integrated Plans incorporating Community Strategic Plan

2013-2023 Delivery Program 2013-2017 Operational Plans 2016-2020

bull Port Stephens Strategic Asset Management Plan (2016-2026)

bull Port Stephens Disability Action Plan 2014-2018

bull NSW Disability Inclusion Action Planning Guidelines

Consultation and engagement According to 2016 census data the population of Port Stephens was 69556 which is an increase of 4746 or 732 from 2011 (64810) As the table below notes there are distinct differences in the proportion of people who stated a Need for Assistance between each of Port Stephens planning catchments However community

Need for Assistance

consultation with people who experience a disability their families carers and disability groups show that the barriers challenges and needs of people with a disability to fully participate in community life are similar throughout the LGA

Suburb 2006 2011 2016 Fern Bay 74 87 789

Karuah Swan Bay 53 83 859

Medowie 32 35 393

Raymond Terrace 52 63 775

Rural East 53 47 611

Rural West 29 31 307

Tilligerry 64 73 797

Tomaree 55 55 653

Port Stephens LGA 50 55 640

Disability Inclusion 13

Consultation with the community In seeking to fully understand and identify the barriers to inclusion and access and to find solutions information was sought from key stakeholders Key stakeholders are people within the Port Stephens community who identify as experiencing a disability their carersrsquo and support workers

A survey was completed and distributed within the community from November

2016 to January 2017 The period of the survey was extended over the Christmas periodschool holiday period 71 surveys completed surveys were received from the community

The following table sets out who and how the survey was distributed to key stakeholders

Stakeholder Engagement Processes Council website Surveys could be accessed through Councilrsquos website using

Engagement HQ

Council Facebook page

A link to the survey was placed on Councilrsquos Facebook page The link was lsquoboostedrsquo which meant the page connected anyone in the LGA who had clicked on anything to do with disability which significantly broadened the surveys reach

MyLink Group Advice and information about the DIAP including a link to the survey was distributed to Councils MyLink group MyLink is an email group of members including Not for Profit Groups and Non-Government Organisations (NGOs) such as disability service and support providers The MyLink email group keeps its members informed of upcoming meetings local events professional development opportunities and other important information Notifications of updates are sent to the MyLink email list weekly

Libraries Paper copies of the surveys were provided to the Tomaree and Raymond Terrace Libraries for distribution to disability groups (including disability support groups) who use the library

Media release Media release in the Port Stephens Examiner and online version of the Port Stephens Examiner

Schools Every school in the LGA was contacted via telephone and the survey and link distributed via email Schools then placed the information about the survey and the link in school community newsletters and on Facebook pages

Eagleton Ridge Respite Centre

Eagleton Ridge Respite Centre was contacted and information forwarded about the survey along with a link

Flyer Flyers were developed to help promote the project which contained information about the survey and where to access it Flyers were delivered to doctors surgeries disability service providers and Council run pools

Internal stakeholder meeting

Internal stakeholder meeting and ongoing consultation to go over elements of the DIAP

14 Port Stephens Council

Summary of priorities Returned surveys and consultation meetings presented a clear picture of priorities with suggestions and solutions Looking across all questions in the survey the following outlines the most important priorities for the Port Stephens community

1 Footpathsramps 2 Accessibility to eventsactivities

shops sporting and recreation facilities and parks

3 Provision of venues services events 4 Public toilets 5 Parking 6 Public transport 7 Public education 8 Respectful and inclusive community

and services

Some of the priorities for the community in the consultation for the DIAP were also identified in the Port Stephens Disability Action Plan 2014-2018 Furthermore the Port Stephens Integrated Plans aims to ldquomake future provisions for people with disabilities their families and carersrdquo via several actions including implementing the Disability Inclusion Action Plan

Results of the community consultation were arranged in to the DIAPrsquos four focus groups and actions were developed that align with these areas These focus areas were identified as part of extensive community consultation during development of the NSW Disability Inclusion Plan As such these focus areas became a requirement to be in all NSW agency DIAPs These actions recognise the rights of people with a disability to full and effective participation in an inclusive society the same as those without a disability The following action plan outlines Councilrsquos role and action and priority level

Results of the community consultation were arranged into the DIAPrsquos four focus groups and actions were developed that contribute a more inclusive accessible and liveable society

ACTION PLANDisability Inclusion

15

Act

ion

plan

ning

Liveable Communities

Item for

improvement Priority

Time-

frame

Coun-

cilRole

Action

Outcome

IPRRefer-

ence

Responsibility

Foot

path

s an

d1

-2 y

ears

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eU

nder

take

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mps

Upd

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impl

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tatio

n of

42

13

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Prov

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A to

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a pr

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e

with

dis

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y

0-1

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13

16

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c Pl

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rs

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Loc

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e of

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)

52

12

Faci

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52

12

Faci

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Prov

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Dev

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the

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31

1 Fa

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The

Blue

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13

13

Com

mun

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Lead

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serv

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e D

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for p

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Ong

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13

14

Com

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16

Ong

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13

15

Com

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Prov

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as

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Impr

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52

14

Faci

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Dis

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ugho

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ovid

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the

LGA

curre

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tand

ards

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1 -2

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rs

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ompl

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52

14

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ng

52

14

Fa

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ies

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Publ

ic tr

ansp

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1 -2

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rs

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cate

M

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ublic

tran

spor

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vider

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Impr

oved

legi

bilit

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d ac

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to p

ublic

13

16

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ngpr

ovid

e fe

edba

ck fr

om D

IAP

and

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ess

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port

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ns a

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prov

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atro

nage

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erns

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re p

ossib

le

peop

le w

ith a

dis

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y

Fund

ing

Ong

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rvic

eAc

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ek g

rant

fund

ing

for p

roje

cts

An in

crea

se in

ser

vice

s in

frast

ruct

ure

and

52

14

Faci

litie

s an

dop

portu

nitie

s pr

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er

whi

ch e

ncou

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acc

ess

and

incl

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n in

activ

ities

that

ens

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incl

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enes

s an

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rvic

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ader

th

e co

mm

unity

ac

cess

ibilit

y fo

r peo

ple

who

exp

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nce

Com

mun

itydi

sabi

lity

thei

r fam

ilies

and

care

rs

Dev

elop

men

t and

Enga

gem

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Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ng

Acce

ssib

le e

vent

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ngoi

ng

Serv

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Form

alis

e a

12 m

onth

tria

l pro

gram

Incr

ease

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11

5C

omm

unity

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ider

of

the

Even

t Ten

t w

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mot

esac

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for p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

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y D

evel

opm

ent a

nd5

31

5Ad

voca

te

and

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les

grea

ter p

artic

ipat

ion

atEn

gage

men

t5

41

1co

mm

unity

eve

nts

of p

eopl

e an

d fa

milie

sTo

uris

m a

nd E

vent

s w

ho h

ave

a di

sabi

lity

17

18

Improving access to services through better systems and processes

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Alig

ning

Act

ion

Ong

oing

Le

ader

En

sure

that

the

DIA

P al

igns

with

This

pla

n m

eets

the

Loca

l5

31

13

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ngPl

an w

ith In

tegr

ated

the

Inte

grat

ed R

epor

ting

Fram

ing

Gov

ernm

ent D

IAP

guid

elin

eR

epor

ting

and

that

the

actio

ns in

this

Act

ion

requ

irem

ents

and

act

ions

are

Fram

ewor

k Pl

an a

re in

clud

ed in

the

(4 y

ear)

impl

emen

ted

Del

iver

y Pr

ogra

m a

nd th

e An

nual

Ope

ratio

nal P

lan

Info

rmat

ion

to th

e0

ndash 1

year

Le

ader

and

Enab

le th

e ab

ility

to p

rovi

de a

ndM

ore

peop

le a

re a

ble

to a

cces

s5

31

6 Office of the General

publ

ic

Serv

ice

rece

ive

info

rmat

ion

to a

nd fr

om th

ein

form

atio

n an

d pa

rticip

ate

in th

eir

Man

ager

Pr

ovid

er

publ

ic in

a ra

nge

of fo

rmat

s R

evie

wlo

cal c

omm

unity

and

the

affa

irs o

fpu

blic

exh

ibiti

on te

mpl

ate

to m

ake

loca

l gov

ernm

ent

clea

rer t

hat w

e ac

cept

sub

mis

sion

sin

all

form

ats

not

just

writ

ten

eg

vide

o v

oice

rec

ordi

ng

Mai

ntai

n w

ebsi

te a

cces

sibi

lity

55

18

Com

mun

icat

ions

(WAA

G) 2

0 A

A le

vel

Polic

ies

and

1 -2

yea

rs

Lead

erS

ervi

ceC

ounc

il inv

estig

ates

opt

ions

toR

emov

e ob

stac

les

for p

eopl

e w

ith1

31

6 St

rate

gic

Plan

ning

pr

oced

ures

Pr

ovid

er

impr

ove

unde

rsta

ndin

g of

pol

icies

and

a di

sabi

lity

to e

nabl

e ac

hiev

emen

tpr

oced

ures

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

disa

bility

of

pos

itive

and

sus

tain

able

empl

oym

ent o

utco

mes

Supporting access to meaningful employment

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Volu

ntee

ring

1 -2

yea

rs

Lead

er

Rev

iew

vol

unte

erin

g pr

oces

ses

for

Incr

ease

d ac

cess

to v

olun

teer

ing

16

13

Com

mun

ity S

ervi

ces

proc

esse

s Po

rt St

ephe

ns C

ounc

il to

ens

ure

oppo

rtuni

ties

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

that

they

are

wel

com

ing

of p

eopl

edi

sabi

lity

w

ith d

isab

ility

Rec

ruitm

ent

Ong

oing

Le

ader

C

ontin

ue to

offe

r can

dida

tes

anO

ngoi

ng e

mpl

oym

ent o

ppor

tuni

ties

51

42

Org

anis

atio

nal

proc

esse

s op

tion

to d

iscl

ose

whe

ther

or n

otfo

r peo

ple

who

hav

e a

disa

bilit

y w

ithD

evel

opm

ent

they

hav

e a

disa

bilit

y du

ring

the

Port

Step

hens

Cou

ncil

appl

icat

ion

proc

ess

so th

at C

ounc

ilar

e ab

le to

ens

ure

that

app

lican

tsw

ith a

dis

abilit

y ar

e an

d fe

elsu

ppor

ted

thro

ugho

ut th

e pr

oces

s

Attitudes and Behaviours

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Educ

atio

n fo

r sho

p0

- 1 y

ear

Advo

cate

Aw

aren

ess

and

educ

atio

nO

utco

me

is a

rais

ed a

war

enes

s of

41

24

Econ

omic

owne

rsb

usin

esse

sca

mpa

igns

targ

etin

g bu

sine

ss

the

need

s of

peo

ple

with

a d

isab

ility

Dev

elop

men

ton

acc

ess

issue

s fo

row

ners

via

Biz

Lin

k ne

twor

kac

cess

issu

espe

ople

with

disa

bility

ne

wsl

ette

rs a

nd b

usin

ess

cham

bers

to fo

ster

and

enc

oura

ge th

efo

llow

ing

initi

ativ

es

bull D

evel

op c

ompa

nion

car

d fri

endl

yin

itiat

ive

whi

ch e

nabl

es fr

ee e

ntry

to c

erta

in v

enue

sev

ents

for

care

rs to

acc

ompa

ny p

eopl

e w

itha

disa

bilit

y

1-2

year

s Ad

voca

te

bull Pr

efer

red

empl

oyer

aw

ards

for

41

24

Econ

omic

disa

bilit

y ac

cess

ible

wor

kpla

ce

Dev

elop

men

t

Sta

ff ar

e su

pp

orte

d a

nd h

ave

gre

ater

know

led

ge

of th

e va

riety

of n

eed

s of

peo

ple

with

a d

isab

ility

and

the

need

for i

nclu

sion

Staf

f aw

aren

ess

of1

-2 y

ears

Le

ader

To

pro

vide

train

ing

for C

ounc

il sta

ffSt

aff a

re s

uppo

rted

and

have

51

42

Org

anis

atio

nal

the

need

s of

peo

ple

on h

ow to

wor

k w

ith a

nd u

nder

stan

dgr

eate

r kno

wle

dge

of th

e va

riety

of

Dev

elop

men

tw

ith d

isab

ility

peop

le w

ith d

isabi

lity th

roug

h C

ounc

ilsne

eds

of p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

y an

d

The

prio

rity

timef

ram

e ra

ting

indi

cate

s th

at a

Hig

h pr

iorit

y sh

ould

be

com

plet

ed w

ithin

1 y

ear

Med

ium

prio

rity

with

in 2

yea

rs a

nd L

ow p

riorit

y w

ithin

3 to

4 y

ears

Wor

kpla

ce E

quity

amp D

ivers

ityC

omm

ittee

and

Gui

de (a

ttach

ed)

the

need

for i

nclu

sion

19

Governance monitoring and evaulation To ensure implementation of the Plan an internal working group made up of stakeholders who have responsibility for implementing actions with the plan will be ongoing The working group will meet quarterly to discuss the Action Plan and linkages to both current and future projects and programs including

bull Each new capital works project will consider disability improvements to inclusion and accessibility within the Project Management Plan scoping and procurement document (in addition to Disability Discrimination Act compliance) Improvements for consideration include Location of the

proposed project and Improvements to carpark access to

and from kerb ramp location and availability and pathwayrsquos etc that enable more seamless connectivity

Progress of the plan will be monitored and implementation of actions within the Plan will be reported through a range of governance processes including

bull Six monthly reporting to Councils Executive Leadership team and Council

bull Operational Plan annual reporting as part of the Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework

bull Annual Report bull End of Term Reporting bull Customer satisfaction annual survey and

reporting To enable effective measurement and monitoring of actions within the plan the Port Stephens Customer Satisfaction Survey will include a section within the survey of questions that people who experience disability their families carers and people who work in the disability sector can elect to answer

20 Port Stephens Council

Conclusion Port Stephens Council has a strong commitment to enhancing life experience of people with a disability in the Local Government Area

In developing the Disability Inclusion Action Plan Port Stephens Council has built on the strengths of existing Council resources Council structurestaff plans policies and the local closely connected community by consulting with a broad range of stakeholders

The priorities identified above reflect Council values and principles The individual objectives once approved by Council are to be included in the 2017-2021 Delivery Program and the Annual Operational Plans for each of those four (4) years Within the Integrated and Strategic Planning framework the responsibility reporting and resourcing for the objectives will be defined

Draw together diverse interests and strive towards attaining greater consensus on sustainable outcomes for the local government area

ACTION PLANDisability Inclusion

21

understanding of your requirements and helpful (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

11a Please provide details of your experiences with Council staff

12 Any other comments

Appendix 1 DIAP Survey 1 What is your age 2 What suburb do you live in

(Required) 3 Gender 4 Language used at home 5 Are you a carer or a person with

disability (Choose all that apply) a Carer b Person with disability c Family member

6 Do you think the Port Stephens Community is welcoming of people with disabilities Eg businesses shops etc (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

6a Please give us some examples of positive or negative experiences you have had

7 Have you encountered any problems barriers or issues in using transport options (Choose all that apply) a Walking or wheelchair use b Local buses c Electric Scooter d Other

7a Please give us some examples of positive or negative experiences you have had

8 Do you think facilities and services are accessible and inclusive in Port Stephens a Councilrsquos Administration Building Yes No b Community centres Yes No c Events Yes No d Libraries Yes No e Parks Yes No f Pools Yes No g Other Yes No

22 Port Stephens Council

8a Can you give us any examples for improvements

9 Do you find Councilrsquos information publications accessible

Website Yes No Newsletters Yes No

9a Do you have suggestions for improvements

10 Would you like to see an improvement in online services through Councilrsquos website such as the electronic payment of rates andor fees and charges (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

11 Do you find Council staff at all of its locations and facilities approachable

Appendix 2 community consultation Results from consultation and the survey The areas identified for improvement by were framed around the four priority areas the Port Stephens community are (in order for an inclusive community Liveable of priority) communities Attitudes and behaviours Employment and Systems and processes

Liveable Communities

Focus Area Comments Foot pathsramps ldquoFootpathsramps ndash uneven rough need ramps to access

roads need lighting on paths and stairs need more footpaths wider footpaths some ramps too steeprdquo

ldquoAll new kerb ramps should have no step between the bottom of the ramp and the gutterroad The small step that is still mostly used at the bottom of curb ramps is completely unnecessary (it doesnrsquot improve water flow in the gutter as some people think it does) but it makes it harder for a wheelchair user even if the step is only 2cm or less The same argument applies to drivewaysrdquo

ACTION PLAN

Accessibility to ldquoCluttered walkways access to beaches (wheelchair accessible eventsactivities ramps) Braille on signage audio description at places of shops sporting interest Henderson Park upgrade (steep steps to pontoon facilities parks no disability parking) access to pontoons for fishing (Karuah

good example of how to do it) Wider access passageways and doorways (eg some places have double doors but keep one door locked eg Salamander library)rdquo

Provision of venues ldquoLack of disability services in parks (eg Liberty swingswing services events with 5-point harness) lack of covered areas in parks (many

sun-sensitive due to medication plus rain cover) hydrotherapy pool fences around parks disability friendly slide at parks audio loop neededrdquo

ldquoI would like to see more programs that support carers and the families of people with disabilities in the Port Stephens Local Government Area as their (sic) simply isnrsquot enough I would also like more programs to support people with disabilities so that as a community we can start supporting each other through the hardship of living with a disabilityrdquo

Disability Inclusion 23

Focus Area Comments Public toilets ldquoThere are lack of amenities in disabled toilets (eg adults who

need help changing continence aids hoists in toilets) need more (eg Nelson Bay)rdquo

ldquoDisabled toilets do not cater for older persons with a disability who require nappy changing facilities It is not nice to change on the floor of a disabled toilet and parents room tables are too smallrdquo

Parking ldquoThere is a lack of disabled parking some disabled parks are not wheelchair friendlyrdquo

ldquoSubstandard pavement surfaces for walker frames and mobility scooters Lack of disability parking spaces at Soldiers Point Boat ramp and Salamander Bay wharf and various other areas within the Port Stephens areardquo

Public transport ldquoInfrastructure improvements for more and better transport limited timetables too many transfers to get to destination want regular community bus (low cost or for free)rdquo

Attitudes and Behaviours

Focus Area Comments Respectful and It should be noted that most people reported positive encounters inclusive community with the public and council staff One comment stated ldquocould and services improve empathy and understanding from public on what it is

like to have a disabilityrdquo

ldquoHearing impaired when asked to speak slower shop people yell and pull faces as if trying to mouth out each word very embarrassingrdquo

ldquoStaring commentingrdquo

Public education ldquoEducation for people in shops about disability disabled amenitiesfacilities being used by public (change-rooms toilets parking) but consideration needed so as not to discriminate against those who do not ldquoappearrdquo to have a disabilityrdquo

It should be noted that most people reported positive encounters with the public and council staff

24 Port Stephens Council

Employment

Focus Area Comments No issues identified however it was acknowledged in internal communication with staff that Council could lead the way in more employment of people with a disability this could include recruitment processes which are lsquomore welcomingrsquo and encourage people to apply for positions It also was acknowledged that Council policies procedures systems and processes could be reviewed for lsquoeasy readrsquo format

Systems and Processes

Focus Area Comments Range of information dissemination

Promotion and awareness of activitesevents services

ldquoNot everyone gets newspaper so send information in other ways (emailed with rates) need to consider information dissemination for people with hearing and vision impairedrdquo

ldquoI have rarely seen a Council newsletter Also the website needs to be cleaner clearer more navigable and user friendlyrdquo

ldquoLeft-aligning text might seem like a visual imposition to the sighted person but this simple change is the difference between being able to read for people who are blind or who have low visionrdquo

ldquoEye level display for people using wheelchairsrdquo

Some people were confused or unaware of services amenities available to them

In some areas ldquoFor those of us who get their bills via email it would be great if we were emailed regularly about items on public exhibition etc to replace what other residents would see in your adds in the Examinerrdquo

ldquoMore information areas to access helprdquo

ldquoDidnrsquot know you had a newsletterrdquo

Consulation on council infrastructure

Respondents welcomed the Council distributing this survey for comment but others felt more consideration of disability issues was needed

ldquoPlanning doesnrsquot seem to include disabled accessibility issues for new projectsrdquo

ldquoConsideration of people who are blind or low vision in future planning ie Braille on all signage (or on poles or mounts for elevated signage) Audio description at places of interest geographical cultural or historical significance Blind people miss out on our beautiful views they deserve to be catered to with regard to what else PS has to offer Infrastructure improvements that support more and better public transport to Port Stephensrdquo

Disabilit y Inclusion ACTION PLAN 25

Do you think the Port Stephens Community is welcoming of people with disabilities Eg businesses shops etc Most people felt Port Stephens is welcoming (68)

Have you encountered any problems barriers or issues in using transport options

68

0 10 20 30 40 50

Electric Scooter

Walking or wheelchair use

Local buses

Other

Do you think facilities and services are accessible and inclusive in Port Stephens

Focus Area Yes No

Councils Administration Building 57 6

Community centres 53 8

Events 36 21

Libraries 60 2

Parks 38 27

Pools 43 15

Other 18 13

26 Port Stephens Council

Do you find Councilrsquos information publications accessible

Focus area website

Would you like to see an improvement in online services through Councilrsquos website such as the electronic payment of rates and or fees and charges

Do you find Council staff at all of its locations and facilities approachable understanding of your requirements and helpful

Most comments in this section indicated council staff was very helpful and polite

Any other comments

Items for improvement (in order of priority)

Yes 36

Yes 55

Yes 48

No 6

No 18

No 11

1 Provision of venues services events 2 Roadscrossings 3 Footpathsramps 4 Public toilets 5 Public education The following summary outlines the priorities identified across all questions of the survey

ACTION PLANDisabilit y Inclusion

27

App

endi

x 3

Func

tions

ser

vice

s an

d as

sets

Function Area Community Services Sector

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Man

ager

Ngi

oka

Com

mun

ityH

ortic

ultu

ral

Serv

ices

Th

erap

yC

entre

Volu

ntee

r wor

kfor

ce o

f up

to80

0 p

rovi

sion

of lsquo

whe

el in

whe

el o

utrsquo g

arba

ge c

olle

ctio

nfo

r peo

ple

with

dis

abilit

y liv

ing

at h

ome

Pro

visi

on o

fpr

ogra

ms

for c

hild

ren

with

addi

tiona

l nee

ds a

t Out

side

of S

choo

l Hou

rs C

are

Chi

ldre

nsrsquo a

ctiv

ity V

an a

ndFa

mily

Day

Car

e P

rovi

sion

of la

rge

prin

t boo

ks t

alki

ngbo

oks

and

audi

o an

d vi

sual

navi

gatio

n ai

ds a

t lib

rarie

sLe

ar to

sw

im p

rogr

ams

atco

unci

l aqu

atic

cen

tres

Info

rmat

ion

on w

ebsi

te re

Leas

e of

Gra

ham

stow

nVo

lunt

eer s

trate

gy35

5vo

lunt

eers

Aqua

tic R

eser

ve fo

r use

by

Part

A an

d Pa

rt B

com

mitt

ees

Saila

bilit

y (P

SC le

ase

the

Larg

e te

xt fo

rmat

ting

onla

nd fr

om H

unte

r Wat

er a

ndw

ebsi

te

Saila

bilit

y su

b-le

ase

the

land

of P

SC)

Link

s to

vol

unte

er re

sour

ces

in J

ob a

genc

ies

TAF

Eot

her a

reas

bus

ines

ses

etc

univ

ersi

ties

sch

ools

Brai

lle a

nd la

rge

font

com

pute

rs

Rev

iew

pol

icie

spr

oced

ures

toen

sure

they

are

lsquoeas

y re

adrsquo f

orm

at

Busi

ness

lead

ersh

ipto

enh

ance

Ngi

oka

as a

mul

ti-pu

rpos

ece

ntre

and

to p

rom

ote

and

alig

n w

ith N

DIS

pers

onal

pla

ns

28

Function Area Community Services ndash Library Services

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Resource

Libr

ary

Civ

il Ass

ets

Serv

ices

Sect

ion

Man

ager

M

anag

erC

omm

unity

and

Rec

reat

ion

Assets Officer

Paid

Lib

rary

Sta

ff x

24C

asua

l Lib

rary

Sta

ff x

11Li

brar

y Vo

lunt

eers

x 5

5As

sist

ive

Adap

tive

tech

nolo

gy(A

udio

Rea

d na

viga

tors

Zoo

mTe

xt s

cree

n re

ader

sof

twar

ela

rge

prin

t boo

ks a

udio

boo

ks

IInfo

rmat

ion

on a

ll Li

brar

ySe

rvic

es re

late

d to

ser

vice

spr

ogra

ms

and

activ

ities

ndashdi

spla

yed

in b

ranc

hes

via

(flyerspostersTV monitors)

and

on

bull Fa

cebo

ok W

ebsi

tebull

Scho

ol N

ewsl

ette

rs W

hatrsquos

on in

our

Bac

kyar

dbull

PS E

xam

iner

bull N

ews

of th

e Ar

ea (T

eaG

arde

ns N

elso

n Ba

y an

dM

edow

ie)

Thou

Wal

la S

choo

ls a

sC

omm

uniti

es C

entre

New

cast

le R

egio

n Li

brar

y C

o-op

erat

ive

Cen

tral E

ast Z

one

(Reg

iona

lLi

brar

ies

Gro

up)

Publ

ic L

ibra

ries

NSW

Hun

ter W

EAH

isto

rical

and

Fam

ily H

isto

rySo

ciet

ies

RT

Art S

pace

Gro

upR

eal F

utur

es F

ound

atio

n

Inte

rnet

Usa

ge P

olic

yW

aivi

ng O

verd

ueC

harg

esSo

cial

Med

ia P

olic

yLi

brar

y U

ser

Gui

delin

esPS

C L

ibra

ry B

roch

ure

New

cast

le re

gion

Libr

ary

Broc

hure

Volu

ntee

r Pos

ition

Des

crip

tions

and

Han

dboo

kH

isto

rical

Soc

iety

Fa

mily

His

tory

Gro

upAg

reem

ents

Wor

k H

ealth

and

Safe

tyC

omm

ittee

WH

S R

ep-

rese

ntat

ives

Com

mitt

eeW

orkp

lace

Equi

ty a

ndD

iver

sity

Com

mitt

eeC

onsu

ltativ

eC

omm

ittee

Her

itage

Advi

sory

Com

mitt

ee

Dis

able

d to

ilets

do

not c

ater

for o

lder

per

sons

with

a d

isab

ility

who

req

uire

nap

py

chan

gin

g fa

cilit

ies

It is

not

nic

e to

cha

nge

on th

e flo

orof

a d

isab

led

toile

t and

par

ents

room

tab

les

are

too

smal

l

29

Function Area Assets Section

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Asse

t Sec

tion

Man

ager

C

omm

unity

land

man

age-

men

t pu

blic

toile

ts p

arks

pl

aygr

ound

sre

serv

es

fore

shor

es

mar

ine

ac-

cess

spo

rting

fields sports

faci

litie

sco

mm

unity

build

ings

co

mm

unity

halls

sig

nage

Mai

ntai

n an

d up

grad

e pu

blic

Asse

ts re

gist

er c

ondi

tion

Gov

ernm

ent a

genc

ies

gra

ntVa

rious

pla

ns o

fsp

aces

fac

ilitie

s a

sset

s an

dra

ting

syst

em

fund

ing

sche

mes

pro

perty

Management (specific

plac

es in

line

with

legi

slat

ive

deve

lope

rs c

omm

unity

and

gene

ric)

Cou

ncil

Ope

ns S

pace

Stra

tegy

requ

irem

ents

and

com

mun

itygr

oups

int

eres

t gro

ups

polic

ies

Man

agem

ent

(und

erw

ay)

need

s D

irect

ives

Spor

ts C

oun-

cils

355

Com

-m

ittee

sC

omm

unity

grou

ps P

arks

and

Res

erve

sC

omm

ittee

s

Ensu

reth

at th

ede

sign

and

cons

truct

ion

of n

ewfa

cilit

ies

and

infra

stru

ctur

eis

con

side

rate

to li

mite

dac

cess

com

mun

itym

embe

rs

Ensu

re th

at u

pgra

des

and

mai

nten

ance

to c

omm

unity

faci

litie

s ar

e al

igne

d w

ithpr

iorit

ies

for i

nclu

sion

Prep

are

the

Ope

n Sp

ace

Stra

tegy

pla

ns fo

r upg

rade

s to

com

mun

ity fa

cilit

ies

and

area

sw

here

infra

stru

ctur

e ne

eds

to b

e co

nsid

erat

e of

lim

ited

acce

ss c

omm

unity

mem

bers

Ensu

re 3

55 c

omm

ittee

sco

nsid

er a

cces

s an

d in

clus

ion

whe

n th

inki

ng a

bout

pro

gram

sEn

sure

355

Com

mitt

ees

use

fund

s pr

ovid

ed b

y C

ounc

il to

cons

ider

acc

ess

and

incl

usio

nw

hen

build

ing

infra

stru

ctur

e

Activ

ely

seek

gra

nt fu

ndin

gfor projects identified within

the

Ope

ns S

pace

Stra

tegy

in o

rder

to im

prov

e ac

cess

to in

clus

ion

to c

omm

unity

faci

litie

s an

d ar

eas

thro

ugho

utth

e LG

A

Rev

iew

and

upd

ate

exis

ting

plan

s an

dpo

licie

s in

line

with

legi

slat

ive

chan

ges

and identified needs

of th

e co

mm

unity

O

pens

Spa

ceSt

rate

gy (u

nder

way

)

Enco

urag

eco

mm

unity

grou

ps a

ndco

mm

ittee

to u

nder

take

proj

ects

and

prog

ram

s to

enco

urag

eac

cess

incl

usio

n

30

Function Area Human Resource Sector

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners

and agency

collaboration

Plans and Policies

Brochures documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

PotentialResource

Man

ager

Rec

ruitm

ent o

f new

sta

ffIn

form

atio

n on

web

site

in

Rec

ruitm

ent p

olic

ypr

oced

ures

Vo

lunt

eer

Hum

anhard file and on intra net

35

5 C

om-

Management of staffing

Res

ourc

es

mitt

ees

(leav

e A

war

d pr

ovis

ions

su

pera

nnua

tion

etc)

Rec

ruitm

ent p

roce

sses

toIn

form

atio

n in

rang

e of

Job

netw

ork

Rec

ruitm

ent p

roce

ss w

hich

isbe

wel

com

ing

of p

eopl

e w

ithfo

rmat

s in

clud

ing

soci

alag

enci

es

wel

com

ing

of p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

ydi

sabi

lity

olde

r peo

ple

med

ia e

tc P

lus

help

for

busi

ness

es

(adv

ertis

ing

whi

ch w

elco

mes

peo

ple

thos

e w

ho h

ave

a di

sabi

lity

with

a d

isab

ility

+ pr

oces

ses

whi

char

e no

t too

com

plex

Function Area Environment amp PlanningPublic Domain and Services

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners

and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Man

ager

Toile

ts p

ublic

spa

ces

(ieM

aint

ain

and

upgr

ade

publ

icAs

sets

regi

ster

Dev

elop

ers

Publ

ic S

pace

sU

rban

adv

isor

yEn

viro

nmen

tparks sporting fields) and

spac

es a

nd p

lace

s in

line

with

polic

y co

mm

ittee

Ope

n Sp

aces

stra

tegy

and

Plan

ning

bu

ildin

gs (c

omm

unity

hal

ls)

legi

slat

ion

Ensu

re th

at u

pgra

des

toO

pen

Spac

es s

trate

gy to

publ

ic s

pace

s ar

e al

igne

d w

ithin

clud

e up

grad

es to

are

aspr

iorit

ies

for i

nclu

sion

w

here

infra

stru

ctur

e ne

eds

tobe

mor

e in

clus

ive

(ie ra

mps

inm

ajor

hal

ls th

at a

re u

sed)

31

Function Area Communications

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision

of Goods or

services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Com

mun

ica-

Web

site

Pr

ovid

eIn

form

atio

nC

omm

unic

atio

ntio

ns M

anag

er

soci

al m

edia

in

form

atio

n in

on w

ebsi

te

polic

y ha

rd c

opy

rang

e of

form

ats

Dire

ctor

y on

plan

s p

olic

ies

to th

e pu

blic

w

ebsi

tean

d pr

oce-

Larg

e te

xtdu

res

form

attin

g on

web

site

Com

mun

ityD

evel

opm

ent

and

Enga

gem

ent

Man

ager

Exhi

bitio

n Su

bmis

sion

s an

d G

rant

opp

ortu

nitie

sC

omm

unity

Dev

elop

men

t and

Eng

agem

ent p

artn

ers

impr

ovem

ents

incl

udin

gbull

MyL

ink

grou

pbull

Abor

igin

al S

trate

gic

Com

mun

itybull

Your

th p

anel

bull Bu

sine

ss g

roup

sbull

365

Com

mitt

ees

Left-

alig

ning

text

mig

ht s

eem

like

a v

isua

l im

pos

ition

to th

e si

ght

edp

erso

n b

ut th

is s

imp

le c

hang

e is

the

diff

eren

ce b

etw

een

bei

ng a

ble

tore

ad fo

r peo

ple

who

are

blin

d o

r who

hav

e lo

w v

isio

n

32

Function Area Strategy and Environment

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

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355

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5 Ad

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33

Function Area Civil Assets

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities in-

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Provision

of Goods or

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il Ass

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able

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srdquo

34

Function Area Community Development

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Potential Resource

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ity35

5 Ad

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nt P

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ams

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35

Disability Inclusion

ACTION PLAN

Disability InclusionInclusionDisability InclusionInclusionDisability

For more information please contact Development Services councilportstephensnswgovau | 02 4980 0255 | PORTSTEPHENSNSWGOVAU

Page 5: Port Stephens Council DIAP 2016 - facs.nsw.gov.au · In 2016, Port Stephens had a population of 64,807 at the 2016 Census. This igure is predicted to rise by up to 23,000 over the

Executive summary The Port Stephens Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) outlines Councils commitment to support the right of choice for people with a disability and to live their lives with access to opportunities and to enjoy the benefits of living and working in our society as all residents do

Development of the DIAP has given Council an opportunity to focus on enriching Councils commitment to creating a place that is more inclusive accessible and provides opportunities for all abilities and backgrounds

Port Stephens Council consulted extensively with people in the local government area who have a disability their families carers and disability groups to identify challenges barriers and issues for inclusion The consultation process enabled discussion and feedback and provided ideas and suggestions for change and improvement

Stakeholder priorities were established through external consultation as well as mapping of existing Council functions services and assets to identify potential opportunities to achieve a more inclusive and accessible society Community consultation and mapping outcomes were then analysed to identify actions A further risk management process was undertaken before incorporating appropriate actions into existing Port Stephens Council Integrated Plans

The implementation of these actions will be reviewed on an annual basis to ensure disability inclusion is given appropriate

consideration including in in other plans policies and procedures

This DIAP is underpinned by Councilrsquos policies programs and regulatory responsibilities including a commitment to social justice principles which are integrated within the Integrated Planning and Reporting framework (IPampR) Port Stephens Integrated Plans encompass the Community Strategic Plan 2013-2023 the Delivery Program 2013-2017 and the Operational Plan 2016-2017

The DIAP and actions within it are framed around four focus areas These areas were developed during development of the NSW Disability Inclusion Plan by people with a disability These focus areas and actions are outlined below will be delivered through Councils Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework

1 Liveable communities (including physical access to buildings and facilities and transport)

2 Attitudes and behaviours 3 Supporting access to meaningful

employment and 4 Improving access to services through

better systems and processes (which is about availability and accessibility of information regarding services)

In line with the Disability Inclusion Act 2014 the Port Stephens DIAP will be reported on annually to the Minister for Disability Furthermore Council will review the disability inclusion action planning process every four years as a minimum

Live their lives access opportunities and enjoy the benefits of living and working in our society as all residents do

Disability Inclusion ACTION PLAN 5

Background Port Stephens Local Government Area (LGA) is in the Hunter Region of New South Wales within the Port Stephens and Great Lakes Marine Park It is approximately two hours drive north of Sydney and 30 minutes from Newcastle In 2016 Port Stephens had a population of 64807 at the 2016 Census This figure is predicted to rise by up to 23000 over the next 15 years1

Port Stephens has grown as a regional centre with a mix of coastal and rural villages and larger regional centres including coastal centres which presents a diverse range of opportunities for everyone in the LGA

The proportion of people who experience disability can be correlated to Need for Assistance (Has need for assistance with core activities) census data In Port Stephens the proportion of people who identify as having a Need for Assistance in Port Stephens is 64 of the population Comparatively NSW has 537 of the population and the Hunter notes 639 who identify as having a Need for Assistance

Council is already a direct provider of services for people with a disability and their carers through

bull Leasing of the Ngioka Centre to the Endeavour Foundation who will provide disability support services under the NDIS scheme

bull Leasing of the Grahamstown Dam Aquatic Reserve to Sailability

bull Provision of Wheel in Wheel Out garbage bin service

1 Retrieved wwwportstephensnswgovau 2 Source wwwportstephenscouncilnswgovauvolunteering

Port Stephens Council

bull Provision of programs for children with additional needs at Outside School Hours Care (Raymond Terrace Medowie) Port Stephens Activity Van and Family Day Care

bull Provision of large print books talking books and audit and visual navigation aids from libraries (Raymond Terrace Salamander Bay Mobile Library) and

bull Provision of equipment at Aquatic Centres that enable safe entry into and out of heated swimming pools

Council owns and maintains a large asset portfolio that includes the following asset classes

bull Civil assets (bridges depots drainage pathways)

bull Road pavements

bull Transport facilities

bull Waste facilities and

bull Community and recreation assets (aquatic centres cemeteries libraries multipurpose facilities childcare centres parks and reserves playgrounds public amenities skate parks sport facilities surf lifesaving clubs waterways)

Mapping of functions services and assets (Appendix 3) enables identification of assets and services with potential to contribute to achievement of a more inclusive society

Council provides opportunities for partnerships and volunteering in the care and management of community facilities parklands and in public services

6

Volunteer opportunities are available in areas such as

bull Halls and community centres bull Parks reserves and Landcare groups bull Cemetery committees bull Sports council and clubs and bull Advisory and cultural groups and

libraries (among others)2

This DIAP defines strategies and provides a planning framework and actions to promote inclusion and equity for people with a disability so they may fully participate in and contribute to social business and community life The DIAP will enhance and complement the existing services provided by Port Stephens Council and will encourage an ongoing focus on building a socially inclusive and

Port Stephens Council will encourage an ongoing focus on building a socially inclusive and accessible place for all

ACTION PLANDisability Inclusion

7

accessible place for all

Carry out its functions in a way that provides best possible outcomes for the local community Plan strategically within the integrated planning and reporting framework for present

summarised below Strong and effective

representation leadership planning and decision making

Inclusive communities where individuals can fully participate in social business and community life

The community vision for the Port Stephens Community Strategic Plan is to have ldquoa great lifestyle in a treasured environmentrdquo This vision can only truly be achieved in a society that is inclusive and accessible for people of all abilities and

This Plan is critical to achieve positive

Guiding principles

backgrounds

change and create a more inclusive society A more inclusive society is diverse stronger and more sustainable

To achieve this the following principles underpin and reinforce the actions and desired outcomes within the DIAP and align with the philosophy behind the NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014 the Community Strategic Plan and the communities vision

bull Social justice principles of Equity Access Participation Rights

bull Guiding principles for Councils in accordance with Chapter 3 of the Local Government Act 1993 which are

and future populations Working with others to secure

appropriate services for local community needs and

Fairly ethically and without bias in the interests of the local community

bull Business Excellence principles Port Stephens Council applies the

Business Excellence principles to inform continuous improvement and strengthen the organisations ability to deliver more efficient and effective services to the community

Port Stephens Council8

Policy and legislative context Definition The Disability Inclusion Act 2014 defines disability as lsquoThe long-term physical mental intellectual or sensory impairment which in interaction with various barriers may hinder the full and effective participation in society on an equal basis with othersrsquo

In the context of the DIAP lsquodisabilityrsquo includes functional impairments or limitations which may be present from birth acquired by accident or illness or due to the process of ageing The impairments may be substantial or seemingly minor temporary or permanent

Legislation In 1993 all NSW government departments and some other government bodies were required to undertake disability action planning when the NSW Disability Services Act 1993 (DSA) was introduced

In 2008 the Australian Government committed to implementing the United Nations (UN) Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities

In 2014 a strengthened commitment to inclusion better consultation with people with disability and protection of their rights was propelled with the introduction of the Disability Inclusion Act 2014 which replaced the DSA

There is a suite of further Commonwealth and State legislation that promotes and drives improving access and inclusion for people with a disability

INTERNATIONAL bull Principles of the UN Convention on the

Rights of People with a Disability

COMMONWEALTH bull Disability Discrimination Act 1992 bull Australian Government NDIS Act 2013 bull Australian Government Aged Care

(Living Longer Living Better) Act 2013

NSW bull NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014

The most recent legislation and amendments reflect a shift towards the view that while a disability may affect the way that a person interacts with others and their environment it should not define a person and it should not limit their capacity to become an integral part of the community Although the rights of a person with a disability have been defined as the same rights as those of all people since the early 1990s it is understood that upholding these rights must include promotion of individual choice about what is important to them universal access to services and facilities and inclusive communities where individuals can fully participate in social business and community life

The NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014 promotes the view that lsquoinclusionrsquo is not only a goal for service providers and public and private sector organisations it is a responsibility of the whole community It legislates for the rights of people with a disability to full participation in every-day life with enhanced community connection independence empowerment and wellbeing It is the role of local government through a Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) to promote and support inclusion in their communities

ADDITIONAL LEGISLATION bull Carers (Recognition) Act 2010 (NSW)

Disability not only affects people who have a disability but also people who care for them The Carers (Recognition) Act 2010 acknowledges the significance of carers including respect and recognition inclusion in decision making and access to services they may need

bull Local Government Act 1993 The Local Government Act 1993 sets out the framework and responsibilities of Councils and provides guidance to enable councilrsquos to carry out their functions in a way that facilitates local communities that are strong healthy and prosperous

Disability Inclusion ACTION PLAN 9

Draw together diverse interests and strive towards attaining greater consensus on sustainable outcomes for the local government area

10 Port Stephens Council

Councilrsquos responsibilities and roles Role of council New South Wales (NSW) is entering a new era in disability inclusion planning Councilrsquos role in implementation of the DIAP will include as a direct service provider as a leader an advocate and facilitator

bull As leader Council acts as a role model for others through its own actions strategic organisational responses and way of doing things In its dialogue with the communities and other stakeholders Council can act to draw together diverse interests and strive towards attaining greater consensus on sustainable outcomes for the local government area

bull As advocate Council seeks to improve services facilities and opportunities for the local government area and its communities by lobbying agencies and other levels of government In discussions with others there are opportunities to reinforce Port Stephens sense of identity and resilience and collaborate on achieving a more sustainable local government area

bull As facilitator Council assists interaction amongst stakeholders and forms strategic alliances aimed at promoting sustainability initiatives focussing on elements including social economic environmental

cultural and governance which demonstrate positive ways of moving forward

bull As service provider Council has a strong commitment to delivering the services needed by its communities and ensuring that Council resources are responsibly managed Councilrsquos role as a service provider aims to assist in building the long-term health of the local government area

Executive responsibility and project coordination Port Stephens Council supports the development and implementation of the DIAP The General Manager has responsibility to oversee the various functionsgroups of Council

The DIAP will be coordinated by the Social Planning Unit within the Strategy and Environment section of the Development Services team Responsibility for implementation and resourcing of the DIAP will be across all sections of Council

Disability Inclusion ACTION PLAN 11

systems and processes Focus Area 4

Integrated planning and reporting Goals and strategies of Port Stephens Council are underpinned by five themes which provide focus and direction for the Integrated Planning and Reporting (IPR) framework The four focus areas for the DIAP may be positioned within those five focus areas of Integrated Planning framework

UN Convention on the Right of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD)

National Disability Strategy (NDS)

National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)

NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014 (DIA)

Operational plan

Delivery program

Community strategic plan

Local government disability inclusion action planning

NSW Disability Inclusion Plan 1 Attitudes and behaviours 2 Employment 3 Liveable communities 4 Systems and processes

Port Stephens CSP-themes CSP1 Our citizens

CSP2 Our lifestyle

CSP3 Our environment

CSP4 Our economy

CSP5 Our Council

An inclusive NSW

Focus Areas for DIAP bull Liveable communities Focus Area 2 bull Positive community attitudes and behaviours

Focus Area 1 bull Liveable communities Focus Area 2

bull Liveable communities Focus Area 2

bull Supporting access to meaningful employment Focus Area 3

bull Improving access to services through better

Port Stephens Council 12

ACTION PLAN

Document review As background to the consultation and to confirm issues which have been previously identified in the Port Stephens LGA a review of documents was undertaken Council has a suite of documents which reflect their commitment to an inclusive and connected society in an environment that facilitates opportunities for contribution by all those who live in the Port Stephens Region Reviewed documents included

bull Port Stephens Integrated Plans incorporating Community Strategic Plan

2013-2023 Delivery Program 2013-2017 Operational Plans 2016-2020

bull Port Stephens Strategic Asset Management Plan (2016-2026)

bull Port Stephens Disability Action Plan 2014-2018

bull NSW Disability Inclusion Action Planning Guidelines

Consultation and engagement According to 2016 census data the population of Port Stephens was 69556 which is an increase of 4746 or 732 from 2011 (64810) As the table below notes there are distinct differences in the proportion of people who stated a Need for Assistance between each of Port Stephens planning catchments However community

Need for Assistance

consultation with people who experience a disability their families carers and disability groups show that the barriers challenges and needs of people with a disability to fully participate in community life are similar throughout the LGA

Suburb 2006 2011 2016 Fern Bay 74 87 789

Karuah Swan Bay 53 83 859

Medowie 32 35 393

Raymond Terrace 52 63 775

Rural East 53 47 611

Rural West 29 31 307

Tilligerry 64 73 797

Tomaree 55 55 653

Port Stephens LGA 50 55 640

Disability Inclusion 13

Consultation with the community In seeking to fully understand and identify the barriers to inclusion and access and to find solutions information was sought from key stakeholders Key stakeholders are people within the Port Stephens community who identify as experiencing a disability their carersrsquo and support workers

A survey was completed and distributed within the community from November

2016 to January 2017 The period of the survey was extended over the Christmas periodschool holiday period 71 surveys completed surveys were received from the community

The following table sets out who and how the survey was distributed to key stakeholders

Stakeholder Engagement Processes Council website Surveys could be accessed through Councilrsquos website using

Engagement HQ

Council Facebook page

A link to the survey was placed on Councilrsquos Facebook page The link was lsquoboostedrsquo which meant the page connected anyone in the LGA who had clicked on anything to do with disability which significantly broadened the surveys reach

MyLink Group Advice and information about the DIAP including a link to the survey was distributed to Councils MyLink group MyLink is an email group of members including Not for Profit Groups and Non-Government Organisations (NGOs) such as disability service and support providers The MyLink email group keeps its members informed of upcoming meetings local events professional development opportunities and other important information Notifications of updates are sent to the MyLink email list weekly

Libraries Paper copies of the surveys were provided to the Tomaree and Raymond Terrace Libraries for distribution to disability groups (including disability support groups) who use the library

Media release Media release in the Port Stephens Examiner and online version of the Port Stephens Examiner

Schools Every school in the LGA was contacted via telephone and the survey and link distributed via email Schools then placed the information about the survey and the link in school community newsletters and on Facebook pages

Eagleton Ridge Respite Centre

Eagleton Ridge Respite Centre was contacted and information forwarded about the survey along with a link

Flyer Flyers were developed to help promote the project which contained information about the survey and where to access it Flyers were delivered to doctors surgeries disability service providers and Council run pools

Internal stakeholder meeting

Internal stakeholder meeting and ongoing consultation to go over elements of the DIAP

14 Port Stephens Council

Summary of priorities Returned surveys and consultation meetings presented a clear picture of priorities with suggestions and solutions Looking across all questions in the survey the following outlines the most important priorities for the Port Stephens community

1 Footpathsramps 2 Accessibility to eventsactivities

shops sporting and recreation facilities and parks

3 Provision of venues services events 4 Public toilets 5 Parking 6 Public transport 7 Public education 8 Respectful and inclusive community

and services

Some of the priorities for the community in the consultation for the DIAP were also identified in the Port Stephens Disability Action Plan 2014-2018 Furthermore the Port Stephens Integrated Plans aims to ldquomake future provisions for people with disabilities their families and carersrdquo via several actions including implementing the Disability Inclusion Action Plan

Results of the community consultation were arranged in to the DIAPrsquos four focus groups and actions were developed that align with these areas These focus areas were identified as part of extensive community consultation during development of the NSW Disability Inclusion Plan As such these focus areas became a requirement to be in all NSW agency DIAPs These actions recognise the rights of people with a disability to full and effective participation in an inclusive society the same as those without a disability The following action plan outlines Councilrsquos role and action and priority level

Results of the community consultation were arranged into the DIAPrsquos four focus groups and actions were developed that contribute a more inclusive accessible and liveable society

ACTION PLANDisability Inclusion

15

Act

ion

plan

ning

Liveable Communities

Item for

improvement Priority

Time-

frame

Coun-

cilRole

Action

Outcome

IPRRefer-

ence

Responsibility

Foot

path

s an

d1

-2 y

ears

Se

rvic

eU

nder

take

revi

ew o

f foo

tpat

hs a

nd ra

mps

Upd

ated

and

impl

emen

tatio

n of

42

13

Asse

ts

ram

ps th

roug

hout

Prov

ider

th

roug

hout

LG

A to

det

erm

ine

a pr

iorit

ised

the

Pede

stria

n Ac

cess

and

Mob

ility

LGA

appr

oach

to im

plem

enta

tion

of g

aps

Plan

con

side

rs a

nd p

riorit

ises

peo

ple

upgr

ades

and

new

foot

path

infra

stru

ctur

e

with

dis

abilit

y

0-1

year

U

pdat

ed a

nd im

plem

enta

tion

of th

e Pe

dest

rian

13

16

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ngAc

cess

and

Mob

ility

Plan

con

sider

s an

d pr

iorit

ises

peop

le w

ith d

isabi

lity

Out

door

spa

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1 -2

yea

rs

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ice

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ovid

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eter

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aint

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ings

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ovid

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labo

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spa

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lope

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clusiv

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mm

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for p

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isabi

lity

Two

liber

ty s

win

gs a

re in

stal

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telo

catio

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o fa

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and

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ers

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nal

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rtuni

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(peo

ple

in w

heel

chai

rs i

nclu

ding

adul

ts c

an e

xper

ienc

e a

sens

e of

free

dom

)

52

12

Faci

litie

s an

dSe

rvic

es

52

12

Faci

litie

s an

dSe

rvic

es

Prov

isio

n of

0 ndash

1Ad

voca

te

Dev

elop

the

Plan

of M

anag

emen

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The

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oka

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tre is

man

aged

and

ope

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d 1

31

1 Fa

cilit

ies

and

prog

ram

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rmin

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se

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giok

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ort S

teph

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ncil

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with

Cen

tre is

loca

ted

Th

is a

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ow e

nabl

es th

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tire

a di

sabi

lity

Ngi

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Cen

tre to

by

utili

sed

for d

isab

ility

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ices

und

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DIS

Ong

oing

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rvic

eM

anag

e th

e us

e of

Gra

ham

stow

n Aq

uatic

Con

tinua

tion

of S

aila

bility

and

ong

oing

acc

ess

to1

31

2 C

omm

unity

Ser

vice

sLe

ader

R

eser

ve fo

r use

by

Saila

bility

re

crea

tion

activ

ities

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

y

Ong

oing

Se

rvic

eO

ngoi

ng p

rovi

sion

of w

heel

in w

heel

out

The

Blue

Dot

Ser

vice

13

13

Com

mun

ity S

ervi

ces

Lead

er

garb

age

bin

serv

ice

(Blu

e D

ot S

ervi

ce)

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

y liv

ing

at h

ome

Ong

oing

O

ngoi

ng a

cces

s to

chi

ldre

ns

serv

ices

13

14

Com

mun

ity S

ervi

ces

prog

ram

s fo

r chi

ldre

n w

ith a

dditio

nal n

eeds

at O

utsid

e Sc

hool

Hou

rs C

are

(Ray

mon

dTe

rrace

and

Med

owie

) P

ort S

teph

ens

Activ

ity V

an a

nd F

amily

Day

Car

e

16

Ong

oing

Se

rvic

eO

ngoi

ng p

rovi

sion

and

exp

ansi

on o

fIn

crea

sed

awar

enes

s an

d su

ppor

t for

peo

ple

13

15

Com

mun

ity S

ervi

ces

Prov

ider

as

sist

ive

and

adap

tive

tech

nolo

gyw

ith a

dis

abilit

y an

d in

crea

sed

livea

bilit

y

Cus

tom

er R

elat

ions

incl

udin

gbull

Audi

o re

ad n

avig

ator

sbull

Zoom

text

scr

een

read

er s

oftw

are

bull La

rge

prin

t boo

ksbull

Audi

o bo

oks

Publ

ic to

ilets

2

ndash 4

year

s

Serv

ice

Audi

t of p

ublic

toile

ts to

iden

tify

loca

tions

Impr

oved

acc

essib

ility

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

disa

bility

52

14

Faci

litie

s an

dPr

ovid

er

whe

re a

dult

chan

ge fa

cilit

ies

for p

eopl

ean

d as

sista

nce

for c

arer

s c

arin

g fo

r peo

ple

with

Serv

ices

w

ith a

dis

abilit

y ar

e w

arra

nted

- or

whe

rehi

gh n

eeds

an area could be modified to cater for

peop

le w

ith a

hig

h ne

ed d

isab

ility

durin

gFo

rwar

d W

orks

Pla

n

Advo

cate

Po

rt St

ephe

ns d

isab

ility

acce

ss to

ilets

are

incl

uded

on

the

Aust

ralia

n Pu

blic

Toile

trsquos s

oftw

are

appl

icat

ion

Dis

abilit

y pa

rkin

g1

-2 y

ears

Se

rvic

eR

evie

w d

isab

ility

park

ing

spac

es a

ssp

aces

thro

ugho

utPr

ovid

er identified to ensure compliance against

the

LGA

curre

nt s

tand

ards

and

or

relo

catin

g to

meet compliance (via traffic committee)

1 -2

yea

rs

At re

view

upd

ate

Plan

s of

Man

agem

ent

to in

clud

e di

scus

sion

of d

isab

ility

park

ing

and

impr

ovin

g ac

cess

ibilit

y be

twee

ndi

sabi

lity

park

ing

par

ks a

nd d

isab

ility

acce

ssib

le to

ilets

Incr

ease

in c

ompl

iant

dis

abilit

y pa

rkin

g so

52

14

Faci

litie

s an

d As

sets

pe

ople

who

exp

erie

nce

disa

bilit

y ca

n en

joy

am

ore

seam

less

exp

erie

nce

that

is n

avig

able

and

man

agea

ble

ther

eby

bein

g m

ore

incl

usiv

ean

d va

lue

addi

ng

52

14

Fa

cilit

ies

and

Asse

ts

Publ

ic tr

ansp

ort

1 -2

yea

rs

Advo

cate

M

eet w

ith p

ublic

tran

spor

t pro

vider

s to

Impr

oved

legi

bilit

y an

d ac

cess

to p

ublic

13

16

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ngpr

ovid

e fe

edba

ck fr

om D

IAP

and

addr

ess

trans

port

optio

ns a

nd im

prov

ed p

atro

nage

of

any

conc

erns

whe

re p

ossib

le

peop

le w

ith a

dis

abilit

y

Fund

ing

Ong

oing

Se

rvic

eAc

tivel

y se

ek g

rant

fund

ing

for p

roje

cts

An in

crea

se in

ser

vice

s in

frast

ruct

ure

and

52

14

Faci

litie

s an

dop

portu

nitie

s pr

ovid

er

whi

ch e

ncou

rage

acc

ess

and

incl

usio

n in

activ

ities

that

ens

ure

incl

usiv

enes

s an

dSe

rvic

esLe

ader

th

e co

mm

unity

ac

cess

ibilit

y fo

r peo

ple

who

exp

erie

nce

Com

mun

itydi

sabi

lity

thei

r fam

ilies

and

care

rs

Dev

elop

men

t and

Enga

gem

ent

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ng

Acce

ssib

le e

vent

s O

ngoi

ng

Serv

ice

Form

alis

e a

12 m

onth

tria

l pro

gram

Incr

ease

in th

e nu

mbe

r of e

vent

s th

at a

re2

11

5C

omm

unity

prov

ider

of

the

Even

t Ten

t w

hich

pro

mot

esac

cess

ible

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

y D

evel

opm

ent a

nd5

31

5Ad

voca

te

and

enab

les

grea

ter p

artic

ipat

ion

atEn

gage

men

t5

41

1co

mm

unity

eve

nts

of p

eopl

e an

d fa

milie

sTo

uris

m a

nd E

vent

s w

ho h

ave

a di

sabi

lity

17

18

Improving access to services through better systems and processes

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Alig

ning

Act

ion

Ong

oing

Le

ader

En

sure

that

the

DIA

P al

igns

with

This

pla

n m

eets

the

Loca

l5

31

13

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ngPl

an w

ith In

tegr

ated

the

Inte

grat

ed R

epor

ting

Fram

ing

Gov

ernm

ent D

IAP

guid

elin

eR

epor

ting

and

that

the

actio

ns in

this

Act

ion

requ

irem

ents

and

act

ions

are

Fram

ewor

k Pl

an a

re in

clud

ed in

the

(4 y

ear)

impl

emen

ted

Del

iver

y Pr

ogra

m a

nd th

e An

nual

Ope

ratio

nal P

lan

Info

rmat

ion

to th

e0

ndash 1

year

Le

ader

and

Enab

le th

e ab

ility

to p

rovi

de a

ndM

ore

peop

le a

re a

ble

to a

cces

s5

31

6 Office of the General

publ

ic

Serv

ice

rece

ive

info

rmat

ion

to a

nd fr

om th

ein

form

atio

n an

d pa

rticip

ate

in th

eir

Man

ager

Pr

ovid

er

publ

ic in

a ra

nge

of fo

rmat

s R

evie

wlo

cal c

omm

unity

and

the

affa

irs o

fpu

blic

exh

ibiti

on te

mpl

ate

to m

ake

loca

l gov

ernm

ent

clea

rer t

hat w

e ac

cept

sub

mis

sion

sin

all

form

ats

not

just

writ

ten

eg

vide

o v

oice

rec

ordi

ng

Mai

ntai

n w

ebsi

te a

cces

sibi

lity

55

18

Com

mun

icat

ions

(WAA

G) 2

0 A

A le

vel

Polic

ies

and

1 -2

yea

rs

Lead

erS

ervi

ceC

ounc

il inv

estig

ates

opt

ions

toR

emov

e ob

stac

les

for p

eopl

e w

ith1

31

6 St

rate

gic

Plan

ning

pr

oced

ures

Pr

ovid

er

impr

ove

unde

rsta

ndin

g of

pol

icies

and

a di

sabi

lity

to e

nabl

e ac

hiev

emen

tpr

oced

ures

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

disa

bility

of

pos

itive

and

sus

tain

able

empl

oym

ent o

utco

mes

Supporting access to meaningful employment

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Volu

ntee

ring

1 -2

yea

rs

Lead

er

Rev

iew

vol

unte

erin

g pr

oces

ses

for

Incr

ease

d ac

cess

to v

olun

teer

ing

16

13

Com

mun

ity S

ervi

ces

proc

esse

s Po

rt St

ephe

ns C

ounc

il to

ens

ure

oppo

rtuni

ties

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

that

they

are

wel

com

ing

of p

eopl

edi

sabi

lity

w

ith d

isab

ility

Rec

ruitm

ent

Ong

oing

Le

ader

C

ontin

ue to

offe

r can

dida

tes

anO

ngoi

ng e

mpl

oym

ent o

ppor

tuni

ties

51

42

Org

anis

atio

nal

proc

esse

s op

tion

to d

iscl

ose

whe

ther

or n

otfo

r peo

ple

who

hav

e a

disa

bilit

y w

ithD

evel

opm

ent

they

hav

e a

disa

bilit

y du

ring

the

Port

Step

hens

Cou

ncil

appl

icat

ion

proc

ess

so th

at C

ounc

ilar

e ab

le to

ens

ure

that

app

lican

tsw

ith a

dis

abilit

y ar

e an

d fe

elsu

ppor

ted

thro

ugho

ut th

e pr

oces

s

Attitudes and Behaviours

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Educ

atio

n fo

r sho

p0

- 1 y

ear

Advo

cate

Aw

aren

ess

and

educ

atio

nO

utco

me

is a

rais

ed a

war

enes

s of

41

24

Econ

omic

owne

rsb

usin

esse

sca

mpa

igns

targ

etin

g bu

sine

ss

the

need

s of

peo

ple

with

a d

isab

ility

Dev

elop

men

ton

acc

ess

issue

s fo

row

ners

via

Biz

Lin

k ne

twor

kac

cess

issu

espe

ople

with

disa

bility

ne

wsl

ette

rs a

nd b

usin

ess

cham

bers

to fo

ster

and

enc

oura

ge th

efo

llow

ing

initi

ativ

es

bull D

evel

op c

ompa

nion

car

d fri

endl

yin

itiat

ive

whi

ch e

nabl

es fr

ee e

ntry

to c

erta

in v

enue

sev

ents

for

care

rs to

acc

ompa

ny p

eopl

e w

itha

disa

bilit

y

1-2

year

s Ad

voca

te

bull Pr

efer

red

empl

oyer

aw

ards

for

41

24

Econ

omic

disa

bilit

y ac

cess

ible

wor

kpla

ce

Dev

elop

men

t

Sta

ff ar

e su

pp

orte

d a

nd h

ave

gre

ater

know

led

ge

of th

e va

riety

of n

eed

s of

peo

ple

with

a d

isab

ility

and

the

need

for i

nclu

sion

Staf

f aw

aren

ess

of1

-2 y

ears

Le

ader

To

pro

vide

train

ing

for C

ounc

il sta

ffSt

aff a

re s

uppo

rted

and

have

51

42

Org

anis

atio

nal

the

need

s of

peo

ple

on h

ow to

wor

k w

ith a

nd u

nder

stan

dgr

eate

r kno

wle

dge

of th

e va

riety

of

Dev

elop

men

tw

ith d

isab

ility

peop

le w

ith d

isabi

lity th

roug

h C

ounc

ilsne

eds

of p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

y an

d

The

prio

rity

timef

ram

e ra

ting

indi

cate

s th

at a

Hig

h pr

iorit

y sh

ould

be

com

plet

ed w

ithin

1 y

ear

Med

ium

prio

rity

with

in 2

yea

rs a

nd L

ow p

riorit

y w

ithin

3 to

4 y

ears

Wor

kpla

ce E

quity

amp D

ivers

ityC

omm

ittee

and

Gui

de (a

ttach

ed)

the

need

for i

nclu

sion

19

Governance monitoring and evaulation To ensure implementation of the Plan an internal working group made up of stakeholders who have responsibility for implementing actions with the plan will be ongoing The working group will meet quarterly to discuss the Action Plan and linkages to both current and future projects and programs including

bull Each new capital works project will consider disability improvements to inclusion and accessibility within the Project Management Plan scoping and procurement document (in addition to Disability Discrimination Act compliance) Improvements for consideration include Location of the

proposed project and Improvements to carpark access to

and from kerb ramp location and availability and pathwayrsquos etc that enable more seamless connectivity

Progress of the plan will be monitored and implementation of actions within the Plan will be reported through a range of governance processes including

bull Six monthly reporting to Councils Executive Leadership team and Council

bull Operational Plan annual reporting as part of the Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework

bull Annual Report bull End of Term Reporting bull Customer satisfaction annual survey and

reporting To enable effective measurement and monitoring of actions within the plan the Port Stephens Customer Satisfaction Survey will include a section within the survey of questions that people who experience disability their families carers and people who work in the disability sector can elect to answer

20 Port Stephens Council

Conclusion Port Stephens Council has a strong commitment to enhancing life experience of people with a disability in the Local Government Area

In developing the Disability Inclusion Action Plan Port Stephens Council has built on the strengths of existing Council resources Council structurestaff plans policies and the local closely connected community by consulting with a broad range of stakeholders

The priorities identified above reflect Council values and principles The individual objectives once approved by Council are to be included in the 2017-2021 Delivery Program and the Annual Operational Plans for each of those four (4) years Within the Integrated and Strategic Planning framework the responsibility reporting and resourcing for the objectives will be defined

Draw together diverse interests and strive towards attaining greater consensus on sustainable outcomes for the local government area

ACTION PLANDisability Inclusion

21

understanding of your requirements and helpful (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

11a Please provide details of your experiences with Council staff

12 Any other comments

Appendix 1 DIAP Survey 1 What is your age 2 What suburb do you live in

(Required) 3 Gender 4 Language used at home 5 Are you a carer or a person with

disability (Choose all that apply) a Carer b Person with disability c Family member

6 Do you think the Port Stephens Community is welcoming of people with disabilities Eg businesses shops etc (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

6a Please give us some examples of positive or negative experiences you have had

7 Have you encountered any problems barriers or issues in using transport options (Choose all that apply) a Walking or wheelchair use b Local buses c Electric Scooter d Other

7a Please give us some examples of positive or negative experiences you have had

8 Do you think facilities and services are accessible and inclusive in Port Stephens a Councilrsquos Administration Building Yes No b Community centres Yes No c Events Yes No d Libraries Yes No e Parks Yes No f Pools Yes No g Other Yes No

22 Port Stephens Council

8a Can you give us any examples for improvements

9 Do you find Councilrsquos information publications accessible

Website Yes No Newsletters Yes No

9a Do you have suggestions for improvements

10 Would you like to see an improvement in online services through Councilrsquos website such as the electronic payment of rates andor fees and charges (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

11 Do you find Council staff at all of its locations and facilities approachable

Appendix 2 community consultation Results from consultation and the survey The areas identified for improvement by were framed around the four priority areas the Port Stephens community are (in order for an inclusive community Liveable of priority) communities Attitudes and behaviours Employment and Systems and processes

Liveable Communities

Focus Area Comments Foot pathsramps ldquoFootpathsramps ndash uneven rough need ramps to access

roads need lighting on paths and stairs need more footpaths wider footpaths some ramps too steeprdquo

ldquoAll new kerb ramps should have no step between the bottom of the ramp and the gutterroad The small step that is still mostly used at the bottom of curb ramps is completely unnecessary (it doesnrsquot improve water flow in the gutter as some people think it does) but it makes it harder for a wheelchair user even if the step is only 2cm or less The same argument applies to drivewaysrdquo

ACTION PLAN

Accessibility to ldquoCluttered walkways access to beaches (wheelchair accessible eventsactivities ramps) Braille on signage audio description at places of shops sporting interest Henderson Park upgrade (steep steps to pontoon facilities parks no disability parking) access to pontoons for fishing (Karuah

good example of how to do it) Wider access passageways and doorways (eg some places have double doors but keep one door locked eg Salamander library)rdquo

Provision of venues ldquoLack of disability services in parks (eg Liberty swingswing services events with 5-point harness) lack of covered areas in parks (many

sun-sensitive due to medication plus rain cover) hydrotherapy pool fences around parks disability friendly slide at parks audio loop neededrdquo

ldquoI would like to see more programs that support carers and the families of people with disabilities in the Port Stephens Local Government Area as their (sic) simply isnrsquot enough I would also like more programs to support people with disabilities so that as a community we can start supporting each other through the hardship of living with a disabilityrdquo

Disability Inclusion 23

Focus Area Comments Public toilets ldquoThere are lack of amenities in disabled toilets (eg adults who

need help changing continence aids hoists in toilets) need more (eg Nelson Bay)rdquo

ldquoDisabled toilets do not cater for older persons with a disability who require nappy changing facilities It is not nice to change on the floor of a disabled toilet and parents room tables are too smallrdquo

Parking ldquoThere is a lack of disabled parking some disabled parks are not wheelchair friendlyrdquo

ldquoSubstandard pavement surfaces for walker frames and mobility scooters Lack of disability parking spaces at Soldiers Point Boat ramp and Salamander Bay wharf and various other areas within the Port Stephens areardquo

Public transport ldquoInfrastructure improvements for more and better transport limited timetables too many transfers to get to destination want regular community bus (low cost or for free)rdquo

Attitudes and Behaviours

Focus Area Comments Respectful and It should be noted that most people reported positive encounters inclusive community with the public and council staff One comment stated ldquocould and services improve empathy and understanding from public on what it is

like to have a disabilityrdquo

ldquoHearing impaired when asked to speak slower shop people yell and pull faces as if trying to mouth out each word very embarrassingrdquo

ldquoStaring commentingrdquo

Public education ldquoEducation for people in shops about disability disabled amenitiesfacilities being used by public (change-rooms toilets parking) but consideration needed so as not to discriminate against those who do not ldquoappearrdquo to have a disabilityrdquo

It should be noted that most people reported positive encounters with the public and council staff

24 Port Stephens Council

Employment

Focus Area Comments No issues identified however it was acknowledged in internal communication with staff that Council could lead the way in more employment of people with a disability this could include recruitment processes which are lsquomore welcomingrsquo and encourage people to apply for positions It also was acknowledged that Council policies procedures systems and processes could be reviewed for lsquoeasy readrsquo format

Systems and Processes

Focus Area Comments Range of information dissemination

Promotion and awareness of activitesevents services

ldquoNot everyone gets newspaper so send information in other ways (emailed with rates) need to consider information dissemination for people with hearing and vision impairedrdquo

ldquoI have rarely seen a Council newsletter Also the website needs to be cleaner clearer more navigable and user friendlyrdquo

ldquoLeft-aligning text might seem like a visual imposition to the sighted person but this simple change is the difference between being able to read for people who are blind or who have low visionrdquo

ldquoEye level display for people using wheelchairsrdquo

Some people were confused or unaware of services amenities available to them

In some areas ldquoFor those of us who get their bills via email it would be great if we were emailed regularly about items on public exhibition etc to replace what other residents would see in your adds in the Examinerrdquo

ldquoMore information areas to access helprdquo

ldquoDidnrsquot know you had a newsletterrdquo

Consulation on council infrastructure

Respondents welcomed the Council distributing this survey for comment but others felt more consideration of disability issues was needed

ldquoPlanning doesnrsquot seem to include disabled accessibility issues for new projectsrdquo

ldquoConsideration of people who are blind or low vision in future planning ie Braille on all signage (or on poles or mounts for elevated signage) Audio description at places of interest geographical cultural or historical significance Blind people miss out on our beautiful views they deserve to be catered to with regard to what else PS has to offer Infrastructure improvements that support more and better public transport to Port Stephensrdquo

Disabilit y Inclusion ACTION PLAN 25

Do you think the Port Stephens Community is welcoming of people with disabilities Eg businesses shops etc Most people felt Port Stephens is welcoming (68)

Have you encountered any problems barriers or issues in using transport options

68

0 10 20 30 40 50

Electric Scooter

Walking or wheelchair use

Local buses

Other

Do you think facilities and services are accessible and inclusive in Port Stephens

Focus Area Yes No

Councils Administration Building 57 6

Community centres 53 8

Events 36 21

Libraries 60 2

Parks 38 27

Pools 43 15

Other 18 13

26 Port Stephens Council

Do you find Councilrsquos information publications accessible

Focus area website

Would you like to see an improvement in online services through Councilrsquos website such as the electronic payment of rates and or fees and charges

Do you find Council staff at all of its locations and facilities approachable understanding of your requirements and helpful

Most comments in this section indicated council staff was very helpful and polite

Any other comments

Items for improvement (in order of priority)

Yes 36

Yes 55

Yes 48

No 6

No 18

No 11

1 Provision of venues services events 2 Roadscrossings 3 Footpathsramps 4 Public toilets 5 Public education The following summary outlines the priorities identified across all questions of the survey

ACTION PLANDisabilit y Inclusion

27

App

endi

x 3

Func

tions

ser

vice

s an

d as

sets

Function Area Community Services Sector

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Man

ager

Ngi

oka

Com

mun

ityH

ortic

ultu

ral

Serv

ices

Th

erap

yC

entre

Volu

ntee

r wor

kfor

ce o

f up

to80

0 p

rovi

sion

of lsquo

whe

el in

whe

el o

utrsquo g

arba

ge c

olle

ctio

nfo

r peo

ple

with

dis

abilit

y liv

ing

at h

ome

Pro

visi

on o

fpr

ogra

ms

for c

hild

ren

with

addi

tiona

l nee

ds a

t Out

side

of S

choo

l Hou

rs C

are

Chi

ldre

nsrsquo a

ctiv

ity V

an a

ndFa

mily

Day

Car

e P

rovi

sion

of la

rge

prin

t boo

ks t

alki

ngbo

oks

and

audi

o an

d vi

sual

navi

gatio

n ai

ds a

t lib

rarie

sLe

ar to

sw

im p

rogr

ams

atco

unci

l aqu

atic

cen

tres

Info

rmat

ion

on w

ebsi

te re

Leas

e of

Gra

ham

stow

nVo

lunt

eer s

trate

gy35

5vo

lunt

eers

Aqua

tic R

eser

ve fo

r use

by

Part

A an

d Pa

rt B

com

mitt

ees

Saila

bilit

y (P

SC le

ase

the

Larg

e te

xt fo

rmat

ting

onla

nd fr

om H

unte

r Wat

er a

ndw

ebsi

te

Saila

bilit

y su

b-le

ase

the

land

of P

SC)

Link

s to

vol

unte

er re

sour

ces

in J

ob a

genc

ies

TAF

Eot

her a

reas

bus

ines

ses

etc

univ

ersi

ties

sch

ools

Brai

lle a

nd la

rge

font

com

pute

rs

Rev

iew

pol

icie

spr

oced

ures

toen

sure

they

are

lsquoeas

y re

adrsquo f

orm

at

Busi

ness

lead

ersh

ipto

enh

ance

Ngi

oka

as a

mul

ti-pu

rpos

ece

ntre

and

to p

rom

ote

and

alig

n w

ith N

DIS

pers

onal

pla

ns

28

Function Area Community Services ndash Library Services

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Resource

Libr

ary

Civ

il Ass

ets

Serv

ices

Sect

ion

Man

ager

M

anag

erC

omm

unity

and

Rec

reat

ion

Assets Officer

Paid

Lib

rary

Sta

ff x

24C

asua

l Lib

rary

Sta

ff x

11Li

brar

y Vo

lunt

eers

x 5

5As

sist

ive

Adap

tive

tech

nolo

gy(A

udio

Rea

d na

viga

tors

Zoo

mTe

xt s

cree

n re

ader

sof

twar

ela

rge

prin

t boo

ks a

udio

boo

ks

IInfo

rmat

ion

on a

ll Li

brar

ySe

rvic

es re

late

d to

ser

vice

spr

ogra

ms

and

activ

ities

ndashdi

spla

yed

in b

ranc

hes

via

(flyerspostersTV monitors)

and

on

bull Fa

cebo

ok W

ebsi

tebull

Scho

ol N

ewsl

ette

rs W

hatrsquos

on in

our

Bac

kyar

dbull

PS E

xam

iner

bull N

ews

of th

e Ar

ea (T

eaG

arde

ns N

elso

n Ba

y an

dM

edow

ie)

Thou

Wal

la S

choo

ls a

sC

omm

uniti

es C

entre

New

cast

le R

egio

n Li

brar

y C

o-op

erat

ive

Cen

tral E

ast Z

one

(Reg

iona

lLi

brar

ies

Gro

up)

Publ

ic L

ibra

ries

NSW

Hun

ter W

EAH

isto

rical

and

Fam

ily H

isto

rySo

ciet

ies

RT

Art S

pace

Gro

upR

eal F

utur

es F

ound

atio

n

Inte

rnet

Usa

ge P

olic

yW

aivi

ng O

verd

ueC

harg

esSo

cial

Med

ia P

olic

yLi

brar

y U

ser

Gui

delin

esPS

C L

ibra

ry B

roch

ure

New

cast

le re

gion

Libr

ary

Broc

hure

Volu

ntee

r Pos

ition

Des

crip

tions

and

Han

dboo

kH

isto

rical

Soc

iety

Fa

mily

His

tory

Gro

upAg

reem

ents

Wor

k H

ealth

and

Safe

tyC

omm

ittee

WH

S R

ep-

rese

ntat

ives

Com

mitt

eeW

orkp

lace

Equi

ty a

ndD

iver

sity

Com

mitt

eeC

onsu

ltativ

eC

omm

ittee

Her

itage

Advi

sory

Com

mitt

ee

Dis

able

d to

ilets

do

not c

ater

for o

lder

per

sons

with

a d

isab

ility

who

req

uire

nap

py

chan

gin

g fa

cilit

ies

It is

not

nic

e to

cha

nge

on th

e flo

orof

a d

isab

led

toile

t and

par

ents

room

tab

les

are

too

smal

l

29

Function Area Assets Section

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Asse

t Sec

tion

Man

ager

C

omm

unity

land

man

age-

men

t pu

blic

toile

ts p

arks

pl

aygr

ound

sre

serv

es

fore

shor

es

mar

ine

ac-

cess

spo

rting

fields sports

faci

litie

sco

mm

unity

build

ings

co

mm

unity

halls

sig

nage

Mai

ntai

n an

d up

grad

e pu

blic

Asse

ts re

gist

er c

ondi

tion

Gov

ernm

ent a

genc

ies

gra

ntVa

rious

pla

ns o

fsp

aces

fac

ilitie

s a

sset

s an

dra

ting

syst

em

fund

ing

sche

mes

pro

perty

Management (specific

plac

es in

line

with

legi

slat

ive

deve

lope

rs c

omm

unity

and

gene

ric)

Cou

ncil

Ope

ns S

pace

Stra

tegy

requ

irem

ents

and

com

mun

itygr

oups

int

eres

t gro

ups

polic

ies

Man

agem

ent

(und

erw

ay)

need

s D

irect

ives

Spor

ts C

oun-

cils

355

Com

-m

ittee

sC

omm

unity

grou

ps P

arks

and

Res

erve

sC

omm

ittee

s

Ensu

reth

at th

ede

sign

and

cons

truct

ion

of n

ewfa

cilit

ies

and

infra

stru

ctur

eis

con

side

rate

to li

mite

dac

cess

com

mun

itym

embe

rs

Ensu

re th

at u

pgra

des

and

mai

nten

ance

to c

omm

unity

faci

litie

s ar

e al

igne

d w

ithpr

iorit

ies

for i

nclu

sion

Prep

are

the

Ope

n Sp

ace

Stra

tegy

pla

ns fo

r upg

rade

s to

com

mun

ity fa

cilit

ies

and

area

sw

here

infra

stru

ctur

e ne

eds

to b

e co

nsid

erat

e of

lim

ited

acce

ss c

omm

unity

mem

bers

Ensu

re 3

55 c

omm

ittee

sco

nsid

er a

cces

s an

d in

clus

ion

whe

n th

inki

ng a

bout

pro

gram

sEn

sure

355

Com

mitt

ees

use

fund

s pr

ovid

ed b

y C

ounc

il to

cons

ider

acc

ess

and

incl

usio

nw

hen

build

ing

infra

stru

ctur

e

Activ

ely

seek

gra

nt fu

ndin

gfor projects identified within

the

Ope

ns S

pace

Stra

tegy

in o

rder

to im

prov

e ac

cess

to in

clus

ion

to c

omm

unity

faci

litie

s an

d ar

eas

thro

ugho

utth

e LG

A

Rev

iew

and

upd

ate

exis

ting

plan

s an

dpo

licie

s in

line

with

legi

slat

ive

chan

ges

and identified needs

of th

e co

mm

unity

O

pens

Spa

ceSt

rate

gy (u

nder

way

)

Enco

urag

eco

mm

unity

grou

ps a

ndco

mm

ittee

to u

nder

take

proj

ects

and

prog

ram

s to

enco

urag

eac

cess

incl

usio

n

30

Function Area Human Resource Sector

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners

and agency

collaboration

Plans and Policies

Brochures documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

PotentialResource

Man

ager

Rec

ruitm

ent o

f new

sta

ffIn

form

atio

n on

web

site

in

Rec

ruitm

ent p

olic

ypr

oced

ures

Vo

lunt

eer

Hum

anhard file and on intra net

35

5 C

om-

Management of staffing

Res

ourc

es

mitt

ees

(leav

e A

war

d pr

ovis

ions

su

pera

nnua

tion

etc)

Rec

ruitm

ent p

roce

sses

toIn

form

atio

n in

rang

e of

Job

netw

ork

Rec

ruitm

ent p

roce

ss w

hich

isbe

wel

com

ing

of p

eopl

e w

ithfo

rmat

s in

clud

ing

soci

alag

enci

es

wel

com

ing

of p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

ydi

sabi

lity

olde

r peo

ple

med

ia e

tc P

lus

help

for

busi

ness

es

(adv

ertis

ing

whi

ch w

elco

mes

peo

ple

thos

e w

ho h

ave

a di

sabi

lity

with

a d

isab

ility

+ pr

oces

ses

whi

char

e no

t too

com

plex

Function Area Environment amp PlanningPublic Domain and Services

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners

and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Man

ager

Toile

ts p

ublic

spa

ces

(ieM

aint

ain

and

upgr

ade

publ

icAs

sets

regi

ster

Dev

elop

ers

Publ

ic S

pace

sU

rban

adv

isor

yEn

viro

nmen

tparks sporting fields) and

spac

es a

nd p

lace

s in

line

with

polic

y co

mm

ittee

Ope

n Sp

aces

stra

tegy

and

Plan

ning

bu

ildin

gs (c

omm

unity

hal

ls)

legi

slat

ion

Ensu

re th

at u

pgra

des

toO

pen

Spac

es s

trate

gy to

publ

ic s

pace

s ar

e al

igne

d w

ithin

clud

e up

grad

es to

are

aspr

iorit

ies

for i

nclu

sion

w

here

infra

stru

ctur

e ne

eds

tobe

mor

e in

clus

ive

(ie ra

mps

inm

ajor

hal

ls th

at a

re u

sed)

31

Function Area Communications

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision

of Goods or

services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Com

mun

ica-

Web

site

Pr

ovid

eIn

form

atio

nC

omm

unic

atio

ntio

ns M

anag

er

soci

al m

edia

in

form

atio

n in

on w

ebsi

te

polic

y ha

rd c

opy

rang

e of

form

ats

Dire

ctor

y on

plan

s p

olic

ies

to th

e pu

blic

w

ebsi

tean

d pr

oce-

Larg

e te

xtdu

res

form

attin

g on

web

site

Com

mun

ityD

evel

opm

ent

and

Enga

gem

ent

Man

ager

Exhi

bitio

n Su

bmis

sion

s an

d G

rant

opp

ortu

nitie

sC

omm

unity

Dev

elop

men

t and

Eng

agem

ent p

artn

ers

impr

ovem

ents

incl

udin

gbull

MyL

ink

grou

pbull

Abor

igin

al S

trate

gic

Com

mun

itybull

Your

th p

anel

bull Bu

sine

ss g

roup

sbull

365

Com

mitt

ees

Left-

alig

ning

text

mig

ht s

eem

like

a v

isua

l im

pos

ition

to th

e si

ght

edp

erso

n b

ut th

is s

imp

le c

hang

e is

the

diff

eren

ce b

etw

een

bei

ng a

ble

tore

ad fo

r peo

ple

who

are

blin

d o

r who

hav

e lo

w v

isio

n

32

Function Area Strategy and Environment

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision

of Goods or

services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Committees of

Council

Nox

ious

wee

dH

erita

ge g

rant

sLa

ndow

ners

bus

ines

ses

and

Envi

ronm

enta

lVo

lunt

eer w

eed

cont

rol s

ervi

ces

Resource

Man

ager

Stra

tegy

and

control landfill

orga

nisa

tions

st

rate

gies

pla

nsEn

viro

nmen

tal

355

Her

itage

Com

mitt

eeEn

viro

nmen

t an

d po

licie

sgr

ants

Gra

nt g

uide

lines

Potential

supp

ort p

roje

cts

that

enco

urag

e ac

cess

and

incl

usio

n

Function Area Community Development

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-Directory

Partners

and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Committees

of Council

Potential Resource

Com

mun

ity35

5 Ad

viso

ryG

rant

Pro

gram

s ac

ross

Mai

ntai

n C

ounc

ilrsquos w

ebsi

te C

omm

unity

Com

mun

ityC

omm

unity

Abor

igin

al S

trate

gic

Dev

elop

men

tC

omm

ittee

sC

ounc

ilD

irect

ory

Serv

ices

age

ncie

sEn

gage

men

tC

omm

ittee

and

Polic

yC

omm

unity

Und

erta

ke C

ounc

ilrsquos k

eyC

omm

unity

gra

ntSt

rate

gic

Arts

Enga

gem

ent

enga

gem

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com

mun

ity e

vent

s ndash

Aust

ralia

awar

dees

C

ultu

ral P

lan

Com

mitt

eeC

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inat

or

proj

ects

Day

cel

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tions

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CYo

uth

Stra

tegy

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uth

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sory

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th w

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mun

ityC

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unity

Educ

atio

n an

d Em

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ards

de

velo

pmen

tpl

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nter

agen

cypr

ojec

ts

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ncil

run

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mun

itySt

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Cou

ncilrsquos

web

site

Com

mun

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ents

are

acc

essi

ble

Dire

ctor

y se

ctio

n on

DIA

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encie

sG

rant

gui

delin

es s

uppo

rtEn

sure

355

com

mitt

ees

cons

ider

acc

ess

proj

ects

that

enc

oura

gean

d in

clusio

n w

hen

cons

ider

ing

prog

ram

sac

cess

and

incl

usio

n En

sure

com

mun

ity e

ngag

emen

t pro

ject

sen

cour

age

acce

ss a

nd in

clusio

n

33

Function Area Civil Assets

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities in-

frastructure

Provision

of Goods or

services

Information-

Directory

Partners and

agency

collaboration

Plans and Policies

Brochures

documents

Committees

of Council

Potential Resource

Civ

il Ass

ets

Publ

ic tr

ansp

ort

Mai

ntai

n an

d up

grad

eAs

sets

regi

ster

con

ditio

nG

over

nmen

t age

ncie

s g

rant

Plan

ning

infra

stru

ctur

eC

ivil

asse

ts a

ndra

ting

syst

em

fund

ing

sche

mes

pro

perty

Man

ager

fo

otpa

ths

sha

red

publ

ic s

pace

s in

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ds

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(201

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26)

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Plan

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e is

incl

usio

n th

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oesn

rsquot se

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incl

ude

dis

able

d a

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sib

ility

issu

es fo

r new

pro

ject

srdquo

34

Function Area Community Development

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities in-

frastructure

Provision

of Goods or

services

Information-

Directory

Partners

and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Committees of

Council

Potential Resource

Com

mun

ity35

5 Ad

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ry C

om-

Gra

nt P

rogr

ams

acro

ssM

aint

ain

Cou

ncilrsquos

web

site

Com

mun

ity S

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ces

Com

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ityAb

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inal

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ent

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ncil

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ity D

irect

ory

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ent P

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ittee

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l Pla

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n

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ctio

n on

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P ag

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355

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n co

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re c

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n

Function Area General Managers Office

Staff

Respon-

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nce

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cts

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ager

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nds

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sion

35

Disability Inclusion

ACTION PLAN

Disability InclusionInclusionDisability InclusionInclusionDisability

For more information please contact Development Services councilportstephensnswgovau | 02 4980 0255 | PORTSTEPHENSNSWGOVAU

Page 6: Port Stephens Council DIAP 2016 - facs.nsw.gov.au · In 2016, Port Stephens had a population of 64,807 at the 2016 Census. This igure is predicted to rise by up to 23,000 over the

Background Port Stephens Local Government Area (LGA) is in the Hunter Region of New South Wales within the Port Stephens and Great Lakes Marine Park It is approximately two hours drive north of Sydney and 30 minutes from Newcastle In 2016 Port Stephens had a population of 64807 at the 2016 Census This figure is predicted to rise by up to 23000 over the next 15 years1

Port Stephens has grown as a regional centre with a mix of coastal and rural villages and larger regional centres including coastal centres which presents a diverse range of opportunities for everyone in the LGA

The proportion of people who experience disability can be correlated to Need for Assistance (Has need for assistance with core activities) census data In Port Stephens the proportion of people who identify as having a Need for Assistance in Port Stephens is 64 of the population Comparatively NSW has 537 of the population and the Hunter notes 639 who identify as having a Need for Assistance

Council is already a direct provider of services for people with a disability and their carers through

bull Leasing of the Ngioka Centre to the Endeavour Foundation who will provide disability support services under the NDIS scheme

bull Leasing of the Grahamstown Dam Aquatic Reserve to Sailability

bull Provision of Wheel in Wheel Out garbage bin service

1 Retrieved wwwportstephensnswgovau 2 Source wwwportstephenscouncilnswgovauvolunteering

Port Stephens Council

bull Provision of programs for children with additional needs at Outside School Hours Care (Raymond Terrace Medowie) Port Stephens Activity Van and Family Day Care

bull Provision of large print books talking books and audit and visual navigation aids from libraries (Raymond Terrace Salamander Bay Mobile Library) and

bull Provision of equipment at Aquatic Centres that enable safe entry into and out of heated swimming pools

Council owns and maintains a large asset portfolio that includes the following asset classes

bull Civil assets (bridges depots drainage pathways)

bull Road pavements

bull Transport facilities

bull Waste facilities and

bull Community and recreation assets (aquatic centres cemeteries libraries multipurpose facilities childcare centres parks and reserves playgrounds public amenities skate parks sport facilities surf lifesaving clubs waterways)

Mapping of functions services and assets (Appendix 3) enables identification of assets and services with potential to contribute to achievement of a more inclusive society

Council provides opportunities for partnerships and volunteering in the care and management of community facilities parklands and in public services

6

Volunteer opportunities are available in areas such as

bull Halls and community centres bull Parks reserves and Landcare groups bull Cemetery committees bull Sports council and clubs and bull Advisory and cultural groups and

libraries (among others)2

This DIAP defines strategies and provides a planning framework and actions to promote inclusion and equity for people with a disability so they may fully participate in and contribute to social business and community life The DIAP will enhance and complement the existing services provided by Port Stephens Council and will encourage an ongoing focus on building a socially inclusive and

Port Stephens Council will encourage an ongoing focus on building a socially inclusive and accessible place for all

ACTION PLANDisability Inclusion

7

accessible place for all

Carry out its functions in a way that provides best possible outcomes for the local community Plan strategically within the integrated planning and reporting framework for present

summarised below Strong and effective

representation leadership planning and decision making

Inclusive communities where individuals can fully participate in social business and community life

The community vision for the Port Stephens Community Strategic Plan is to have ldquoa great lifestyle in a treasured environmentrdquo This vision can only truly be achieved in a society that is inclusive and accessible for people of all abilities and

This Plan is critical to achieve positive

Guiding principles

backgrounds

change and create a more inclusive society A more inclusive society is diverse stronger and more sustainable

To achieve this the following principles underpin and reinforce the actions and desired outcomes within the DIAP and align with the philosophy behind the NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014 the Community Strategic Plan and the communities vision

bull Social justice principles of Equity Access Participation Rights

bull Guiding principles for Councils in accordance with Chapter 3 of the Local Government Act 1993 which are

and future populations Working with others to secure

appropriate services for local community needs and

Fairly ethically and without bias in the interests of the local community

bull Business Excellence principles Port Stephens Council applies the

Business Excellence principles to inform continuous improvement and strengthen the organisations ability to deliver more efficient and effective services to the community

Port Stephens Council8

Policy and legislative context Definition The Disability Inclusion Act 2014 defines disability as lsquoThe long-term physical mental intellectual or sensory impairment which in interaction with various barriers may hinder the full and effective participation in society on an equal basis with othersrsquo

In the context of the DIAP lsquodisabilityrsquo includes functional impairments or limitations which may be present from birth acquired by accident or illness or due to the process of ageing The impairments may be substantial or seemingly minor temporary or permanent

Legislation In 1993 all NSW government departments and some other government bodies were required to undertake disability action planning when the NSW Disability Services Act 1993 (DSA) was introduced

In 2008 the Australian Government committed to implementing the United Nations (UN) Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities

In 2014 a strengthened commitment to inclusion better consultation with people with disability and protection of their rights was propelled with the introduction of the Disability Inclusion Act 2014 which replaced the DSA

There is a suite of further Commonwealth and State legislation that promotes and drives improving access and inclusion for people with a disability

INTERNATIONAL bull Principles of the UN Convention on the

Rights of People with a Disability

COMMONWEALTH bull Disability Discrimination Act 1992 bull Australian Government NDIS Act 2013 bull Australian Government Aged Care

(Living Longer Living Better) Act 2013

NSW bull NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014

The most recent legislation and amendments reflect a shift towards the view that while a disability may affect the way that a person interacts with others and their environment it should not define a person and it should not limit their capacity to become an integral part of the community Although the rights of a person with a disability have been defined as the same rights as those of all people since the early 1990s it is understood that upholding these rights must include promotion of individual choice about what is important to them universal access to services and facilities and inclusive communities where individuals can fully participate in social business and community life

The NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014 promotes the view that lsquoinclusionrsquo is not only a goal for service providers and public and private sector organisations it is a responsibility of the whole community It legislates for the rights of people with a disability to full participation in every-day life with enhanced community connection independence empowerment and wellbeing It is the role of local government through a Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) to promote and support inclusion in their communities

ADDITIONAL LEGISLATION bull Carers (Recognition) Act 2010 (NSW)

Disability not only affects people who have a disability but also people who care for them The Carers (Recognition) Act 2010 acknowledges the significance of carers including respect and recognition inclusion in decision making and access to services they may need

bull Local Government Act 1993 The Local Government Act 1993 sets out the framework and responsibilities of Councils and provides guidance to enable councilrsquos to carry out their functions in a way that facilitates local communities that are strong healthy and prosperous

Disability Inclusion ACTION PLAN 9

Draw together diverse interests and strive towards attaining greater consensus on sustainable outcomes for the local government area

10 Port Stephens Council

Councilrsquos responsibilities and roles Role of council New South Wales (NSW) is entering a new era in disability inclusion planning Councilrsquos role in implementation of the DIAP will include as a direct service provider as a leader an advocate and facilitator

bull As leader Council acts as a role model for others through its own actions strategic organisational responses and way of doing things In its dialogue with the communities and other stakeholders Council can act to draw together diverse interests and strive towards attaining greater consensus on sustainable outcomes for the local government area

bull As advocate Council seeks to improve services facilities and opportunities for the local government area and its communities by lobbying agencies and other levels of government In discussions with others there are opportunities to reinforce Port Stephens sense of identity and resilience and collaborate on achieving a more sustainable local government area

bull As facilitator Council assists interaction amongst stakeholders and forms strategic alliances aimed at promoting sustainability initiatives focussing on elements including social economic environmental

cultural and governance which demonstrate positive ways of moving forward

bull As service provider Council has a strong commitment to delivering the services needed by its communities and ensuring that Council resources are responsibly managed Councilrsquos role as a service provider aims to assist in building the long-term health of the local government area

Executive responsibility and project coordination Port Stephens Council supports the development and implementation of the DIAP The General Manager has responsibility to oversee the various functionsgroups of Council

The DIAP will be coordinated by the Social Planning Unit within the Strategy and Environment section of the Development Services team Responsibility for implementation and resourcing of the DIAP will be across all sections of Council

Disability Inclusion ACTION PLAN 11

systems and processes Focus Area 4

Integrated planning and reporting Goals and strategies of Port Stephens Council are underpinned by five themes which provide focus and direction for the Integrated Planning and Reporting (IPR) framework The four focus areas for the DIAP may be positioned within those five focus areas of Integrated Planning framework

UN Convention on the Right of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD)

National Disability Strategy (NDS)

National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)

NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014 (DIA)

Operational plan

Delivery program

Community strategic plan

Local government disability inclusion action planning

NSW Disability Inclusion Plan 1 Attitudes and behaviours 2 Employment 3 Liveable communities 4 Systems and processes

Port Stephens CSP-themes CSP1 Our citizens

CSP2 Our lifestyle

CSP3 Our environment

CSP4 Our economy

CSP5 Our Council

An inclusive NSW

Focus Areas for DIAP bull Liveable communities Focus Area 2 bull Positive community attitudes and behaviours

Focus Area 1 bull Liveable communities Focus Area 2

bull Liveable communities Focus Area 2

bull Supporting access to meaningful employment Focus Area 3

bull Improving access to services through better

Port Stephens Council 12

ACTION PLAN

Document review As background to the consultation and to confirm issues which have been previously identified in the Port Stephens LGA a review of documents was undertaken Council has a suite of documents which reflect their commitment to an inclusive and connected society in an environment that facilitates opportunities for contribution by all those who live in the Port Stephens Region Reviewed documents included

bull Port Stephens Integrated Plans incorporating Community Strategic Plan

2013-2023 Delivery Program 2013-2017 Operational Plans 2016-2020

bull Port Stephens Strategic Asset Management Plan (2016-2026)

bull Port Stephens Disability Action Plan 2014-2018

bull NSW Disability Inclusion Action Planning Guidelines

Consultation and engagement According to 2016 census data the population of Port Stephens was 69556 which is an increase of 4746 or 732 from 2011 (64810) As the table below notes there are distinct differences in the proportion of people who stated a Need for Assistance between each of Port Stephens planning catchments However community

Need for Assistance

consultation with people who experience a disability their families carers and disability groups show that the barriers challenges and needs of people with a disability to fully participate in community life are similar throughout the LGA

Suburb 2006 2011 2016 Fern Bay 74 87 789

Karuah Swan Bay 53 83 859

Medowie 32 35 393

Raymond Terrace 52 63 775

Rural East 53 47 611

Rural West 29 31 307

Tilligerry 64 73 797

Tomaree 55 55 653

Port Stephens LGA 50 55 640

Disability Inclusion 13

Consultation with the community In seeking to fully understand and identify the barriers to inclusion and access and to find solutions information was sought from key stakeholders Key stakeholders are people within the Port Stephens community who identify as experiencing a disability their carersrsquo and support workers

A survey was completed and distributed within the community from November

2016 to January 2017 The period of the survey was extended over the Christmas periodschool holiday period 71 surveys completed surveys were received from the community

The following table sets out who and how the survey was distributed to key stakeholders

Stakeholder Engagement Processes Council website Surveys could be accessed through Councilrsquos website using

Engagement HQ

Council Facebook page

A link to the survey was placed on Councilrsquos Facebook page The link was lsquoboostedrsquo which meant the page connected anyone in the LGA who had clicked on anything to do with disability which significantly broadened the surveys reach

MyLink Group Advice and information about the DIAP including a link to the survey was distributed to Councils MyLink group MyLink is an email group of members including Not for Profit Groups and Non-Government Organisations (NGOs) such as disability service and support providers The MyLink email group keeps its members informed of upcoming meetings local events professional development opportunities and other important information Notifications of updates are sent to the MyLink email list weekly

Libraries Paper copies of the surveys were provided to the Tomaree and Raymond Terrace Libraries for distribution to disability groups (including disability support groups) who use the library

Media release Media release in the Port Stephens Examiner and online version of the Port Stephens Examiner

Schools Every school in the LGA was contacted via telephone and the survey and link distributed via email Schools then placed the information about the survey and the link in school community newsletters and on Facebook pages

Eagleton Ridge Respite Centre

Eagleton Ridge Respite Centre was contacted and information forwarded about the survey along with a link

Flyer Flyers were developed to help promote the project which contained information about the survey and where to access it Flyers were delivered to doctors surgeries disability service providers and Council run pools

Internal stakeholder meeting

Internal stakeholder meeting and ongoing consultation to go over elements of the DIAP

14 Port Stephens Council

Summary of priorities Returned surveys and consultation meetings presented a clear picture of priorities with suggestions and solutions Looking across all questions in the survey the following outlines the most important priorities for the Port Stephens community

1 Footpathsramps 2 Accessibility to eventsactivities

shops sporting and recreation facilities and parks

3 Provision of venues services events 4 Public toilets 5 Parking 6 Public transport 7 Public education 8 Respectful and inclusive community

and services

Some of the priorities for the community in the consultation for the DIAP were also identified in the Port Stephens Disability Action Plan 2014-2018 Furthermore the Port Stephens Integrated Plans aims to ldquomake future provisions for people with disabilities their families and carersrdquo via several actions including implementing the Disability Inclusion Action Plan

Results of the community consultation were arranged in to the DIAPrsquos four focus groups and actions were developed that align with these areas These focus areas were identified as part of extensive community consultation during development of the NSW Disability Inclusion Plan As such these focus areas became a requirement to be in all NSW agency DIAPs These actions recognise the rights of people with a disability to full and effective participation in an inclusive society the same as those without a disability The following action plan outlines Councilrsquos role and action and priority level

Results of the community consultation were arranged into the DIAPrsquos four focus groups and actions were developed that contribute a more inclusive accessible and liveable society

ACTION PLANDisability Inclusion

15

Act

ion

plan

ning

Liveable Communities

Item for

improvement Priority

Time-

frame

Coun-

cilRole

Action

Outcome

IPRRefer-

ence

Responsibility

Foot

path

s an

d1

-2 y

ears

Se

rvic

eU

nder

take

revi

ew o

f foo

tpat

hs a

nd ra

mps

Upd

ated

and

impl

emen

tatio

n of

42

13

Asse

ts

ram

ps th

roug

hout

Prov

ider

th

roug

hout

LG

A to

det

erm

ine

a pr

iorit

ised

the

Pede

stria

n Ac

cess

and

Mob

ility

LGA

appr

oach

to im

plem

enta

tion

of g

aps

Plan

con

side

rs a

nd p

riorit

ises

peo

ple

upgr

ades

and

new

foot

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infra

stru

ctur

e

with

dis

abilit

y

0-1

year

U

pdat

ed a

nd im

plem

enta

tion

of th

e Pe

dest

rian

13

16

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ngAc

cess

and

Mob

ility

Plan

con

sider

s an

d pr

iorit

ises

peop

le w

ith d

isabi

lity

Out

door

spa

ces

and

1 -2

yea

rs

Serv

ice

Prio

rise

revi

ew a

nd a

udit

Cou

ncil

build

ings

Pr

ovid

er

man

aged

out

door

spa

ces

and

build

ings

to d

eter

min

e ar

eas

whe

re w

ork

isre

quire

d an

d pr

iorit

y m

aint

enan

ce a

reas

2- 4

yea

rs

Serv

ice

Impl

emen

t tw

o lib

erty

sw

ings

Loc

atio

nsPr

ovid

er

to b

e pr

iotis

ed in

col

labo

ratio

n w

ithSo

cial

Pla

nnin

g

Out

door

spa

ces

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ng a

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e co

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e w

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isabi

lity

Two

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ty s

win

gs a

re in

stal

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in a

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catio

ns s

o fa

mily

and

car

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of p

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e w

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gh n

eeds

are

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e to

acc

ess

recr

eatio

nal

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rtuni

ties

(peo

ple

in w

heel

chai

rs i

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ding

adul

ts c

an e

xper

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e a

sens

e of

free

dom

)

52

12

Faci

litie

s an

dSe

rvic

es

52

12

Faci

litie

s an

dSe

rvic

es

Prov

isio

n of

0 ndash

1Ad

voca

te

Dev

elop

the

Plan

of M

anag

emen

t to

The

Ngi

oka

Cen

tre is

man

aged

and

ope

rate

d 1

31

1 Fa

cilit

ies

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prog

ram

s an

dye

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rmin

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re lo

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End

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Serv

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rvic

es th

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e of

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whi

ch th

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giok

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ort S

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Cou

ncil

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Cen

tre is

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ted

Th

is a

rran

gem

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tire

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sabi

lity

Ngi

oka

Cen

tre to

by

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Ong

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e th

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tinua

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aila

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and

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oing

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31

2 C

omm

unity

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ve fo

r use

by

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e w

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dis

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y

Ong

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rvic

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ng p

rovi

sion

of w

heel

in w

heel

out

The

Blue

Dot

Ser

vice

13

13

Com

mun

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Lead

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garb

age

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serv

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(Blu

e D

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ce)

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e w

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dis

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y liv

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at h

ome

Ong

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ng a

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s to

chi

ldre

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ices

13

14

Com

mun

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prog

ram

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r chi

ldre

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dditio

nal n

eeds

at O

utsid

e Sc

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rs C

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(Ray

mon

dTe

rrace

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Med

owie

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ort S

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an a

nd F

amily

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Car

e

16

Ong

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rvic

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ng p

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d su

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ple

13

15

Com

mun

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Prov

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and

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gyw

ith a

dis

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ions

incl

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gbull

Audi

o re

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avig

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sbull

Zoom

text

scr

een

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oftw

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bull La

rge

prin

t boo

ksbull

Audi

o bo

oks

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ic to

ilets

2

ndash 4

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s

Serv

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Audi

t of p

ublic

toile

ts to

iden

tify

loca

tions

Impr

oved

acc

essib

ility

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

disa

bility

52

14

Faci

litie

s an

dPr

ovid

er

whe

re a

dult

chan

ge fa

cilit

ies

for p

eopl

ean

d as

sista

nce

for c

arer

s c

arin

g fo

r peo

ple

with

Serv

ices

w

ith a

dis

abilit

y ar

e w

arra

nted

- or

whe

rehi

gh n

eeds

an area could be modified to cater for

peop

le w

ith a

hig

h ne

ed d

isab

ility

durin

gFo

rwar

d W

orks

Pla

n

Advo

cate

Po

rt St

ephe

ns d

isab

ility

acce

ss to

ilets

are

incl

uded

on

the

Aust

ralia

n Pu

blic

Toile

trsquos s

oftw

are

appl

icat

ion

Dis

abilit

y pa

rkin

g1

-2 y

ears

Se

rvic

eR

evie

w d

isab

ility

park

ing

spac

es a

ssp

aces

thro

ugho

utPr

ovid

er identified to ensure compliance against

the

LGA

curre

nt s

tand

ards

and

or

relo

catin

g to

meet compliance (via traffic committee)

1 -2

yea

rs

At re

view

upd

ate

Plan

s of

Man

agem

ent

to in

clud

e di

scus

sion

of d

isab

ility

park

ing

and

impr

ovin

g ac

cess

ibilit

y be

twee

ndi

sabi

lity

park

ing

par

ks a

nd d

isab

ility

acce

ssib

le to

ilets

Incr

ease

in c

ompl

iant

dis

abilit

y pa

rkin

g so

52

14

Faci

litie

s an

d As

sets

pe

ople

who

exp

erie

nce

disa

bilit

y ca

n en

joy

am

ore

seam

less

exp

erie

nce

that

is n

avig

able

and

man

agea

ble

ther

eby

bein

g m

ore

incl

usiv

ean

d va

lue

addi

ng

52

14

Fa

cilit

ies

and

Asse

ts

Publ

ic tr

ansp

ort

1 -2

yea

rs

Advo

cate

M

eet w

ith p

ublic

tran

spor

t pro

vider

s to

Impr

oved

legi

bilit

y an

d ac

cess

to p

ublic

13

16

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ngpr

ovid

e fe

edba

ck fr

om D

IAP

and

addr

ess

trans

port

optio

ns a

nd im

prov

ed p

atro

nage

of

any

conc

erns

whe

re p

ossib

le

peop

le w

ith a

dis

abilit

y

Fund

ing

Ong

oing

Se

rvic

eAc

tivel

y se

ek g

rant

fund

ing

for p

roje

cts

An in

crea

se in

ser

vice

s in

frast

ruct

ure

and

52

14

Faci

litie

s an

dop

portu

nitie

s pr

ovid

er

whi

ch e

ncou

rage

acc

ess

and

incl

usio

n in

activ

ities

that

ens

ure

incl

usiv

enes

s an

dSe

rvic

esLe

ader

th

e co

mm

unity

ac

cess

ibilit

y fo

r peo

ple

who

exp

erie

nce

Com

mun

itydi

sabi

lity

thei

r fam

ilies

and

care

rs

Dev

elop

men

t and

Enga

gem

ent

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ng

Acce

ssib

le e

vent

s O

ngoi

ng

Serv

ice

Form

alis

e a

12 m

onth

tria

l pro

gram

Incr

ease

in th

e nu

mbe

r of e

vent

s th

at a

re2

11

5C

omm

unity

prov

ider

of

the

Even

t Ten

t w

hich

pro

mot

esac

cess

ible

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

y D

evel

opm

ent a

nd5

31

5Ad

voca

te

and

enab

les

grea

ter p

artic

ipat

ion

atEn

gage

men

t5

41

1co

mm

unity

eve

nts

of p

eopl

e an

d fa

milie

sTo

uris

m a

nd E

vent

s w

ho h

ave

a di

sabi

lity

17

18

Improving access to services through better systems and processes

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Alig

ning

Act

ion

Ong

oing

Le

ader

En

sure

that

the

DIA

P al

igns

with

This

pla

n m

eets

the

Loca

l5

31

13

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ngPl

an w

ith In

tegr

ated

the

Inte

grat

ed R

epor

ting

Fram

ing

Gov

ernm

ent D

IAP

guid

elin

eR

epor

ting

and

that

the

actio

ns in

this

Act

ion

requ

irem

ents

and

act

ions

are

Fram

ewor

k Pl

an a

re in

clud

ed in

the

(4 y

ear)

impl

emen

ted

Del

iver

y Pr

ogra

m a

nd th

e An

nual

Ope

ratio

nal P

lan

Info

rmat

ion

to th

e0

ndash 1

year

Le

ader

and

Enab

le th

e ab

ility

to p

rovi

de a

ndM

ore

peop

le a

re a

ble

to a

cces

s5

31

6 Office of the General

publ

ic

Serv

ice

rece

ive

info

rmat

ion

to a

nd fr

om th

ein

form

atio

n an

d pa

rticip

ate

in th

eir

Man

ager

Pr

ovid

er

publ

ic in

a ra

nge

of fo

rmat

s R

evie

wlo

cal c

omm

unity

and

the

affa

irs o

fpu

blic

exh

ibiti

on te

mpl

ate

to m

ake

loca

l gov

ernm

ent

clea

rer t

hat w

e ac

cept

sub

mis

sion

sin

all

form

ats

not

just

writ

ten

eg

vide

o v

oice

rec

ordi

ng

Mai

ntai

n w

ebsi

te a

cces

sibi

lity

55

18

Com

mun

icat

ions

(WAA

G) 2

0 A

A le

vel

Polic

ies

and

1 -2

yea

rs

Lead

erS

ervi

ceC

ounc

il inv

estig

ates

opt

ions

toR

emov

e ob

stac

les

for p

eopl

e w

ith1

31

6 St

rate

gic

Plan

ning

pr

oced

ures

Pr

ovid

er

impr

ove

unde

rsta

ndin

g of

pol

icies

and

a di

sabi

lity

to e

nabl

e ac

hiev

emen

tpr

oced

ures

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

disa

bility

of

pos

itive

and

sus

tain

able

empl

oym

ent o

utco

mes

Supporting access to meaningful employment

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Volu

ntee

ring

1 -2

yea

rs

Lead

er

Rev

iew

vol

unte

erin

g pr

oces

ses

for

Incr

ease

d ac

cess

to v

olun

teer

ing

16

13

Com

mun

ity S

ervi

ces

proc

esse

s Po

rt St

ephe

ns C

ounc

il to

ens

ure

oppo

rtuni

ties

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

that

they

are

wel

com

ing

of p

eopl

edi

sabi

lity

w

ith d

isab

ility

Rec

ruitm

ent

Ong

oing

Le

ader

C

ontin

ue to

offe

r can

dida

tes

anO

ngoi

ng e

mpl

oym

ent o

ppor

tuni

ties

51

42

Org

anis

atio

nal

proc

esse

s op

tion

to d

iscl

ose

whe

ther

or n

otfo

r peo

ple

who

hav

e a

disa

bilit

y w

ithD

evel

opm

ent

they

hav

e a

disa

bilit

y du

ring

the

Port

Step

hens

Cou

ncil

appl

icat

ion

proc

ess

so th

at C

ounc

ilar

e ab

le to

ens

ure

that

app

lican

tsw

ith a

dis

abilit

y ar

e an

d fe

elsu

ppor

ted

thro

ugho

ut th

e pr

oces

s

Attitudes and Behaviours

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Educ

atio

n fo

r sho

p0

- 1 y

ear

Advo

cate

Aw

aren

ess

and

educ

atio

nO

utco

me

is a

rais

ed a

war

enes

s of

41

24

Econ

omic

owne

rsb

usin

esse

sca

mpa

igns

targ

etin

g bu

sine

ss

the

need

s of

peo

ple

with

a d

isab

ility

Dev

elop

men

ton

acc

ess

issue

s fo

row

ners

via

Biz

Lin

k ne

twor

kac

cess

issu

espe

ople

with

disa

bility

ne

wsl

ette

rs a

nd b

usin

ess

cham

bers

to fo

ster

and

enc

oura

ge th

efo

llow

ing

initi

ativ

es

bull D

evel

op c

ompa

nion

car

d fri

endl

yin

itiat

ive

whi

ch e

nabl

es fr

ee e

ntry

to c

erta

in v

enue

sev

ents

for

care

rs to

acc

ompa

ny p

eopl

e w

itha

disa

bilit

y

1-2

year

s Ad

voca

te

bull Pr

efer

red

empl

oyer

aw

ards

for

41

24

Econ

omic

disa

bilit

y ac

cess

ible

wor

kpla

ce

Dev

elop

men

t

Sta

ff ar

e su

pp

orte

d a

nd h

ave

gre

ater

know

led

ge

of th

e va

riety

of n

eed

s of

peo

ple

with

a d

isab

ility

and

the

need

for i

nclu

sion

Staf

f aw

aren

ess

of1

-2 y

ears

Le

ader

To

pro

vide

train

ing

for C

ounc

il sta

ffSt

aff a

re s

uppo

rted

and

have

51

42

Org

anis

atio

nal

the

need

s of

peo

ple

on h

ow to

wor

k w

ith a

nd u

nder

stan

dgr

eate

r kno

wle

dge

of th

e va

riety

of

Dev

elop

men

tw

ith d

isab

ility

peop

le w

ith d

isabi

lity th

roug

h C

ounc

ilsne

eds

of p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

y an

d

The

prio

rity

timef

ram

e ra

ting

indi

cate

s th

at a

Hig

h pr

iorit

y sh

ould

be

com

plet

ed w

ithin

1 y

ear

Med

ium

prio

rity

with

in 2

yea

rs a

nd L

ow p

riorit

y w

ithin

3 to

4 y

ears

Wor

kpla

ce E

quity

amp D

ivers

ityC

omm

ittee

and

Gui

de (a

ttach

ed)

the

need

for i

nclu

sion

19

Governance monitoring and evaulation To ensure implementation of the Plan an internal working group made up of stakeholders who have responsibility for implementing actions with the plan will be ongoing The working group will meet quarterly to discuss the Action Plan and linkages to both current and future projects and programs including

bull Each new capital works project will consider disability improvements to inclusion and accessibility within the Project Management Plan scoping and procurement document (in addition to Disability Discrimination Act compliance) Improvements for consideration include Location of the

proposed project and Improvements to carpark access to

and from kerb ramp location and availability and pathwayrsquos etc that enable more seamless connectivity

Progress of the plan will be monitored and implementation of actions within the Plan will be reported through a range of governance processes including

bull Six monthly reporting to Councils Executive Leadership team and Council

bull Operational Plan annual reporting as part of the Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework

bull Annual Report bull End of Term Reporting bull Customer satisfaction annual survey and

reporting To enable effective measurement and monitoring of actions within the plan the Port Stephens Customer Satisfaction Survey will include a section within the survey of questions that people who experience disability their families carers and people who work in the disability sector can elect to answer

20 Port Stephens Council

Conclusion Port Stephens Council has a strong commitment to enhancing life experience of people with a disability in the Local Government Area

In developing the Disability Inclusion Action Plan Port Stephens Council has built on the strengths of existing Council resources Council structurestaff plans policies and the local closely connected community by consulting with a broad range of stakeholders

The priorities identified above reflect Council values and principles The individual objectives once approved by Council are to be included in the 2017-2021 Delivery Program and the Annual Operational Plans for each of those four (4) years Within the Integrated and Strategic Planning framework the responsibility reporting and resourcing for the objectives will be defined

Draw together diverse interests and strive towards attaining greater consensus on sustainable outcomes for the local government area

ACTION PLANDisability Inclusion

21

understanding of your requirements and helpful (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

11a Please provide details of your experiences with Council staff

12 Any other comments

Appendix 1 DIAP Survey 1 What is your age 2 What suburb do you live in

(Required) 3 Gender 4 Language used at home 5 Are you a carer or a person with

disability (Choose all that apply) a Carer b Person with disability c Family member

6 Do you think the Port Stephens Community is welcoming of people with disabilities Eg businesses shops etc (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

6a Please give us some examples of positive or negative experiences you have had

7 Have you encountered any problems barriers or issues in using transport options (Choose all that apply) a Walking or wheelchair use b Local buses c Electric Scooter d Other

7a Please give us some examples of positive or negative experiences you have had

8 Do you think facilities and services are accessible and inclusive in Port Stephens a Councilrsquos Administration Building Yes No b Community centres Yes No c Events Yes No d Libraries Yes No e Parks Yes No f Pools Yes No g Other Yes No

22 Port Stephens Council

8a Can you give us any examples for improvements

9 Do you find Councilrsquos information publications accessible

Website Yes No Newsletters Yes No

9a Do you have suggestions for improvements

10 Would you like to see an improvement in online services through Councilrsquos website such as the electronic payment of rates andor fees and charges (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

11 Do you find Council staff at all of its locations and facilities approachable

Appendix 2 community consultation Results from consultation and the survey The areas identified for improvement by were framed around the four priority areas the Port Stephens community are (in order for an inclusive community Liveable of priority) communities Attitudes and behaviours Employment and Systems and processes

Liveable Communities

Focus Area Comments Foot pathsramps ldquoFootpathsramps ndash uneven rough need ramps to access

roads need lighting on paths and stairs need more footpaths wider footpaths some ramps too steeprdquo

ldquoAll new kerb ramps should have no step between the bottom of the ramp and the gutterroad The small step that is still mostly used at the bottom of curb ramps is completely unnecessary (it doesnrsquot improve water flow in the gutter as some people think it does) but it makes it harder for a wheelchair user even if the step is only 2cm or less The same argument applies to drivewaysrdquo

ACTION PLAN

Accessibility to ldquoCluttered walkways access to beaches (wheelchair accessible eventsactivities ramps) Braille on signage audio description at places of shops sporting interest Henderson Park upgrade (steep steps to pontoon facilities parks no disability parking) access to pontoons for fishing (Karuah

good example of how to do it) Wider access passageways and doorways (eg some places have double doors but keep one door locked eg Salamander library)rdquo

Provision of venues ldquoLack of disability services in parks (eg Liberty swingswing services events with 5-point harness) lack of covered areas in parks (many

sun-sensitive due to medication plus rain cover) hydrotherapy pool fences around parks disability friendly slide at parks audio loop neededrdquo

ldquoI would like to see more programs that support carers and the families of people with disabilities in the Port Stephens Local Government Area as their (sic) simply isnrsquot enough I would also like more programs to support people with disabilities so that as a community we can start supporting each other through the hardship of living with a disabilityrdquo

Disability Inclusion 23

Focus Area Comments Public toilets ldquoThere are lack of amenities in disabled toilets (eg adults who

need help changing continence aids hoists in toilets) need more (eg Nelson Bay)rdquo

ldquoDisabled toilets do not cater for older persons with a disability who require nappy changing facilities It is not nice to change on the floor of a disabled toilet and parents room tables are too smallrdquo

Parking ldquoThere is a lack of disabled parking some disabled parks are not wheelchair friendlyrdquo

ldquoSubstandard pavement surfaces for walker frames and mobility scooters Lack of disability parking spaces at Soldiers Point Boat ramp and Salamander Bay wharf and various other areas within the Port Stephens areardquo

Public transport ldquoInfrastructure improvements for more and better transport limited timetables too many transfers to get to destination want regular community bus (low cost or for free)rdquo

Attitudes and Behaviours

Focus Area Comments Respectful and It should be noted that most people reported positive encounters inclusive community with the public and council staff One comment stated ldquocould and services improve empathy and understanding from public on what it is

like to have a disabilityrdquo

ldquoHearing impaired when asked to speak slower shop people yell and pull faces as if trying to mouth out each word very embarrassingrdquo

ldquoStaring commentingrdquo

Public education ldquoEducation for people in shops about disability disabled amenitiesfacilities being used by public (change-rooms toilets parking) but consideration needed so as not to discriminate against those who do not ldquoappearrdquo to have a disabilityrdquo

It should be noted that most people reported positive encounters with the public and council staff

24 Port Stephens Council

Employment

Focus Area Comments No issues identified however it was acknowledged in internal communication with staff that Council could lead the way in more employment of people with a disability this could include recruitment processes which are lsquomore welcomingrsquo and encourage people to apply for positions It also was acknowledged that Council policies procedures systems and processes could be reviewed for lsquoeasy readrsquo format

Systems and Processes

Focus Area Comments Range of information dissemination

Promotion and awareness of activitesevents services

ldquoNot everyone gets newspaper so send information in other ways (emailed with rates) need to consider information dissemination for people with hearing and vision impairedrdquo

ldquoI have rarely seen a Council newsletter Also the website needs to be cleaner clearer more navigable and user friendlyrdquo

ldquoLeft-aligning text might seem like a visual imposition to the sighted person but this simple change is the difference between being able to read for people who are blind or who have low visionrdquo

ldquoEye level display for people using wheelchairsrdquo

Some people were confused or unaware of services amenities available to them

In some areas ldquoFor those of us who get their bills via email it would be great if we were emailed regularly about items on public exhibition etc to replace what other residents would see in your adds in the Examinerrdquo

ldquoMore information areas to access helprdquo

ldquoDidnrsquot know you had a newsletterrdquo

Consulation on council infrastructure

Respondents welcomed the Council distributing this survey for comment but others felt more consideration of disability issues was needed

ldquoPlanning doesnrsquot seem to include disabled accessibility issues for new projectsrdquo

ldquoConsideration of people who are blind or low vision in future planning ie Braille on all signage (or on poles or mounts for elevated signage) Audio description at places of interest geographical cultural or historical significance Blind people miss out on our beautiful views they deserve to be catered to with regard to what else PS has to offer Infrastructure improvements that support more and better public transport to Port Stephensrdquo

Disabilit y Inclusion ACTION PLAN 25

Do you think the Port Stephens Community is welcoming of people with disabilities Eg businesses shops etc Most people felt Port Stephens is welcoming (68)

Have you encountered any problems barriers or issues in using transport options

68

0 10 20 30 40 50

Electric Scooter

Walking or wheelchair use

Local buses

Other

Do you think facilities and services are accessible and inclusive in Port Stephens

Focus Area Yes No

Councils Administration Building 57 6

Community centres 53 8

Events 36 21

Libraries 60 2

Parks 38 27

Pools 43 15

Other 18 13

26 Port Stephens Council

Do you find Councilrsquos information publications accessible

Focus area website

Would you like to see an improvement in online services through Councilrsquos website such as the electronic payment of rates and or fees and charges

Do you find Council staff at all of its locations and facilities approachable understanding of your requirements and helpful

Most comments in this section indicated council staff was very helpful and polite

Any other comments

Items for improvement (in order of priority)

Yes 36

Yes 55

Yes 48

No 6

No 18

No 11

1 Provision of venues services events 2 Roadscrossings 3 Footpathsramps 4 Public toilets 5 Public education The following summary outlines the priorities identified across all questions of the survey

ACTION PLANDisabilit y Inclusion

27

App

endi

x 3

Func

tions

ser

vice

s an

d as

sets

Function Area Community Services Sector

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Man

ager

Ngi

oka

Com

mun

ityH

ortic

ultu

ral

Serv

ices

Th

erap

yC

entre

Volu

ntee

r wor

kfor

ce o

f up

to80

0 p

rovi

sion

of lsquo

whe

el in

whe

el o

utrsquo g

arba

ge c

olle

ctio

nfo

r peo

ple

with

dis

abilit

y liv

ing

at h

ome

Pro

visi

on o

fpr

ogra

ms

for c

hild

ren

with

addi

tiona

l nee

ds a

t Out

side

of S

choo

l Hou

rs C

are

Chi

ldre

nsrsquo a

ctiv

ity V

an a

ndFa

mily

Day

Car

e P

rovi

sion

of la

rge

prin

t boo

ks t

alki

ngbo

oks

and

audi

o an

d vi

sual

navi

gatio

n ai

ds a

t lib

rarie

sLe

ar to

sw

im p

rogr

ams

atco

unci

l aqu

atic

cen

tres

Info

rmat

ion

on w

ebsi

te re

Leas

e of

Gra

ham

stow

nVo

lunt

eer s

trate

gy35

5vo

lunt

eers

Aqua

tic R

eser

ve fo

r use

by

Part

A an

d Pa

rt B

com

mitt

ees

Saila

bilit

y (P

SC le

ase

the

Larg

e te

xt fo

rmat

ting

onla

nd fr

om H

unte

r Wat

er a

ndw

ebsi

te

Saila

bilit

y su

b-le

ase

the

land

of P

SC)

Link

s to

vol

unte

er re

sour

ces

in J

ob a

genc

ies

TAF

Eot

her a

reas

bus

ines

ses

etc

univ

ersi

ties

sch

ools

Brai

lle a

nd la

rge

font

com

pute

rs

Rev

iew

pol

icie

spr

oced

ures

toen

sure

they

are

lsquoeas

y re

adrsquo f

orm

at

Busi

ness

lead

ersh

ipto

enh

ance

Ngi

oka

as a

mul

ti-pu

rpos

ece

ntre

and

to p

rom

ote

and

alig

n w

ith N

DIS

pers

onal

pla

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unity

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ups

and

com

-Potential

enco

urag

e ac

cess

and

inclu

sion

mitt

ees

to u

nder

take

pro

ject

s an

d pr

o-gr

ams

to e

ncou

rage

acc

ess

and

inclu

sion

35

Disability Inclusion

ACTION PLAN

Disability InclusionInclusionDisability InclusionInclusionDisability

For more information please contact Development Services councilportstephensnswgovau | 02 4980 0255 | PORTSTEPHENSNSWGOVAU

Page 7: Port Stephens Council DIAP 2016 - facs.nsw.gov.au · In 2016, Port Stephens had a population of 64,807 at the 2016 Census. This igure is predicted to rise by up to 23,000 over the

Volunteer opportunities are available in areas such as

bull Halls and community centres bull Parks reserves and Landcare groups bull Cemetery committees bull Sports council and clubs and bull Advisory and cultural groups and

libraries (among others)2

This DIAP defines strategies and provides a planning framework and actions to promote inclusion and equity for people with a disability so they may fully participate in and contribute to social business and community life The DIAP will enhance and complement the existing services provided by Port Stephens Council and will encourage an ongoing focus on building a socially inclusive and

Port Stephens Council will encourage an ongoing focus on building a socially inclusive and accessible place for all

ACTION PLANDisability Inclusion

7

accessible place for all

Carry out its functions in a way that provides best possible outcomes for the local community Plan strategically within the integrated planning and reporting framework for present

summarised below Strong and effective

representation leadership planning and decision making

Inclusive communities where individuals can fully participate in social business and community life

The community vision for the Port Stephens Community Strategic Plan is to have ldquoa great lifestyle in a treasured environmentrdquo This vision can only truly be achieved in a society that is inclusive and accessible for people of all abilities and

This Plan is critical to achieve positive

Guiding principles

backgrounds

change and create a more inclusive society A more inclusive society is diverse stronger and more sustainable

To achieve this the following principles underpin and reinforce the actions and desired outcomes within the DIAP and align with the philosophy behind the NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014 the Community Strategic Plan and the communities vision

bull Social justice principles of Equity Access Participation Rights

bull Guiding principles for Councils in accordance with Chapter 3 of the Local Government Act 1993 which are

and future populations Working with others to secure

appropriate services for local community needs and

Fairly ethically and without bias in the interests of the local community

bull Business Excellence principles Port Stephens Council applies the

Business Excellence principles to inform continuous improvement and strengthen the organisations ability to deliver more efficient and effective services to the community

Port Stephens Council8

Policy and legislative context Definition The Disability Inclusion Act 2014 defines disability as lsquoThe long-term physical mental intellectual or sensory impairment which in interaction with various barriers may hinder the full and effective participation in society on an equal basis with othersrsquo

In the context of the DIAP lsquodisabilityrsquo includes functional impairments or limitations which may be present from birth acquired by accident or illness or due to the process of ageing The impairments may be substantial or seemingly minor temporary or permanent

Legislation In 1993 all NSW government departments and some other government bodies were required to undertake disability action planning when the NSW Disability Services Act 1993 (DSA) was introduced

In 2008 the Australian Government committed to implementing the United Nations (UN) Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities

In 2014 a strengthened commitment to inclusion better consultation with people with disability and protection of their rights was propelled with the introduction of the Disability Inclusion Act 2014 which replaced the DSA

There is a suite of further Commonwealth and State legislation that promotes and drives improving access and inclusion for people with a disability

INTERNATIONAL bull Principles of the UN Convention on the

Rights of People with a Disability

COMMONWEALTH bull Disability Discrimination Act 1992 bull Australian Government NDIS Act 2013 bull Australian Government Aged Care

(Living Longer Living Better) Act 2013

NSW bull NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014

The most recent legislation and amendments reflect a shift towards the view that while a disability may affect the way that a person interacts with others and their environment it should not define a person and it should not limit their capacity to become an integral part of the community Although the rights of a person with a disability have been defined as the same rights as those of all people since the early 1990s it is understood that upholding these rights must include promotion of individual choice about what is important to them universal access to services and facilities and inclusive communities where individuals can fully participate in social business and community life

The NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014 promotes the view that lsquoinclusionrsquo is not only a goal for service providers and public and private sector organisations it is a responsibility of the whole community It legislates for the rights of people with a disability to full participation in every-day life with enhanced community connection independence empowerment and wellbeing It is the role of local government through a Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) to promote and support inclusion in their communities

ADDITIONAL LEGISLATION bull Carers (Recognition) Act 2010 (NSW)

Disability not only affects people who have a disability but also people who care for them The Carers (Recognition) Act 2010 acknowledges the significance of carers including respect and recognition inclusion in decision making and access to services they may need

bull Local Government Act 1993 The Local Government Act 1993 sets out the framework and responsibilities of Councils and provides guidance to enable councilrsquos to carry out their functions in a way that facilitates local communities that are strong healthy and prosperous

Disability Inclusion ACTION PLAN 9

Draw together diverse interests and strive towards attaining greater consensus on sustainable outcomes for the local government area

10 Port Stephens Council

Councilrsquos responsibilities and roles Role of council New South Wales (NSW) is entering a new era in disability inclusion planning Councilrsquos role in implementation of the DIAP will include as a direct service provider as a leader an advocate and facilitator

bull As leader Council acts as a role model for others through its own actions strategic organisational responses and way of doing things In its dialogue with the communities and other stakeholders Council can act to draw together diverse interests and strive towards attaining greater consensus on sustainable outcomes for the local government area

bull As advocate Council seeks to improve services facilities and opportunities for the local government area and its communities by lobbying agencies and other levels of government In discussions with others there are opportunities to reinforce Port Stephens sense of identity and resilience and collaborate on achieving a more sustainable local government area

bull As facilitator Council assists interaction amongst stakeholders and forms strategic alliances aimed at promoting sustainability initiatives focussing on elements including social economic environmental

cultural and governance which demonstrate positive ways of moving forward

bull As service provider Council has a strong commitment to delivering the services needed by its communities and ensuring that Council resources are responsibly managed Councilrsquos role as a service provider aims to assist in building the long-term health of the local government area

Executive responsibility and project coordination Port Stephens Council supports the development and implementation of the DIAP The General Manager has responsibility to oversee the various functionsgroups of Council

The DIAP will be coordinated by the Social Planning Unit within the Strategy and Environment section of the Development Services team Responsibility for implementation and resourcing of the DIAP will be across all sections of Council

Disability Inclusion ACTION PLAN 11

systems and processes Focus Area 4

Integrated planning and reporting Goals and strategies of Port Stephens Council are underpinned by five themes which provide focus and direction for the Integrated Planning and Reporting (IPR) framework The four focus areas for the DIAP may be positioned within those five focus areas of Integrated Planning framework

UN Convention on the Right of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD)

National Disability Strategy (NDS)

National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)

NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014 (DIA)

Operational plan

Delivery program

Community strategic plan

Local government disability inclusion action planning

NSW Disability Inclusion Plan 1 Attitudes and behaviours 2 Employment 3 Liveable communities 4 Systems and processes

Port Stephens CSP-themes CSP1 Our citizens

CSP2 Our lifestyle

CSP3 Our environment

CSP4 Our economy

CSP5 Our Council

An inclusive NSW

Focus Areas for DIAP bull Liveable communities Focus Area 2 bull Positive community attitudes and behaviours

Focus Area 1 bull Liveable communities Focus Area 2

bull Liveable communities Focus Area 2

bull Supporting access to meaningful employment Focus Area 3

bull Improving access to services through better

Port Stephens Council 12

ACTION PLAN

Document review As background to the consultation and to confirm issues which have been previously identified in the Port Stephens LGA a review of documents was undertaken Council has a suite of documents which reflect their commitment to an inclusive and connected society in an environment that facilitates opportunities for contribution by all those who live in the Port Stephens Region Reviewed documents included

bull Port Stephens Integrated Plans incorporating Community Strategic Plan

2013-2023 Delivery Program 2013-2017 Operational Plans 2016-2020

bull Port Stephens Strategic Asset Management Plan (2016-2026)

bull Port Stephens Disability Action Plan 2014-2018

bull NSW Disability Inclusion Action Planning Guidelines

Consultation and engagement According to 2016 census data the population of Port Stephens was 69556 which is an increase of 4746 or 732 from 2011 (64810) As the table below notes there are distinct differences in the proportion of people who stated a Need for Assistance between each of Port Stephens planning catchments However community

Need for Assistance

consultation with people who experience a disability their families carers and disability groups show that the barriers challenges and needs of people with a disability to fully participate in community life are similar throughout the LGA

Suburb 2006 2011 2016 Fern Bay 74 87 789

Karuah Swan Bay 53 83 859

Medowie 32 35 393

Raymond Terrace 52 63 775

Rural East 53 47 611

Rural West 29 31 307

Tilligerry 64 73 797

Tomaree 55 55 653

Port Stephens LGA 50 55 640

Disability Inclusion 13

Consultation with the community In seeking to fully understand and identify the barriers to inclusion and access and to find solutions information was sought from key stakeholders Key stakeholders are people within the Port Stephens community who identify as experiencing a disability their carersrsquo and support workers

A survey was completed and distributed within the community from November

2016 to January 2017 The period of the survey was extended over the Christmas periodschool holiday period 71 surveys completed surveys were received from the community

The following table sets out who and how the survey was distributed to key stakeholders

Stakeholder Engagement Processes Council website Surveys could be accessed through Councilrsquos website using

Engagement HQ

Council Facebook page

A link to the survey was placed on Councilrsquos Facebook page The link was lsquoboostedrsquo which meant the page connected anyone in the LGA who had clicked on anything to do with disability which significantly broadened the surveys reach

MyLink Group Advice and information about the DIAP including a link to the survey was distributed to Councils MyLink group MyLink is an email group of members including Not for Profit Groups and Non-Government Organisations (NGOs) such as disability service and support providers The MyLink email group keeps its members informed of upcoming meetings local events professional development opportunities and other important information Notifications of updates are sent to the MyLink email list weekly

Libraries Paper copies of the surveys were provided to the Tomaree and Raymond Terrace Libraries for distribution to disability groups (including disability support groups) who use the library

Media release Media release in the Port Stephens Examiner and online version of the Port Stephens Examiner

Schools Every school in the LGA was contacted via telephone and the survey and link distributed via email Schools then placed the information about the survey and the link in school community newsletters and on Facebook pages

Eagleton Ridge Respite Centre

Eagleton Ridge Respite Centre was contacted and information forwarded about the survey along with a link

Flyer Flyers were developed to help promote the project which contained information about the survey and where to access it Flyers were delivered to doctors surgeries disability service providers and Council run pools

Internal stakeholder meeting

Internal stakeholder meeting and ongoing consultation to go over elements of the DIAP

14 Port Stephens Council

Summary of priorities Returned surveys and consultation meetings presented a clear picture of priorities with suggestions and solutions Looking across all questions in the survey the following outlines the most important priorities for the Port Stephens community

1 Footpathsramps 2 Accessibility to eventsactivities

shops sporting and recreation facilities and parks

3 Provision of venues services events 4 Public toilets 5 Parking 6 Public transport 7 Public education 8 Respectful and inclusive community

and services

Some of the priorities for the community in the consultation for the DIAP were also identified in the Port Stephens Disability Action Plan 2014-2018 Furthermore the Port Stephens Integrated Plans aims to ldquomake future provisions for people with disabilities their families and carersrdquo via several actions including implementing the Disability Inclusion Action Plan

Results of the community consultation were arranged in to the DIAPrsquos four focus groups and actions were developed that align with these areas These focus areas were identified as part of extensive community consultation during development of the NSW Disability Inclusion Plan As such these focus areas became a requirement to be in all NSW agency DIAPs These actions recognise the rights of people with a disability to full and effective participation in an inclusive society the same as those without a disability The following action plan outlines Councilrsquos role and action and priority level

Results of the community consultation were arranged into the DIAPrsquos four focus groups and actions were developed that contribute a more inclusive accessible and liveable society

ACTION PLANDisability Inclusion

15

Act

ion

plan

ning

Liveable Communities

Item for

improvement Priority

Time-

frame

Coun-

cilRole

Action

Outcome

IPRRefer-

ence

Responsibility

Foot

path

s an

d1

-2 y

ears

Se

rvic

eU

nder

take

revi

ew o

f foo

tpat

hs a

nd ra

mps

Upd

ated

and

impl

emen

tatio

n of

42

13

Asse

ts

ram

ps th

roug

hout

Prov

ider

th

roug

hout

LG

A to

det

erm

ine

a pr

iorit

ised

the

Pede

stria

n Ac

cess

and

Mob

ility

LGA

appr

oach

to im

plem

enta

tion

of g

aps

Plan

con

side

rs a

nd p

riorit

ises

peo

ple

upgr

ades

and

new

foot

path

infra

stru

ctur

e

with

dis

abilit

y

0-1

year

U

pdat

ed a

nd im

plem

enta

tion

of th

e Pe

dest

rian

13

16

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ngAc

cess

and

Mob

ility

Plan

con

sider

s an

d pr

iorit

ises

peop

le w

ith d

isabi

lity

Out

door

spa

ces

and

1 -2

yea

rs

Serv

ice

Prio

rise

revi

ew a

nd a

udit

Cou

ncil

build

ings

Pr

ovid

er

man

aged

out

door

spa

ces

and

build

ings

to d

eter

min

e ar

eas

whe

re w

ork

isre

quire

d an

d pr

iorit

y m

aint

enan

ce a

reas

2- 4

yea

rs

Serv

ice

Impl

emen

t tw

o lib

erty

sw

ings

Loc

atio

nsPr

ovid

er

to b

e pr

iotis

ed in

col

labo

ratio

n w

ithSo

cial

Pla

nnin

g

Out

door

spa

ces

and

build

ings

inc

ludi

ng a

cces

sto

are

mai

ntai

ned

and

deve

lope

d to

ena

ble

anin

clusiv

e co

mm

unity

for p

eopl

e w

ith d

isabi

lity

Two

liber

ty s

win

gs a

re in

stal

led

in a

ppro

pria

telo

catio

ns s

o fa

mily

and

car

ers

of p

eopl

e w

ithhi

gh n

eeds

are

abl

e to

acc

ess

recr

eatio

nal

oppo

rtuni

ties

(peo

ple

in w

heel

chai

rs i

nclu

ding

adul

ts c

an e

xper

ienc

e a

sens

e of

free

dom

)

52

12

Faci

litie

s an

dSe

rvic

es

52

12

Faci

litie

s an

dSe

rvic

es

Prov

isio

n of

0 ndash

1Ad

voca

te

Dev

elop

the

Plan

of M

anag

emen

t to

The

Ngi

oka

Cen

tre is

man

aged

and

ope

rate

d 1

31

1 Fa

cilit

ies

and

prog

ram

s an

dye

ars

dete

rmin

e an

d fo

rmal

ise

futu

re lo

ng te

rmby

the

End

eavo

ur F

ound

atio

n by

way

of

Serv

ices

se

rvic

es th

atus

e of

the

land

on

whi

ch th

e N

giok

alic

ense

agr

eem

ent w

ith P

ort S

teph

ens

Cou

ncil

su

ppor

t peo

ple

with

Cen

tre is

loca

ted

Th

is a

rran

gem

ent n

ow e

nabl

es th

e en

tire

a di

sabi

lity

Ngi

oka

Cen

tre to

by

utili

sed

for d

isab

ility

serv

ices

und

er N

DIS

Ong

oing

Se

rvic

eM

anag

e th

e us

e of

Gra

ham

stow

n Aq

uatic

Con

tinua

tion

of S

aila

bility

and

ong

oing

acc

ess

to1

31

2 C

omm

unity

Ser

vice

sLe

ader

R

eser

ve fo

r use

by

Saila

bility

re

crea

tion

activ

ities

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

y

Ong

oing

Se

rvic

eO

ngoi

ng p

rovi

sion

of w

heel

in w

heel

out

The

Blue

Dot

Ser

vice

13

13

Com

mun

ity S

ervi

ces

Lead

er

garb

age

bin

serv

ice

(Blu

e D

ot S

ervi

ce)

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

y liv

ing

at h

ome

Ong

oing

O

ngoi

ng a

cces

s to

chi

ldre

ns

serv

ices

13

14

Com

mun

ity S

ervi

ces

prog

ram

s fo

r chi

ldre

n w

ith a

dditio

nal n

eeds

at O

utsid

e Sc

hool

Hou

rs C

are

(Ray

mon

dTe

rrace

and

Med

owie

) P

ort S

teph

ens

Activ

ity V

an a

nd F

amily

Day

Car

e

16

Ong

oing

Se

rvic

eO

ngoi

ng p

rovi

sion

and

exp

ansi

on o

fIn

crea

sed

awar

enes

s an

d su

ppor

t for

peo

ple

13

15

Com

mun

ity S

ervi

ces

Prov

ider

as

sist

ive

and

adap

tive

tech

nolo

gyw

ith a

dis

abilit

y an

d in

crea

sed

livea

bilit

y

Cus

tom

er R

elat

ions

incl

udin

gbull

Audi

o re

ad n

avig

ator

sbull

Zoom

text

scr

een

read

er s

oftw

are

bull La

rge

prin

t boo

ksbull

Audi

o bo

oks

Publ

ic to

ilets

2

ndash 4

year

s

Serv

ice

Audi

t of p

ublic

toile

ts to

iden

tify

loca

tions

Impr

oved

acc

essib

ility

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

disa

bility

52

14

Faci

litie

s an

dPr

ovid

er

whe

re a

dult

chan

ge fa

cilit

ies

for p

eopl

ean

d as

sista

nce

for c

arer

s c

arin

g fo

r peo

ple

with

Serv

ices

w

ith a

dis

abilit

y ar

e w

arra

nted

- or

whe

rehi

gh n

eeds

an area could be modified to cater for

peop

le w

ith a

hig

h ne

ed d

isab

ility

durin

gFo

rwar

d W

orks

Pla

n

Advo

cate

Po

rt St

ephe

ns d

isab

ility

acce

ss to

ilets

are

incl

uded

on

the

Aust

ralia

n Pu

blic

Toile

trsquos s

oftw

are

appl

icat

ion

Dis

abilit

y pa

rkin

g1

-2 y

ears

Se

rvic

eR

evie

w d

isab

ility

park

ing

spac

es a

ssp

aces

thro

ugho

utPr

ovid

er identified to ensure compliance against

the

LGA

curre

nt s

tand

ards

and

or

relo

catin

g to

meet compliance (via traffic committee)

1 -2

yea

rs

At re

view

upd

ate

Plan

s of

Man

agem

ent

to in

clud

e di

scus

sion

of d

isab

ility

park

ing

and

impr

ovin

g ac

cess

ibilit

y be

twee

ndi

sabi

lity

park

ing

par

ks a

nd d

isab

ility

acce

ssib

le to

ilets

Incr

ease

in c

ompl

iant

dis

abilit

y pa

rkin

g so

52

14

Faci

litie

s an

d As

sets

pe

ople

who

exp

erie

nce

disa

bilit

y ca

n en

joy

am

ore

seam

less

exp

erie

nce

that

is n

avig

able

and

man

agea

ble

ther

eby

bein

g m

ore

incl

usiv

ean

d va

lue

addi

ng

52

14

Fa

cilit

ies

and

Asse

ts

Publ

ic tr

ansp

ort

1 -2

yea

rs

Advo

cate

M

eet w

ith p

ublic

tran

spor

t pro

vider

s to

Impr

oved

legi

bilit

y an

d ac

cess

to p

ublic

13

16

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ngpr

ovid

e fe

edba

ck fr

om D

IAP

and

addr

ess

trans

port

optio

ns a

nd im

prov

ed p

atro

nage

of

any

conc

erns

whe

re p

ossib

le

peop

le w

ith a

dis

abilit

y

Fund

ing

Ong

oing

Se

rvic

eAc

tivel

y se

ek g

rant

fund

ing

for p

roje

cts

An in

crea

se in

ser

vice

s in

frast

ruct

ure

and

52

14

Faci

litie

s an

dop

portu

nitie

s pr

ovid

er

whi

ch e

ncou

rage

acc

ess

and

incl

usio

n in

activ

ities

that

ens

ure

incl

usiv

enes

s an

dSe

rvic

esLe

ader

th

e co

mm

unity

ac

cess

ibilit

y fo

r peo

ple

who

exp

erie

nce

Com

mun

itydi

sabi

lity

thei

r fam

ilies

and

care

rs

Dev

elop

men

t and

Enga

gem

ent

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ng

Acce

ssib

le e

vent

s O

ngoi

ng

Serv

ice

Form

alis

e a

12 m

onth

tria

l pro

gram

Incr

ease

in th

e nu

mbe

r of e

vent

s th

at a

re2

11

5C

omm

unity

prov

ider

of

the

Even

t Ten

t w

hich

pro

mot

esac

cess

ible

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

y D

evel

opm

ent a

nd5

31

5Ad

voca

te

and

enab

les

grea

ter p

artic

ipat

ion

atEn

gage

men

t5

41

1co

mm

unity

eve

nts

of p

eopl

e an

d fa

milie

sTo

uris

m a

nd E

vent

s w

ho h

ave

a di

sabi

lity

17

18

Improving access to services through better systems and processes

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Alig

ning

Act

ion

Ong

oing

Le

ader

En

sure

that

the

DIA

P al

igns

with

This

pla

n m

eets

the

Loca

l5

31

13

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ngPl

an w

ith In

tegr

ated

the

Inte

grat

ed R

epor

ting

Fram

ing

Gov

ernm

ent D

IAP

guid

elin

eR

epor

ting

and

that

the

actio

ns in

this

Act

ion

requ

irem

ents

and

act

ions

are

Fram

ewor

k Pl

an a

re in

clud

ed in

the

(4 y

ear)

impl

emen

ted

Del

iver

y Pr

ogra

m a

nd th

e An

nual

Ope

ratio

nal P

lan

Info

rmat

ion

to th

e0

ndash 1

year

Le

ader

and

Enab

le th

e ab

ility

to p

rovi

de a

ndM

ore

peop

le a

re a

ble

to a

cces

s5

31

6 Office of the General

publ

ic

Serv

ice

rece

ive

info

rmat

ion

to a

nd fr

om th

ein

form

atio

n an

d pa

rticip

ate

in th

eir

Man

ager

Pr

ovid

er

publ

ic in

a ra

nge

of fo

rmat

s R

evie

wlo

cal c

omm

unity

and

the

affa

irs o

fpu

blic

exh

ibiti

on te

mpl

ate

to m

ake

loca

l gov

ernm

ent

clea

rer t

hat w

e ac

cept

sub

mis

sion

sin

all

form

ats

not

just

writ

ten

eg

vide

o v

oice

rec

ordi

ng

Mai

ntai

n w

ebsi

te a

cces

sibi

lity

55

18

Com

mun

icat

ions

(WAA

G) 2

0 A

A le

vel

Polic

ies

and

1 -2

yea

rs

Lead

erS

ervi

ceC

ounc

il inv

estig

ates

opt

ions

toR

emov

e ob

stac

les

for p

eopl

e w

ith1

31

6 St

rate

gic

Plan

ning

pr

oced

ures

Pr

ovid

er

impr

ove

unde

rsta

ndin

g of

pol

icies

and

a di

sabi

lity

to e

nabl

e ac

hiev

emen

tpr

oced

ures

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

disa

bility

of

pos

itive

and

sus

tain

able

empl

oym

ent o

utco

mes

Supporting access to meaningful employment

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Volu

ntee

ring

1 -2

yea

rs

Lead

er

Rev

iew

vol

unte

erin

g pr

oces

ses

for

Incr

ease

d ac

cess

to v

olun

teer

ing

16

13

Com

mun

ity S

ervi

ces

proc

esse

s Po

rt St

ephe

ns C

ounc

il to

ens

ure

oppo

rtuni

ties

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

that

they

are

wel

com

ing

of p

eopl

edi

sabi

lity

w

ith d

isab

ility

Rec

ruitm

ent

Ong

oing

Le

ader

C

ontin

ue to

offe

r can

dida

tes

anO

ngoi

ng e

mpl

oym

ent o

ppor

tuni

ties

51

42

Org

anis

atio

nal

proc

esse

s op

tion

to d

iscl

ose

whe

ther

or n

otfo

r peo

ple

who

hav

e a

disa

bilit

y w

ithD

evel

opm

ent

they

hav

e a

disa

bilit

y du

ring

the

Port

Step

hens

Cou

ncil

appl

icat

ion

proc

ess

so th

at C

ounc

ilar

e ab

le to

ens

ure

that

app

lican

tsw

ith a

dis

abilit

y ar

e an

d fe

elsu

ppor

ted

thro

ugho

ut th

e pr

oces

s

Attitudes and Behaviours

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Educ

atio

n fo

r sho

p0

- 1 y

ear

Advo

cate

Aw

aren

ess

and

educ

atio

nO

utco

me

is a

rais

ed a

war

enes

s of

41

24

Econ

omic

owne

rsb

usin

esse

sca

mpa

igns

targ

etin

g bu

sine

ss

the

need

s of

peo

ple

with

a d

isab

ility

Dev

elop

men

ton

acc

ess

issue

s fo

row

ners

via

Biz

Lin

k ne

twor

kac

cess

issu

espe

ople

with

disa

bility

ne

wsl

ette

rs a

nd b

usin

ess

cham

bers

to fo

ster

and

enc

oura

ge th

efo

llow

ing

initi

ativ

es

bull D

evel

op c

ompa

nion

car

d fri

endl

yin

itiat

ive

whi

ch e

nabl

es fr

ee e

ntry

to c

erta

in v

enue

sev

ents

for

care

rs to

acc

ompa

ny p

eopl

e w

itha

disa

bilit

y

1-2

year

s Ad

voca

te

bull Pr

efer

red

empl

oyer

aw

ards

for

41

24

Econ

omic

disa

bilit

y ac

cess

ible

wor

kpla

ce

Dev

elop

men

t

Sta

ff ar

e su

pp

orte

d a

nd h

ave

gre

ater

know

led

ge

of th

e va

riety

of n

eed

s of

peo

ple

with

a d

isab

ility

and

the

need

for i

nclu

sion

Staf

f aw

aren

ess

of1

-2 y

ears

Le

ader

To

pro

vide

train

ing

for C

ounc

il sta

ffSt

aff a

re s

uppo

rted

and

have

51

42

Org

anis

atio

nal

the

need

s of

peo

ple

on h

ow to

wor

k w

ith a

nd u

nder

stan

dgr

eate

r kno

wle

dge

of th

e va

riety

of

Dev

elop

men

tw

ith d

isab

ility

peop

le w

ith d

isabi

lity th

roug

h C

ounc

ilsne

eds

of p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

y an

d

The

prio

rity

timef

ram

e ra

ting

indi

cate

s th

at a

Hig

h pr

iorit

y sh

ould

be

com

plet

ed w

ithin

1 y

ear

Med

ium

prio

rity

with

in 2

yea

rs a

nd L

ow p

riorit

y w

ithin

3 to

4 y

ears

Wor

kpla

ce E

quity

amp D

ivers

ityC

omm

ittee

and

Gui

de (a

ttach

ed)

the

need

for i

nclu

sion

19

Governance monitoring and evaulation To ensure implementation of the Plan an internal working group made up of stakeholders who have responsibility for implementing actions with the plan will be ongoing The working group will meet quarterly to discuss the Action Plan and linkages to both current and future projects and programs including

bull Each new capital works project will consider disability improvements to inclusion and accessibility within the Project Management Plan scoping and procurement document (in addition to Disability Discrimination Act compliance) Improvements for consideration include Location of the

proposed project and Improvements to carpark access to

and from kerb ramp location and availability and pathwayrsquos etc that enable more seamless connectivity

Progress of the plan will be monitored and implementation of actions within the Plan will be reported through a range of governance processes including

bull Six monthly reporting to Councils Executive Leadership team and Council

bull Operational Plan annual reporting as part of the Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework

bull Annual Report bull End of Term Reporting bull Customer satisfaction annual survey and

reporting To enable effective measurement and monitoring of actions within the plan the Port Stephens Customer Satisfaction Survey will include a section within the survey of questions that people who experience disability their families carers and people who work in the disability sector can elect to answer

20 Port Stephens Council

Conclusion Port Stephens Council has a strong commitment to enhancing life experience of people with a disability in the Local Government Area

In developing the Disability Inclusion Action Plan Port Stephens Council has built on the strengths of existing Council resources Council structurestaff plans policies and the local closely connected community by consulting with a broad range of stakeholders

The priorities identified above reflect Council values and principles The individual objectives once approved by Council are to be included in the 2017-2021 Delivery Program and the Annual Operational Plans for each of those four (4) years Within the Integrated and Strategic Planning framework the responsibility reporting and resourcing for the objectives will be defined

Draw together diverse interests and strive towards attaining greater consensus on sustainable outcomes for the local government area

ACTION PLANDisability Inclusion

21

understanding of your requirements and helpful (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

11a Please provide details of your experiences with Council staff

12 Any other comments

Appendix 1 DIAP Survey 1 What is your age 2 What suburb do you live in

(Required) 3 Gender 4 Language used at home 5 Are you a carer or a person with

disability (Choose all that apply) a Carer b Person with disability c Family member

6 Do you think the Port Stephens Community is welcoming of people with disabilities Eg businesses shops etc (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

6a Please give us some examples of positive or negative experiences you have had

7 Have you encountered any problems barriers or issues in using transport options (Choose all that apply) a Walking or wheelchair use b Local buses c Electric Scooter d Other

7a Please give us some examples of positive or negative experiences you have had

8 Do you think facilities and services are accessible and inclusive in Port Stephens a Councilrsquos Administration Building Yes No b Community centres Yes No c Events Yes No d Libraries Yes No e Parks Yes No f Pools Yes No g Other Yes No

22 Port Stephens Council

8a Can you give us any examples for improvements

9 Do you find Councilrsquos information publications accessible

Website Yes No Newsletters Yes No

9a Do you have suggestions for improvements

10 Would you like to see an improvement in online services through Councilrsquos website such as the electronic payment of rates andor fees and charges (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

11 Do you find Council staff at all of its locations and facilities approachable

Appendix 2 community consultation Results from consultation and the survey The areas identified for improvement by were framed around the four priority areas the Port Stephens community are (in order for an inclusive community Liveable of priority) communities Attitudes and behaviours Employment and Systems and processes

Liveable Communities

Focus Area Comments Foot pathsramps ldquoFootpathsramps ndash uneven rough need ramps to access

roads need lighting on paths and stairs need more footpaths wider footpaths some ramps too steeprdquo

ldquoAll new kerb ramps should have no step between the bottom of the ramp and the gutterroad The small step that is still mostly used at the bottom of curb ramps is completely unnecessary (it doesnrsquot improve water flow in the gutter as some people think it does) but it makes it harder for a wheelchair user even if the step is only 2cm or less The same argument applies to drivewaysrdquo

ACTION PLAN

Accessibility to ldquoCluttered walkways access to beaches (wheelchair accessible eventsactivities ramps) Braille on signage audio description at places of shops sporting interest Henderson Park upgrade (steep steps to pontoon facilities parks no disability parking) access to pontoons for fishing (Karuah

good example of how to do it) Wider access passageways and doorways (eg some places have double doors but keep one door locked eg Salamander library)rdquo

Provision of venues ldquoLack of disability services in parks (eg Liberty swingswing services events with 5-point harness) lack of covered areas in parks (many

sun-sensitive due to medication plus rain cover) hydrotherapy pool fences around parks disability friendly slide at parks audio loop neededrdquo

ldquoI would like to see more programs that support carers and the families of people with disabilities in the Port Stephens Local Government Area as their (sic) simply isnrsquot enough I would also like more programs to support people with disabilities so that as a community we can start supporting each other through the hardship of living with a disabilityrdquo

Disability Inclusion 23

Focus Area Comments Public toilets ldquoThere are lack of amenities in disabled toilets (eg adults who

need help changing continence aids hoists in toilets) need more (eg Nelson Bay)rdquo

ldquoDisabled toilets do not cater for older persons with a disability who require nappy changing facilities It is not nice to change on the floor of a disabled toilet and parents room tables are too smallrdquo

Parking ldquoThere is a lack of disabled parking some disabled parks are not wheelchair friendlyrdquo

ldquoSubstandard pavement surfaces for walker frames and mobility scooters Lack of disability parking spaces at Soldiers Point Boat ramp and Salamander Bay wharf and various other areas within the Port Stephens areardquo

Public transport ldquoInfrastructure improvements for more and better transport limited timetables too many transfers to get to destination want regular community bus (low cost or for free)rdquo

Attitudes and Behaviours

Focus Area Comments Respectful and It should be noted that most people reported positive encounters inclusive community with the public and council staff One comment stated ldquocould and services improve empathy and understanding from public on what it is

like to have a disabilityrdquo

ldquoHearing impaired when asked to speak slower shop people yell and pull faces as if trying to mouth out each word very embarrassingrdquo

ldquoStaring commentingrdquo

Public education ldquoEducation for people in shops about disability disabled amenitiesfacilities being used by public (change-rooms toilets parking) but consideration needed so as not to discriminate against those who do not ldquoappearrdquo to have a disabilityrdquo

It should be noted that most people reported positive encounters with the public and council staff

24 Port Stephens Council

Employment

Focus Area Comments No issues identified however it was acknowledged in internal communication with staff that Council could lead the way in more employment of people with a disability this could include recruitment processes which are lsquomore welcomingrsquo and encourage people to apply for positions It also was acknowledged that Council policies procedures systems and processes could be reviewed for lsquoeasy readrsquo format

Systems and Processes

Focus Area Comments Range of information dissemination

Promotion and awareness of activitesevents services

ldquoNot everyone gets newspaper so send information in other ways (emailed with rates) need to consider information dissemination for people with hearing and vision impairedrdquo

ldquoI have rarely seen a Council newsletter Also the website needs to be cleaner clearer more navigable and user friendlyrdquo

ldquoLeft-aligning text might seem like a visual imposition to the sighted person but this simple change is the difference between being able to read for people who are blind or who have low visionrdquo

ldquoEye level display for people using wheelchairsrdquo

Some people were confused or unaware of services amenities available to them

In some areas ldquoFor those of us who get their bills via email it would be great if we were emailed regularly about items on public exhibition etc to replace what other residents would see in your adds in the Examinerrdquo

ldquoMore information areas to access helprdquo

ldquoDidnrsquot know you had a newsletterrdquo

Consulation on council infrastructure

Respondents welcomed the Council distributing this survey for comment but others felt more consideration of disability issues was needed

ldquoPlanning doesnrsquot seem to include disabled accessibility issues for new projectsrdquo

ldquoConsideration of people who are blind or low vision in future planning ie Braille on all signage (or on poles or mounts for elevated signage) Audio description at places of interest geographical cultural or historical significance Blind people miss out on our beautiful views they deserve to be catered to with regard to what else PS has to offer Infrastructure improvements that support more and better public transport to Port Stephensrdquo

Disabilit y Inclusion ACTION PLAN 25

Do you think the Port Stephens Community is welcoming of people with disabilities Eg businesses shops etc Most people felt Port Stephens is welcoming (68)

Have you encountered any problems barriers or issues in using transport options

68

0 10 20 30 40 50

Electric Scooter

Walking or wheelchair use

Local buses

Other

Do you think facilities and services are accessible and inclusive in Port Stephens

Focus Area Yes No

Councils Administration Building 57 6

Community centres 53 8

Events 36 21

Libraries 60 2

Parks 38 27

Pools 43 15

Other 18 13

26 Port Stephens Council

Do you find Councilrsquos information publications accessible

Focus area website

Would you like to see an improvement in online services through Councilrsquos website such as the electronic payment of rates and or fees and charges

Do you find Council staff at all of its locations and facilities approachable understanding of your requirements and helpful

Most comments in this section indicated council staff was very helpful and polite

Any other comments

Items for improvement (in order of priority)

Yes 36

Yes 55

Yes 48

No 6

No 18

No 11

1 Provision of venues services events 2 Roadscrossings 3 Footpathsramps 4 Public toilets 5 Public education The following summary outlines the priorities identified across all questions of the survey

ACTION PLANDisabilit y Inclusion

27

App

endi

x 3

Func

tions

ser

vice

s an

d as

sets

Function Area Community Services Sector

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Man

ager

Ngi

oka

Com

mun

ityH

ortic

ultu

ral

Serv

ices

Th

erap

yC

entre

Volu

ntee

r wor

kfor

ce o

f up

to80

0 p

rovi

sion

of lsquo

whe

el in

whe

el o

utrsquo g

arba

ge c

olle

ctio

nfo

r peo

ple

with

dis

abilit

y liv

ing

at h

ome

Pro

visi

on o

fpr

ogra

ms

for c

hild

ren

with

addi

tiona

l nee

ds a

t Out

side

of S

choo

l Hou

rs C

are

Chi

ldre

nsrsquo a

ctiv

ity V

an a

ndFa

mily

Day

Car

e P

rovi

sion

of la

rge

prin

t boo

ks t

alki

ngbo

oks

and

audi

o an

d vi

sual

navi

gatio

n ai

ds a

t lib

rarie

sLe

ar to

sw

im p

rogr

ams

atco

unci

l aqu

atic

cen

tres

Info

rmat

ion

on w

ebsi

te re

Leas

e of

Gra

ham

stow

nVo

lunt

eer s

trate

gy35

5vo

lunt

eers

Aqua

tic R

eser

ve fo

r use

by

Part

A an

d Pa

rt B

com

mitt

ees

Saila

bilit

y (P

SC le

ase

the

Larg

e te

xt fo

rmat

ting

onla

nd fr

om H

unte

r Wat

er a

ndw

ebsi

te

Saila

bilit

y su

b-le

ase

the

land

of P

SC)

Link

s to

vol

unte

er re

sour

ces

in J

ob a

genc

ies

TAF

Eot

her a

reas

bus

ines

ses

etc

univ

ersi

ties

sch

ools

Brai

lle a

nd la

rge

font

com

pute

rs

Rev

iew

pol

icie

spr

oced

ures

toen

sure

they

are

lsquoeas

y re

adrsquo f

orm

at

Busi

ness

lead

ersh

ipto

enh

ance

Ngi

oka

as a

mul

ti-pu

rpos

ece

ntre

and

to p

rom

ote

and

alig

n w

ith N

DIS

pers

onal

pla

ns

28

Function Area Community Services ndash Library Services

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Resource

Libr

ary

Civ

il Ass

ets

Serv

ices

Sect

ion

Man

ager

M

anag

erC

omm

unity

and

Rec

reat

ion

Assets Officer

Paid

Lib

rary

Sta

ff x

24C

asua

l Lib

rary

Sta

ff x

11Li

brar

y Vo

lunt

eers

x 5

5As

sist

ive

Adap

tive

tech

nolo

gy(A

udio

Rea

d na

viga

tors

Zoo

mTe

xt s

cree

n re

ader

sof

twar

ela

rge

prin

t boo

ks a

udio

boo

ks

IInfo

rmat

ion

on a

ll Li

brar

ySe

rvic

es re

late

d to

ser

vice

spr

ogra

ms

and

activ

ities

ndashdi

spla

yed

in b

ranc

hes

via

(flyerspostersTV monitors)

and

on

bull Fa

cebo

ok W

ebsi

tebull

Scho

ol N

ewsl

ette

rs W

hatrsquos

on in

our

Bac

kyar

dbull

PS E

xam

iner

bull N

ews

of th

e Ar

ea (T

eaG

arde

ns N

elso

n Ba

y an

dM

edow

ie)

Thou

Wal

la S

choo

ls a

sC

omm

uniti

es C

entre

New

cast

le R

egio

n Li

brar

y C

o-op

erat

ive

Cen

tral E

ast Z

one

(Reg

iona

lLi

brar

ies

Gro

up)

Publ

ic L

ibra

ries

NSW

Hun

ter W

EAH

isto

rical

and

Fam

ily H

isto

rySo

ciet

ies

RT

Art S

pace

Gro

upR

eal F

utur

es F

ound

atio

n

Inte

rnet

Usa

ge P

olic

yW

aivi

ng O

verd

ueC

harg

esSo

cial

Med

ia P

olic

yLi

brar

y U

ser

Gui

delin

esPS

C L

ibra

ry B

roch

ure

New

cast

le re

gion

Libr

ary

Broc

hure

Volu

ntee

r Pos

ition

Des

crip

tions

and

Han

dboo

kH

isto

rical

Soc

iety

Fa

mily

His

tory

Gro

upAg

reem

ents

Wor

k H

ealth

and

Safe

tyC

omm

ittee

WH

S R

ep-

rese

ntat

ives

Com

mitt

eeW

orkp

lace

Equi

ty a

ndD

iver

sity

Com

mitt

eeC

onsu

ltativ

eC

omm

ittee

Her

itage

Advi

sory

Com

mitt

ee

Dis

able

d to

ilets

do

not c

ater

for o

lder

per

sons

with

a d

isab

ility

who

req

uire

nap

py

chan

gin

g fa

cilit

ies

It is

not

nic

e to

cha

nge

on th

e flo

orof

a d

isab

led

toile

t and

par

ents

room

tab

les

are

too

smal

l

29

Function Area Assets Section

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Asse

t Sec

tion

Man

ager

C

omm

unity

land

man

age-

men

t pu

blic

toile

ts p

arks

pl

aygr

ound

sre

serv

es

fore

shor

es

mar

ine

ac-

cess

spo

rting

fields sports

faci

litie

sco

mm

unity

build

ings

co

mm

unity

halls

sig

nage

Mai

ntai

n an

d up

grad

e pu

blic

Asse

ts re

gist

er c

ondi

tion

Gov

ernm

ent a

genc

ies

gra

ntVa

rious

pla

ns o

fsp

aces

fac

ilitie

s a

sset

s an

dra

ting

syst

em

fund

ing

sche

mes

pro

perty

Management (specific

plac

es in

line

with

legi

slat

ive

deve

lope

rs c

omm

unity

and

gene

ric)

Cou

ncil

Ope

ns S

pace

Stra

tegy

requ

irem

ents

and

com

mun

itygr

oups

int

eres

t gro

ups

polic

ies

Man

agem

ent

(und

erw

ay)

need

s D

irect

ives

Spor

ts C

oun-

cils

355

Com

-m

ittee

sC

omm

unity

grou

ps P

arks

and

Res

erve

sC

omm

ittee

s

Ensu

reth

at th

ede

sign

and

cons

truct

ion

of n

ewfa

cilit

ies

and

infra

stru

ctur

eis

con

side

rate

to li

mite

dac

cess

com

mun

itym

embe

rs

Ensu

re th

at u

pgra

des

and

mai

nten

ance

to c

omm

unity

faci

litie

s ar

e al

igne

d w

ithpr

iorit

ies

for i

nclu

sion

Prep

are

the

Ope

n Sp

ace

Stra

tegy

pla

ns fo

r upg

rade

s to

com

mun

ity fa

cilit

ies

and

area

sw

here

infra

stru

ctur

e ne

eds

to b

e co

nsid

erat

e of

lim

ited

acce

ss c

omm

unity

mem

bers

Ensu

re 3

55 c

omm

ittee

sco

nsid

er a

cces

s an

d in

clus

ion

whe

n th

inki

ng a

bout

pro

gram

sEn

sure

355

Com

mitt

ees

use

fund

s pr

ovid

ed b

y C

ounc

il to

cons

ider

acc

ess

and

incl

usio

nw

hen

build

ing

infra

stru

ctur

e

Activ

ely

seek

gra

nt fu

ndin

gfor projects identified within

the

Ope

ns S

pace

Stra

tegy

in o

rder

to im

prov

e ac

cess

to in

clus

ion

to c

omm

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ects

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urag

eac

cess

incl

usio

n

30

Function Area Human Resource Sector

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

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Directory

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and agency

collaboration

Plans and Policies

Brochures documents

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tees of

Council

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ager

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ruitm

ent o

f new

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ffIn

form

atio

n on

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in

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ruitm

ent p

olic

ypr

oced

ures

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lunt

eer

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anhard file and on intra net

35

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om-

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ourc

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ork

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bility

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(ie ra

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hal

ls th

at a

re u

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31

Function Area Communications

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision

of Goods or

services

Information-

Directory

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Plans and

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documents

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tees of

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mun

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ovid

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form

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ns M

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on w

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32

Function Area Strategy and Environment

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Potential Resource

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5 Ad

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Function Area Civil Assets

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities in-

frastructure

Provision

of Goods or

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Directory

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il Ass

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ic tr

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rant

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n th

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Pla

nnin

g d

oesn

rsquot se

em to

incl

ude

dis

able

d a

cces

sib

ility

issu

es fo

r new

pro

ject

srdquo

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Function Area Community Development

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Responsi-

bility

Facilities in-

frastructure

Provision

of Goods or

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Information-

Directory

Partners

and agency

collaboration

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documents

Committees of

Council

Potential Resource

Com

mun

ity35

5 Ad

viso

ry C

om-

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nt P

rogr

ams

acro

ssM

aint

ain

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ncilrsquos

web

site

Com

mun

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mun

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orig

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tegi

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and

Com

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n-U

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mun

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rant

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tura

l Pla

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rate

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tga

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ent p

roje

cts

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mun

ity e

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s ndash

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dees

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Advi

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k c

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nt g

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ects

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oura

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n

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ngth

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ounc

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omm

unity

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ctio

n on

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encie

sEn

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355

com

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ees

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sion

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n co

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re c

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unity

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Respon-

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nce

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ayor

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35

Disability Inclusion

ACTION PLAN

Disability InclusionInclusionDisability InclusionInclusionDisability

For more information please contact Development Services councilportstephensnswgovau | 02 4980 0255 | PORTSTEPHENSNSWGOVAU

Page 8: Port Stephens Council DIAP 2016 - facs.nsw.gov.au · In 2016, Port Stephens had a population of 64,807 at the 2016 Census. This igure is predicted to rise by up to 23,000 over the

Carry out its functions in a way that provides best possible outcomes for the local community Plan strategically within the integrated planning and reporting framework for present

summarised below Strong and effective

representation leadership planning and decision making

Inclusive communities where individuals can fully participate in social business and community life

The community vision for the Port Stephens Community Strategic Plan is to have ldquoa great lifestyle in a treasured environmentrdquo This vision can only truly be achieved in a society that is inclusive and accessible for people of all abilities and

This Plan is critical to achieve positive

Guiding principles

backgrounds

change and create a more inclusive society A more inclusive society is diverse stronger and more sustainable

To achieve this the following principles underpin and reinforce the actions and desired outcomes within the DIAP and align with the philosophy behind the NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014 the Community Strategic Plan and the communities vision

bull Social justice principles of Equity Access Participation Rights

bull Guiding principles for Councils in accordance with Chapter 3 of the Local Government Act 1993 which are

and future populations Working with others to secure

appropriate services for local community needs and

Fairly ethically and without bias in the interests of the local community

bull Business Excellence principles Port Stephens Council applies the

Business Excellence principles to inform continuous improvement and strengthen the organisations ability to deliver more efficient and effective services to the community

Port Stephens Council8

Policy and legislative context Definition The Disability Inclusion Act 2014 defines disability as lsquoThe long-term physical mental intellectual or sensory impairment which in interaction with various barriers may hinder the full and effective participation in society on an equal basis with othersrsquo

In the context of the DIAP lsquodisabilityrsquo includes functional impairments or limitations which may be present from birth acquired by accident or illness or due to the process of ageing The impairments may be substantial or seemingly minor temporary or permanent

Legislation In 1993 all NSW government departments and some other government bodies were required to undertake disability action planning when the NSW Disability Services Act 1993 (DSA) was introduced

In 2008 the Australian Government committed to implementing the United Nations (UN) Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities

In 2014 a strengthened commitment to inclusion better consultation with people with disability and protection of their rights was propelled with the introduction of the Disability Inclusion Act 2014 which replaced the DSA

There is a suite of further Commonwealth and State legislation that promotes and drives improving access and inclusion for people with a disability

INTERNATIONAL bull Principles of the UN Convention on the

Rights of People with a Disability

COMMONWEALTH bull Disability Discrimination Act 1992 bull Australian Government NDIS Act 2013 bull Australian Government Aged Care

(Living Longer Living Better) Act 2013

NSW bull NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014

The most recent legislation and amendments reflect a shift towards the view that while a disability may affect the way that a person interacts with others and their environment it should not define a person and it should not limit their capacity to become an integral part of the community Although the rights of a person with a disability have been defined as the same rights as those of all people since the early 1990s it is understood that upholding these rights must include promotion of individual choice about what is important to them universal access to services and facilities and inclusive communities where individuals can fully participate in social business and community life

The NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014 promotes the view that lsquoinclusionrsquo is not only a goal for service providers and public and private sector organisations it is a responsibility of the whole community It legislates for the rights of people with a disability to full participation in every-day life with enhanced community connection independence empowerment and wellbeing It is the role of local government through a Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) to promote and support inclusion in their communities

ADDITIONAL LEGISLATION bull Carers (Recognition) Act 2010 (NSW)

Disability not only affects people who have a disability but also people who care for them The Carers (Recognition) Act 2010 acknowledges the significance of carers including respect and recognition inclusion in decision making and access to services they may need

bull Local Government Act 1993 The Local Government Act 1993 sets out the framework and responsibilities of Councils and provides guidance to enable councilrsquos to carry out their functions in a way that facilitates local communities that are strong healthy and prosperous

Disability Inclusion ACTION PLAN 9

Draw together diverse interests and strive towards attaining greater consensus on sustainable outcomes for the local government area

10 Port Stephens Council

Councilrsquos responsibilities and roles Role of council New South Wales (NSW) is entering a new era in disability inclusion planning Councilrsquos role in implementation of the DIAP will include as a direct service provider as a leader an advocate and facilitator

bull As leader Council acts as a role model for others through its own actions strategic organisational responses and way of doing things In its dialogue with the communities and other stakeholders Council can act to draw together diverse interests and strive towards attaining greater consensus on sustainable outcomes for the local government area

bull As advocate Council seeks to improve services facilities and opportunities for the local government area and its communities by lobbying agencies and other levels of government In discussions with others there are opportunities to reinforce Port Stephens sense of identity and resilience and collaborate on achieving a more sustainable local government area

bull As facilitator Council assists interaction amongst stakeholders and forms strategic alliances aimed at promoting sustainability initiatives focussing on elements including social economic environmental

cultural and governance which demonstrate positive ways of moving forward

bull As service provider Council has a strong commitment to delivering the services needed by its communities and ensuring that Council resources are responsibly managed Councilrsquos role as a service provider aims to assist in building the long-term health of the local government area

Executive responsibility and project coordination Port Stephens Council supports the development and implementation of the DIAP The General Manager has responsibility to oversee the various functionsgroups of Council

The DIAP will be coordinated by the Social Planning Unit within the Strategy and Environment section of the Development Services team Responsibility for implementation and resourcing of the DIAP will be across all sections of Council

Disability Inclusion ACTION PLAN 11

systems and processes Focus Area 4

Integrated planning and reporting Goals and strategies of Port Stephens Council are underpinned by five themes which provide focus and direction for the Integrated Planning and Reporting (IPR) framework The four focus areas for the DIAP may be positioned within those five focus areas of Integrated Planning framework

UN Convention on the Right of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD)

National Disability Strategy (NDS)

National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)

NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014 (DIA)

Operational plan

Delivery program

Community strategic plan

Local government disability inclusion action planning

NSW Disability Inclusion Plan 1 Attitudes and behaviours 2 Employment 3 Liveable communities 4 Systems and processes

Port Stephens CSP-themes CSP1 Our citizens

CSP2 Our lifestyle

CSP3 Our environment

CSP4 Our economy

CSP5 Our Council

An inclusive NSW

Focus Areas for DIAP bull Liveable communities Focus Area 2 bull Positive community attitudes and behaviours

Focus Area 1 bull Liveable communities Focus Area 2

bull Liveable communities Focus Area 2

bull Supporting access to meaningful employment Focus Area 3

bull Improving access to services through better

Port Stephens Council 12

ACTION PLAN

Document review As background to the consultation and to confirm issues which have been previously identified in the Port Stephens LGA a review of documents was undertaken Council has a suite of documents which reflect their commitment to an inclusive and connected society in an environment that facilitates opportunities for contribution by all those who live in the Port Stephens Region Reviewed documents included

bull Port Stephens Integrated Plans incorporating Community Strategic Plan

2013-2023 Delivery Program 2013-2017 Operational Plans 2016-2020

bull Port Stephens Strategic Asset Management Plan (2016-2026)

bull Port Stephens Disability Action Plan 2014-2018

bull NSW Disability Inclusion Action Planning Guidelines

Consultation and engagement According to 2016 census data the population of Port Stephens was 69556 which is an increase of 4746 or 732 from 2011 (64810) As the table below notes there are distinct differences in the proportion of people who stated a Need for Assistance between each of Port Stephens planning catchments However community

Need for Assistance

consultation with people who experience a disability their families carers and disability groups show that the barriers challenges and needs of people with a disability to fully participate in community life are similar throughout the LGA

Suburb 2006 2011 2016 Fern Bay 74 87 789

Karuah Swan Bay 53 83 859

Medowie 32 35 393

Raymond Terrace 52 63 775

Rural East 53 47 611

Rural West 29 31 307

Tilligerry 64 73 797

Tomaree 55 55 653

Port Stephens LGA 50 55 640

Disability Inclusion 13

Consultation with the community In seeking to fully understand and identify the barriers to inclusion and access and to find solutions information was sought from key stakeholders Key stakeholders are people within the Port Stephens community who identify as experiencing a disability their carersrsquo and support workers

A survey was completed and distributed within the community from November

2016 to January 2017 The period of the survey was extended over the Christmas periodschool holiday period 71 surveys completed surveys were received from the community

The following table sets out who and how the survey was distributed to key stakeholders

Stakeholder Engagement Processes Council website Surveys could be accessed through Councilrsquos website using

Engagement HQ

Council Facebook page

A link to the survey was placed on Councilrsquos Facebook page The link was lsquoboostedrsquo which meant the page connected anyone in the LGA who had clicked on anything to do with disability which significantly broadened the surveys reach

MyLink Group Advice and information about the DIAP including a link to the survey was distributed to Councils MyLink group MyLink is an email group of members including Not for Profit Groups and Non-Government Organisations (NGOs) such as disability service and support providers The MyLink email group keeps its members informed of upcoming meetings local events professional development opportunities and other important information Notifications of updates are sent to the MyLink email list weekly

Libraries Paper copies of the surveys were provided to the Tomaree and Raymond Terrace Libraries for distribution to disability groups (including disability support groups) who use the library

Media release Media release in the Port Stephens Examiner and online version of the Port Stephens Examiner

Schools Every school in the LGA was contacted via telephone and the survey and link distributed via email Schools then placed the information about the survey and the link in school community newsletters and on Facebook pages

Eagleton Ridge Respite Centre

Eagleton Ridge Respite Centre was contacted and information forwarded about the survey along with a link

Flyer Flyers were developed to help promote the project which contained information about the survey and where to access it Flyers were delivered to doctors surgeries disability service providers and Council run pools

Internal stakeholder meeting

Internal stakeholder meeting and ongoing consultation to go over elements of the DIAP

14 Port Stephens Council

Summary of priorities Returned surveys and consultation meetings presented a clear picture of priorities with suggestions and solutions Looking across all questions in the survey the following outlines the most important priorities for the Port Stephens community

1 Footpathsramps 2 Accessibility to eventsactivities

shops sporting and recreation facilities and parks

3 Provision of venues services events 4 Public toilets 5 Parking 6 Public transport 7 Public education 8 Respectful and inclusive community

and services

Some of the priorities for the community in the consultation for the DIAP were also identified in the Port Stephens Disability Action Plan 2014-2018 Furthermore the Port Stephens Integrated Plans aims to ldquomake future provisions for people with disabilities their families and carersrdquo via several actions including implementing the Disability Inclusion Action Plan

Results of the community consultation were arranged in to the DIAPrsquos four focus groups and actions were developed that align with these areas These focus areas were identified as part of extensive community consultation during development of the NSW Disability Inclusion Plan As such these focus areas became a requirement to be in all NSW agency DIAPs These actions recognise the rights of people with a disability to full and effective participation in an inclusive society the same as those without a disability The following action plan outlines Councilrsquos role and action and priority level

Results of the community consultation were arranged into the DIAPrsquos four focus groups and actions were developed that contribute a more inclusive accessible and liveable society

ACTION PLANDisability Inclusion

15

Act

ion

plan

ning

Liveable Communities

Item for

improvement Priority

Time-

frame

Coun-

cilRole

Action

Outcome

IPRRefer-

ence

Responsibility

Foot

path

s an

d1

-2 y

ears

Se

rvic

eU

nder

take

revi

ew o

f foo

tpat

hs a

nd ra

mps

Upd

ated

and

impl

emen

tatio

n of

42

13

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ts

ram

ps th

roug

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Prov

ider

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LG

A to

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erm

ine

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stria

n Ac

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and

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ility

LGA

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oach

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plem

enta

tion

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aps

Plan

con

side

rs a

nd p

riorit

ises

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ple

upgr

ades

and

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foot

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infra

stru

ctur

e

with

dis

abilit

y

0-1

year

U

pdat

ed a

nd im

plem

enta

tion

of th

e Pe

dest

rian

13

16

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c Pl

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ngAc

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ility

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sider

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le w

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ces

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rs

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rise

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build

ings

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er

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ces

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ings

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eter

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e ar

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re w

ork

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quire

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y m

aint

enan

ce a

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2- 4

yea

rs

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ice

Impl

emen

t tw

o lib

erty

sw

ings

Loc

atio

nsPr

ovid

er

to b

e pr

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ratio

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ithSo

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g

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ng a

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e co

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ith d

isabi

lity

Two

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ty s

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ple

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heel

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rs i

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ding

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ts c

an e

xper

ienc

e a

sens

e of

free

dom

)

52

12

Faci

litie

s an

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es

52

12

Faci

litie

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Prov

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n of

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1Ad

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te

Dev

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the

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anag

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The

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31

1 Fa

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omm

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ng p

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of w

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in w

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The

Blue

Dot

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13

13

Com

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Lead

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garb

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serv

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(Blu

e D

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for p

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13

14

Com

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rs C

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an a

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amily

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16

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13

15

Com

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Prov

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and

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gyw

ith a

dis

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d in

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sed

livea

bilit

y

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tom

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elat

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incl

udin

gbull

Audi

o re

ad n

avig

ator

sbull

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text

scr

een

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oftw

are

bull La

rge

prin

t boo

ksbull

Audi

o bo

oks

Publ

ic to

ilets

2

ndash 4

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ice

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ts to

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tify

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Impr

oved

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52

14

Faci

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orks

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n

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trsquos s

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Dis

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rvic

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the

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ards

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1 -2

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rs

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ease

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ompl

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52

14

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ng

52

14

Fa

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ies

and

Asse

ts

Publ

ic tr

ansp

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1 -2

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rs

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cate

M

eet w

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tran

spor

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s to

Impr

oved

legi

bilit

y an

d ac

cess

to p

ublic

13

16

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ngpr

ovid

e fe

edba

ck fr

om D

IAP

and

addr

ess

trans

port

optio

ns a

nd im

prov

ed p

atro

nage

of

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erns

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re p

ossib

le

peop

le w

ith a

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y

Fund

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rvic

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roje

cts

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ruct

ure

and

52

14

Faci

litie

s an

dop

portu

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n in

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ities

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enes

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rvic

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ader

th

e co

mm

unity

ac

cess

ibilit

y fo

r peo

ple

who

exp

erie

nce

Com

mun

itydi

sabi

lity

thei

r fam

ilies

and

care

rs

Dev

elop

men

t and

Enga

gem

ent

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ng

Acce

ssib

le e

vent

s O

ngoi

ng

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ice

Form

alis

e a

12 m

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tria

l pro

gram

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ease

in th

e nu

mbe

r of e

vent

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at a

re2

11

5C

omm

unity

prov

ider

of

the

Even

t Ten

t w

hich

pro

mot

esac

cess

ible

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

y D

evel

opm

ent a

nd5

31

5Ad

voca

te

and

enab

les

grea

ter p

artic

ipat

ion

atEn

gage

men

t5

41

1co

mm

unity

eve

nts

of p

eopl

e an

d fa

milie

sTo

uris

m a

nd E

vent

s w

ho h

ave

a di

sabi

lity

17

18

Improving access to services through better systems and processes

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Alig

ning

Act

ion

Ong

oing

Le

ader

En

sure

that

the

DIA

P al

igns

with

This

pla

n m

eets

the

Loca

l5

31

13

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ngPl

an w

ith In

tegr

ated

the

Inte

grat

ed R

epor

ting

Fram

ing

Gov

ernm

ent D

IAP

guid

elin

eR

epor

ting

and

that

the

actio

ns in

this

Act

ion

requ

irem

ents

and

act

ions

are

Fram

ewor

k Pl

an a

re in

clud

ed in

the

(4 y

ear)

impl

emen

ted

Del

iver

y Pr

ogra

m a

nd th

e An

nual

Ope

ratio

nal P

lan

Info

rmat

ion

to th

e0

ndash 1

year

Le

ader

and

Enab

le th

e ab

ility

to p

rovi

de a

ndM

ore

peop

le a

re a

ble

to a

cces

s5

31

6 Office of the General

publ

ic

Serv

ice

rece

ive

info

rmat

ion

to a

nd fr

om th

ein

form

atio

n an

d pa

rticip

ate

in th

eir

Man

ager

Pr

ovid

er

publ

ic in

a ra

nge

of fo

rmat

s R

evie

wlo

cal c

omm

unity

and

the

affa

irs o

fpu

blic

exh

ibiti

on te

mpl

ate

to m

ake

loca

l gov

ernm

ent

clea

rer t

hat w

e ac

cept

sub

mis

sion

sin

all

form

ats

not

just

writ

ten

eg

vide

o v

oice

rec

ordi

ng

Mai

ntai

n w

ebsi

te a

cces

sibi

lity

55

18

Com

mun

icat

ions

(WAA

G) 2

0 A

A le

vel

Polic

ies

and

1 -2

yea

rs

Lead

erS

ervi

ceC

ounc

il inv

estig

ates

opt

ions

toR

emov

e ob

stac

les

for p

eopl

e w

ith1

31

6 St

rate

gic

Plan

ning

pr

oced

ures

Pr

ovid

er

impr

ove

unde

rsta

ndin

g of

pol

icies

and

a di

sabi

lity

to e

nabl

e ac

hiev

emen

tpr

oced

ures

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

disa

bility

of

pos

itive

and

sus

tain

able

empl

oym

ent o

utco

mes

Supporting access to meaningful employment

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Volu

ntee

ring

1 -2

yea

rs

Lead

er

Rev

iew

vol

unte

erin

g pr

oces

ses

for

Incr

ease

d ac

cess

to v

olun

teer

ing

16

13

Com

mun

ity S

ervi

ces

proc

esse

s Po

rt St

ephe

ns C

ounc

il to

ens

ure

oppo

rtuni

ties

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

that

they

are

wel

com

ing

of p

eopl

edi

sabi

lity

w

ith d

isab

ility

Rec

ruitm

ent

Ong

oing

Le

ader

C

ontin

ue to

offe

r can

dida

tes

anO

ngoi

ng e

mpl

oym

ent o

ppor

tuni

ties

51

42

Org

anis

atio

nal

proc

esse

s op

tion

to d

iscl

ose

whe

ther

or n

otfo

r peo

ple

who

hav

e a

disa

bilit

y w

ithD

evel

opm

ent

they

hav

e a

disa

bilit

y du

ring

the

Port

Step

hens

Cou

ncil

appl

icat

ion

proc

ess

so th

at C

ounc

ilar

e ab

le to

ens

ure

that

app

lican

tsw

ith a

dis

abilit

y ar

e an

d fe

elsu

ppor

ted

thro

ugho

ut th

e pr

oces

s

Attitudes and Behaviours

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Educ

atio

n fo

r sho

p0

- 1 y

ear

Advo

cate

Aw

aren

ess

and

educ

atio

nO

utco

me

is a

rais

ed a

war

enes

s of

41

24

Econ

omic

owne

rsb

usin

esse

sca

mpa

igns

targ

etin

g bu

sine

ss

the

need

s of

peo

ple

with

a d

isab

ility

Dev

elop

men

ton

acc

ess

issue

s fo

row

ners

via

Biz

Lin

k ne

twor

kac

cess

issu

espe

ople

with

disa

bility

ne

wsl

ette

rs a

nd b

usin

ess

cham

bers

to fo

ster

and

enc

oura

ge th

efo

llow

ing

initi

ativ

es

bull D

evel

op c

ompa

nion

car

d fri

endl

yin

itiat

ive

whi

ch e

nabl

es fr

ee e

ntry

to c

erta

in v

enue

sev

ents

for

care

rs to

acc

ompa

ny p

eopl

e w

itha

disa

bilit

y

1-2

year

s Ad

voca

te

bull Pr

efer

red

empl

oyer

aw

ards

for

41

24

Econ

omic

disa

bilit

y ac

cess

ible

wor

kpla

ce

Dev

elop

men

t

Sta

ff ar

e su

pp

orte

d a

nd h

ave

gre

ater

know

led

ge

of th

e va

riety

of n

eed

s of

peo

ple

with

a d

isab

ility

and

the

need

for i

nclu

sion

Staf

f aw

aren

ess

of1

-2 y

ears

Le

ader

To

pro

vide

train

ing

for C

ounc

il sta

ffSt

aff a

re s

uppo

rted

and

have

51

42

Org

anis

atio

nal

the

need

s of

peo

ple

on h

ow to

wor

k w

ith a

nd u

nder

stan

dgr

eate

r kno

wle

dge

of th

e va

riety

of

Dev

elop

men

tw

ith d

isab

ility

peop

le w

ith d

isabi

lity th

roug

h C

ounc

ilsne

eds

of p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

y an

d

The

prio

rity

timef

ram

e ra

ting

indi

cate

s th

at a

Hig

h pr

iorit

y sh

ould

be

com

plet

ed w

ithin

1 y

ear

Med

ium

prio

rity

with

in 2

yea

rs a

nd L

ow p

riorit

y w

ithin

3 to

4 y

ears

Wor

kpla

ce E

quity

amp D

ivers

ityC

omm

ittee

and

Gui

de (a

ttach

ed)

the

need

for i

nclu

sion

19

Governance monitoring and evaulation To ensure implementation of the Plan an internal working group made up of stakeholders who have responsibility for implementing actions with the plan will be ongoing The working group will meet quarterly to discuss the Action Plan and linkages to both current and future projects and programs including

bull Each new capital works project will consider disability improvements to inclusion and accessibility within the Project Management Plan scoping and procurement document (in addition to Disability Discrimination Act compliance) Improvements for consideration include Location of the

proposed project and Improvements to carpark access to

and from kerb ramp location and availability and pathwayrsquos etc that enable more seamless connectivity

Progress of the plan will be monitored and implementation of actions within the Plan will be reported through a range of governance processes including

bull Six monthly reporting to Councils Executive Leadership team and Council

bull Operational Plan annual reporting as part of the Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework

bull Annual Report bull End of Term Reporting bull Customer satisfaction annual survey and

reporting To enable effective measurement and monitoring of actions within the plan the Port Stephens Customer Satisfaction Survey will include a section within the survey of questions that people who experience disability their families carers and people who work in the disability sector can elect to answer

20 Port Stephens Council

Conclusion Port Stephens Council has a strong commitment to enhancing life experience of people with a disability in the Local Government Area

In developing the Disability Inclusion Action Plan Port Stephens Council has built on the strengths of existing Council resources Council structurestaff plans policies and the local closely connected community by consulting with a broad range of stakeholders

The priorities identified above reflect Council values and principles The individual objectives once approved by Council are to be included in the 2017-2021 Delivery Program and the Annual Operational Plans for each of those four (4) years Within the Integrated and Strategic Planning framework the responsibility reporting and resourcing for the objectives will be defined

Draw together diverse interests and strive towards attaining greater consensus on sustainable outcomes for the local government area

ACTION PLANDisability Inclusion

21

understanding of your requirements and helpful (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

11a Please provide details of your experiences with Council staff

12 Any other comments

Appendix 1 DIAP Survey 1 What is your age 2 What suburb do you live in

(Required) 3 Gender 4 Language used at home 5 Are you a carer or a person with

disability (Choose all that apply) a Carer b Person with disability c Family member

6 Do you think the Port Stephens Community is welcoming of people with disabilities Eg businesses shops etc (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

6a Please give us some examples of positive or negative experiences you have had

7 Have you encountered any problems barriers or issues in using transport options (Choose all that apply) a Walking or wheelchair use b Local buses c Electric Scooter d Other

7a Please give us some examples of positive or negative experiences you have had

8 Do you think facilities and services are accessible and inclusive in Port Stephens a Councilrsquos Administration Building Yes No b Community centres Yes No c Events Yes No d Libraries Yes No e Parks Yes No f Pools Yes No g Other Yes No

22 Port Stephens Council

8a Can you give us any examples for improvements

9 Do you find Councilrsquos information publications accessible

Website Yes No Newsletters Yes No

9a Do you have suggestions for improvements

10 Would you like to see an improvement in online services through Councilrsquos website such as the electronic payment of rates andor fees and charges (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

11 Do you find Council staff at all of its locations and facilities approachable

Appendix 2 community consultation Results from consultation and the survey The areas identified for improvement by were framed around the four priority areas the Port Stephens community are (in order for an inclusive community Liveable of priority) communities Attitudes and behaviours Employment and Systems and processes

Liveable Communities

Focus Area Comments Foot pathsramps ldquoFootpathsramps ndash uneven rough need ramps to access

roads need lighting on paths and stairs need more footpaths wider footpaths some ramps too steeprdquo

ldquoAll new kerb ramps should have no step between the bottom of the ramp and the gutterroad The small step that is still mostly used at the bottom of curb ramps is completely unnecessary (it doesnrsquot improve water flow in the gutter as some people think it does) but it makes it harder for a wheelchair user even if the step is only 2cm or less The same argument applies to drivewaysrdquo

ACTION PLAN

Accessibility to ldquoCluttered walkways access to beaches (wheelchair accessible eventsactivities ramps) Braille on signage audio description at places of shops sporting interest Henderson Park upgrade (steep steps to pontoon facilities parks no disability parking) access to pontoons for fishing (Karuah

good example of how to do it) Wider access passageways and doorways (eg some places have double doors but keep one door locked eg Salamander library)rdquo

Provision of venues ldquoLack of disability services in parks (eg Liberty swingswing services events with 5-point harness) lack of covered areas in parks (many

sun-sensitive due to medication plus rain cover) hydrotherapy pool fences around parks disability friendly slide at parks audio loop neededrdquo

ldquoI would like to see more programs that support carers and the families of people with disabilities in the Port Stephens Local Government Area as their (sic) simply isnrsquot enough I would also like more programs to support people with disabilities so that as a community we can start supporting each other through the hardship of living with a disabilityrdquo

Disability Inclusion 23

Focus Area Comments Public toilets ldquoThere are lack of amenities in disabled toilets (eg adults who

need help changing continence aids hoists in toilets) need more (eg Nelson Bay)rdquo

ldquoDisabled toilets do not cater for older persons with a disability who require nappy changing facilities It is not nice to change on the floor of a disabled toilet and parents room tables are too smallrdquo

Parking ldquoThere is a lack of disabled parking some disabled parks are not wheelchair friendlyrdquo

ldquoSubstandard pavement surfaces for walker frames and mobility scooters Lack of disability parking spaces at Soldiers Point Boat ramp and Salamander Bay wharf and various other areas within the Port Stephens areardquo

Public transport ldquoInfrastructure improvements for more and better transport limited timetables too many transfers to get to destination want regular community bus (low cost or for free)rdquo

Attitudes and Behaviours

Focus Area Comments Respectful and It should be noted that most people reported positive encounters inclusive community with the public and council staff One comment stated ldquocould and services improve empathy and understanding from public on what it is

like to have a disabilityrdquo

ldquoHearing impaired when asked to speak slower shop people yell and pull faces as if trying to mouth out each word very embarrassingrdquo

ldquoStaring commentingrdquo

Public education ldquoEducation for people in shops about disability disabled amenitiesfacilities being used by public (change-rooms toilets parking) but consideration needed so as not to discriminate against those who do not ldquoappearrdquo to have a disabilityrdquo

It should be noted that most people reported positive encounters with the public and council staff

24 Port Stephens Council

Employment

Focus Area Comments No issues identified however it was acknowledged in internal communication with staff that Council could lead the way in more employment of people with a disability this could include recruitment processes which are lsquomore welcomingrsquo and encourage people to apply for positions It also was acknowledged that Council policies procedures systems and processes could be reviewed for lsquoeasy readrsquo format

Systems and Processes

Focus Area Comments Range of information dissemination

Promotion and awareness of activitesevents services

ldquoNot everyone gets newspaper so send information in other ways (emailed with rates) need to consider information dissemination for people with hearing and vision impairedrdquo

ldquoI have rarely seen a Council newsletter Also the website needs to be cleaner clearer more navigable and user friendlyrdquo

ldquoLeft-aligning text might seem like a visual imposition to the sighted person but this simple change is the difference between being able to read for people who are blind or who have low visionrdquo

ldquoEye level display for people using wheelchairsrdquo

Some people were confused or unaware of services amenities available to them

In some areas ldquoFor those of us who get their bills via email it would be great if we were emailed regularly about items on public exhibition etc to replace what other residents would see in your adds in the Examinerrdquo

ldquoMore information areas to access helprdquo

ldquoDidnrsquot know you had a newsletterrdquo

Consulation on council infrastructure

Respondents welcomed the Council distributing this survey for comment but others felt more consideration of disability issues was needed

ldquoPlanning doesnrsquot seem to include disabled accessibility issues for new projectsrdquo

ldquoConsideration of people who are blind or low vision in future planning ie Braille on all signage (or on poles or mounts for elevated signage) Audio description at places of interest geographical cultural or historical significance Blind people miss out on our beautiful views they deserve to be catered to with regard to what else PS has to offer Infrastructure improvements that support more and better public transport to Port Stephensrdquo

Disabilit y Inclusion ACTION PLAN 25

Do you think the Port Stephens Community is welcoming of people with disabilities Eg businesses shops etc Most people felt Port Stephens is welcoming (68)

Have you encountered any problems barriers or issues in using transport options

68

0 10 20 30 40 50

Electric Scooter

Walking or wheelchair use

Local buses

Other

Do you think facilities and services are accessible and inclusive in Port Stephens

Focus Area Yes No

Councils Administration Building 57 6

Community centres 53 8

Events 36 21

Libraries 60 2

Parks 38 27

Pools 43 15

Other 18 13

26 Port Stephens Council

Do you find Councilrsquos information publications accessible

Focus area website

Would you like to see an improvement in online services through Councilrsquos website such as the electronic payment of rates and or fees and charges

Do you find Council staff at all of its locations and facilities approachable understanding of your requirements and helpful

Most comments in this section indicated council staff was very helpful and polite

Any other comments

Items for improvement (in order of priority)

Yes 36

Yes 55

Yes 48

No 6

No 18

No 11

1 Provision of venues services events 2 Roadscrossings 3 Footpathsramps 4 Public toilets 5 Public education The following summary outlines the priorities identified across all questions of the survey

ACTION PLANDisabilit y Inclusion

27

App

endi

x 3

Func

tions

ser

vice

s an

d as

sets

Function Area Community Services Sector

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Man

ager

Ngi

oka

Com

mun

ityH

ortic

ultu

ral

Serv

ices

Th

erap

yC

entre

Volu

ntee

r wor

kfor

ce o

f up

to80

0 p

rovi

sion

of lsquo

whe

el in

whe

el o

utrsquo g

arba

ge c

olle

ctio

nfo

r peo

ple

with

dis

abilit

y liv

ing

at h

ome

Pro

visi

on o

fpr

ogra

ms

for c

hild

ren

with

addi

tiona

l nee

ds a

t Out

side

of S

choo

l Hou

rs C

are

Chi

ldre

nsrsquo a

ctiv

ity V

an a

ndFa

mily

Day

Car

e P

rovi

sion

of la

rge

prin

t boo

ks t

alki

ngbo

oks

and

audi

o an

d vi

sual

navi

gatio

n ai

ds a

t lib

rarie

sLe

ar to

sw

im p

rogr

ams

atco

unci

l aqu

atic

cen

tres

Info

rmat

ion

on w

ebsi

te re

Leas

e of

Gra

ham

stow

nVo

lunt

eer s

trate

gy35

5vo

lunt

eers

Aqua

tic R

eser

ve fo

r use

by

Part

A an

d Pa

rt B

com

mitt

ees

Saila

bilit

y (P

SC le

ase

the

Larg

e te

xt fo

rmat

ting

onla

nd fr

om H

unte

r Wat

er a

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ebsi

te

Saila

bilit

y su

b-le

ase

the

land

of P

SC)

Link

s to

vol

unte

er re

sour

ces

in J

ob a

genc

ies

TAF

Eot

her a

reas

bus

ines

ses

etc

univ

ersi

ties

sch

ools

Brai

lle a

nd la

rge

font

com

pute

rs

Rev

iew

pol

icie

spr

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ures

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they

are

lsquoeas

y re

adrsquo f

orm

at

Busi

ness

lead

ersh

ipto

enh

ance

Ngi

oka

as a

mul

ti-pu

rpos

ece

ntre

and

to p

rom

ote

and

alig

n w

ith N

DIS

pers

onal

pla

ns

28

Function Area Community Services ndash Library Services

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Resource

Libr

ary

Civ

il Ass

ets

Serv

ices

Sect

ion

Man

ager

M

anag

erC

omm

unity

and

Rec

reat

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Assets Officer

Paid

Lib

rary

Sta

ff x

24C

asua

l Lib

rary

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ff x

11Li

brar

y Vo

lunt

eers

x 5

5As

sist

ive

Adap

tive

tech

nolo

gy(A

udio

Rea

d na

viga

tors

Zoo

mTe

xt s

cree

n re

ader

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twar

ela

rge

prin

t boo

ks a

udio

boo

ks

IInfo

rmat

ion

on a

ll Li

brar

ySe

rvic

es re

late

d to

ser

vice

spr

ogra

ms

and

activ

ities

ndashdi

spla

yed

in b

ranc

hes

via

(flyerspostersTV monitors)

and

on

bull Fa

cebo

ok W

ebsi

tebull

Scho

ol N

ewsl

ette

rs W

hatrsquos

on in

our

Bac

kyar

dbull

PS E

xam

iner

bull N

ews

of th

e Ar

ea (T

eaG

arde

ns N

elso

n Ba

y an

dM

edow

ie)

Thou

Wal

la S

choo

ls a

sC

omm

uniti

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entre

New

cast

le R

egio

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tral E

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one

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iona

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Gro

up)

Publ

ic L

ibra

ries

NSW

Hun

ter W

EAH

isto

rical

and

Fam

ily H

isto

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ciet

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Art S

pace

Gro

upR

eal F

utur

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ound

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rnet

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ge P

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ng O

verd

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cial

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ia P

olic

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brar

y U

ser

Gui

delin

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ibra

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roch

ure

New

cast

le re

gion

Libr

ary

Broc

hure

Volu

ntee

r Pos

ition

Des

crip

tions

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Han

dboo

kH

isto

rical

Soc

iety

Fa

mily

His

tory

Gro

upAg

reem

ents

Wor

k H

ealth

and

Safe

tyC

omm

ittee

WH

S R

ep-

rese

ntat

ives

Com

mitt

eeW

orkp

lace

Equi

ty a

ndD

iver

sity

Com

mitt

eeC

onsu

ltativ

eC

omm

ittee

Her

itage

Advi

sory

Com

mitt

ee

Dis

able

d to

ilets

do

not c

ater

for o

lder

per

sons

with

a d

isab

ility

who

req

uire

nap

py

chan

gin

g fa

cilit

ies

It is

not

nic

e to

cha

nge

on th

e flo

orof

a d

isab

led

toile

t and

par

ents

room

tab

les

are

too

smal

l

29

Function Area Assets Section

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Asse

t Sec

tion

Man

ager

C

omm

unity

land

man

age-

men

t pu

blic

toile

ts p

arks

pl

aygr

ound

sre

serv

es

fore

shor

es

mar

ine

ac-

cess

spo

rting

fields sports

faci

litie

sco

mm

unity

build

ings

co

mm

unity

halls

sig

nage

Mai

ntai

n an

d up

grad

e pu

blic

Asse

ts re

gist

er c

ondi

tion

Gov

ernm

ent a

genc

ies

gra

ntVa

rious

pla

ns o

fsp

aces

fac

ilitie

s a

sset

s an

dra

ting

syst

em

fund

ing

sche

mes

pro

perty

Management (specific

plac

es in

line

with

legi

slat

ive

deve

lope

rs c

omm

unity

and

gene

ric)

Cou

ncil

Ope

ns S

pace

Stra

tegy

requ

irem

ents

and

com

mun

itygr

oups

int

eres

t gro

ups

polic

ies

Man

agem

ent

(und

erw

ay)

need

s D

irect

ives

Spor

ts C

oun-

cils

355

Com

-m

ittee

sC

omm

unity

grou

ps P

arks

and

Res

erve

sC

omm

ittee

s

Ensu

reth

at th

ede

sign

and

cons

truct

ion

of n

ewfa

cilit

ies

and

infra

stru

ctur

eis

con

side

rate

to li

mite

dac

cess

com

mun

itym

embe

rs

Ensu

re th

at u

pgra

des

and

mai

nten

ance

to c

omm

unity

faci

litie

s ar

e al

igne

d w

ithpr

iorit

ies

for i

nclu

sion

Prep

are

the

Ope

n Sp

ace

Stra

tegy

pla

ns fo

r upg

rade

s to

com

mun

ity fa

cilit

ies

and

area

sw

here

infra

stru

ctur

e ne

eds

to b

e co

nsid

erat

e of

lim

ited

acce

ss c

omm

unity

mem

bers

Ensu

re 3

55 c

omm

ittee

sco

nsid

er a

cces

s an

d in

clus

ion

whe

n th

inki

ng a

bout

pro

gram

sEn

sure

355

Com

mitt

ees

use

fund

s pr

ovid

ed b

y C

ounc

il to

cons

ider

acc

ess

and

incl

usio

nw

hen

build

ing

infra

stru

ctur

e

Activ

ely

seek

gra

nt fu

ndin

gfor projects identified within

the

Ope

ns S

pace

Stra

tegy

in o

rder

to im

prov

e ac

cess

to in

clus

ion

to c

omm

unity

faci

litie

s an

d ar

eas

thro

ugho

utth

e LG

A

Rev

iew

and

upd

ate

exis

ting

plan

s an

dpo

licie

s in

line

with

legi

slat

ive

chan

ges

and identified needs

of th

e co

mm

unity

O

pens

Spa

ceSt

rate

gy (u

nder

way

)

Enco

urag

eco

mm

unity

grou

ps a

ndco

mm

ittee

to u

nder

take

proj

ects

and

prog

ram

s to

enco

urag

eac

cess

incl

usio

n

30

Function Area Human Resource Sector

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners

and agency

collaboration

Plans and Policies

Brochures documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

PotentialResource

Man

ager

Rec

ruitm

ent o

f new

sta

ffIn

form

atio

n on

web

site

in

Rec

ruitm

ent p

olic

ypr

oced

ures

Vo

lunt

eer

Hum

anhard file and on intra net

35

5 C

om-

Management of staffing

Res

ourc

es

mitt

ees

(leav

e A

war

d pr

ovis

ions

su

pera

nnua

tion

etc)

Rec

ruitm

ent p

roce

sses

toIn

form

atio

n in

rang

e of

Job

netw

ork

Rec

ruitm

ent p

roce

ss w

hich

isbe

wel

com

ing

of p

eopl

e w

ithfo

rmat

s in

clud

ing

soci

alag

enci

es

wel

com

ing

of p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

ydi

sabi

lity

olde

r peo

ple

med

ia e

tc P

lus

help

for

busi

ness

es

(adv

ertis

ing

whi

ch w

elco

mes

peo

ple

thos

e w

ho h

ave

a di

sabi

lity

with

a d

isab

ility

+ pr

oces

ses

whi

char

e no

t too

com

plex

Function Area Environment amp PlanningPublic Domain and Services

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners

and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Man

ager

Toile

ts p

ublic

spa

ces

(ieM

aint

ain

and

upgr

ade

publ

icAs

sets

regi

ster

Dev

elop

ers

Publ

ic S

pace

sU

rban

adv

isor

yEn

viro

nmen

tparks sporting fields) and

spac

es a

nd p

lace

s in

line

with

polic

y co

mm

ittee

Ope

n Sp

aces

stra

tegy

and

Plan

ning

bu

ildin

gs (c

omm

unity

hal

ls)

legi

slat

ion

Ensu

re th

at u

pgra

des

toO

pen

Spac

es s

trate

gy to

publ

ic s

pace

s ar

e al

igne

d w

ithin

clud

e up

grad

es to

are

aspr

iorit

ies

for i

nclu

sion

w

here

infra

stru

ctur

e ne

eds

tobe

mor

e in

clus

ive

(ie ra

mps

inm

ajor

hal

ls th

at a

re u

sed)

31

Function Area Communications

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision

of Goods or

services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Com

mun

ica-

Web

site

Pr

ovid

eIn

form

atio

nC

omm

unic

atio

ntio

ns M

anag

er

soci

al m

edia

in

form

atio

n in

on w

ebsi

te

polic

y ha

rd c

opy

rang

e of

form

ats

Dire

ctor

y on

plan

s p

olic

ies

to th

e pu

blic

w

ebsi

tean

d pr

oce-

Larg

e te

xtdu

res

form

attin

g on

web

site

Com

mun

ityD

evel

opm

ent

and

Enga

gem

ent

Man

ager

Exhi

bitio

n Su

bmis

sion

s an

d G

rant

opp

ortu

nitie

sC

omm

unity

Dev

elop

men

t and

Eng

agem

ent p

artn

ers

impr

ovem

ents

incl

udin

gbull

MyL

ink

grou

pbull

Abor

igin

al S

trate

gic

Com

mun

itybull

Your

th p

anel

bull Bu

sine

ss g

roup

sbull

365

Com

mitt

ees

Left-

alig

ning

text

mig

ht s

eem

like

a v

isua

l im

pos

ition

to th

e si

ght

edp

erso

n b

ut th

is s

imp

le c

hang

e is

the

diff

eren

ce b

etw

een

bei

ng a

ble

tore

ad fo

r peo

ple

who

are

blin

d o

r who

hav

e lo

w v

isio

n

32

Function Area Strategy and Environment

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision

of Goods or

services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Committees of

Council

Nox

ious

wee

dH

erita

ge g

rant

sLa

ndow

ners

bus

ines

ses

and

Envi

ronm

enta

lVo

lunt

eer w

eed

cont

rol s

ervi

ces

Resource

Man

ager

Stra

tegy

and

control landfill

orga

nisa

tions

st

rate

gies

pla

nsEn

viro

nmen

tal

355

Her

itage

Com

mitt

eeEn

viro

nmen

t an

d po

licie

sgr

ants

Gra

nt g

uide

lines

Potential

supp

ort p

roje

cts

that

enco

urag

e ac

cess

and

incl

usio

n

Function Area Community Development

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-Directory

Partners

and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Committees

of Council

Potential Resource

Com

mun

ity35

5 Ad

viso

ryG

rant

Pro

gram

s ac

ross

Mai

ntai

n C

ounc

ilrsquos w

ebsi

te C

omm

unity

Com

mun

ityC

omm

unity

Abor

igin

al S

trate

gic

Dev

elop

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33

Function Area Civil Assets

Staff

Responsi-

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Facilities in-

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of Goods or

services

Information-

Directory

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collaboration

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of Council

Potential Resource

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il Ass

ets

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ic tr

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ntai

n an

d up

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t age

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s g

rant

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rs c

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ps i

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ds

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ans

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26)

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l ass

ets

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e ac

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e is

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n th

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nder

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nnin

g d

oesn

rsquot se

em to

incl

ude

dis

able

d a

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sib

ility

issu

es fo

r new

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ject

srdquo

34

Function Area Community Development

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities in-

frastructure

Provision

of Goods or

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Information-

Directory

Partners

and agency

collaboration

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Committees of

Council

Potential Resource

Com

mun

ity35

5 Ad

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ry C

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nt P

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ams

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ain

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ncilrsquos

web

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mun

ity S

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ces

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ncil

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ncilrsquos

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rant

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l Pla

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mitt

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cts

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n an

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t Int

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n

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unity

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n on

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sure

355

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n co

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re c

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n

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35

Disability Inclusion

ACTION PLAN

Disability InclusionInclusionDisability InclusionInclusionDisability

For more information please contact Development Services councilportstephensnswgovau | 02 4980 0255 | PORTSTEPHENSNSWGOVAU

Page 9: Port Stephens Council DIAP 2016 - facs.nsw.gov.au · In 2016, Port Stephens had a population of 64,807 at the 2016 Census. This igure is predicted to rise by up to 23,000 over the

Policy and legislative context Definition The Disability Inclusion Act 2014 defines disability as lsquoThe long-term physical mental intellectual or sensory impairment which in interaction with various barriers may hinder the full and effective participation in society on an equal basis with othersrsquo

In the context of the DIAP lsquodisabilityrsquo includes functional impairments or limitations which may be present from birth acquired by accident or illness or due to the process of ageing The impairments may be substantial or seemingly minor temporary or permanent

Legislation In 1993 all NSW government departments and some other government bodies were required to undertake disability action planning when the NSW Disability Services Act 1993 (DSA) was introduced

In 2008 the Australian Government committed to implementing the United Nations (UN) Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities

In 2014 a strengthened commitment to inclusion better consultation with people with disability and protection of their rights was propelled with the introduction of the Disability Inclusion Act 2014 which replaced the DSA

There is a suite of further Commonwealth and State legislation that promotes and drives improving access and inclusion for people with a disability

INTERNATIONAL bull Principles of the UN Convention on the

Rights of People with a Disability

COMMONWEALTH bull Disability Discrimination Act 1992 bull Australian Government NDIS Act 2013 bull Australian Government Aged Care

(Living Longer Living Better) Act 2013

NSW bull NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014

The most recent legislation and amendments reflect a shift towards the view that while a disability may affect the way that a person interacts with others and their environment it should not define a person and it should not limit their capacity to become an integral part of the community Although the rights of a person with a disability have been defined as the same rights as those of all people since the early 1990s it is understood that upholding these rights must include promotion of individual choice about what is important to them universal access to services and facilities and inclusive communities where individuals can fully participate in social business and community life

The NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014 promotes the view that lsquoinclusionrsquo is not only a goal for service providers and public and private sector organisations it is a responsibility of the whole community It legislates for the rights of people with a disability to full participation in every-day life with enhanced community connection independence empowerment and wellbeing It is the role of local government through a Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) to promote and support inclusion in their communities

ADDITIONAL LEGISLATION bull Carers (Recognition) Act 2010 (NSW)

Disability not only affects people who have a disability but also people who care for them The Carers (Recognition) Act 2010 acknowledges the significance of carers including respect and recognition inclusion in decision making and access to services they may need

bull Local Government Act 1993 The Local Government Act 1993 sets out the framework and responsibilities of Councils and provides guidance to enable councilrsquos to carry out their functions in a way that facilitates local communities that are strong healthy and prosperous

Disability Inclusion ACTION PLAN 9

Draw together diverse interests and strive towards attaining greater consensus on sustainable outcomes for the local government area

10 Port Stephens Council

Councilrsquos responsibilities and roles Role of council New South Wales (NSW) is entering a new era in disability inclusion planning Councilrsquos role in implementation of the DIAP will include as a direct service provider as a leader an advocate and facilitator

bull As leader Council acts as a role model for others through its own actions strategic organisational responses and way of doing things In its dialogue with the communities and other stakeholders Council can act to draw together diverse interests and strive towards attaining greater consensus on sustainable outcomes for the local government area

bull As advocate Council seeks to improve services facilities and opportunities for the local government area and its communities by lobbying agencies and other levels of government In discussions with others there are opportunities to reinforce Port Stephens sense of identity and resilience and collaborate on achieving a more sustainable local government area

bull As facilitator Council assists interaction amongst stakeholders and forms strategic alliances aimed at promoting sustainability initiatives focussing on elements including social economic environmental

cultural and governance which demonstrate positive ways of moving forward

bull As service provider Council has a strong commitment to delivering the services needed by its communities and ensuring that Council resources are responsibly managed Councilrsquos role as a service provider aims to assist in building the long-term health of the local government area

Executive responsibility and project coordination Port Stephens Council supports the development and implementation of the DIAP The General Manager has responsibility to oversee the various functionsgroups of Council

The DIAP will be coordinated by the Social Planning Unit within the Strategy and Environment section of the Development Services team Responsibility for implementation and resourcing of the DIAP will be across all sections of Council

Disability Inclusion ACTION PLAN 11

systems and processes Focus Area 4

Integrated planning and reporting Goals and strategies of Port Stephens Council are underpinned by five themes which provide focus and direction for the Integrated Planning and Reporting (IPR) framework The four focus areas for the DIAP may be positioned within those five focus areas of Integrated Planning framework

UN Convention on the Right of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD)

National Disability Strategy (NDS)

National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)

NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014 (DIA)

Operational plan

Delivery program

Community strategic plan

Local government disability inclusion action planning

NSW Disability Inclusion Plan 1 Attitudes and behaviours 2 Employment 3 Liveable communities 4 Systems and processes

Port Stephens CSP-themes CSP1 Our citizens

CSP2 Our lifestyle

CSP3 Our environment

CSP4 Our economy

CSP5 Our Council

An inclusive NSW

Focus Areas for DIAP bull Liveable communities Focus Area 2 bull Positive community attitudes and behaviours

Focus Area 1 bull Liveable communities Focus Area 2

bull Liveable communities Focus Area 2

bull Supporting access to meaningful employment Focus Area 3

bull Improving access to services through better

Port Stephens Council 12

ACTION PLAN

Document review As background to the consultation and to confirm issues which have been previously identified in the Port Stephens LGA a review of documents was undertaken Council has a suite of documents which reflect their commitment to an inclusive and connected society in an environment that facilitates opportunities for contribution by all those who live in the Port Stephens Region Reviewed documents included

bull Port Stephens Integrated Plans incorporating Community Strategic Plan

2013-2023 Delivery Program 2013-2017 Operational Plans 2016-2020

bull Port Stephens Strategic Asset Management Plan (2016-2026)

bull Port Stephens Disability Action Plan 2014-2018

bull NSW Disability Inclusion Action Planning Guidelines

Consultation and engagement According to 2016 census data the population of Port Stephens was 69556 which is an increase of 4746 or 732 from 2011 (64810) As the table below notes there are distinct differences in the proportion of people who stated a Need for Assistance between each of Port Stephens planning catchments However community

Need for Assistance

consultation with people who experience a disability their families carers and disability groups show that the barriers challenges and needs of people with a disability to fully participate in community life are similar throughout the LGA

Suburb 2006 2011 2016 Fern Bay 74 87 789

Karuah Swan Bay 53 83 859

Medowie 32 35 393

Raymond Terrace 52 63 775

Rural East 53 47 611

Rural West 29 31 307

Tilligerry 64 73 797

Tomaree 55 55 653

Port Stephens LGA 50 55 640

Disability Inclusion 13

Consultation with the community In seeking to fully understand and identify the barriers to inclusion and access and to find solutions information was sought from key stakeholders Key stakeholders are people within the Port Stephens community who identify as experiencing a disability their carersrsquo and support workers

A survey was completed and distributed within the community from November

2016 to January 2017 The period of the survey was extended over the Christmas periodschool holiday period 71 surveys completed surveys were received from the community

The following table sets out who and how the survey was distributed to key stakeholders

Stakeholder Engagement Processes Council website Surveys could be accessed through Councilrsquos website using

Engagement HQ

Council Facebook page

A link to the survey was placed on Councilrsquos Facebook page The link was lsquoboostedrsquo which meant the page connected anyone in the LGA who had clicked on anything to do with disability which significantly broadened the surveys reach

MyLink Group Advice and information about the DIAP including a link to the survey was distributed to Councils MyLink group MyLink is an email group of members including Not for Profit Groups and Non-Government Organisations (NGOs) such as disability service and support providers The MyLink email group keeps its members informed of upcoming meetings local events professional development opportunities and other important information Notifications of updates are sent to the MyLink email list weekly

Libraries Paper copies of the surveys were provided to the Tomaree and Raymond Terrace Libraries for distribution to disability groups (including disability support groups) who use the library

Media release Media release in the Port Stephens Examiner and online version of the Port Stephens Examiner

Schools Every school in the LGA was contacted via telephone and the survey and link distributed via email Schools then placed the information about the survey and the link in school community newsletters and on Facebook pages

Eagleton Ridge Respite Centre

Eagleton Ridge Respite Centre was contacted and information forwarded about the survey along with a link

Flyer Flyers were developed to help promote the project which contained information about the survey and where to access it Flyers were delivered to doctors surgeries disability service providers and Council run pools

Internal stakeholder meeting

Internal stakeholder meeting and ongoing consultation to go over elements of the DIAP

14 Port Stephens Council

Summary of priorities Returned surveys and consultation meetings presented a clear picture of priorities with suggestions and solutions Looking across all questions in the survey the following outlines the most important priorities for the Port Stephens community

1 Footpathsramps 2 Accessibility to eventsactivities

shops sporting and recreation facilities and parks

3 Provision of venues services events 4 Public toilets 5 Parking 6 Public transport 7 Public education 8 Respectful and inclusive community

and services

Some of the priorities for the community in the consultation for the DIAP were also identified in the Port Stephens Disability Action Plan 2014-2018 Furthermore the Port Stephens Integrated Plans aims to ldquomake future provisions for people with disabilities their families and carersrdquo via several actions including implementing the Disability Inclusion Action Plan

Results of the community consultation were arranged in to the DIAPrsquos four focus groups and actions were developed that align with these areas These focus areas were identified as part of extensive community consultation during development of the NSW Disability Inclusion Plan As such these focus areas became a requirement to be in all NSW agency DIAPs These actions recognise the rights of people with a disability to full and effective participation in an inclusive society the same as those without a disability The following action plan outlines Councilrsquos role and action and priority level

Results of the community consultation were arranged into the DIAPrsquos four focus groups and actions were developed that contribute a more inclusive accessible and liveable society

ACTION PLANDisability Inclusion

15

Act

ion

plan

ning

Liveable Communities

Item for

improvement Priority

Time-

frame

Coun-

cilRole

Action

Outcome

IPRRefer-

ence

Responsibility

Foot

path

s an

d1

-2 y

ears

Se

rvic

eU

nder

take

revi

ew o

f foo

tpat

hs a

nd ra

mps

Upd

ated

and

impl

emen

tatio

n of

42

13

Asse

ts

ram

ps th

roug

hout

Prov

ider

th

roug

hout

LG

A to

det

erm

ine

a pr

iorit

ised

the

Pede

stria

n Ac

cess

and

Mob

ility

LGA

appr

oach

to im

plem

enta

tion

of g

aps

Plan

con

side

rs a

nd p

riorit

ises

peo

ple

upgr

ades

and

new

foot

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infra

stru

ctur

e

with

dis

abilit

y

0-1

year

U

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plem

enta

tion

of th

e Pe

dest

rian

13

16

Stra

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c Pl

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Mob

ility

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Out

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Serv

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build

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Serv

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Loc

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eopl

e w

ith a

disa

bility

52

14

Faci

litie

s an

dPr

ovid

er

whe

re a

dult

chan

ge fa

cilit

ies

for p

eopl

ean

d as

sista

nce

for c

arer

s c

arin

g fo

r peo

ple

with

Serv

ices

w

ith a

dis

abilit

y ar

e w

arra

nted

- or

whe

rehi

gh n

eeds

an area could be modified to cater for

peop

le w

ith a

hig

h ne

ed d

isab

ility

durin

gFo

rwar

d W

orks

Pla

n

Advo

cate

Po

rt St

ephe

ns d

isab

ility

acce

ss to

ilets

are

incl

uded

on

the

Aust

ralia

n Pu

blic

Toile

trsquos s

oftw

are

appl

icat

ion

Dis

abilit

y pa

rkin

g1

-2 y

ears

Se

rvic

eR

evie

w d

isab

ility

park

ing

spac

es a

ssp

aces

thro

ugho

utPr

ovid

er identified to ensure compliance against

the

LGA

curre

nt s

tand

ards

and

or

relo

catin

g to

meet compliance (via traffic committee)

1 -2

yea

rs

At re

view

upd

ate

Plan

s of

Man

agem

ent

to in

clud

e di

scus

sion

of d

isab

ility

park

ing

and

impr

ovin

g ac

cess

ibilit

y be

twee

ndi

sabi

lity

park

ing

par

ks a

nd d

isab

ility

acce

ssib

le to

ilets

Incr

ease

in c

ompl

iant

dis

abilit

y pa

rkin

g so

52

14

Faci

litie

s an

d As

sets

pe

ople

who

exp

erie

nce

disa

bilit

y ca

n en

joy

am

ore

seam

less

exp

erie

nce

that

is n

avig

able

and

man

agea

ble

ther

eby

bein

g m

ore

incl

usiv

ean

d va

lue

addi

ng

52

14

Fa

cilit

ies

and

Asse

ts

Publ

ic tr

ansp

ort

1 -2

yea

rs

Advo

cate

M

eet w

ith p

ublic

tran

spor

t pro

vider

s to

Impr

oved

legi

bilit

y an

d ac

cess

to p

ublic

13

16

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ngpr

ovid

e fe

edba

ck fr

om D

IAP

and

addr

ess

trans

port

optio

ns a

nd im

prov

ed p

atro

nage

of

any

conc

erns

whe

re p

ossib

le

peop

le w

ith a

dis

abilit

y

Fund

ing

Ong

oing

Se

rvic

eAc

tivel

y se

ek g

rant

fund

ing

for p

roje

cts

An in

crea

se in

ser

vice

s in

frast

ruct

ure

and

52

14

Faci

litie

s an

dop

portu

nitie

s pr

ovid

er

whi

ch e

ncou

rage

acc

ess

and

incl

usio

n in

activ

ities

that

ens

ure

incl

usiv

enes

s an

dSe

rvic

esLe

ader

th

e co

mm

unity

ac

cess

ibilit

y fo

r peo

ple

who

exp

erie

nce

Com

mun

itydi

sabi

lity

thei

r fam

ilies

and

care

rs

Dev

elop

men

t and

Enga

gem

ent

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ng

Acce

ssib

le e

vent

s O

ngoi

ng

Serv

ice

Form

alis

e a

12 m

onth

tria

l pro

gram

Incr

ease

in th

e nu

mbe

r of e

vent

s th

at a

re2

11

5C

omm

unity

prov

ider

of

the

Even

t Ten

t w

hich

pro

mot

esac

cess

ible

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

y D

evel

opm

ent a

nd5

31

5Ad

voca

te

and

enab

les

grea

ter p

artic

ipat

ion

atEn

gage

men

t5

41

1co

mm

unity

eve

nts

of p

eopl

e an

d fa

milie

sTo

uris

m a

nd E

vent

s w

ho h

ave

a di

sabi

lity

17

18

Improving access to services through better systems and processes

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Alig

ning

Act

ion

Ong

oing

Le

ader

En

sure

that

the

DIA

P al

igns

with

This

pla

n m

eets

the

Loca

l5

31

13

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ngPl

an w

ith In

tegr

ated

the

Inte

grat

ed R

epor

ting

Fram

ing

Gov

ernm

ent D

IAP

guid

elin

eR

epor

ting

and

that

the

actio

ns in

this

Act

ion

requ

irem

ents

and

act

ions

are

Fram

ewor

k Pl

an a

re in

clud

ed in

the

(4 y

ear)

impl

emen

ted

Del

iver

y Pr

ogra

m a

nd th

e An

nual

Ope

ratio

nal P

lan

Info

rmat

ion

to th

e0

ndash 1

year

Le

ader

and

Enab

le th

e ab

ility

to p

rovi

de a

ndM

ore

peop

le a

re a

ble

to a

cces

s5

31

6 Office of the General

publ

ic

Serv

ice

rece

ive

info

rmat

ion

to a

nd fr

om th

ein

form

atio

n an

d pa

rticip

ate

in th

eir

Man

ager

Pr

ovid

er

publ

ic in

a ra

nge

of fo

rmat

s R

evie

wlo

cal c

omm

unity

and

the

affa

irs o

fpu

blic

exh

ibiti

on te

mpl

ate

to m

ake

loca

l gov

ernm

ent

clea

rer t

hat w

e ac

cept

sub

mis

sion

sin

all

form

ats

not

just

writ

ten

eg

vide

o v

oice

rec

ordi

ng

Mai

ntai

n w

ebsi

te a

cces

sibi

lity

55

18

Com

mun

icat

ions

(WAA

G) 2

0 A

A le

vel

Polic

ies

and

1 -2

yea

rs

Lead

erS

ervi

ceC

ounc

il inv

estig

ates

opt

ions

toR

emov

e ob

stac

les

for p

eopl

e w

ith1

31

6 St

rate

gic

Plan

ning

pr

oced

ures

Pr

ovid

er

impr

ove

unde

rsta

ndin

g of

pol

icies

and

a di

sabi

lity

to e

nabl

e ac

hiev

emen

tpr

oced

ures

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

disa

bility

of

pos

itive

and

sus

tain

able

empl

oym

ent o

utco

mes

Supporting access to meaningful employment

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Volu

ntee

ring

1 -2

yea

rs

Lead

er

Rev

iew

vol

unte

erin

g pr

oces

ses

for

Incr

ease

d ac

cess

to v

olun

teer

ing

16

13

Com

mun

ity S

ervi

ces

proc

esse

s Po

rt St

ephe

ns C

ounc

il to

ens

ure

oppo

rtuni

ties

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

that

they

are

wel

com

ing

of p

eopl

edi

sabi

lity

w

ith d

isab

ility

Rec

ruitm

ent

Ong

oing

Le

ader

C

ontin

ue to

offe

r can

dida

tes

anO

ngoi

ng e

mpl

oym

ent o

ppor

tuni

ties

51

42

Org

anis

atio

nal

proc

esse

s op

tion

to d

iscl

ose

whe

ther

or n

otfo

r peo

ple

who

hav

e a

disa

bilit

y w

ithD

evel

opm

ent

they

hav

e a

disa

bilit

y du

ring

the

Port

Step

hens

Cou

ncil

appl

icat

ion

proc

ess

so th

at C

ounc

ilar

e ab

le to

ens

ure

that

app

lican

tsw

ith a

dis

abilit

y ar

e an

d fe

elsu

ppor

ted

thro

ugho

ut th

e pr

oces

s

Attitudes and Behaviours

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Educ

atio

n fo

r sho

p0

- 1 y

ear

Advo

cate

Aw

aren

ess

and

educ

atio

nO

utco

me

is a

rais

ed a

war

enes

s of

41

24

Econ

omic

owne

rsb

usin

esse

sca

mpa

igns

targ

etin

g bu

sine

ss

the

need

s of

peo

ple

with

a d

isab

ility

Dev

elop

men

ton

acc

ess

issue

s fo

row

ners

via

Biz

Lin

k ne

twor

kac

cess

issu

espe

ople

with

disa

bility

ne

wsl

ette

rs a

nd b

usin

ess

cham

bers

to fo

ster

and

enc

oura

ge th

efo

llow

ing

initi

ativ

es

bull D

evel

op c

ompa

nion

car

d fri

endl

yin

itiat

ive

whi

ch e

nabl

es fr

ee e

ntry

to c

erta

in v

enue

sev

ents

for

care

rs to

acc

ompa

ny p

eopl

e w

itha

disa

bilit

y

1-2

year

s Ad

voca

te

bull Pr

efer

red

empl

oyer

aw

ards

for

41

24

Econ

omic

disa

bilit

y ac

cess

ible

wor

kpla

ce

Dev

elop

men

t

Sta

ff ar

e su

pp

orte

d a

nd h

ave

gre

ater

know

led

ge

of th

e va

riety

of n

eed

s of

peo

ple

with

a d

isab

ility

and

the

need

for i

nclu

sion

Staf

f aw

aren

ess

of1

-2 y

ears

Le

ader

To

pro

vide

train

ing

for C

ounc

il sta

ffSt

aff a

re s

uppo

rted

and

have

51

42

Org

anis

atio

nal

the

need

s of

peo

ple

on h

ow to

wor

k w

ith a

nd u

nder

stan

dgr

eate

r kno

wle

dge

of th

e va

riety

of

Dev

elop

men

tw

ith d

isab

ility

peop

le w

ith d

isabi

lity th

roug

h C

ounc

ilsne

eds

of p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

y an

d

The

prio

rity

timef

ram

e ra

ting

indi

cate

s th

at a

Hig

h pr

iorit

y sh

ould

be

com

plet

ed w

ithin

1 y

ear

Med

ium

prio

rity

with

in 2

yea

rs a

nd L

ow p

riorit

y w

ithin

3 to

4 y

ears

Wor

kpla

ce E

quity

amp D

ivers

ityC

omm

ittee

and

Gui

de (a

ttach

ed)

the

need

for i

nclu

sion

19

Governance monitoring and evaulation To ensure implementation of the Plan an internal working group made up of stakeholders who have responsibility for implementing actions with the plan will be ongoing The working group will meet quarterly to discuss the Action Plan and linkages to both current and future projects and programs including

bull Each new capital works project will consider disability improvements to inclusion and accessibility within the Project Management Plan scoping and procurement document (in addition to Disability Discrimination Act compliance) Improvements for consideration include Location of the

proposed project and Improvements to carpark access to

and from kerb ramp location and availability and pathwayrsquos etc that enable more seamless connectivity

Progress of the plan will be monitored and implementation of actions within the Plan will be reported through a range of governance processes including

bull Six monthly reporting to Councils Executive Leadership team and Council

bull Operational Plan annual reporting as part of the Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework

bull Annual Report bull End of Term Reporting bull Customer satisfaction annual survey and

reporting To enable effective measurement and monitoring of actions within the plan the Port Stephens Customer Satisfaction Survey will include a section within the survey of questions that people who experience disability their families carers and people who work in the disability sector can elect to answer

20 Port Stephens Council

Conclusion Port Stephens Council has a strong commitment to enhancing life experience of people with a disability in the Local Government Area

In developing the Disability Inclusion Action Plan Port Stephens Council has built on the strengths of existing Council resources Council structurestaff plans policies and the local closely connected community by consulting with a broad range of stakeholders

The priorities identified above reflect Council values and principles The individual objectives once approved by Council are to be included in the 2017-2021 Delivery Program and the Annual Operational Plans for each of those four (4) years Within the Integrated and Strategic Planning framework the responsibility reporting and resourcing for the objectives will be defined

Draw together diverse interests and strive towards attaining greater consensus on sustainable outcomes for the local government area

ACTION PLANDisability Inclusion

21

understanding of your requirements and helpful (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

11a Please provide details of your experiences with Council staff

12 Any other comments

Appendix 1 DIAP Survey 1 What is your age 2 What suburb do you live in

(Required) 3 Gender 4 Language used at home 5 Are you a carer or a person with

disability (Choose all that apply) a Carer b Person with disability c Family member

6 Do you think the Port Stephens Community is welcoming of people with disabilities Eg businesses shops etc (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

6a Please give us some examples of positive or negative experiences you have had

7 Have you encountered any problems barriers or issues in using transport options (Choose all that apply) a Walking or wheelchair use b Local buses c Electric Scooter d Other

7a Please give us some examples of positive or negative experiences you have had

8 Do you think facilities and services are accessible and inclusive in Port Stephens a Councilrsquos Administration Building Yes No b Community centres Yes No c Events Yes No d Libraries Yes No e Parks Yes No f Pools Yes No g Other Yes No

22 Port Stephens Council

8a Can you give us any examples for improvements

9 Do you find Councilrsquos information publications accessible

Website Yes No Newsletters Yes No

9a Do you have suggestions for improvements

10 Would you like to see an improvement in online services through Councilrsquos website such as the electronic payment of rates andor fees and charges (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

11 Do you find Council staff at all of its locations and facilities approachable

Appendix 2 community consultation Results from consultation and the survey The areas identified for improvement by were framed around the four priority areas the Port Stephens community are (in order for an inclusive community Liveable of priority) communities Attitudes and behaviours Employment and Systems and processes

Liveable Communities

Focus Area Comments Foot pathsramps ldquoFootpathsramps ndash uneven rough need ramps to access

roads need lighting on paths and stairs need more footpaths wider footpaths some ramps too steeprdquo

ldquoAll new kerb ramps should have no step between the bottom of the ramp and the gutterroad The small step that is still mostly used at the bottom of curb ramps is completely unnecessary (it doesnrsquot improve water flow in the gutter as some people think it does) but it makes it harder for a wheelchair user even if the step is only 2cm or less The same argument applies to drivewaysrdquo

ACTION PLAN

Accessibility to ldquoCluttered walkways access to beaches (wheelchair accessible eventsactivities ramps) Braille on signage audio description at places of shops sporting interest Henderson Park upgrade (steep steps to pontoon facilities parks no disability parking) access to pontoons for fishing (Karuah

good example of how to do it) Wider access passageways and doorways (eg some places have double doors but keep one door locked eg Salamander library)rdquo

Provision of venues ldquoLack of disability services in parks (eg Liberty swingswing services events with 5-point harness) lack of covered areas in parks (many

sun-sensitive due to medication plus rain cover) hydrotherapy pool fences around parks disability friendly slide at parks audio loop neededrdquo

ldquoI would like to see more programs that support carers and the families of people with disabilities in the Port Stephens Local Government Area as their (sic) simply isnrsquot enough I would also like more programs to support people with disabilities so that as a community we can start supporting each other through the hardship of living with a disabilityrdquo

Disability Inclusion 23

Focus Area Comments Public toilets ldquoThere are lack of amenities in disabled toilets (eg adults who

need help changing continence aids hoists in toilets) need more (eg Nelson Bay)rdquo

ldquoDisabled toilets do not cater for older persons with a disability who require nappy changing facilities It is not nice to change on the floor of a disabled toilet and parents room tables are too smallrdquo

Parking ldquoThere is a lack of disabled parking some disabled parks are not wheelchair friendlyrdquo

ldquoSubstandard pavement surfaces for walker frames and mobility scooters Lack of disability parking spaces at Soldiers Point Boat ramp and Salamander Bay wharf and various other areas within the Port Stephens areardquo

Public transport ldquoInfrastructure improvements for more and better transport limited timetables too many transfers to get to destination want regular community bus (low cost or for free)rdquo

Attitudes and Behaviours

Focus Area Comments Respectful and It should be noted that most people reported positive encounters inclusive community with the public and council staff One comment stated ldquocould and services improve empathy and understanding from public on what it is

like to have a disabilityrdquo

ldquoHearing impaired when asked to speak slower shop people yell and pull faces as if trying to mouth out each word very embarrassingrdquo

ldquoStaring commentingrdquo

Public education ldquoEducation for people in shops about disability disabled amenitiesfacilities being used by public (change-rooms toilets parking) but consideration needed so as not to discriminate against those who do not ldquoappearrdquo to have a disabilityrdquo

It should be noted that most people reported positive encounters with the public and council staff

24 Port Stephens Council

Employment

Focus Area Comments No issues identified however it was acknowledged in internal communication with staff that Council could lead the way in more employment of people with a disability this could include recruitment processes which are lsquomore welcomingrsquo and encourage people to apply for positions It also was acknowledged that Council policies procedures systems and processes could be reviewed for lsquoeasy readrsquo format

Systems and Processes

Focus Area Comments Range of information dissemination

Promotion and awareness of activitesevents services

ldquoNot everyone gets newspaper so send information in other ways (emailed with rates) need to consider information dissemination for people with hearing and vision impairedrdquo

ldquoI have rarely seen a Council newsletter Also the website needs to be cleaner clearer more navigable and user friendlyrdquo

ldquoLeft-aligning text might seem like a visual imposition to the sighted person but this simple change is the difference between being able to read for people who are blind or who have low visionrdquo

ldquoEye level display for people using wheelchairsrdquo

Some people were confused or unaware of services amenities available to them

In some areas ldquoFor those of us who get their bills via email it would be great if we were emailed regularly about items on public exhibition etc to replace what other residents would see in your adds in the Examinerrdquo

ldquoMore information areas to access helprdquo

ldquoDidnrsquot know you had a newsletterrdquo

Consulation on council infrastructure

Respondents welcomed the Council distributing this survey for comment but others felt more consideration of disability issues was needed

ldquoPlanning doesnrsquot seem to include disabled accessibility issues for new projectsrdquo

ldquoConsideration of people who are blind or low vision in future planning ie Braille on all signage (or on poles or mounts for elevated signage) Audio description at places of interest geographical cultural or historical significance Blind people miss out on our beautiful views they deserve to be catered to with regard to what else PS has to offer Infrastructure improvements that support more and better public transport to Port Stephensrdquo

Disabilit y Inclusion ACTION PLAN 25

Do you think the Port Stephens Community is welcoming of people with disabilities Eg businesses shops etc Most people felt Port Stephens is welcoming (68)

Have you encountered any problems barriers or issues in using transport options

68

0 10 20 30 40 50

Electric Scooter

Walking or wheelchair use

Local buses

Other

Do you think facilities and services are accessible and inclusive in Port Stephens

Focus Area Yes No

Councils Administration Building 57 6

Community centres 53 8

Events 36 21

Libraries 60 2

Parks 38 27

Pools 43 15

Other 18 13

26 Port Stephens Council

Do you find Councilrsquos information publications accessible

Focus area website

Would you like to see an improvement in online services through Councilrsquos website such as the electronic payment of rates and or fees and charges

Do you find Council staff at all of its locations and facilities approachable understanding of your requirements and helpful

Most comments in this section indicated council staff was very helpful and polite

Any other comments

Items for improvement (in order of priority)

Yes 36

Yes 55

Yes 48

No 6

No 18

No 11

1 Provision of venues services events 2 Roadscrossings 3 Footpathsramps 4 Public toilets 5 Public education The following summary outlines the priorities identified across all questions of the survey

ACTION PLANDisabilit y Inclusion

27

App

endi

x 3

Func

tions

ser

vice

s an

d as

sets

Function Area Community Services Sector

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Man

ager

Ngi

oka

Com

mun

ityH

ortic

ultu

ral

Serv

ices

Th

erap

yC

entre

Volu

ntee

r wor

kfor

ce o

f up

to80

0 p

rovi

sion

of lsquo

whe

el in

whe

el o

utrsquo g

arba

ge c

olle

ctio

nfo

r peo

ple

with

dis

abilit

y liv

ing

at h

ome

Pro

visi

on o

fpr

ogra

ms

for c

hild

ren

with

addi

tiona

l nee

ds a

t Out

side

of S

choo

l Hou

rs C

are

Chi

ldre

nsrsquo a

ctiv

ity V

an a

ndFa

mily

Day

Car

e P

rovi

sion

of la

rge

prin

t boo

ks t

alki

ngbo

oks

and

audi

o an

d vi

sual

navi

gatio

n ai

ds a

t lib

rarie

sLe

ar to

sw

im p

rogr

ams

atco

unci

l aqu

atic

cen

tres

Info

rmat

ion

on w

ebsi

te re

Leas

e of

Gra

ham

stow

nVo

lunt

eer s

trate

gy35

5vo

lunt

eers

Aqua

tic R

eser

ve fo

r use

by

Part

A an

d Pa

rt B

com

mitt

ees

Saila

bilit

y (P

SC le

ase

the

Larg

e te

xt fo

rmat

ting

onla

nd fr

om H

unte

r Wat

er a

ndw

ebsi

te

Saila

bilit

y su

b-le

ase

the

land

of P

SC)

Link

s to

vol

unte

er re

sour

ces

in J

ob a

genc

ies

TAF

Eot

her a

reas

bus

ines

ses

etc

univ

ersi

ties

sch

ools

Brai

lle a

nd la

rge

font

com

pute

rs

Rev

iew

pol

icie

spr

oced

ures

toen

sure

they

are

lsquoeas

y re

adrsquo f

orm

at

Busi

ness

lead

ersh

ipto

enh

ance

Ngi

oka

as a

mul

ti-pu

rpos

ece

ntre

and

to p

rom

ote

and

alig

n w

ith N

DIS

pers

onal

pla

ns

28

Function Area Community Services ndash Library Services

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

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ees

to u

nder

take

pro

ject

s an

d pr

o-gr

ams

to e

ncou

rage

acc

ess

and

inclu

sion

35

Disability Inclusion

ACTION PLAN

Disability InclusionInclusionDisability InclusionInclusionDisability

For more information please contact Development Services councilportstephensnswgovau | 02 4980 0255 | PORTSTEPHENSNSWGOVAU

Page 10: Port Stephens Council DIAP 2016 - facs.nsw.gov.au · In 2016, Port Stephens had a population of 64,807 at the 2016 Census. This igure is predicted to rise by up to 23,000 over the

Draw together diverse interests and strive towards attaining greater consensus on sustainable outcomes for the local government area

10 Port Stephens Council

Councilrsquos responsibilities and roles Role of council New South Wales (NSW) is entering a new era in disability inclusion planning Councilrsquos role in implementation of the DIAP will include as a direct service provider as a leader an advocate and facilitator

bull As leader Council acts as a role model for others through its own actions strategic organisational responses and way of doing things In its dialogue with the communities and other stakeholders Council can act to draw together diverse interests and strive towards attaining greater consensus on sustainable outcomes for the local government area

bull As advocate Council seeks to improve services facilities and opportunities for the local government area and its communities by lobbying agencies and other levels of government In discussions with others there are opportunities to reinforce Port Stephens sense of identity and resilience and collaborate on achieving a more sustainable local government area

bull As facilitator Council assists interaction amongst stakeholders and forms strategic alliances aimed at promoting sustainability initiatives focussing on elements including social economic environmental

cultural and governance which demonstrate positive ways of moving forward

bull As service provider Council has a strong commitment to delivering the services needed by its communities and ensuring that Council resources are responsibly managed Councilrsquos role as a service provider aims to assist in building the long-term health of the local government area

Executive responsibility and project coordination Port Stephens Council supports the development and implementation of the DIAP The General Manager has responsibility to oversee the various functionsgroups of Council

The DIAP will be coordinated by the Social Planning Unit within the Strategy and Environment section of the Development Services team Responsibility for implementation and resourcing of the DIAP will be across all sections of Council

Disability Inclusion ACTION PLAN 11

systems and processes Focus Area 4

Integrated planning and reporting Goals and strategies of Port Stephens Council are underpinned by five themes which provide focus and direction for the Integrated Planning and Reporting (IPR) framework The four focus areas for the DIAP may be positioned within those five focus areas of Integrated Planning framework

UN Convention on the Right of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD)

National Disability Strategy (NDS)

National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)

NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014 (DIA)

Operational plan

Delivery program

Community strategic plan

Local government disability inclusion action planning

NSW Disability Inclusion Plan 1 Attitudes and behaviours 2 Employment 3 Liveable communities 4 Systems and processes

Port Stephens CSP-themes CSP1 Our citizens

CSP2 Our lifestyle

CSP3 Our environment

CSP4 Our economy

CSP5 Our Council

An inclusive NSW

Focus Areas for DIAP bull Liveable communities Focus Area 2 bull Positive community attitudes and behaviours

Focus Area 1 bull Liveable communities Focus Area 2

bull Liveable communities Focus Area 2

bull Supporting access to meaningful employment Focus Area 3

bull Improving access to services through better

Port Stephens Council 12

ACTION PLAN

Document review As background to the consultation and to confirm issues which have been previously identified in the Port Stephens LGA a review of documents was undertaken Council has a suite of documents which reflect their commitment to an inclusive and connected society in an environment that facilitates opportunities for contribution by all those who live in the Port Stephens Region Reviewed documents included

bull Port Stephens Integrated Plans incorporating Community Strategic Plan

2013-2023 Delivery Program 2013-2017 Operational Plans 2016-2020

bull Port Stephens Strategic Asset Management Plan (2016-2026)

bull Port Stephens Disability Action Plan 2014-2018

bull NSW Disability Inclusion Action Planning Guidelines

Consultation and engagement According to 2016 census data the population of Port Stephens was 69556 which is an increase of 4746 or 732 from 2011 (64810) As the table below notes there are distinct differences in the proportion of people who stated a Need for Assistance between each of Port Stephens planning catchments However community

Need for Assistance

consultation with people who experience a disability their families carers and disability groups show that the barriers challenges and needs of people with a disability to fully participate in community life are similar throughout the LGA

Suburb 2006 2011 2016 Fern Bay 74 87 789

Karuah Swan Bay 53 83 859

Medowie 32 35 393

Raymond Terrace 52 63 775

Rural East 53 47 611

Rural West 29 31 307

Tilligerry 64 73 797

Tomaree 55 55 653

Port Stephens LGA 50 55 640

Disability Inclusion 13

Consultation with the community In seeking to fully understand and identify the barriers to inclusion and access and to find solutions information was sought from key stakeholders Key stakeholders are people within the Port Stephens community who identify as experiencing a disability their carersrsquo and support workers

A survey was completed and distributed within the community from November

2016 to January 2017 The period of the survey was extended over the Christmas periodschool holiday period 71 surveys completed surveys were received from the community

The following table sets out who and how the survey was distributed to key stakeholders

Stakeholder Engagement Processes Council website Surveys could be accessed through Councilrsquos website using

Engagement HQ

Council Facebook page

A link to the survey was placed on Councilrsquos Facebook page The link was lsquoboostedrsquo which meant the page connected anyone in the LGA who had clicked on anything to do with disability which significantly broadened the surveys reach

MyLink Group Advice and information about the DIAP including a link to the survey was distributed to Councils MyLink group MyLink is an email group of members including Not for Profit Groups and Non-Government Organisations (NGOs) such as disability service and support providers The MyLink email group keeps its members informed of upcoming meetings local events professional development opportunities and other important information Notifications of updates are sent to the MyLink email list weekly

Libraries Paper copies of the surveys were provided to the Tomaree and Raymond Terrace Libraries for distribution to disability groups (including disability support groups) who use the library

Media release Media release in the Port Stephens Examiner and online version of the Port Stephens Examiner

Schools Every school in the LGA was contacted via telephone and the survey and link distributed via email Schools then placed the information about the survey and the link in school community newsletters and on Facebook pages

Eagleton Ridge Respite Centre

Eagleton Ridge Respite Centre was contacted and information forwarded about the survey along with a link

Flyer Flyers were developed to help promote the project which contained information about the survey and where to access it Flyers were delivered to doctors surgeries disability service providers and Council run pools

Internal stakeholder meeting

Internal stakeholder meeting and ongoing consultation to go over elements of the DIAP

14 Port Stephens Council

Summary of priorities Returned surveys and consultation meetings presented a clear picture of priorities with suggestions and solutions Looking across all questions in the survey the following outlines the most important priorities for the Port Stephens community

1 Footpathsramps 2 Accessibility to eventsactivities

shops sporting and recreation facilities and parks

3 Provision of venues services events 4 Public toilets 5 Parking 6 Public transport 7 Public education 8 Respectful and inclusive community

and services

Some of the priorities for the community in the consultation for the DIAP were also identified in the Port Stephens Disability Action Plan 2014-2018 Furthermore the Port Stephens Integrated Plans aims to ldquomake future provisions for people with disabilities their families and carersrdquo via several actions including implementing the Disability Inclusion Action Plan

Results of the community consultation were arranged in to the DIAPrsquos four focus groups and actions were developed that align with these areas These focus areas were identified as part of extensive community consultation during development of the NSW Disability Inclusion Plan As such these focus areas became a requirement to be in all NSW agency DIAPs These actions recognise the rights of people with a disability to full and effective participation in an inclusive society the same as those without a disability The following action plan outlines Councilrsquos role and action and priority level

Results of the community consultation were arranged into the DIAPrsquos four focus groups and actions were developed that contribute a more inclusive accessible and liveable society

ACTION PLANDisability Inclusion

15

Act

ion

plan

ning

Liveable Communities

Item for

improvement Priority

Time-

frame

Coun-

cilRole

Action

Outcome

IPRRefer-

ence

Responsibility

Foot

path

s an

d1

-2 y

ears

Se

rvic

eU

nder

take

revi

ew o

f foo

tpat

hs a

nd ra

mps

Upd

ated

and

impl

emen

tatio

n of

42

13

Asse

ts

ram

ps th

roug

hout

Prov

ider

th

roug

hout

LG

A to

det

erm

ine

a pr

iorit

ised

the

Pede

stria

n Ac

cess

and

Mob

ility

LGA

appr

oach

to im

plem

enta

tion

of g

aps

Plan

con

side

rs a

nd p

riorit

ises

peo

ple

upgr

ades

and

new

foot

path

infra

stru

ctur

e

with

dis

abilit

y

0-1

year

U

pdat

ed a

nd im

plem

enta

tion

of th

e Pe

dest

rian

13

16

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ngAc

cess

and

Mob

ility

Plan

con

sider

s an

d pr

iorit

ises

peop

le w

ith d

isabi

lity

Out

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ces

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1 -2

yea

rs

Serv

ice

Prio

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ew a

nd a

udit

Cou

ncil

build

ings

Pr

ovid

er

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out

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ces

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ings

to d

eter

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re w

ork

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quire

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y m

aint

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ce a

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2- 4

yea

rs

Serv

ice

Impl

emen

t tw

o lib

erty

sw

ings

Loc

atio

nsPr

ovid

er

to b

e pr

iotis

ed in

col

labo

ratio

n w

ithSo

cial

Pla

nnin

g

Out

door

spa

ces

and

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ings

inc

ludi

ng a

cces

sto

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mai

ntai

ned

and

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lope

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ble

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clusiv

e co

mm

unity

for p

eopl

e w

ith d

isabi

lity

Two

liber

ty s

win

gs a

re in

stal

led

in a

ppro

pria

telo

catio

ns s

o fa

mily

and

car

ers

of p

eopl

e w

ithhi

gh n

eeds

are

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e to

acc

ess

recr

eatio

nal

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rtuni

ties

(peo

ple

in w

heel

chai

rs i

nclu

ding

adul

ts c

an e

xper

ienc

e a

sens

e of

free

dom

)

52

12

Faci

litie

s an

dSe

rvic

es

52

12

Faci

litie

s an

dSe

rvic

es

Prov

isio

n of

0 ndash

1Ad

voca

te

Dev

elop

the

Plan

of M

anag

emen

t to

The

Ngi

oka

Cen

tre is

man

aged

and

ope

rate

d 1

31

1 Fa

cilit

ies

and

prog

ram

s an

dye

ars

dete

rmin

e an

d fo

rmal

ise

futu

re lo

ng te

rmby

the

End

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ur F

ound

atio

n by

way

of

Serv

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se

rvic

es th

atus

e of

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land

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ch th

e N

giok

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ort S

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tre is

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ted

Th

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Ong

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n Aq

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Con

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of S

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and

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to1

31

2 C

omm

unity

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R

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ve fo

r use

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Ong

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rvic

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ngoi

ng p

rovi

sion

of w

heel

in w

heel

out

The

Blue

Dot

Ser

vice

13

13

Com

mun

ity S

ervi

ces

Lead

er

garb

age

bin

serv

ice

(Blu

e D

ot S

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ce)

for p

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y liv

ing

at h

ome

Ong

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O

ngoi

ng a

cces

s to

chi

ldre

ns

serv

ices

13

14

Com

mun

ity S

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prog

ram

s fo

r chi

ldre

n w

ith a

dditio

nal n

eeds

at O

utsid

e Sc

hool

Hou

rs C

are

(Ray

mon

dTe

rrace

and

Med

owie

) P

ort S

teph

ens

Activ

ity V

an a

nd F

amily

Day

Car

e

16

Ong

oing

Se

rvic

eO

ngoi

ng p

rovi

sion

and

exp

ansi

on o

fIn

crea

sed

awar

enes

s an

d su

ppor

t for

peo

ple

13

15

Com

mun

ity S

ervi

ces

Prov

ider

as

sist

ive

and

adap

tive

tech

nolo

gyw

ith a

dis

abilit

y an

d in

crea

sed

livea

bilit

y

Cus

tom

er R

elat

ions

incl

udin

gbull

Audi

o re

ad n

avig

ator

sbull

Zoom

text

scr

een

read

er s

oftw

are

bull La

rge

prin

t boo

ksbull

Audi

o bo

oks

Publ

ic to

ilets

2

ndash 4

year

s

Serv

ice

Audi

t of p

ublic

toile

ts to

iden

tify

loca

tions

Impr

oved

acc

essib

ility

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

disa

bility

52

14

Faci

litie

s an

dPr

ovid

er

whe

re a

dult

chan

ge fa

cilit

ies

for p

eopl

ean

d as

sista

nce

for c

arer

s c

arin

g fo

r peo

ple

with

Serv

ices

w

ith a

dis

abilit

y ar

e w

arra

nted

- or

whe

rehi

gh n

eeds

an area could be modified to cater for

peop

le w

ith a

hig

h ne

ed d

isab

ility

durin

gFo

rwar

d W

orks

Pla

n

Advo

cate

Po

rt St

ephe

ns d

isab

ility

acce

ss to

ilets

are

incl

uded

on

the

Aust

ralia

n Pu

blic

Toile

trsquos s

oftw

are

appl

icat

ion

Dis

abilit

y pa

rkin

g1

-2 y

ears

Se

rvic

eR

evie

w d

isab

ility

park

ing

spac

es a

ssp

aces

thro

ugho

utPr

ovid

er identified to ensure compliance against

the

LGA

curre

nt s

tand

ards

and

or

relo

catin

g to

meet compliance (via traffic committee)

1 -2

yea

rs

At re

view

upd

ate

Plan

s of

Man

agem

ent

to in

clud

e di

scus

sion

of d

isab

ility

park

ing

and

impr

ovin

g ac

cess

ibilit

y be

twee

ndi

sabi

lity

park

ing

par

ks a

nd d

isab

ility

acce

ssib

le to

ilets

Incr

ease

in c

ompl

iant

dis

abilit

y pa

rkin

g so

52

14

Faci

litie

s an

d As

sets

pe

ople

who

exp

erie

nce

disa

bilit

y ca

n en

joy

am

ore

seam

less

exp

erie

nce

that

is n

avig

able

and

man

agea

ble

ther

eby

bein

g m

ore

incl

usiv

ean

d va

lue

addi

ng

52

14

Fa

cilit

ies

and

Asse

ts

Publ

ic tr

ansp

ort

1 -2

yea

rs

Advo

cate

M

eet w

ith p

ublic

tran

spor

t pro

vider

s to

Impr

oved

legi

bilit

y an

d ac

cess

to p

ublic

13

16

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ngpr

ovid

e fe

edba

ck fr

om D

IAP

and

addr

ess

trans

port

optio

ns a

nd im

prov

ed p

atro

nage

of

any

conc

erns

whe

re p

ossib

le

peop

le w

ith a

dis

abilit

y

Fund

ing

Ong

oing

Se

rvic

eAc

tivel

y se

ek g

rant

fund

ing

for p

roje

cts

An in

crea

se in

ser

vice

s in

frast

ruct

ure

and

52

14

Faci

litie

s an

dop

portu

nitie

s pr

ovid

er

whi

ch e

ncou

rage

acc

ess

and

incl

usio

n in

activ

ities

that

ens

ure

incl

usiv

enes

s an

dSe

rvic

esLe

ader

th

e co

mm

unity

ac

cess

ibilit

y fo

r peo

ple

who

exp

erie

nce

Com

mun

itydi

sabi

lity

thei

r fam

ilies

and

care

rs

Dev

elop

men

t and

Enga

gem

ent

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ng

Acce

ssib

le e

vent

s O

ngoi

ng

Serv

ice

Form

alis

e a

12 m

onth

tria

l pro

gram

Incr

ease

in th

e nu

mbe

r of e

vent

s th

at a

re2

11

5C

omm

unity

prov

ider

of

the

Even

t Ten

t w

hich

pro

mot

esac

cess

ible

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

y D

evel

opm

ent a

nd5

31

5Ad

voca

te

and

enab

les

grea

ter p

artic

ipat

ion

atEn

gage

men

t5

41

1co

mm

unity

eve

nts

of p

eopl

e an

d fa

milie

sTo

uris

m a

nd E

vent

s w

ho h

ave

a di

sabi

lity

17

18

Improving access to services through better systems and processes

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Alig

ning

Act

ion

Ong

oing

Le

ader

En

sure

that

the

DIA

P al

igns

with

This

pla

n m

eets

the

Loca

l5

31

13

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ngPl

an w

ith In

tegr

ated

the

Inte

grat

ed R

epor

ting

Fram

ing

Gov

ernm

ent D

IAP

guid

elin

eR

epor

ting

and

that

the

actio

ns in

this

Act

ion

requ

irem

ents

and

act

ions

are

Fram

ewor

k Pl

an a

re in

clud

ed in

the

(4 y

ear)

impl

emen

ted

Del

iver

y Pr

ogra

m a

nd th

e An

nual

Ope

ratio

nal P

lan

Info

rmat

ion

to th

e0

ndash 1

year

Le

ader

and

Enab

le th

e ab

ility

to p

rovi

de a

ndM

ore

peop

le a

re a

ble

to a

cces

s5

31

6 Office of the General

publ

ic

Serv

ice

rece

ive

info

rmat

ion

to a

nd fr

om th

ein

form

atio

n an

d pa

rticip

ate

in th

eir

Man

ager

Pr

ovid

er

publ

ic in

a ra

nge

of fo

rmat

s R

evie

wlo

cal c

omm

unity

and

the

affa

irs o

fpu

blic

exh

ibiti

on te

mpl

ate

to m

ake

loca

l gov

ernm

ent

clea

rer t

hat w

e ac

cept

sub

mis

sion

sin

all

form

ats

not

just

writ

ten

eg

vide

o v

oice

rec

ordi

ng

Mai

ntai

n w

ebsi

te a

cces

sibi

lity

55

18

Com

mun

icat

ions

(WAA

G) 2

0 A

A le

vel

Polic

ies

and

1 -2

yea

rs

Lead

erS

ervi

ceC

ounc

il inv

estig

ates

opt

ions

toR

emov

e ob

stac

les

for p

eopl

e w

ith1

31

6 St

rate

gic

Plan

ning

pr

oced

ures

Pr

ovid

er

impr

ove

unde

rsta

ndin

g of

pol

icies

and

a di

sabi

lity

to e

nabl

e ac

hiev

emen

tpr

oced

ures

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

disa

bility

of

pos

itive

and

sus

tain

able

empl

oym

ent o

utco

mes

Supporting access to meaningful employment

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Volu

ntee

ring

1 -2

yea

rs

Lead

er

Rev

iew

vol

unte

erin

g pr

oces

ses

for

Incr

ease

d ac

cess

to v

olun

teer

ing

16

13

Com

mun

ity S

ervi

ces

proc

esse

s Po

rt St

ephe

ns C

ounc

il to

ens

ure

oppo

rtuni

ties

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

that

they

are

wel

com

ing

of p

eopl

edi

sabi

lity

w

ith d

isab

ility

Rec

ruitm

ent

Ong

oing

Le

ader

C

ontin

ue to

offe

r can

dida

tes

anO

ngoi

ng e

mpl

oym

ent o

ppor

tuni

ties

51

42

Org

anis

atio

nal

proc

esse

s op

tion

to d

iscl

ose

whe

ther

or n

otfo

r peo

ple

who

hav

e a

disa

bilit

y w

ithD

evel

opm

ent

they

hav

e a

disa

bilit

y du

ring

the

Port

Step

hens

Cou

ncil

appl

icat

ion

proc

ess

so th

at C

ounc

ilar

e ab

le to

ens

ure

that

app

lican

tsw

ith a

dis

abilit

y ar

e an

d fe

elsu

ppor

ted

thro

ugho

ut th

e pr

oces

s

Attitudes and Behaviours

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Educ

atio

n fo

r sho

p0

- 1 y

ear

Advo

cate

Aw

aren

ess

and

educ

atio

nO

utco

me

is a

rais

ed a

war

enes

s of

41

24

Econ

omic

owne

rsb

usin

esse

sca

mpa

igns

targ

etin

g bu

sine

ss

the

need

s of

peo

ple

with

a d

isab

ility

Dev

elop

men

ton

acc

ess

issue

s fo

row

ners

via

Biz

Lin

k ne

twor

kac

cess

issu

espe

ople

with

disa

bility

ne

wsl

ette

rs a

nd b

usin

ess

cham

bers

to fo

ster

and

enc

oura

ge th

efo

llow

ing

initi

ativ

es

bull D

evel

op c

ompa

nion

car

d fri

endl

yin

itiat

ive

whi

ch e

nabl

es fr

ee e

ntry

to c

erta

in v

enue

sev

ents

for

care

rs to

acc

ompa

ny p

eopl

e w

itha

disa

bilit

y

1-2

year

s Ad

voca

te

bull Pr

efer

red

empl

oyer

aw

ards

for

41

24

Econ

omic

disa

bilit

y ac

cess

ible

wor

kpla

ce

Dev

elop

men

t

Sta

ff ar

e su

pp

orte

d a

nd h

ave

gre

ater

know

led

ge

of th

e va

riety

of n

eed

s of

peo

ple

with

a d

isab

ility

and

the

need

for i

nclu

sion

Staf

f aw

aren

ess

of1

-2 y

ears

Le

ader

To

pro

vide

train

ing

for C

ounc

il sta

ffSt

aff a

re s

uppo

rted

and

have

51

42

Org

anis

atio

nal

the

need

s of

peo

ple

on h

ow to

wor

k w

ith a

nd u

nder

stan

dgr

eate

r kno

wle

dge

of th

e va

riety

of

Dev

elop

men

tw

ith d

isab

ility

peop

le w

ith d

isabi

lity th

roug

h C

ounc

ilsne

eds

of p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

y an

d

The

prio

rity

timef

ram

e ra

ting

indi

cate

s th

at a

Hig

h pr

iorit

y sh

ould

be

com

plet

ed w

ithin

1 y

ear

Med

ium

prio

rity

with

in 2

yea

rs a

nd L

ow p

riorit

y w

ithin

3 to

4 y

ears

Wor

kpla

ce E

quity

amp D

ivers

ityC

omm

ittee

and

Gui

de (a

ttach

ed)

the

need

for i

nclu

sion

19

Governance monitoring and evaulation To ensure implementation of the Plan an internal working group made up of stakeholders who have responsibility for implementing actions with the plan will be ongoing The working group will meet quarterly to discuss the Action Plan and linkages to both current and future projects and programs including

bull Each new capital works project will consider disability improvements to inclusion and accessibility within the Project Management Plan scoping and procurement document (in addition to Disability Discrimination Act compliance) Improvements for consideration include Location of the

proposed project and Improvements to carpark access to

and from kerb ramp location and availability and pathwayrsquos etc that enable more seamless connectivity

Progress of the plan will be monitored and implementation of actions within the Plan will be reported through a range of governance processes including

bull Six monthly reporting to Councils Executive Leadership team and Council

bull Operational Plan annual reporting as part of the Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework

bull Annual Report bull End of Term Reporting bull Customer satisfaction annual survey and

reporting To enable effective measurement and monitoring of actions within the plan the Port Stephens Customer Satisfaction Survey will include a section within the survey of questions that people who experience disability their families carers and people who work in the disability sector can elect to answer

20 Port Stephens Council

Conclusion Port Stephens Council has a strong commitment to enhancing life experience of people with a disability in the Local Government Area

In developing the Disability Inclusion Action Plan Port Stephens Council has built on the strengths of existing Council resources Council structurestaff plans policies and the local closely connected community by consulting with a broad range of stakeholders

The priorities identified above reflect Council values and principles The individual objectives once approved by Council are to be included in the 2017-2021 Delivery Program and the Annual Operational Plans for each of those four (4) years Within the Integrated and Strategic Planning framework the responsibility reporting and resourcing for the objectives will be defined

Draw together diverse interests and strive towards attaining greater consensus on sustainable outcomes for the local government area

ACTION PLANDisability Inclusion

21

understanding of your requirements and helpful (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

11a Please provide details of your experiences with Council staff

12 Any other comments

Appendix 1 DIAP Survey 1 What is your age 2 What suburb do you live in

(Required) 3 Gender 4 Language used at home 5 Are you a carer or a person with

disability (Choose all that apply) a Carer b Person with disability c Family member

6 Do you think the Port Stephens Community is welcoming of people with disabilities Eg businesses shops etc (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

6a Please give us some examples of positive or negative experiences you have had

7 Have you encountered any problems barriers or issues in using transport options (Choose all that apply) a Walking or wheelchair use b Local buses c Electric Scooter d Other

7a Please give us some examples of positive or negative experiences you have had

8 Do you think facilities and services are accessible and inclusive in Port Stephens a Councilrsquos Administration Building Yes No b Community centres Yes No c Events Yes No d Libraries Yes No e Parks Yes No f Pools Yes No g Other Yes No

22 Port Stephens Council

8a Can you give us any examples for improvements

9 Do you find Councilrsquos information publications accessible

Website Yes No Newsletters Yes No

9a Do you have suggestions for improvements

10 Would you like to see an improvement in online services through Councilrsquos website such as the electronic payment of rates andor fees and charges (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

11 Do you find Council staff at all of its locations and facilities approachable

Appendix 2 community consultation Results from consultation and the survey The areas identified for improvement by were framed around the four priority areas the Port Stephens community are (in order for an inclusive community Liveable of priority) communities Attitudes and behaviours Employment and Systems and processes

Liveable Communities

Focus Area Comments Foot pathsramps ldquoFootpathsramps ndash uneven rough need ramps to access

roads need lighting on paths and stairs need more footpaths wider footpaths some ramps too steeprdquo

ldquoAll new kerb ramps should have no step between the bottom of the ramp and the gutterroad The small step that is still mostly used at the bottom of curb ramps is completely unnecessary (it doesnrsquot improve water flow in the gutter as some people think it does) but it makes it harder for a wheelchair user even if the step is only 2cm or less The same argument applies to drivewaysrdquo

ACTION PLAN

Accessibility to ldquoCluttered walkways access to beaches (wheelchair accessible eventsactivities ramps) Braille on signage audio description at places of shops sporting interest Henderson Park upgrade (steep steps to pontoon facilities parks no disability parking) access to pontoons for fishing (Karuah

good example of how to do it) Wider access passageways and doorways (eg some places have double doors but keep one door locked eg Salamander library)rdquo

Provision of venues ldquoLack of disability services in parks (eg Liberty swingswing services events with 5-point harness) lack of covered areas in parks (many

sun-sensitive due to medication plus rain cover) hydrotherapy pool fences around parks disability friendly slide at parks audio loop neededrdquo

ldquoI would like to see more programs that support carers and the families of people with disabilities in the Port Stephens Local Government Area as their (sic) simply isnrsquot enough I would also like more programs to support people with disabilities so that as a community we can start supporting each other through the hardship of living with a disabilityrdquo

Disability Inclusion 23

Focus Area Comments Public toilets ldquoThere are lack of amenities in disabled toilets (eg adults who

need help changing continence aids hoists in toilets) need more (eg Nelson Bay)rdquo

ldquoDisabled toilets do not cater for older persons with a disability who require nappy changing facilities It is not nice to change on the floor of a disabled toilet and parents room tables are too smallrdquo

Parking ldquoThere is a lack of disabled parking some disabled parks are not wheelchair friendlyrdquo

ldquoSubstandard pavement surfaces for walker frames and mobility scooters Lack of disability parking spaces at Soldiers Point Boat ramp and Salamander Bay wharf and various other areas within the Port Stephens areardquo

Public transport ldquoInfrastructure improvements for more and better transport limited timetables too many transfers to get to destination want regular community bus (low cost or for free)rdquo

Attitudes and Behaviours

Focus Area Comments Respectful and It should be noted that most people reported positive encounters inclusive community with the public and council staff One comment stated ldquocould and services improve empathy and understanding from public on what it is

like to have a disabilityrdquo

ldquoHearing impaired when asked to speak slower shop people yell and pull faces as if trying to mouth out each word very embarrassingrdquo

ldquoStaring commentingrdquo

Public education ldquoEducation for people in shops about disability disabled amenitiesfacilities being used by public (change-rooms toilets parking) but consideration needed so as not to discriminate against those who do not ldquoappearrdquo to have a disabilityrdquo

It should be noted that most people reported positive encounters with the public and council staff

24 Port Stephens Council

Employment

Focus Area Comments No issues identified however it was acknowledged in internal communication with staff that Council could lead the way in more employment of people with a disability this could include recruitment processes which are lsquomore welcomingrsquo and encourage people to apply for positions It also was acknowledged that Council policies procedures systems and processes could be reviewed for lsquoeasy readrsquo format

Systems and Processes

Focus Area Comments Range of information dissemination

Promotion and awareness of activitesevents services

ldquoNot everyone gets newspaper so send information in other ways (emailed with rates) need to consider information dissemination for people with hearing and vision impairedrdquo

ldquoI have rarely seen a Council newsletter Also the website needs to be cleaner clearer more navigable and user friendlyrdquo

ldquoLeft-aligning text might seem like a visual imposition to the sighted person but this simple change is the difference between being able to read for people who are blind or who have low visionrdquo

ldquoEye level display for people using wheelchairsrdquo

Some people were confused or unaware of services amenities available to them

In some areas ldquoFor those of us who get their bills via email it would be great if we were emailed regularly about items on public exhibition etc to replace what other residents would see in your adds in the Examinerrdquo

ldquoMore information areas to access helprdquo

ldquoDidnrsquot know you had a newsletterrdquo

Consulation on council infrastructure

Respondents welcomed the Council distributing this survey for comment but others felt more consideration of disability issues was needed

ldquoPlanning doesnrsquot seem to include disabled accessibility issues for new projectsrdquo

ldquoConsideration of people who are blind or low vision in future planning ie Braille on all signage (or on poles or mounts for elevated signage) Audio description at places of interest geographical cultural or historical significance Blind people miss out on our beautiful views they deserve to be catered to with regard to what else PS has to offer Infrastructure improvements that support more and better public transport to Port Stephensrdquo

Disabilit y Inclusion ACTION PLAN 25

Do you think the Port Stephens Community is welcoming of people with disabilities Eg businesses shops etc Most people felt Port Stephens is welcoming (68)

Have you encountered any problems barriers or issues in using transport options

68

0 10 20 30 40 50

Electric Scooter

Walking or wheelchair use

Local buses

Other

Do you think facilities and services are accessible and inclusive in Port Stephens

Focus Area Yes No

Councils Administration Building 57 6

Community centres 53 8

Events 36 21

Libraries 60 2

Parks 38 27

Pools 43 15

Other 18 13

26 Port Stephens Council

Do you find Councilrsquos information publications accessible

Focus area website

Would you like to see an improvement in online services through Councilrsquos website such as the electronic payment of rates and or fees and charges

Do you find Council staff at all of its locations and facilities approachable understanding of your requirements and helpful

Most comments in this section indicated council staff was very helpful and polite

Any other comments

Items for improvement (in order of priority)

Yes 36

Yes 55

Yes 48

No 6

No 18

No 11

1 Provision of venues services events 2 Roadscrossings 3 Footpathsramps 4 Public toilets 5 Public education The following summary outlines the priorities identified across all questions of the survey

ACTION PLANDisabilit y Inclusion

27

App

endi

x 3

Func

tions

ser

vice

s an

d as

sets

Function Area Community Services Sector

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Man

ager

Ngi

oka

Com

mun

ityH

ortic

ultu

ral

Serv

ices

Th

erap

yC

entre

Volu

ntee

r wor

kfor

ce o

f up

to80

0 p

rovi

sion

of lsquo

whe

el in

whe

el o

utrsquo g

arba

ge c

olle

ctio

nfo

r peo

ple

with

dis

abilit

y liv

ing

at h

ome

Pro

visi

on o

fpr

ogra

ms

for c

hild

ren

with

addi

tiona

l nee

ds a

t Out

side

of S

choo

l Hou

rs C

are

Chi

ldre

nsrsquo a

ctiv

ity V

an a

ndFa

mily

Day

Car

e P

rovi

sion

of la

rge

prin

t boo

ks t

alki

ngbo

oks

and

audi

o an

d vi

sual

navi

gatio

n ai

ds a

t lib

rarie

sLe

ar to

sw

im p

rogr

ams

atco

unci

l aqu

atic

cen

tres

Info

rmat

ion

on w

ebsi

te re

Leas

e of

Gra

ham

stow

nVo

lunt

eer s

trate

gy35

5vo

lunt

eers

Aqua

tic R

eser

ve fo

r use

by

Part

A an

d Pa

rt B

com

mitt

ees

Saila

bilit

y (P

SC le

ase

the

Larg

e te

xt fo

rmat

ting

onla

nd fr

om H

unte

r Wat

er a

ndw

ebsi

te

Saila

bilit

y su

b-le

ase

the

land

of P

SC)

Link

s to

vol

unte

er re

sour

ces

in J

ob a

genc

ies

TAF

Eot

her a

reas

bus

ines

ses

etc

univ

ersi

ties

sch

ools

Brai

lle a

nd la

rge

font

com

pute

rs

Rev

iew

pol

icie

spr

oced

ures

toen

sure

they

are

lsquoeas

y re

adrsquo f

orm

at

Busi

ness

lead

ersh

ipto

enh

ance

Ngi

oka

as a

mul

ti-pu

rpos

ece

ntre

and

to p

rom

ote

and

alig

n w

ith N

DIS

pers

onal

pla

ns

28

Function Area Community Services ndash Library Services

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Resource

Libr

ary

Civ

il Ass

ets

Serv

ices

Sect

ion

Man

ager

M

anag

erC

omm

unity

and

Rec

reat

ion

Assets Officer

Paid

Lib

rary

Sta

ff x

24C

asua

l Lib

rary

Sta

ff x

11Li

brar

y Vo

lunt

eers

x 5

5As

sist

ive

Adap

tive

tech

nolo

gy(A

udio

Rea

d na

viga

tors

Zoo

mTe

xt s

cree

n re

ader

sof

twar

ela

rge

prin

t boo

ks a

udio

boo

ks

IInfo

rmat

ion

on a

ll Li

brar

ySe

rvic

es re

late

d to

ser

vice

spr

ogra

ms

and

activ

ities

ndashdi

spla

yed

in b

ranc

hes

via

(flyerspostersTV monitors)

and

on

bull Fa

cebo

ok W

ebsi

tebull

Scho

ol N

ewsl

ette

rs W

hatrsquos

on in

our

Bac

kyar

dbull

PS E

xam

iner

bull N

ews

of th

e Ar

ea (T

eaG

arde

ns N

elso

n Ba

y an

dM

edow

ie)

Thou

Wal

la S

choo

ls a

sC

omm

uniti

es C

entre

New

cast

le R

egio

n Li

brar

y C

o-op

erat

ive

Cen

tral E

ast Z

one

(Reg

iona

lLi

brar

ies

Gro

up)

Publ

ic L

ibra

ries

NSW

Hun

ter W

EAH

isto

rical

and

Fam

ily H

isto

rySo

ciet

ies

RT

Art S

pace

Gro

upR

eal F

utur

es F

ound

atio

n

Inte

rnet

Usa

ge P

olic

yW

aivi

ng O

verd

ueC

harg

esSo

cial

Med

ia P

olic

yLi

brar

y U

ser

Gui

delin

esPS

C L

ibra

ry B

roch

ure

New

cast

le re

gion

Libr

ary

Broc

hure

Volu

ntee

r Pos

ition

Des

crip

tions

and

Han

dboo

kH

isto

rical

Soc

iety

Fa

mily

His

tory

Gro

upAg

reem

ents

Wor

k H

ealth

and

Safe

tyC

omm

ittee

WH

S R

ep-

rese

ntat

ives

Com

mitt

eeW

orkp

lace

Equi

ty a

ndD

iver

sity

Com

mitt

eeC

onsu

ltativ

eC

omm

ittee

Her

itage

Advi

sory

Com

mitt

ee

Dis

able

d to

ilets

do

not c

ater

for o

lder

per

sons

with

a d

isab

ility

who

req

uire

nap

py

chan

gin

g fa

cilit

ies

It is

not

nic

e to

cha

nge

on th

e flo

orof

a d

isab

led

toile

t and

par

ents

room

tab

les

are

too

smal

l

29

Function Area Assets Section

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Asse

t Sec

tion

Man

ager

C

omm

unity

land

man

age-

men

t pu

blic

toile

ts p

arks

pl

aygr

ound

sre

serv

es

fore

shor

es

mar

ine

ac-

cess

spo

rting

fields sports

faci

litie

sco

mm

unity

build

ings

co

mm

unity

halls

sig

nage

Mai

ntai

n an

d up

grad

e pu

blic

Asse

ts re

gist

er c

ondi

tion

Gov

ernm

ent a

genc

ies

gra

ntVa

rious

pla

ns o

fsp

aces

fac

ilitie

s a

sset

s an

dra

ting

syst

em

fund

ing

sche

mes

pro

perty

Management (specific

plac

es in

line

with

legi

slat

ive

deve

lope

rs c

omm

unity

and

gene

ric)

Cou

ncil

Ope

ns S

pace

Stra

tegy

requ

irem

ents

and

com

mun

itygr

oups

int

eres

t gro

ups

polic

ies

Man

agem

ent

(und

erw

ay)

need

s D

irect

ives

Spor

ts C

oun-

cils

355

Com

-m

ittee

sC

omm

unity

grou

ps P

arks

and

Res

erve

sC

omm

ittee

s

Ensu

reth

at th

ede

sign

and

cons

truct

ion

of n

ewfa

cilit

ies

and

infra

stru

ctur

eis

con

side

rate

to li

mite

dac

cess

com

mun

itym

embe

rs

Ensu

re th

at u

pgra

des

and

mai

nten

ance

to c

omm

unity

faci

litie

s ar

e al

igne

d w

ithpr

iorit

ies

for i

nclu

sion

Prep

are

the

Ope

n Sp

ace

Stra

tegy

pla

ns fo

r upg

rade

s to

com

mun

ity fa

cilit

ies

and

area

sw

here

infra

stru

ctur

e ne

eds

to b

e co

nsid

erat

e of

lim

ited

acce

ss c

omm

unity

mem

bers

Ensu

re 3

55 c

omm

ittee

sco

nsid

er a

cces

s an

d in

clus

ion

whe

n th

inki

ng a

bout

pro

gram

sEn

sure

355

Com

mitt

ees

use

fund

s pr

ovid

ed b

y C

ounc

il to

cons

ider

acc

ess

and

incl

usio

nw

hen

build

ing

infra

stru

ctur

e

Activ

ely

seek

gra

nt fu

ndin

gfor projects identified within

the

Ope

ns S

pace

Stra

tegy

in o

rder

to im

prov

e ac

cess

to in

clus

ion

to c

omm

unity

faci

litie

s an

d ar

eas

thro

ugho

utth

e LG

A

Rev

iew

and

upd

ate

exis

ting

plan

s an

dpo

licie

s in

line

with

legi

slat

ive

chan

ges

and identified needs

of th

e co

mm

unity

O

pens

Spa

ceSt

rate

gy (u

nder

way

)

Enco

urag

eco

mm

unity

grou

ps a

ndco

mm

ittee

to u

nder

take

proj

ects

and

prog

ram

s to

enco

urag

eac

cess

incl

usio

n

30

Function Area Human Resource Sector

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners

and agency

collaboration

Plans and Policies

Brochures documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

PotentialResource

Man

ager

Rec

ruitm

ent o

f new

sta

ffIn

form

atio

n on

web

site

in

Rec

ruitm

ent p

olic

ypr

oced

ures

Vo

lunt

eer

Hum

anhard file and on intra net

35

5 C

om-

Management of staffing

Res

ourc

es

mitt

ees

(leav

e A

war

d pr

ovis

ions

su

pera

nnua

tion

etc)

Rec

ruitm

ent p

roce

sses

toIn

form

atio

n in

rang

e of

Job

netw

ork

Rec

ruitm

ent p

roce

ss w

hich

isbe

wel

com

ing

of p

eopl

e w

ithfo

rmat

s in

clud

ing

soci

alag

enci

es

wel

com

ing

of p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

ydi

sabi

lity

olde

r peo

ple

med

ia e

tc P

lus

help

for

busi

ness

es

(adv

ertis

ing

whi

ch w

elco

mes

peo

ple

thos

e w

ho h

ave

a di

sabi

lity

with

a d

isab

ility

+ pr

oces

ses

whi

char

e no

t too

com

plex

Function Area Environment amp PlanningPublic Domain and Services

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners

and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Man

ager

Toile

ts p

ublic

spa

ces

(ieM

aint

ain

and

upgr

ade

publ

icAs

sets

regi

ster

Dev

elop

ers

Publ

ic S

pace

sU

rban

adv

isor

yEn

viro

nmen

tparks sporting fields) and

spac

es a

nd p

lace

s in

line

with

polic

y co

mm

ittee

Ope

n Sp

aces

stra

tegy

and

Plan

ning

bu

ildin

gs (c

omm

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ls)

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e ne

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ive

(ie ra

mps

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ajor

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ls th

at a

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sed)

31

Function Area Communications

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision

of Goods or

services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency collaboration

Plans and

Policies

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documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

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ovid

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32

Function Area Strategy and Environment

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infra-

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355

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n

33

Function Area Civil Assets

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Responsi-

bility

Facilities in-

frastructure

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of Goods or

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of Council

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il Ass

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ic tr

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ort

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n an

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t age

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s g

rant

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ager

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ps i

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nnin

g d

oesn

rsquot se

em to

incl

ude

dis

able

d a

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sib

ility

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es fo

r new

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ject

srdquo

34

Function Area Community Development

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities in-

frastructure

Provision

of Goods or

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Information-

Directory

Partners

and agency

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Policies

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Committees of

Council

Potential Resource

Com

mun

ity35

5 Ad

viso

ry C

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nt P

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ams

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355

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35

Disability Inclusion

ACTION PLAN

Disability InclusionInclusionDisability InclusionInclusionDisability

For more information please contact Development Services councilportstephensnswgovau | 02 4980 0255 | PORTSTEPHENSNSWGOVAU

Page 11: Port Stephens Council DIAP 2016 - facs.nsw.gov.au · In 2016, Port Stephens had a population of 64,807 at the 2016 Census. This igure is predicted to rise by up to 23,000 over the

Councilrsquos responsibilities and roles Role of council New South Wales (NSW) is entering a new era in disability inclusion planning Councilrsquos role in implementation of the DIAP will include as a direct service provider as a leader an advocate and facilitator

bull As leader Council acts as a role model for others through its own actions strategic organisational responses and way of doing things In its dialogue with the communities and other stakeholders Council can act to draw together diverse interests and strive towards attaining greater consensus on sustainable outcomes for the local government area

bull As advocate Council seeks to improve services facilities and opportunities for the local government area and its communities by lobbying agencies and other levels of government In discussions with others there are opportunities to reinforce Port Stephens sense of identity and resilience and collaborate on achieving a more sustainable local government area

bull As facilitator Council assists interaction amongst stakeholders and forms strategic alliances aimed at promoting sustainability initiatives focussing on elements including social economic environmental

cultural and governance which demonstrate positive ways of moving forward

bull As service provider Council has a strong commitment to delivering the services needed by its communities and ensuring that Council resources are responsibly managed Councilrsquos role as a service provider aims to assist in building the long-term health of the local government area

Executive responsibility and project coordination Port Stephens Council supports the development and implementation of the DIAP The General Manager has responsibility to oversee the various functionsgroups of Council

The DIAP will be coordinated by the Social Planning Unit within the Strategy and Environment section of the Development Services team Responsibility for implementation and resourcing of the DIAP will be across all sections of Council

Disability Inclusion ACTION PLAN 11

systems and processes Focus Area 4

Integrated planning and reporting Goals and strategies of Port Stephens Council are underpinned by five themes which provide focus and direction for the Integrated Planning and Reporting (IPR) framework The four focus areas for the DIAP may be positioned within those five focus areas of Integrated Planning framework

UN Convention on the Right of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD)

National Disability Strategy (NDS)

National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)

NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014 (DIA)

Operational plan

Delivery program

Community strategic plan

Local government disability inclusion action planning

NSW Disability Inclusion Plan 1 Attitudes and behaviours 2 Employment 3 Liveable communities 4 Systems and processes

Port Stephens CSP-themes CSP1 Our citizens

CSP2 Our lifestyle

CSP3 Our environment

CSP4 Our economy

CSP5 Our Council

An inclusive NSW

Focus Areas for DIAP bull Liveable communities Focus Area 2 bull Positive community attitudes and behaviours

Focus Area 1 bull Liveable communities Focus Area 2

bull Liveable communities Focus Area 2

bull Supporting access to meaningful employment Focus Area 3

bull Improving access to services through better

Port Stephens Council 12

ACTION PLAN

Document review As background to the consultation and to confirm issues which have been previously identified in the Port Stephens LGA a review of documents was undertaken Council has a suite of documents which reflect their commitment to an inclusive and connected society in an environment that facilitates opportunities for contribution by all those who live in the Port Stephens Region Reviewed documents included

bull Port Stephens Integrated Plans incorporating Community Strategic Plan

2013-2023 Delivery Program 2013-2017 Operational Plans 2016-2020

bull Port Stephens Strategic Asset Management Plan (2016-2026)

bull Port Stephens Disability Action Plan 2014-2018

bull NSW Disability Inclusion Action Planning Guidelines

Consultation and engagement According to 2016 census data the population of Port Stephens was 69556 which is an increase of 4746 or 732 from 2011 (64810) As the table below notes there are distinct differences in the proportion of people who stated a Need for Assistance between each of Port Stephens planning catchments However community

Need for Assistance

consultation with people who experience a disability their families carers and disability groups show that the barriers challenges and needs of people with a disability to fully participate in community life are similar throughout the LGA

Suburb 2006 2011 2016 Fern Bay 74 87 789

Karuah Swan Bay 53 83 859

Medowie 32 35 393

Raymond Terrace 52 63 775

Rural East 53 47 611

Rural West 29 31 307

Tilligerry 64 73 797

Tomaree 55 55 653

Port Stephens LGA 50 55 640

Disability Inclusion 13

Consultation with the community In seeking to fully understand and identify the barriers to inclusion and access and to find solutions information was sought from key stakeholders Key stakeholders are people within the Port Stephens community who identify as experiencing a disability their carersrsquo and support workers

A survey was completed and distributed within the community from November

2016 to January 2017 The period of the survey was extended over the Christmas periodschool holiday period 71 surveys completed surveys were received from the community

The following table sets out who and how the survey was distributed to key stakeholders

Stakeholder Engagement Processes Council website Surveys could be accessed through Councilrsquos website using

Engagement HQ

Council Facebook page

A link to the survey was placed on Councilrsquos Facebook page The link was lsquoboostedrsquo which meant the page connected anyone in the LGA who had clicked on anything to do with disability which significantly broadened the surveys reach

MyLink Group Advice and information about the DIAP including a link to the survey was distributed to Councils MyLink group MyLink is an email group of members including Not for Profit Groups and Non-Government Organisations (NGOs) such as disability service and support providers The MyLink email group keeps its members informed of upcoming meetings local events professional development opportunities and other important information Notifications of updates are sent to the MyLink email list weekly

Libraries Paper copies of the surveys were provided to the Tomaree and Raymond Terrace Libraries for distribution to disability groups (including disability support groups) who use the library

Media release Media release in the Port Stephens Examiner and online version of the Port Stephens Examiner

Schools Every school in the LGA was contacted via telephone and the survey and link distributed via email Schools then placed the information about the survey and the link in school community newsletters and on Facebook pages

Eagleton Ridge Respite Centre

Eagleton Ridge Respite Centre was contacted and information forwarded about the survey along with a link

Flyer Flyers were developed to help promote the project which contained information about the survey and where to access it Flyers were delivered to doctors surgeries disability service providers and Council run pools

Internal stakeholder meeting

Internal stakeholder meeting and ongoing consultation to go over elements of the DIAP

14 Port Stephens Council

Summary of priorities Returned surveys and consultation meetings presented a clear picture of priorities with suggestions and solutions Looking across all questions in the survey the following outlines the most important priorities for the Port Stephens community

1 Footpathsramps 2 Accessibility to eventsactivities

shops sporting and recreation facilities and parks

3 Provision of venues services events 4 Public toilets 5 Parking 6 Public transport 7 Public education 8 Respectful and inclusive community

and services

Some of the priorities for the community in the consultation for the DIAP were also identified in the Port Stephens Disability Action Plan 2014-2018 Furthermore the Port Stephens Integrated Plans aims to ldquomake future provisions for people with disabilities their families and carersrdquo via several actions including implementing the Disability Inclusion Action Plan

Results of the community consultation were arranged in to the DIAPrsquos four focus groups and actions were developed that align with these areas These focus areas were identified as part of extensive community consultation during development of the NSW Disability Inclusion Plan As such these focus areas became a requirement to be in all NSW agency DIAPs These actions recognise the rights of people with a disability to full and effective participation in an inclusive society the same as those without a disability The following action plan outlines Councilrsquos role and action and priority level

Results of the community consultation were arranged into the DIAPrsquos four focus groups and actions were developed that contribute a more inclusive accessible and liveable society

ACTION PLANDisability Inclusion

15

Act

ion

plan

ning

Liveable Communities

Item for

improvement Priority

Time-

frame

Coun-

cilRole

Action

Outcome

IPRRefer-

ence

Responsibility

Foot

path

s an

d1

-2 y

ears

Se

rvic

eU

nder

take

revi

ew o

f foo

tpat

hs a

nd ra

mps

Upd

ated

and

impl

emen

tatio

n of

42

13

Asse

ts

ram

ps th

roug

hout

Prov

ider

th

roug

hout

LG

A to

det

erm

ine

a pr

iorit

ised

the

Pede

stria

n Ac

cess

and

Mob

ility

LGA

appr

oach

to im

plem

enta

tion

of g

aps

Plan

con

side

rs a

nd p

riorit

ises

peo

ple

upgr

ades

and

new

foot

path

infra

stru

ctur

e

with

dis

abilit

y

0-1

year

U

pdat

ed a

nd im

plem

enta

tion

of th

e Pe

dest

rian

13

16

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ngAc

cess

and

Mob

ility

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con

sider

s an

d pr

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peop

le w

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lity

Out

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ces

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rs

Serv

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rise

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nd a

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Cou

ncil

build

ings

Pr

ovid

er

man

aged

out

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spa

ces

and

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ings

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eter

min

e ar

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re w

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ce a

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2- 4

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rs

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Impl

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t tw

o lib

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sw

ings

Loc

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nsPr

ovid

er

to b

e pr

iotis

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col

labo

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n w

ithSo

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g

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ng a

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e co

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lity

Two

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e w

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ts c

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e of

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52

12

Faci

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1 Fa

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31

2 C

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unity

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ader

R

eser

ve fo

r use

by

Saila

bility

re

crea

tion

activ

ities

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

y

Ong

oing

Se

rvic

eO

ngoi

ng p

rovi

sion

of w

heel

in w

heel

out

The

Blue

Dot

Ser

vice

13

13

Com

mun

ity S

ervi

ces

Lead

er

garb

age

bin

serv

ice

(Blu

e D

ot S

ervi

ce)

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

y liv

ing

at h

ome

Ong

oing

O

ngoi

ng a

cces

s to

chi

ldre

ns

serv

ices

13

14

Com

mun

ity S

ervi

ces

prog

ram

s fo

r chi

ldre

n w

ith a

dditio

nal n

eeds

at O

utsid

e Sc

hool

Hou

rs C

are

(Ray

mon

dTe

rrace

and

Med

owie

) P

ort S

teph

ens

Activ

ity V

an a

nd F

amily

Day

Car

e

16

Ong

oing

Se

rvic

eO

ngoi

ng p

rovi

sion

and

exp

ansi

on o

fIn

crea

sed

awar

enes

s an

d su

ppor

t for

peo

ple

13

15

Com

mun

ity S

ervi

ces

Prov

ider

as

sist

ive

and

adap

tive

tech

nolo

gyw

ith a

dis

abilit

y an

d in

crea

sed

livea

bilit

y

Cus

tom

er R

elat

ions

incl

udin

gbull

Audi

o re

ad n

avig

ator

sbull

Zoom

text

scr

een

read

er s

oftw

are

bull La

rge

prin

t boo

ksbull

Audi

o bo

oks

Publ

ic to

ilets

2

ndash 4

year

s

Serv

ice

Audi

t of p

ublic

toile

ts to

iden

tify

loca

tions

Impr

oved

acc

essib

ility

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

disa

bility

52

14

Faci

litie

s an

dPr

ovid

er

whe

re a

dult

chan

ge fa

cilit

ies

for p

eopl

ean

d as

sista

nce

for c

arer

s c

arin

g fo

r peo

ple

with

Serv

ices

w

ith a

dis

abilit

y ar

e w

arra

nted

- or

whe

rehi

gh n

eeds

an area could be modified to cater for

peop

le w

ith a

hig

h ne

ed d

isab

ility

durin

gFo

rwar

d W

orks

Pla

n

Advo

cate

Po

rt St

ephe

ns d

isab

ility

acce

ss to

ilets

are

incl

uded

on

the

Aust

ralia

n Pu

blic

Toile

trsquos s

oftw

are

appl

icat

ion

Dis

abilit

y pa

rkin

g1

-2 y

ears

Se

rvic

eR

evie

w d

isab

ility

park

ing

spac

es a

ssp

aces

thro

ugho

utPr

ovid

er identified to ensure compliance against

the

LGA

curre

nt s

tand

ards

and

or

relo

catin

g to

meet compliance (via traffic committee)

1 -2

yea

rs

At re

view

upd

ate

Plan

s of

Man

agem

ent

to in

clud

e di

scus

sion

of d

isab

ility

park

ing

and

impr

ovin

g ac

cess

ibilit

y be

twee

ndi

sabi

lity

park

ing

par

ks a

nd d

isab

ility

acce

ssib

le to

ilets

Incr

ease

in c

ompl

iant

dis

abilit

y pa

rkin

g so

52

14

Faci

litie

s an

d As

sets

pe

ople

who

exp

erie

nce

disa

bilit

y ca

n en

joy

am

ore

seam

less

exp

erie

nce

that

is n

avig

able

and

man

agea

ble

ther

eby

bein

g m

ore

incl

usiv

ean

d va

lue

addi

ng

52

14

Fa

cilit

ies

and

Asse

ts

Publ

ic tr

ansp

ort

1 -2

yea

rs

Advo

cate

M

eet w

ith p

ublic

tran

spor

t pro

vider

s to

Impr

oved

legi

bilit

y an

d ac

cess

to p

ublic

13

16

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ngpr

ovid

e fe

edba

ck fr

om D

IAP

and

addr

ess

trans

port

optio

ns a

nd im

prov

ed p

atro

nage

of

any

conc

erns

whe

re p

ossib

le

peop

le w

ith a

dis

abilit

y

Fund

ing

Ong

oing

Se

rvic

eAc

tivel

y se

ek g

rant

fund

ing

for p

roje

cts

An in

crea

se in

ser

vice

s in

frast

ruct

ure

and

52

14

Faci

litie

s an

dop

portu

nitie

s pr

ovid

er

whi

ch e

ncou

rage

acc

ess

and

incl

usio

n in

activ

ities

that

ens

ure

incl

usiv

enes

s an

dSe

rvic

esLe

ader

th

e co

mm

unity

ac

cess

ibilit

y fo

r peo

ple

who

exp

erie

nce

Com

mun

itydi

sabi

lity

thei

r fam

ilies

and

care

rs

Dev

elop

men

t and

Enga

gem

ent

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ng

Acce

ssib

le e

vent

s O

ngoi

ng

Serv

ice

Form

alis

e a

12 m

onth

tria

l pro

gram

Incr

ease

in th

e nu

mbe

r of e

vent

s th

at a

re2

11

5C

omm

unity

prov

ider

of

the

Even

t Ten

t w

hich

pro

mot

esac

cess

ible

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

y D

evel

opm

ent a

nd5

31

5Ad

voca

te

and

enab

les

grea

ter p

artic

ipat

ion

atEn

gage

men

t5

41

1co

mm

unity

eve

nts

of p

eopl

e an

d fa

milie

sTo

uris

m a

nd E

vent

s w

ho h

ave

a di

sabi

lity

17

18

Improving access to services through better systems and processes

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Alig

ning

Act

ion

Ong

oing

Le

ader

En

sure

that

the

DIA

P al

igns

with

This

pla

n m

eets

the

Loca

l5

31

13

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ngPl

an w

ith In

tegr

ated

the

Inte

grat

ed R

epor

ting

Fram

ing

Gov

ernm

ent D

IAP

guid

elin

eR

epor

ting

and

that

the

actio

ns in

this

Act

ion

requ

irem

ents

and

act

ions

are

Fram

ewor

k Pl

an a

re in

clud

ed in

the

(4 y

ear)

impl

emen

ted

Del

iver

y Pr

ogra

m a

nd th

e An

nual

Ope

ratio

nal P

lan

Info

rmat

ion

to th

e0

ndash 1

year

Le

ader

and

Enab

le th

e ab

ility

to p

rovi

de a

ndM

ore

peop

le a

re a

ble

to a

cces

s5

31

6 Office of the General

publ

ic

Serv

ice

rece

ive

info

rmat

ion

to a

nd fr

om th

ein

form

atio

n an

d pa

rticip

ate

in th

eir

Man

ager

Pr

ovid

er

publ

ic in

a ra

nge

of fo

rmat

s R

evie

wlo

cal c

omm

unity

and

the

affa

irs o

fpu

blic

exh

ibiti

on te

mpl

ate

to m

ake

loca

l gov

ernm

ent

clea

rer t

hat w

e ac

cept

sub

mis

sion

sin

all

form

ats

not

just

writ

ten

eg

vide

o v

oice

rec

ordi

ng

Mai

ntai

n w

ebsi

te a

cces

sibi

lity

55

18

Com

mun

icat

ions

(WAA

G) 2

0 A

A le

vel

Polic

ies

and

1 -2

yea

rs

Lead

erS

ervi

ceC

ounc

il inv

estig

ates

opt

ions

toR

emov

e ob

stac

les

for p

eopl

e w

ith1

31

6 St

rate

gic

Plan

ning

pr

oced

ures

Pr

ovid

er

impr

ove

unde

rsta

ndin

g of

pol

icies

and

a di

sabi

lity

to e

nabl

e ac

hiev

emen

tpr

oced

ures

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

disa

bility

of

pos

itive

and

sus

tain

able

empl

oym

ent o

utco

mes

Supporting access to meaningful employment

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Volu

ntee

ring

1 -2

yea

rs

Lead

er

Rev

iew

vol

unte

erin

g pr

oces

ses

for

Incr

ease

d ac

cess

to v

olun

teer

ing

16

13

Com

mun

ity S

ervi

ces

proc

esse

s Po

rt St

ephe

ns C

ounc

il to

ens

ure

oppo

rtuni

ties

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

that

they

are

wel

com

ing

of p

eopl

edi

sabi

lity

w

ith d

isab

ility

Rec

ruitm

ent

Ong

oing

Le

ader

C

ontin

ue to

offe

r can

dida

tes

anO

ngoi

ng e

mpl

oym

ent o

ppor

tuni

ties

51

42

Org

anis

atio

nal

proc

esse

s op

tion

to d

iscl

ose

whe

ther

or n

otfo

r peo

ple

who

hav

e a

disa

bilit

y w

ithD

evel

opm

ent

they

hav

e a

disa

bilit

y du

ring

the

Port

Step

hens

Cou

ncil

appl

icat

ion

proc

ess

so th

at C

ounc

ilar

e ab

le to

ens

ure

that

app

lican

tsw

ith a

dis

abilit

y ar

e an

d fe

elsu

ppor

ted

thro

ugho

ut th

e pr

oces

s

Attitudes and Behaviours

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Educ

atio

n fo

r sho

p0

- 1 y

ear

Advo

cate

Aw

aren

ess

and

educ

atio

nO

utco

me

is a

rais

ed a

war

enes

s of

41

24

Econ

omic

owne

rsb

usin

esse

sca

mpa

igns

targ

etin

g bu

sine

ss

the

need

s of

peo

ple

with

a d

isab

ility

Dev

elop

men

ton

acc

ess

issue

s fo

row

ners

via

Biz

Lin

k ne

twor

kac

cess

issu

espe

ople

with

disa

bility

ne

wsl

ette

rs a

nd b

usin

ess

cham

bers

to fo

ster

and

enc

oura

ge th

efo

llow

ing

initi

ativ

es

bull D

evel

op c

ompa

nion

car

d fri

endl

yin

itiat

ive

whi

ch e

nabl

es fr

ee e

ntry

to c

erta

in v

enue

sev

ents

for

care

rs to

acc

ompa

ny p

eopl

e w

itha

disa

bilit

y

1-2

year

s Ad

voca

te

bull Pr

efer

red

empl

oyer

aw

ards

for

41

24

Econ

omic

disa

bilit

y ac

cess

ible

wor

kpla

ce

Dev

elop

men

t

Sta

ff ar

e su

pp

orte

d a

nd h

ave

gre

ater

know

led

ge

of th

e va

riety

of n

eed

s of

peo

ple

with

a d

isab

ility

and

the

need

for i

nclu

sion

Staf

f aw

aren

ess

of1

-2 y

ears

Le

ader

To

pro

vide

train

ing

for C

ounc

il sta

ffSt

aff a

re s

uppo

rted

and

have

51

42

Org

anis

atio

nal

the

need

s of

peo

ple

on h

ow to

wor

k w

ith a

nd u

nder

stan

dgr

eate

r kno

wle

dge

of th

e va

riety

of

Dev

elop

men

tw

ith d

isab

ility

peop

le w

ith d

isabi

lity th

roug

h C

ounc

ilsne

eds

of p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

y an

d

The

prio

rity

timef

ram

e ra

ting

indi

cate

s th

at a

Hig

h pr

iorit

y sh

ould

be

com

plet

ed w

ithin

1 y

ear

Med

ium

prio

rity

with

in 2

yea

rs a

nd L

ow p

riorit

y w

ithin

3 to

4 y

ears

Wor

kpla

ce E

quity

amp D

ivers

ityC

omm

ittee

and

Gui

de (a

ttach

ed)

the

need

for i

nclu

sion

19

Governance monitoring and evaulation To ensure implementation of the Plan an internal working group made up of stakeholders who have responsibility for implementing actions with the plan will be ongoing The working group will meet quarterly to discuss the Action Plan and linkages to both current and future projects and programs including

bull Each new capital works project will consider disability improvements to inclusion and accessibility within the Project Management Plan scoping and procurement document (in addition to Disability Discrimination Act compliance) Improvements for consideration include Location of the

proposed project and Improvements to carpark access to

and from kerb ramp location and availability and pathwayrsquos etc that enable more seamless connectivity

Progress of the plan will be monitored and implementation of actions within the Plan will be reported through a range of governance processes including

bull Six monthly reporting to Councils Executive Leadership team and Council

bull Operational Plan annual reporting as part of the Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework

bull Annual Report bull End of Term Reporting bull Customer satisfaction annual survey and

reporting To enable effective measurement and monitoring of actions within the plan the Port Stephens Customer Satisfaction Survey will include a section within the survey of questions that people who experience disability their families carers and people who work in the disability sector can elect to answer

20 Port Stephens Council

Conclusion Port Stephens Council has a strong commitment to enhancing life experience of people with a disability in the Local Government Area

In developing the Disability Inclusion Action Plan Port Stephens Council has built on the strengths of existing Council resources Council structurestaff plans policies and the local closely connected community by consulting with a broad range of stakeholders

The priorities identified above reflect Council values and principles The individual objectives once approved by Council are to be included in the 2017-2021 Delivery Program and the Annual Operational Plans for each of those four (4) years Within the Integrated and Strategic Planning framework the responsibility reporting and resourcing for the objectives will be defined

Draw together diverse interests and strive towards attaining greater consensus on sustainable outcomes for the local government area

ACTION PLANDisability Inclusion

21

understanding of your requirements and helpful (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

11a Please provide details of your experiences with Council staff

12 Any other comments

Appendix 1 DIAP Survey 1 What is your age 2 What suburb do you live in

(Required) 3 Gender 4 Language used at home 5 Are you a carer or a person with

disability (Choose all that apply) a Carer b Person with disability c Family member

6 Do you think the Port Stephens Community is welcoming of people with disabilities Eg businesses shops etc (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

6a Please give us some examples of positive or negative experiences you have had

7 Have you encountered any problems barriers or issues in using transport options (Choose all that apply) a Walking or wheelchair use b Local buses c Electric Scooter d Other

7a Please give us some examples of positive or negative experiences you have had

8 Do you think facilities and services are accessible and inclusive in Port Stephens a Councilrsquos Administration Building Yes No b Community centres Yes No c Events Yes No d Libraries Yes No e Parks Yes No f Pools Yes No g Other Yes No

22 Port Stephens Council

8a Can you give us any examples for improvements

9 Do you find Councilrsquos information publications accessible

Website Yes No Newsletters Yes No

9a Do you have suggestions for improvements

10 Would you like to see an improvement in online services through Councilrsquos website such as the electronic payment of rates andor fees and charges (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

11 Do you find Council staff at all of its locations and facilities approachable

Appendix 2 community consultation Results from consultation and the survey The areas identified for improvement by were framed around the four priority areas the Port Stephens community are (in order for an inclusive community Liveable of priority) communities Attitudes and behaviours Employment and Systems and processes

Liveable Communities

Focus Area Comments Foot pathsramps ldquoFootpathsramps ndash uneven rough need ramps to access

roads need lighting on paths and stairs need more footpaths wider footpaths some ramps too steeprdquo

ldquoAll new kerb ramps should have no step between the bottom of the ramp and the gutterroad The small step that is still mostly used at the bottom of curb ramps is completely unnecessary (it doesnrsquot improve water flow in the gutter as some people think it does) but it makes it harder for a wheelchair user even if the step is only 2cm or less The same argument applies to drivewaysrdquo

ACTION PLAN

Accessibility to ldquoCluttered walkways access to beaches (wheelchair accessible eventsactivities ramps) Braille on signage audio description at places of shops sporting interest Henderson Park upgrade (steep steps to pontoon facilities parks no disability parking) access to pontoons for fishing (Karuah

good example of how to do it) Wider access passageways and doorways (eg some places have double doors but keep one door locked eg Salamander library)rdquo

Provision of venues ldquoLack of disability services in parks (eg Liberty swingswing services events with 5-point harness) lack of covered areas in parks (many

sun-sensitive due to medication plus rain cover) hydrotherapy pool fences around parks disability friendly slide at parks audio loop neededrdquo

ldquoI would like to see more programs that support carers and the families of people with disabilities in the Port Stephens Local Government Area as their (sic) simply isnrsquot enough I would also like more programs to support people with disabilities so that as a community we can start supporting each other through the hardship of living with a disabilityrdquo

Disability Inclusion 23

Focus Area Comments Public toilets ldquoThere are lack of amenities in disabled toilets (eg adults who

need help changing continence aids hoists in toilets) need more (eg Nelson Bay)rdquo

ldquoDisabled toilets do not cater for older persons with a disability who require nappy changing facilities It is not nice to change on the floor of a disabled toilet and parents room tables are too smallrdquo

Parking ldquoThere is a lack of disabled parking some disabled parks are not wheelchair friendlyrdquo

ldquoSubstandard pavement surfaces for walker frames and mobility scooters Lack of disability parking spaces at Soldiers Point Boat ramp and Salamander Bay wharf and various other areas within the Port Stephens areardquo

Public transport ldquoInfrastructure improvements for more and better transport limited timetables too many transfers to get to destination want regular community bus (low cost or for free)rdquo

Attitudes and Behaviours

Focus Area Comments Respectful and It should be noted that most people reported positive encounters inclusive community with the public and council staff One comment stated ldquocould and services improve empathy and understanding from public on what it is

like to have a disabilityrdquo

ldquoHearing impaired when asked to speak slower shop people yell and pull faces as if trying to mouth out each word very embarrassingrdquo

ldquoStaring commentingrdquo

Public education ldquoEducation for people in shops about disability disabled amenitiesfacilities being used by public (change-rooms toilets parking) but consideration needed so as not to discriminate against those who do not ldquoappearrdquo to have a disabilityrdquo

It should be noted that most people reported positive encounters with the public and council staff

24 Port Stephens Council

Employment

Focus Area Comments No issues identified however it was acknowledged in internal communication with staff that Council could lead the way in more employment of people with a disability this could include recruitment processes which are lsquomore welcomingrsquo and encourage people to apply for positions It also was acknowledged that Council policies procedures systems and processes could be reviewed for lsquoeasy readrsquo format

Systems and Processes

Focus Area Comments Range of information dissemination

Promotion and awareness of activitesevents services

ldquoNot everyone gets newspaper so send information in other ways (emailed with rates) need to consider information dissemination for people with hearing and vision impairedrdquo

ldquoI have rarely seen a Council newsletter Also the website needs to be cleaner clearer more navigable and user friendlyrdquo

ldquoLeft-aligning text might seem like a visual imposition to the sighted person but this simple change is the difference between being able to read for people who are blind or who have low visionrdquo

ldquoEye level display for people using wheelchairsrdquo

Some people were confused or unaware of services amenities available to them

In some areas ldquoFor those of us who get their bills via email it would be great if we were emailed regularly about items on public exhibition etc to replace what other residents would see in your adds in the Examinerrdquo

ldquoMore information areas to access helprdquo

ldquoDidnrsquot know you had a newsletterrdquo

Consulation on council infrastructure

Respondents welcomed the Council distributing this survey for comment but others felt more consideration of disability issues was needed

ldquoPlanning doesnrsquot seem to include disabled accessibility issues for new projectsrdquo

ldquoConsideration of people who are blind or low vision in future planning ie Braille on all signage (or on poles or mounts for elevated signage) Audio description at places of interest geographical cultural or historical significance Blind people miss out on our beautiful views they deserve to be catered to with regard to what else PS has to offer Infrastructure improvements that support more and better public transport to Port Stephensrdquo

Disabilit y Inclusion ACTION PLAN 25

Do you think the Port Stephens Community is welcoming of people with disabilities Eg businesses shops etc Most people felt Port Stephens is welcoming (68)

Have you encountered any problems barriers or issues in using transport options

68

0 10 20 30 40 50

Electric Scooter

Walking or wheelchair use

Local buses

Other

Do you think facilities and services are accessible and inclusive in Port Stephens

Focus Area Yes No

Councils Administration Building 57 6

Community centres 53 8

Events 36 21

Libraries 60 2

Parks 38 27

Pools 43 15

Other 18 13

26 Port Stephens Council

Do you find Councilrsquos information publications accessible

Focus area website

Would you like to see an improvement in online services through Councilrsquos website such as the electronic payment of rates and or fees and charges

Do you find Council staff at all of its locations and facilities approachable understanding of your requirements and helpful

Most comments in this section indicated council staff was very helpful and polite

Any other comments

Items for improvement (in order of priority)

Yes 36

Yes 55

Yes 48

No 6

No 18

No 11

1 Provision of venues services events 2 Roadscrossings 3 Footpathsramps 4 Public toilets 5 Public education The following summary outlines the priorities identified across all questions of the survey

ACTION PLANDisabilit y Inclusion

27

App

endi

x 3

Func

tions

ser

vice

s an

d as

sets

Function Area Community Services Sector

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Man

ager

Ngi

oka

Com

mun

ityH

ortic

ultu

ral

Serv

ices

Th

erap

yC

entre

Volu

ntee

r wor

kfor

ce o

f up

to80

0 p

rovi

sion

of lsquo

whe

el in

whe

el o

utrsquo g

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rant

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l Pla

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t Int

erag

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k c

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ards

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ityev

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ects

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n

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ngth

en C

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ilrsquos w

ebsit

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unity

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ctor

y se

ctio

n on

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sEn

sure

355

com

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ees

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ider

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ess

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n co

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g pr

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ms

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re c

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ent

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ects

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oura

ge a

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s an

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clusio

n

Function Area General Managers Office

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nce

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tResource

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ard

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nt g

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e co

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sion

35

Disability Inclusion

ACTION PLAN

Disability InclusionInclusionDisability InclusionInclusionDisability

For more information please contact Development Services councilportstephensnswgovau | 02 4980 0255 | PORTSTEPHENSNSWGOVAU

Page 12: Port Stephens Council DIAP 2016 - facs.nsw.gov.au · In 2016, Port Stephens had a population of 64,807 at the 2016 Census. This igure is predicted to rise by up to 23,000 over the

systems and processes Focus Area 4

Integrated planning and reporting Goals and strategies of Port Stephens Council are underpinned by five themes which provide focus and direction for the Integrated Planning and Reporting (IPR) framework The four focus areas for the DIAP may be positioned within those five focus areas of Integrated Planning framework

UN Convention on the Right of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD)

National Disability Strategy (NDS)

National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)

NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014 (DIA)

Operational plan

Delivery program

Community strategic plan

Local government disability inclusion action planning

NSW Disability Inclusion Plan 1 Attitudes and behaviours 2 Employment 3 Liveable communities 4 Systems and processes

Port Stephens CSP-themes CSP1 Our citizens

CSP2 Our lifestyle

CSP3 Our environment

CSP4 Our economy

CSP5 Our Council

An inclusive NSW

Focus Areas for DIAP bull Liveable communities Focus Area 2 bull Positive community attitudes and behaviours

Focus Area 1 bull Liveable communities Focus Area 2

bull Liveable communities Focus Area 2

bull Supporting access to meaningful employment Focus Area 3

bull Improving access to services through better

Port Stephens Council 12

ACTION PLAN

Document review As background to the consultation and to confirm issues which have been previously identified in the Port Stephens LGA a review of documents was undertaken Council has a suite of documents which reflect their commitment to an inclusive and connected society in an environment that facilitates opportunities for contribution by all those who live in the Port Stephens Region Reviewed documents included

bull Port Stephens Integrated Plans incorporating Community Strategic Plan

2013-2023 Delivery Program 2013-2017 Operational Plans 2016-2020

bull Port Stephens Strategic Asset Management Plan (2016-2026)

bull Port Stephens Disability Action Plan 2014-2018

bull NSW Disability Inclusion Action Planning Guidelines

Consultation and engagement According to 2016 census data the population of Port Stephens was 69556 which is an increase of 4746 or 732 from 2011 (64810) As the table below notes there are distinct differences in the proportion of people who stated a Need for Assistance between each of Port Stephens planning catchments However community

Need for Assistance

consultation with people who experience a disability their families carers and disability groups show that the barriers challenges and needs of people with a disability to fully participate in community life are similar throughout the LGA

Suburb 2006 2011 2016 Fern Bay 74 87 789

Karuah Swan Bay 53 83 859

Medowie 32 35 393

Raymond Terrace 52 63 775

Rural East 53 47 611

Rural West 29 31 307

Tilligerry 64 73 797

Tomaree 55 55 653

Port Stephens LGA 50 55 640

Disability Inclusion 13

Consultation with the community In seeking to fully understand and identify the barriers to inclusion and access and to find solutions information was sought from key stakeholders Key stakeholders are people within the Port Stephens community who identify as experiencing a disability their carersrsquo and support workers

A survey was completed and distributed within the community from November

2016 to January 2017 The period of the survey was extended over the Christmas periodschool holiday period 71 surveys completed surveys were received from the community

The following table sets out who and how the survey was distributed to key stakeholders

Stakeholder Engagement Processes Council website Surveys could be accessed through Councilrsquos website using

Engagement HQ

Council Facebook page

A link to the survey was placed on Councilrsquos Facebook page The link was lsquoboostedrsquo which meant the page connected anyone in the LGA who had clicked on anything to do with disability which significantly broadened the surveys reach

MyLink Group Advice and information about the DIAP including a link to the survey was distributed to Councils MyLink group MyLink is an email group of members including Not for Profit Groups and Non-Government Organisations (NGOs) such as disability service and support providers The MyLink email group keeps its members informed of upcoming meetings local events professional development opportunities and other important information Notifications of updates are sent to the MyLink email list weekly

Libraries Paper copies of the surveys were provided to the Tomaree and Raymond Terrace Libraries for distribution to disability groups (including disability support groups) who use the library

Media release Media release in the Port Stephens Examiner and online version of the Port Stephens Examiner

Schools Every school in the LGA was contacted via telephone and the survey and link distributed via email Schools then placed the information about the survey and the link in school community newsletters and on Facebook pages

Eagleton Ridge Respite Centre

Eagleton Ridge Respite Centre was contacted and information forwarded about the survey along with a link

Flyer Flyers were developed to help promote the project which contained information about the survey and where to access it Flyers were delivered to doctors surgeries disability service providers and Council run pools

Internal stakeholder meeting

Internal stakeholder meeting and ongoing consultation to go over elements of the DIAP

14 Port Stephens Council

Summary of priorities Returned surveys and consultation meetings presented a clear picture of priorities with suggestions and solutions Looking across all questions in the survey the following outlines the most important priorities for the Port Stephens community

1 Footpathsramps 2 Accessibility to eventsactivities

shops sporting and recreation facilities and parks

3 Provision of venues services events 4 Public toilets 5 Parking 6 Public transport 7 Public education 8 Respectful and inclusive community

and services

Some of the priorities for the community in the consultation for the DIAP were also identified in the Port Stephens Disability Action Plan 2014-2018 Furthermore the Port Stephens Integrated Plans aims to ldquomake future provisions for people with disabilities their families and carersrdquo via several actions including implementing the Disability Inclusion Action Plan

Results of the community consultation were arranged in to the DIAPrsquos four focus groups and actions were developed that align with these areas These focus areas were identified as part of extensive community consultation during development of the NSW Disability Inclusion Plan As such these focus areas became a requirement to be in all NSW agency DIAPs These actions recognise the rights of people with a disability to full and effective participation in an inclusive society the same as those without a disability The following action plan outlines Councilrsquos role and action and priority level

Results of the community consultation were arranged into the DIAPrsquos four focus groups and actions were developed that contribute a more inclusive accessible and liveable society

ACTION PLANDisability Inclusion

15

Act

ion

plan

ning

Liveable Communities

Item for

improvement Priority

Time-

frame

Coun-

cilRole

Action

Outcome

IPRRefer-

ence

Responsibility

Foot

path

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d1

-2 y

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Upd

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tatio

n of

42

13

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e

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12

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1 Fa

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52

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13

16

Stra

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c Pl

anni

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ovid

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om D

IAP

and

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ess

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ossib

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Fund

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ek g

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roje

cts

An in

crea

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52

14

Faci

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portu

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Com

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Dev

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Acce

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11

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evel

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31

5Ad

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41

1co

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sTo

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s w

ho h

ave

a di

sabi

lity

17

18

Improving access to services through better systems and processes

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Alig

ning

Act

ion

Ong

oing

Le

ader

En

sure

that

the

DIA

P al

igns

with

This

pla

n m

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Loca

l5

31

13

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ngPl

an w

ith In

tegr

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the

Inte

grat

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epor

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Fram

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ernm

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IAP

guid

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the

actio

ns in

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Act

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requ

irem

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Fram

ewor

k Pl

an a

re in

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(4 y

ear)

impl

emen

ted

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iver

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m a

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ratio

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lan

Info

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to th

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le th

e ab

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to p

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de a

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le a

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to a

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s5

31

6 Office of the General

publ

ic

Serv

ice

rece

ive

info

rmat

ion

to a

nd fr

om th

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form

atio

n an

d pa

rticip

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in th

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Man

ager

Pr

ovid

er

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nge

of fo

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s R

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wlo

cal c

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unity

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irs o

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ibiti

on te

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to m

ake

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l gov

ernm

ent

clea

rer t

hat w

e ac

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sin

all

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ats

not

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ten

eg

vide

o v

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rec

ordi

ng

Mai

ntai

n w

ebsi

te a

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sibi

lity

55

18

Com

mun

icat

ions

(WAA

G) 2

0 A

A le

vel

Polic

ies

and

1 -2

yea

rs

Lead

erS

ervi

ceC

ounc

il inv

estig

ates

opt

ions

toR

emov

e ob

stac

les

for p

eopl

e w

ith1

31

6 St

rate

gic

Plan

ning

pr

oced

ures

Pr

ovid

er

impr

ove

unde

rsta

ndin

g of

pol

icies

and

a di

sabi

lity

to e

nabl

e ac

hiev

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tpr

oced

ures

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

disa

bility

of

pos

itive

and

sus

tain

able

empl

oym

ent o

utco

mes

Supporting access to meaningful employment

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Volu

ntee

ring

1 -2

yea

rs

Lead

er

Rev

iew

vol

unte

erin

g pr

oces

ses

for

Incr

ease

d ac

cess

to v

olun

teer

ing

16

13

Com

mun

ity S

ervi

ces

proc

esse

s Po

rt St

ephe

ns C

ounc

il to

ens

ure

oppo

rtuni

ties

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

that

they

are

wel

com

ing

of p

eopl

edi

sabi

lity

w

ith d

isab

ility

Rec

ruitm

ent

Ong

oing

Le

ader

C

ontin

ue to

offe

r can

dida

tes

anO

ngoi

ng e

mpl

oym

ent o

ppor

tuni

ties

51

42

Org

anis

atio

nal

proc

esse

s op

tion

to d

iscl

ose

whe

ther

or n

otfo

r peo

ple

who

hav

e a

disa

bilit

y w

ithD

evel

opm

ent

they

hav

e a

disa

bilit

y du

ring

the

Port

Step

hens

Cou

ncil

appl

icat

ion

proc

ess

so th

at C

ounc

ilar

e ab

le to

ens

ure

that

app

lican

tsw

ith a

dis

abilit

y ar

e an

d fe

elsu

ppor

ted

thro

ugho

ut th

e pr

oces

s

Attitudes and Behaviours

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Educ

atio

n fo

r sho

p0

- 1 y

ear

Advo

cate

Aw

aren

ess

and

educ

atio

nO

utco

me

is a

rais

ed a

war

enes

s of

41

24

Econ

omic

owne

rsb

usin

esse

sca

mpa

igns

targ

etin

g bu

sine

ss

the

need

s of

peo

ple

with

a d

isab

ility

Dev

elop

men

ton

acc

ess

issue

s fo

row

ners

via

Biz

Lin

k ne

twor

kac

cess

issu

espe

ople

with

disa

bility

ne

wsl

ette

rs a

nd b

usin

ess

cham

bers

to fo

ster

and

enc

oura

ge th

efo

llow

ing

initi

ativ

es

bull D

evel

op c

ompa

nion

car

d fri

endl

yin

itiat

ive

whi

ch e

nabl

es fr

ee e

ntry

to c

erta

in v

enue

sev

ents

for

care

rs to

acc

ompa

ny p

eopl

e w

itha

disa

bilit

y

1-2

year

s Ad

voca

te

bull Pr

efer

red

empl

oyer

aw

ards

for

41

24

Econ

omic

disa

bilit

y ac

cess

ible

wor

kpla

ce

Dev

elop

men

t

Sta

ff ar

e su

pp

orte

d a

nd h

ave

gre

ater

know

led

ge

of th

e va

riety

of n

eed

s of

peo

ple

with

a d

isab

ility

and

the

need

for i

nclu

sion

Staf

f aw

aren

ess

of1

-2 y

ears

Le

ader

To

pro

vide

train

ing

for C

ounc

il sta

ffSt

aff a

re s

uppo

rted

and

have

51

42

Org

anis

atio

nal

the

need

s of

peo

ple

on h

ow to

wor

k w

ith a

nd u

nder

stan

dgr

eate

r kno

wle

dge

of th

e va

riety

of

Dev

elop

men

tw

ith d

isab

ility

peop

le w

ith d

isabi

lity th

roug

h C

ounc

ilsne

eds

of p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

y an

d

The

prio

rity

timef

ram

e ra

ting

indi

cate

s th

at a

Hig

h pr

iorit

y sh

ould

be

com

plet

ed w

ithin

1 y

ear

Med

ium

prio

rity

with

in 2

yea

rs a

nd L

ow p

riorit

y w

ithin

3 to

4 y

ears

Wor

kpla

ce E

quity

amp D

ivers

ityC

omm

ittee

and

Gui

de (a

ttach

ed)

the

need

for i

nclu

sion

19

Governance monitoring and evaulation To ensure implementation of the Plan an internal working group made up of stakeholders who have responsibility for implementing actions with the plan will be ongoing The working group will meet quarterly to discuss the Action Plan and linkages to both current and future projects and programs including

bull Each new capital works project will consider disability improvements to inclusion and accessibility within the Project Management Plan scoping and procurement document (in addition to Disability Discrimination Act compliance) Improvements for consideration include Location of the

proposed project and Improvements to carpark access to

and from kerb ramp location and availability and pathwayrsquos etc that enable more seamless connectivity

Progress of the plan will be monitored and implementation of actions within the Plan will be reported through a range of governance processes including

bull Six monthly reporting to Councils Executive Leadership team and Council

bull Operational Plan annual reporting as part of the Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework

bull Annual Report bull End of Term Reporting bull Customer satisfaction annual survey and

reporting To enable effective measurement and monitoring of actions within the plan the Port Stephens Customer Satisfaction Survey will include a section within the survey of questions that people who experience disability their families carers and people who work in the disability sector can elect to answer

20 Port Stephens Council

Conclusion Port Stephens Council has a strong commitment to enhancing life experience of people with a disability in the Local Government Area

In developing the Disability Inclusion Action Plan Port Stephens Council has built on the strengths of existing Council resources Council structurestaff plans policies and the local closely connected community by consulting with a broad range of stakeholders

The priorities identified above reflect Council values and principles The individual objectives once approved by Council are to be included in the 2017-2021 Delivery Program and the Annual Operational Plans for each of those four (4) years Within the Integrated and Strategic Planning framework the responsibility reporting and resourcing for the objectives will be defined

Draw together diverse interests and strive towards attaining greater consensus on sustainable outcomes for the local government area

ACTION PLANDisability Inclusion

21

understanding of your requirements and helpful (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

11a Please provide details of your experiences with Council staff

12 Any other comments

Appendix 1 DIAP Survey 1 What is your age 2 What suburb do you live in

(Required) 3 Gender 4 Language used at home 5 Are you a carer or a person with

disability (Choose all that apply) a Carer b Person with disability c Family member

6 Do you think the Port Stephens Community is welcoming of people with disabilities Eg businesses shops etc (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

6a Please give us some examples of positive or negative experiences you have had

7 Have you encountered any problems barriers or issues in using transport options (Choose all that apply) a Walking or wheelchair use b Local buses c Electric Scooter d Other

7a Please give us some examples of positive or negative experiences you have had

8 Do you think facilities and services are accessible and inclusive in Port Stephens a Councilrsquos Administration Building Yes No b Community centres Yes No c Events Yes No d Libraries Yes No e Parks Yes No f Pools Yes No g Other Yes No

22 Port Stephens Council

8a Can you give us any examples for improvements

9 Do you find Councilrsquos information publications accessible

Website Yes No Newsletters Yes No

9a Do you have suggestions for improvements

10 Would you like to see an improvement in online services through Councilrsquos website such as the electronic payment of rates andor fees and charges (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

11 Do you find Council staff at all of its locations and facilities approachable

Appendix 2 community consultation Results from consultation and the survey The areas identified for improvement by were framed around the four priority areas the Port Stephens community are (in order for an inclusive community Liveable of priority) communities Attitudes and behaviours Employment and Systems and processes

Liveable Communities

Focus Area Comments Foot pathsramps ldquoFootpathsramps ndash uneven rough need ramps to access

roads need lighting on paths and stairs need more footpaths wider footpaths some ramps too steeprdquo

ldquoAll new kerb ramps should have no step between the bottom of the ramp and the gutterroad The small step that is still mostly used at the bottom of curb ramps is completely unnecessary (it doesnrsquot improve water flow in the gutter as some people think it does) but it makes it harder for a wheelchair user even if the step is only 2cm or less The same argument applies to drivewaysrdquo

ACTION PLAN

Accessibility to ldquoCluttered walkways access to beaches (wheelchair accessible eventsactivities ramps) Braille on signage audio description at places of shops sporting interest Henderson Park upgrade (steep steps to pontoon facilities parks no disability parking) access to pontoons for fishing (Karuah

good example of how to do it) Wider access passageways and doorways (eg some places have double doors but keep one door locked eg Salamander library)rdquo

Provision of venues ldquoLack of disability services in parks (eg Liberty swingswing services events with 5-point harness) lack of covered areas in parks (many

sun-sensitive due to medication plus rain cover) hydrotherapy pool fences around parks disability friendly slide at parks audio loop neededrdquo

ldquoI would like to see more programs that support carers and the families of people with disabilities in the Port Stephens Local Government Area as their (sic) simply isnrsquot enough I would also like more programs to support people with disabilities so that as a community we can start supporting each other through the hardship of living with a disabilityrdquo

Disability Inclusion 23

Focus Area Comments Public toilets ldquoThere are lack of amenities in disabled toilets (eg adults who

need help changing continence aids hoists in toilets) need more (eg Nelson Bay)rdquo

ldquoDisabled toilets do not cater for older persons with a disability who require nappy changing facilities It is not nice to change on the floor of a disabled toilet and parents room tables are too smallrdquo

Parking ldquoThere is a lack of disabled parking some disabled parks are not wheelchair friendlyrdquo

ldquoSubstandard pavement surfaces for walker frames and mobility scooters Lack of disability parking spaces at Soldiers Point Boat ramp and Salamander Bay wharf and various other areas within the Port Stephens areardquo

Public transport ldquoInfrastructure improvements for more and better transport limited timetables too many transfers to get to destination want regular community bus (low cost or for free)rdquo

Attitudes and Behaviours

Focus Area Comments Respectful and It should be noted that most people reported positive encounters inclusive community with the public and council staff One comment stated ldquocould and services improve empathy and understanding from public on what it is

like to have a disabilityrdquo

ldquoHearing impaired when asked to speak slower shop people yell and pull faces as if trying to mouth out each word very embarrassingrdquo

ldquoStaring commentingrdquo

Public education ldquoEducation for people in shops about disability disabled amenitiesfacilities being used by public (change-rooms toilets parking) but consideration needed so as not to discriminate against those who do not ldquoappearrdquo to have a disabilityrdquo

It should be noted that most people reported positive encounters with the public and council staff

24 Port Stephens Council

Employment

Focus Area Comments No issues identified however it was acknowledged in internal communication with staff that Council could lead the way in more employment of people with a disability this could include recruitment processes which are lsquomore welcomingrsquo and encourage people to apply for positions It also was acknowledged that Council policies procedures systems and processes could be reviewed for lsquoeasy readrsquo format

Systems and Processes

Focus Area Comments Range of information dissemination

Promotion and awareness of activitesevents services

ldquoNot everyone gets newspaper so send information in other ways (emailed with rates) need to consider information dissemination for people with hearing and vision impairedrdquo

ldquoI have rarely seen a Council newsletter Also the website needs to be cleaner clearer more navigable and user friendlyrdquo

ldquoLeft-aligning text might seem like a visual imposition to the sighted person but this simple change is the difference between being able to read for people who are blind or who have low visionrdquo

ldquoEye level display for people using wheelchairsrdquo

Some people were confused or unaware of services amenities available to them

In some areas ldquoFor those of us who get their bills via email it would be great if we were emailed regularly about items on public exhibition etc to replace what other residents would see in your adds in the Examinerrdquo

ldquoMore information areas to access helprdquo

ldquoDidnrsquot know you had a newsletterrdquo

Consulation on council infrastructure

Respondents welcomed the Council distributing this survey for comment but others felt more consideration of disability issues was needed

ldquoPlanning doesnrsquot seem to include disabled accessibility issues for new projectsrdquo

ldquoConsideration of people who are blind or low vision in future planning ie Braille on all signage (or on poles or mounts for elevated signage) Audio description at places of interest geographical cultural or historical significance Blind people miss out on our beautiful views they deserve to be catered to with regard to what else PS has to offer Infrastructure improvements that support more and better public transport to Port Stephensrdquo

Disabilit y Inclusion ACTION PLAN 25

Do you think the Port Stephens Community is welcoming of people with disabilities Eg businesses shops etc Most people felt Port Stephens is welcoming (68)

Have you encountered any problems barriers or issues in using transport options

68

0 10 20 30 40 50

Electric Scooter

Walking or wheelchair use

Local buses

Other

Do you think facilities and services are accessible and inclusive in Port Stephens

Focus Area Yes No

Councils Administration Building 57 6

Community centres 53 8

Events 36 21

Libraries 60 2

Parks 38 27

Pools 43 15

Other 18 13

26 Port Stephens Council

Do you find Councilrsquos information publications accessible

Focus area website

Would you like to see an improvement in online services through Councilrsquos website such as the electronic payment of rates and or fees and charges

Do you find Council staff at all of its locations and facilities approachable understanding of your requirements and helpful

Most comments in this section indicated council staff was very helpful and polite

Any other comments

Items for improvement (in order of priority)

Yes 36

Yes 55

Yes 48

No 6

No 18

No 11

1 Provision of venues services events 2 Roadscrossings 3 Footpathsramps 4 Public toilets 5 Public education The following summary outlines the priorities identified across all questions of the survey

ACTION PLANDisabilit y Inclusion

27

App

endi

x 3

Func

tions

ser

vice

s an

d as

sets

Function Area Community Services Sector

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Man

ager

Ngi

oka

Com

mun

ityH

ortic

ultu

ral

Serv

ices

Th

erap

yC

entre

Volu

ntee

r wor

kfor

ce o

f up

to80

0 p

rovi

sion

of lsquo

whe

el in

whe

el o

utrsquo g

arba

ge c

olle

ctio

nfo

r peo

ple

with

dis

abilit

y liv

ing

at h

ome

Pro

visi

on o

fpr

ogra

ms

for c

hild

ren

with

addi

tiona

l nee

ds a

t Out

side

of S

choo

l Hou

rs C

are

Chi

ldre

nsrsquo a

ctiv

ity V

an a

ndFa

mily

Day

Car

e P

rovi

sion

of la

rge

prin

t boo

ks t

alki

ngbo

oks

and

audi

o an

d vi

sual

navi

gatio

n ai

ds a

t lib

rarie

sLe

ar to

sw

im p

rogr

ams

atco

unci

l aqu

atic

cen

tres

Info

rmat

ion

on w

ebsi

te re

Leas

e of

Gra

ham

stow

nVo

lunt

eer s

trate

gy35

5vo

lunt

eers

Aqua

tic R

eser

ve fo

r use

by

Part

A an

d Pa

rt B

com

mitt

ees

Saila

bilit

y (P

SC le

ase

the

Larg

e te

xt fo

rmat

ting

onla

nd fr

om H

unte

r Wat

er a

ndw

ebsi

te

Saila

bilit

y su

b-le

ase

the

land

of P

SC)

Link

s to

vol

unte

er re

sour

ces

in J

ob a

genc

ies

TAF

Eot

her a

reas

bus

ines

ses

etc

univ

ersi

ties

sch

ools

Brai

lle a

nd la

rge

font

com

pute

rs

Rev

iew

pol

icie

spr

oced

ures

toen

sure

they

are

lsquoeas

y re

adrsquo f

orm

at

Busi

ness

lead

ersh

ipto

enh

ance

Ngi

oka

as a

mul

ti-pu

rpos

ece

ntre

and

to p

rom

ote

and

alig

n w

ith N

DIS

pers

onal

pla

ns

28

Function Area Community Services ndash Library Services

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Resource

Libr

ary

Civ

il Ass

ets

Serv

ices

Sect

ion

Man

ager

M

anag

erC

omm

unity

and

Rec

reat

ion

Assets Officer

Paid

Lib

rary

Sta

ff x

24C

asua

l Lib

rary

Sta

ff x

11Li

brar

y Vo

lunt

eers

x 5

5As

sist

ive

Adap

tive

tech

nolo

gy(A

udio

Rea

d na

viga

tors

Zoo

mTe

xt s

cree

n re

ader

sof

twar

ela

rge

prin

t boo

ks a

udio

boo

ks

IInfo

rmat

ion

on a

ll Li

brar

ySe

rvic

es re

late

d to

ser

vice

spr

ogra

ms

and

activ

ities

ndashdi

spla

yed

in b

ranc

hes

via

(flyerspostersTV monitors)

and

on

bull Fa

cebo

ok W

ebsi

tebull

Scho

ol N

ewsl

ette

rs W

hatrsquos

on in

our

Bac

kyar

dbull

PS E

xam

iner

bull N

ews

of th

e Ar

ea (T

eaG

arde

ns N

elso

n Ba

y an

dM

edow

ie)

Thou

Wal

la S

choo

ls a

sC

omm

uniti

es C

entre

New

cast

le R

egio

n Li

brar

y C

o-op

erat

ive

Cen

tral E

ast Z

one

(Reg

iona

lLi

brar

ies

Gro

up)

Publ

ic L

ibra

ries

NSW

Hun

ter W

EAH

isto

rical

and

Fam

ily H

isto

rySo

ciet

ies

RT

Art S

pace

Gro

upR

eal F

utur

es F

ound

atio

n

Inte

rnet

Usa

ge P

olic

yW

aivi

ng O

verd

ueC

harg

esSo

cial

Med

ia P

olic

yLi

brar

y U

ser

Gui

delin

esPS

C L

ibra

ry B

roch

ure

New

cast

le re

gion

Libr

ary

Broc

hure

Volu

ntee

r Pos

ition

Des

crip

tions

and

Han

dboo

kH

isto

rical

Soc

iety

Fa

mily

His

tory

Gro

upAg

reem

ents

Wor

k H

ealth

and

Safe

tyC

omm

ittee

WH

S R

ep-

rese

ntat

ives

Com

mitt

eeW

orkp

lace

Equi

ty a

ndD

iver

sity

Com

mitt

eeC

onsu

ltativ

eC

omm

ittee

Her

itage

Advi

sory

Com

mitt

ee

Dis

able

d to

ilets

do

not c

ater

for o

lder

per

sons

with

a d

isab

ility

who

req

uire

nap

py

chan

gin

g fa

cilit

ies

It is

not

nic

e to

cha

nge

on th

e flo

orof

a d

isab

led

toile

t and

par

ents

room

tab

les

are

too

smal

l

29

Function Area Assets Section

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Asse

t Sec

tion

Man

ager

C

omm

unity

land

man

age-

men

t pu

blic

toile

ts p

arks

pl

aygr

ound

sre

serv

es

fore

shor

es

mar

ine

ac-

cess

spo

rting

fields sports

faci

litie

sco

mm

unity

build

ings

co

mm

unity

halls

sig

nage

Mai

ntai

n an

d up

grad

e pu

blic

Asse

ts re

gist

er c

ondi

tion

Gov

ernm

ent a

genc

ies

gra

ntVa

rious

pla

ns o

fsp

aces

fac

ilitie

s a

sset

s an

dra

ting

syst

em

fund

ing

sche

mes

pro

perty

Management (specific

plac

es in

line

with

legi

slat

ive

deve

lope

rs c

omm

unity

and

gene

ric)

Cou

ncil

Ope

ns S

pace

Stra

tegy

requ

irem

ents

and

com

mun

itygr

oups

int

eres

t gro

ups

polic

ies

Man

agem

ent

(und

erw

ay)

need

s D

irect

ives

Spor

ts C

oun-

cils

355

Com

-m

ittee

sC

omm

unity

grou

ps P

arks

and

Res

erve

sC

omm

ittee

s

Ensu

reth

at th

ede

sign

and

cons

truct

ion

of n

ewfa

cilit

ies

and

infra

stru

ctur

eis

con

side

rate

to li

mite

dac

cess

com

mun

itym

embe

rs

Ensu

re th

at u

pgra

des

and

mai

nten

ance

to c

omm

unity

faci

litie

s ar

e al

igne

d w

ithpr

iorit

ies

for i

nclu

sion

Prep

are

the

Ope

n Sp

ace

Stra

tegy

pla

ns fo

r upg

rade

s to

com

mun

ity fa

cilit

ies

and

area

sw

here

infra

stru

ctur

e ne

eds

to b

e co

nsid

erat

e of

lim

ited

acce

ss c

omm

unity

mem

bers

Ensu

re 3

55 c

omm

ittee

sco

nsid

er a

cces

s an

d in

clus

ion

whe

n th

inki

ng a

bout

pro

gram

sEn

sure

355

Com

mitt

ees

use

fund

s pr

ovid

ed b

y C

ounc

il to

cons

ider

acc

ess

and

incl

usio

nw

hen

build

ing

infra

stru

ctur

e

Activ

ely

seek

gra

nt fu

ndin

gfor projects identified within

the

Ope

ns S

pace

Stra

tegy

in o

rder

to im

prov

e ac

cess

to in

clus

ion

to c

omm

unity

faci

litie

s an

d ar

eas

thro

ugho

utth

e LG

A

Rev

iew

and

upd

ate

exis

ting

plan

s an

dpo

licie

s in

line

with

legi

slat

ive

chan

ges

and identified needs

of th

e co

mm

unity

O

pens

Spa

ceSt

rate

gy (u

nder

way

)

Enco

urag

eco

mm

unity

grou

ps a

ndco

mm

ittee

to u

nder

take

proj

ects

and

prog

ram

s to

enco

urag

eac

cess

incl

usio

n

30

Function Area Human Resource Sector

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners

and agency

collaboration

Plans and Policies

Brochures documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

PotentialResource

Man

ager

Rec

ruitm

ent o

f new

sta

ffIn

form

atio

n on

web

site

in

Rec

ruitm

ent p

olic

ypr

oced

ures

Vo

lunt

eer

Hum

anhard file and on intra net

35

5 C

om-

Management of staffing

Res

ourc

es

mitt

ees

(leav

e A

war

d pr

ovis

ions

su

pera

nnua

tion

etc)

Rec

ruitm

ent p

roce

sses

toIn

form

atio

n in

rang

e of

Job

netw

ork

Rec

ruitm

ent p

roce

ss w

hich

isbe

wel

com

ing

of p

eopl

e w

ithfo

rmat

s in

clud

ing

soci

alag

enci

es

wel

com

ing

of p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

ydi

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31

Function Area Communications

Staff

Responsi-

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Facilities

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bility

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bility

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frastructure

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nnin

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oesn

rsquot se

em to

incl

ude

dis

able

d a

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sib

ility

issu

es fo

r new

pro

ject

srdquo

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Function Area Community Development

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Facilities in-

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Directory

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Potential Resource

Com

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5 Ad

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355

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35

Disability Inclusion

ACTION PLAN

Disability InclusionInclusionDisability InclusionInclusionDisability

For more information please contact Development Services councilportstephensnswgovau | 02 4980 0255 | PORTSTEPHENSNSWGOVAU

Page 13: Port Stephens Council DIAP 2016 - facs.nsw.gov.au · In 2016, Port Stephens had a population of 64,807 at the 2016 Census. This igure is predicted to rise by up to 23,000 over the

ACTION PLAN

Document review As background to the consultation and to confirm issues which have been previously identified in the Port Stephens LGA a review of documents was undertaken Council has a suite of documents which reflect their commitment to an inclusive and connected society in an environment that facilitates opportunities for contribution by all those who live in the Port Stephens Region Reviewed documents included

bull Port Stephens Integrated Plans incorporating Community Strategic Plan

2013-2023 Delivery Program 2013-2017 Operational Plans 2016-2020

bull Port Stephens Strategic Asset Management Plan (2016-2026)

bull Port Stephens Disability Action Plan 2014-2018

bull NSW Disability Inclusion Action Planning Guidelines

Consultation and engagement According to 2016 census data the population of Port Stephens was 69556 which is an increase of 4746 or 732 from 2011 (64810) As the table below notes there are distinct differences in the proportion of people who stated a Need for Assistance between each of Port Stephens planning catchments However community

Need for Assistance

consultation with people who experience a disability their families carers and disability groups show that the barriers challenges and needs of people with a disability to fully participate in community life are similar throughout the LGA

Suburb 2006 2011 2016 Fern Bay 74 87 789

Karuah Swan Bay 53 83 859

Medowie 32 35 393

Raymond Terrace 52 63 775

Rural East 53 47 611

Rural West 29 31 307

Tilligerry 64 73 797

Tomaree 55 55 653

Port Stephens LGA 50 55 640

Disability Inclusion 13

Consultation with the community In seeking to fully understand and identify the barriers to inclusion and access and to find solutions information was sought from key stakeholders Key stakeholders are people within the Port Stephens community who identify as experiencing a disability their carersrsquo and support workers

A survey was completed and distributed within the community from November

2016 to January 2017 The period of the survey was extended over the Christmas periodschool holiday period 71 surveys completed surveys were received from the community

The following table sets out who and how the survey was distributed to key stakeholders

Stakeholder Engagement Processes Council website Surveys could be accessed through Councilrsquos website using

Engagement HQ

Council Facebook page

A link to the survey was placed on Councilrsquos Facebook page The link was lsquoboostedrsquo which meant the page connected anyone in the LGA who had clicked on anything to do with disability which significantly broadened the surveys reach

MyLink Group Advice and information about the DIAP including a link to the survey was distributed to Councils MyLink group MyLink is an email group of members including Not for Profit Groups and Non-Government Organisations (NGOs) such as disability service and support providers The MyLink email group keeps its members informed of upcoming meetings local events professional development opportunities and other important information Notifications of updates are sent to the MyLink email list weekly

Libraries Paper copies of the surveys were provided to the Tomaree and Raymond Terrace Libraries for distribution to disability groups (including disability support groups) who use the library

Media release Media release in the Port Stephens Examiner and online version of the Port Stephens Examiner

Schools Every school in the LGA was contacted via telephone and the survey and link distributed via email Schools then placed the information about the survey and the link in school community newsletters and on Facebook pages

Eagleton Ridge Respite Centre

Eagleton Ridge Respite Centre was contacted and information forwarded about the survey along with a link

Flyer Flyers were developed to help promote the project which contained information about the survey and where to access it Flyers were delivered to doctors surgeries disability service providers and Council run pools

Internal stakeholder meeting

Internal stakeholder meeting and ongoing consultation to go over elements of the DIAP

14 Port Stephens Council

Summary of priorities Returned surveys and consultation meetings presented a clear picture of priorities with suggestions and solutions Looking across all questions in the survey the following outlines the most important priorities for the Port Stephens community

1 Footpathsramps 2 Accessibility to eventsactivities

shops sporting and recreation facilities and parks

3 Provision of venues services events 4 Public toilets 5 Parking 6 Public transport 7 Public education 8 Respectful and inclusive community

and services

Some of the priorities for the community in the consultation for the DIAP were also identified in the Port Stephens Disability Action Plan 2014-2018 Furthermore the Port Stephens Integrated Plans aims to ldquomake future provisions for people with disabilities their families and carersrdquo via several actions including implementing the Disability Inclusion Action Plan

Results of the community consultation were arranged in to the DIAPrsquos four focus groups and actions were developed that align with these areas These focus areas were identified as part of extensive community consultation during development of the NSW Disability Inclusion Plan As such these focus areas became a requirement to be in all NSW agency DIAPs These actions recognise the rights of people with a disability to full and effective participation in an inclusive society the same as those without a disability The following action plan outlines Councilrsquos role and action and priority level

Results of the community consultation were arranged into the DIAPrsquos four focus groups and actions were developed that contribute a more inclusive accessible and liveable society

ACTION PLANDisability Inclusion

15

Act

ion

plan

ning

Liveable Communities

Item for

improvement Priority

Time-

frame

Coun-

cilRole

Action

Outcome

IPRRefer-

ence

Responsibility

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path

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d1

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Upd

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42

13

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er

garb

age

bin

serv

ice

(Blu

e D

ot S

ervi

ce)

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

y liv

ing

at h

ome

Ong

oing

O

ngoi

ng a

cces

s to

chi

ldre

ns

serv

ices

13

14

Com

mun

ity S

ervi

ces

prog

ram

s fo

r chi

ldre

n w

ith a

dditio

nal n

eeds

at O

utsid

e Sc

hool

Hou

rs C

are

(Ray

mon

dTe

rrace

and

Med

owie

) P

ort S

teph

ens

Activ

ity V

an a

nd F

amily

Day

Car

e

16

Ong

oing

Se

rvic

eO

ngoi

ng p

rovi

sion

and

exp

ansi

on o

fIn

crea

sed

awar

enes

s an

d su

ppor

t for

peo

ple

13

15

Com

mun

ity S

ervi

ces

Prov

ider

as

sist

ive

and

adap

tive

tech

nolo

gyw

ith a

dis

abilit

y an

d in

crea

sed

livea

bilit

y

Cus

tom

er R

elat

ions

incl

udin

gbull

Audi

o re

ad n

avig

ator

sbull

Zoom

text

scr

een

read

er s

oftw

are

bull La

rge

prin

t boo

ksbull

Audi

o bo

oks

Publ

ic to

ilets

2

ndash 4

year

s

Serv

ice

Audi

t of p

ublic

toile

ts to

iden

tify

loca

tions

Impr

oved

acc

essib

ility

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

disa

bility

52

14

Faci

litie

s an

dPr

ovid

er

whe

re a

dult

chan

ge fa

cilit

ies

for p

eopl

ean

d as

sista

nce

for c

arer

s c

arin

g fo

r peo

ple

with

Serv

ices

w

ith a

dis

abilit

y ar

e w

arra

nted

- or

whe

rehi

gh n

eeds

an area could be modified to cater for

peop

le w

ith a

hig

h ne

ed d

isab

ility

durin

gFo

rwar

d W

orks

Pla

n

Advo

cate

Po

rt St

ephe

ns d

isab

ility

acce

ss to

ilets

are

incl

uded

on

the

Aust

ralia

n Pu

blic

Toile

trsquos s

oftw

are

appl

icat

ion

Dis

abilit

y pa

rkin

g1

-2 y

ears

Se

rvic

eR

evie

w d

isab

ility

park

ing

spac

es a

ssp

aces

thro

ugho

utPr

ovid

er identified to ensure compliance against

the

LGA

curre

nt s

tand

ards

and

or

relo

catin

g to

meet compliance (via traffic committee)

1 -2

yea

rs

At re

view

upd

ate

Plan

s of

Man

agem

ent

to in

clud

e di

scus

sion

of d

isab

ility

park

ing

and

impr

ovin

g ac

cess

ibilit

y be

twee

ndi

sabi

lity

park

ing

par

ks a

nd d

isab

ility

acce

ssib

le to

ilets

Incr

ease

in c

ompl

iant

dis

abilit

y pa

rkin

g so

52

14

Faci

litie

s an

d As

sets

pe

ople

who

exp

erie

nce

disa

bilit

y ca

n en

joy

am

ore

seam

less

exp

erie

nce

that

is n

avig

able

and

man

agea

ble

ther

eby

bein

g m

ore

incl

usiv

ean

d va

lue

addi

ng

52

14

Fa

cilit

ies

and

Asse

ts

Publ

ic tr

ansp

ort

1 -2

yea

rs

Advo

cate

M

eet w

ith p

ublic

tran

spor

t pro

vider

s to

Impr

oved

legi

bilit

y an

d ac

cess

to p

ublic

13

16

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ngpr

ovid

e fe

edba

ck fr

om D

IAP

and

addr

ess

trans

port

optio

ns a

nd im

prov

ed p

atro

nage

of

any

conc

erns

whe

re p

ossib

le

peop

le w

ith a

dis

abilit

y

Fund

ing

Ong

oing

Se

rvic

eAc

tivel

y se

ek g

rant

fund

ing

for p

roje

cts

An in

crea

se in

ser

vice

s in

frast

ruct

ure

and

52

14

Faci

litie

s an

dop

portu

nitie

s pr

ovid

er

whi

ch e

ncou

rage

acc

ess

and

incl

usio

n in

activ

ities

that

ens

ure

incl

usiv

enes

s an

dSe

rvic

esLe

ader

th

e co

mm

unity

ac

cess

ibilit

y fo

r peo

ple

who

exp

erie

nce

Com

mun

itydi

sabi

lity

thei

r fam

ilies

and

care

rs

Dev

elop

men

t and

Enga

gem

ent

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ng

Acce

ssib

le e

vent

s O

ngoi

ng

Serv

ice

Form

alis

e a

12 m

onth

tria

l pro

gram

Incr

ease

in th

e nu

mbe

r of e

vent

s th

at a

re2

11

5C

omm

unity

prov

ider

of

the

Even

t Ten

t w

hich

pro

mot

esac

cess

ible

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

y D

evel

opm

ent a

nd5

31

5Ad

voca

te

and

enab

les

grea

ter p

artic

ipat

ion

atEn

gage

men

t5

41

1co

mm

unity

eve

nts

of p

eopl

e an

d fa

milie

sTo

uris

m a

nd E

vent

s w

ho h

ave

a di

sabi

lity

17

18

Improving access to services through better systems and processes

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Alig

ning

Act

ion

Ong

oing

Le

ader

En

sure

that

the

DIA

P al

igns

with

This

pla

n m

eets

the

Loca

l5

31

13

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ngPl

an w

ith In

tegr

ated

the

Inte

grat

ed R

epor

ting

Fram

ing

Gov

ernm

ent D

IAP

guid

elin

eR

epor

ting

and

that

the

actio

ns in

this

Act

ion

requ

irem

ents

and

act

ions

are

Fram

ewor

k Pl

an a

re in

clud

ed in

the

(4 y

ear)

impl

emen

ted

Del

iver

y Pr

ogra

m a

nd th

e An

nual

Ope

ratio

nal P

lan

Info

rmat

ion

to th

e0

ndash 1

year

Le

ader

and

Enab

le th

e ab

ility

to p

rovi

de a

ndM

ore

peop

le a

re a

ble

to a

cces

s5

31

6 Office of the General

publ

ic

Serv

ice

rece

ive

info

rmat

ion

to a

nd fr

om th

ein

form

atio

n an

d pa

rticip

ate

in th

eir

Man

ager

Pr

ovid

er

publ

ic in

a ra

nge

of fo

rmat

s R

evie

wlo

cal c

omm

unity

and

the

affa

irs o

fpu

blic

exh

ibiti

on te

mpl

ate

to m

ake

loca

l gov

ernm

ent

clea

rer t

hat w

e ac

cept

sub

mis

sion

sin

all

form

ats

not

just

writ

ten

eg

vide

o v

oice

rec

ordi

ng

Mai

ntai

n w

ebsi

te a

cces

sibi

lity

55

18

Com

mun

icat

ions

(WAA

G) 2

0 A

A le

vel

Polic

ies

and

1 -2

yea

rs

Lead

erS

ervi

ceC

ounc

il inv

estig

ates

opt

ions

toR

emov

e ob

stac

les

for p

eopl

e w

ith1

31

6 St

rate

gic

Plan

ning

pr

oced

ures

Pr

ovid

er

impr

ove

unde

rsta

ndin

g of

pol

icies

and

a di

sabi

lity

to e

nabl

e ac

hiev

emen

tpr

oced

ures

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

disa

bility

of

pos

itive

and

sus

tain

able

empl

oym

ent o

utco

mes

Supporting access to meaningful employment

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Volu

ntee

ring

1 -2

yea

rs

Lead

er

Rev

iew

vol

unte

erin

g pr

oces

ses

for

Incr

ease

d ac

cess

to v

olun

teer

ing

16

13

Com

mun

ity S

ervi

ces

proc

esse

s Po

rt St

ephe

ns C

ounc

il to

ens

ure

oppo

rtuni

ties

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

that

they

are

wel

com

ing

of p

eopl

edi

sabi

lity

w

ith d

isab

ility

Rec

ruitm

ent

Ong

oing

Le

ader

C

ontin

ue to

offe

r can

dida

tes

anO

ngoi

ng e

mpl

oym

ent o

ppor

tuni

ties

51

42

Org

anis

atio

nal

proc

esse

s op

tion

to d

iscl

ose

whe

ther

or n

otfo

r peo

ple

who

hav

e a

disa

bilit

y w

ithD

evel

opm

ent

they

hav

e a

disa

bilit

y du

ring

the

Port

Step

hens

Cou

ncil

appl

icat

ion

proc

ess

so th

at C

ounc

ilar

e ab

le to

ens

ure

that

app

lican

tsw

ith a

dis

abilit

y ar

e an

d fe

elsu

ppor

ted

thro

ugho

ut th

e pr

oces

s

Attitudes and Behaviours

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Educ

atio

n fo

r sho

p0

- 1 y

ear

Advo

cate

Aw

aren

ess

and

educ

atio

nO

utco

me

is a

rais

ed a

war

enes

s of

41

24

Econ

omic

owne

rsb

usin

esse

sca

mpa

igns

targ

etin

g bu

sine

ss

the

need

s of

peo

ple

with

a d

isab

ility

Dev

elop

men

ton

acc

ess

issue

s fo

row

ners

via

Biz

Lin

k ne

twor

kac

cess

issu

espe

ople

with

disa

bility

ne

wsl

ette

rs a

nd b

usin

ess

cham

bers

to fo

ster

and

enc

oura

ge th

efo

llow

ing

initi

ativ

es

bull D

evel

op c

ompa

nion

car

d fri

endl

yin

itiat

ive

whi

ch e

nabl

es fr

ee e

ntry

to c

erta

in v

enue

sev

ents

for

care

rs to

acc

ompa

ny p

eopl

e w

itha

disa

bilit

y

1-2

year

s Ad

voca

te

bull Pr

efer

red

empl

oyer

aw

ards

for

41

24

Econ

omic

disa

bilit

y ac

cess

ible

wor

kpla

ce

Dev

elop

men

t

Sta

ff ar

e su

pp

orte

d a

nd h

ave

gre

ater

know

led

ge

of th

e va

riety

of n

eed

s of

peo

ple

with

a d

isab

ility

and

the

need

for i

nclu

sion

Staf

f aw

aren

ess

of1

-2 y

ears

Le

ader

To

pro

vide

train

ing

for C

ounc

il sta

ffSt

aff a

re s

uppo

rted

and

have

51

42

Org

anis

atio

nal

the

need

s of

peo

ple

on h

ow to

wor

k w

ith a

nd u

nder

stan

dgr

eate

r kno

wle

dge

of th

e va

riety

of

Dev

elop

men

tw

ith d

isab

ility

peop

le w

ith d

isabi

lity th

roug

h C

ounc

ilsne

eds

of p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

y an

d

The

prio

rity

timef

ram

e ra

ting

indi

cate

s th

at a

Hig

h pr

iorit

y sh

ould

be

com

plet

ed w

ithin

1 y

ear

Med

ium

prio

rity

with

in 2

yea

rs a

nd L

ow p

riorit

y w

ithin

3 to

4 y

ears

Wor

kpla

ce E

quity

amp D

ivers

ityC

omm

ittee

and

Gui

de (a

ttach

ed)

the

need

for i

nclu

sion

19

Governance monitoring and evaulation To ensure implementation of the Plan an internal working group made up of stakeholders who have responsibility for implementing actions with the plan will be ongoing The working group will meet quarterly to discuss the Action Plan and linkages to both current and future projects and programs including

bull Each new capital works project will consider disability improvements to inclusion and accessibility within the Project Management Plan scoping and procurement document (in addition to Disability Discrimination Act compliance) Improvements for consideration include Location of the

proposed project and Improvements to carpark access to

and from kerb ramp location and availability and pathwayrsquos etc that enable more seamless connectivity

Progress of the plan will be monitored and implementation of actions within the Plan will be reported through a range of governance processes including

bull Six monthly reporting to Councils Executive Leadership team and Council

bull Operational Plan annual reporting as part of the Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework

bull Annual Report bull End of Term Reporting bull Customer satisfaction annual survey and

reporting To enable effective measurement and monitoring of actions within the plan the Port Stephens Customer Satisfaction Survey will include a section within the survey of questions that people who experience disability their families carers and people who work in the disability sector can elect to answer

20 Port Stephens Council

Conclusion Port Stephens Council has a strong commitment to enhancing life experience of people with a disability in the Local Government Area

In developing the Disability Inclusion Action Plan Port Stephens Council has built on the strengths of existing Council resources Council structurestaff plans policies and the local closely connected community by consulting with a broad range of stakeholders

The priorities identified above reflect Council values and principles The individual objectives once approved by Council are to be included in the 2017-2021 Delivery Program and the Annual Operational Plans for each of those four (4) years Within the Integrated and Strategic Planning framework the responsibility reporting and resourcing for the objectives will be defined

Draw together diverse interests and strive towards attaining greater consensus on sustainable outcomes for the local government area

ACTION PLANDisability Inclusion

21

understanding of your requirements and helpful (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

11a Please provide details of your experiences with Council staff

12 Any other comments

Appendix 1 DIAP Survey 1 What is your age 2 What suburb do you live in

(Required) 3 Gender 4 Language used at home 5 Are you a carer or a person with

disability (Choose all that apply) a Carer b Person with disability c Family member

6 Do you think the Port Stephens Community is welcoming of people with disabilities Eg businesses shops etc (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

6a Please give us some examples of positive or negative experiences you have had

7 Have you encountered any problems barriers or issues in using transport options (Choose all that apply) a Walking or wheelchair use b Local buses c Electric Scooter d Other

7a Please give us some examples of positive or negative experiences you have had

8 Do you think facilities and services are accessible and inclusive in Port Stephens a Councilrsquos Administration Building Yes No b Community centres Yes No c Events Yes No d Libraries Yes No e Parks Yes No f Pools Yes No g Other Yes No

22 Port Stephens Council

8a Can you give us any examples for improvements

9 Do you find Councilrsquos information publications accessible

Website Yes No Newsletters Yes No

9a Do you have suggestions for improvements

10 Would you like to see an improvement in online services through Councilrsquos website such as the electronic payment of rates andor fees and charges (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

11 Do you find Council staff at all of its locations and facilities approachable

Appendix 2 community consultation Results from consultation and the survey The areas identified for improvement by were framed around the four priority areas the Port Stephens community are (in order for an inclusive community Liveable of priority) communities Attitudes and behaviours Employment and Systems and processes

Liveable Communities

Focus Area Comments Foot pathsramps ldquoFootpathsramps ndash uneven rough need ramps to access

roads need lighting on paths and stairs need more footpaths wider footpaths some ramps too steeprdquo

ldquoAll new kerb ramps should have no step between the bottom of the ramp and the gutterroad The small step that is still mostly used at the bottom of curb ramps is completely unnecessary (it doesnrsquot improve water flow in the gutter as some people think it does) but it makes it harder for a wheelchair user even if the step is only 2cm or less The same argument applies to drivewaysrdquo

ACTION PLAN

Accessibility to ldquoCluttered walkways access to beaches (wheelchair accessible eventsactivities ramps) Braille on signage audio description at places of shops sporting interest Henderson Park upgrade (steep steps to pontoon facilities parks no disability parking) access to pontoons for fishing (Karuah

good example of how to do it) Wider access passageways and doorways (eg some places have double doors but keep one door locked eg Salamander library)rdquo

Provision of venues ldquoLack of disability services in parks (eg Liberty swingswing services events with 5-point harness) lack of covered areas in parks (many

sun-sensitive due to medication plus rain cover) hydrotherapy pool fences around parks disability friendly slide at parks audio loop neededrdquo

ldquoI would like to see more programs that support carers and the families of people with disabilities in the Port Stephens Local Government Area as their (sic) simply isnrsquot enough I would also like more programs to support people with disabilities so that as a community we can start supporting each other through the hardship of living with a disabilityrdquo

Disability Inclusion 23

Focus Area Comments Public toilets ldquoThere are lack of amenities in disabled toilets (eg adults who

need help changing continence aids hoists in toilets) need more (eg Nelson Bay)rdquo

ldquoDisabled toilets do not cater for older persons with a disability who require nappy changing facilities It is not nice to change on the floor of a disabled toilet and parents room tables are too smallrdquo

Parking ldquoThere is a lack of disabled parking some disabled parks are not wheelchair friendlyrdquo

ldquoSubstandard pavement surfaces for walker frames and mobility scooters Lack of disability parking spaces at Soldiers Point Boat ramp and Salamander Bay wharf and various other areas within the Port Stephens areardquo

Public transport ldquoInfrastructure improvements for more and better transport limited timetables too many transfers to get to destination want regular community bus (low cost or for free)rdquo

Attitudes and Behaviours

Focus Area Comments Respectful and It should be noted that most people reported positive encounters inclusive community with the public and council staff One comment stated ldquocould and services improve empathy and understanding from public on what it is

like to have a disabilityrdquo

ldquoHearing impaired when asked to speak slower shop people yell and pull faces as if trying to mouth out each word very embarrassingrdquo

ldquoStaring commentingrdquo

Public education ldquoEducation for people in shops about disability disabled amenitiesfacilities being used by public (change-rooms toilets parking) but consideration needed so as not to discriminate against those who do not ldquoappearrdquo to have a disabilityrdquo

It should be noted that most people reported positive encounters with the public and council staff

24 Port Stephens Council

Employment

Focus Area Comments No issues identified however it was acknowledged in internal communication with staff that Council could lead the way in more employment of people with a disability this could include recruitment processes which are lsquomore welcomingrsquo and encourage people to apply for positions It also was acknowledged that Council policies procedures systems and processes could be reviewed for lsquoeasy readrsquo format

Systems and Processes

Focus Area Comments Range of information dissemination

Promotion and awareness of activitesevents services

ldquoNot everyone gets newspaper so send information in other ways (emailed with rates) need to consider information dissemination for people with hearing and vision impairedrdquo

ldquoI have rarely seen a Council newsletter Also the website needs to be cleaner clearer more navigable and user friendlyrdquo

ldquoLeft-aligning text might seem like a visual imposition to the sighted person but this simple change is the difference between being able to read for people who are blind or who have low visionrdquo

ldquoEye level display for people using wheelchairsrdquo

Some people were confused or unaware of services amenities available to them

In some areas ldquoFor those of us who get their bills via email it would be great if we were emailed regularly about items on public exhibition etc to replace what other residents would see in your adds in the Examinerrdquo

ldquoMore information areas to access helprdquo

ldquoDidnrsquot know you had a newsletterrdquo

Consulation on council infrastructure

Respondents welcomed the Council distributing this survey for comment but others felt more consideration of disability issues was needed

ldquoPlanning doesnrsquot seem to include disabled accessibility issues for new projectsrdquo

ldquoConsideration of people who are blind or low vision in future planning ie Braille on all signage (or on poles or mounts for elevated signage) Audio description at places of interest geographical cultural or historical significance Blind people miss out on our beautiful views they deserve to be catered to with regard to what else PS has to offer Infrastructure improvements that support more and better public transport to Port Stephensrdquo

Disabilit y Inclusion ACTION PLAN 25

Do you think the Port Stephens Community is welcoming of people with disabilities Eg businesses shops etc Most people felt Port Stephens is welcoming (68)

Have you encountered any problems barriers or issues in using transport options

68

0 10 20 30 40 50

Electric Scooter

Walking or wheelchair use

Local buses

Other

Do you think facilities and services are accessible and inclusive in Port Stephens

Focus Area Yes No

Councils Administration Building 57 6

Community centres 53 8

Events 36 21

Libraries 60 2

Parks 38 27

Pools 43 15

Other 18 13

26 Port Stephens Council

Do you find Councilrsquos information publications accessible

Focus area website

Would you like to see an improvement in online services through Councilrsquos website such as the electronic payment of rates and or fees and charges

Do you find Council staff at all of its locations and facilities approachable understanding of your requirements and helpful

Most comments in this section indicated council staff was very helpful and polite

Any other comments

Items for improvement (in order of priority)

Yes 36

Yes 55

Yes 48

No 6

No 18

No 11

1 Provision of venues services events 2 Roadscrossings 3 Footpathsramps 4 Public toilets 5 Public education The following summary outlines the priorities identified across all questions of the survey

ACTION PLANDisabilit y Inclusion

27

App

endi

x 3

Func

tions

ser

vice

s an

d as

sets

Function Area Community Services Sector

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Man

ager

Ngi

oka

Com

mun

ityH

ortic

ultu

ral

Serv

ices

Th

erap

yC

entre

Volu

ntee

r wor

kfor

ce o

f up

to80

0 p

rovi

sion

of lsquo

whe

el in

whe

el o

utrsquo g

arba

ge c

olle

ctio

nfo

r peo

ple

with

dis

abilit

y liv

ing

at h

ome

Pro

visi

on o

fpr

ogra

ms

for c

hild

ren

with

addi

tiona

l nee

ds a

t Out

side

of S

choo

l Hou

rs C

are

Chi

ldre

nsrsquo a

ctiv

ity V

an a

ndFa

mily

Day

Car

e P

rovi

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dev

el-

Educ

atio

n an

d Em

ploy

-N

AID

OC

wee

k Y

outh

opm

ent p

roje

cts

men

t Int

erag

ency

wee

k c

omm

unity

aw

ards

Cou

ncil

run

com

mun

ityev

ents

are

acc

essi

ble

Gra

nt g

uide

lines

sup

port

proj

ects

that

enc

oura

geac

cess

and

incl

usio

n

Stre

ngth

en C

ounc

ilrsquos w

ebsit

eC

omm

unity

Dire

ctor

y se

ctio

n on

DIA

P ag

encie

sEn

sure

355

com

mitt

ees

cons

ider

acc

ess

and

inclu

sion

whe

n co

nsid

erin

g pr

ogra

ms

Ensu

re c

omm

unity

eng

agem

ent

proj

ects

enc

oura

ge a

cces

s an

din

clusio

n

Function Area General Managers Office

Staff

Respon-

sibility

Facilities infrastructure

Provision

of Goods

or ser-

vices

Infor-

mation

Direc-

tory

Partners

and agen-

cy collab-

oration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Committees

of Council

Gov

erna

nce

Com

mun

ity P

roje

cts

gran

tResource

Man

ager

W

ard

Fund

sM

ayor

al fu

nds

Gra

nt g

uide

lines

sup

port

proj

ects

that

Enco

urag

e co

mm

unity

gro

ups

and

com

-Potential

enco

urag

e ac

cess

and

inclu

sion

mitt

ees

to u

nder

take

pro

ject

s an

d pr

o-gr

ams

to e

ncou

rage

acc

ess

and

inclu

sion

35

Disability Inclusion

ACTION PLAN

Disability InclusionInclusionDisability InclusionInclusionDisability

For more information please contact Development Services councilportstephensnswgovau | 02 4980 0255 | PORTSTEPHENSNSWGOVAU

Page 14: Port Stephens Council DIAP 2016 - facs.nsw.gov.au · In 2016, Port Stephens had a population of 64,807 at the 2016 Census. This igure is predicted to rise by up to 23,000 over the

Consultation with the community In seeking to fully understand and identify the barriers to inclusion and access and to find solutions information was sought from key stakeholders Key stakeholders are people within the Port Stephens community who identify as experiencing a disability their carersrsquo and support workers

A survey was completed and distributed within the community from November

2016 to January 2017 The period of the survey was extended over the Christmas periodschool holiday period 71 surveys completed surveys were received from the community

The following table sets out who and how the survey was distributed to key stakeholders

Stakeholder Engagement Processes Council website Surveys could be accessed through Councilrsquos website using

Engagement HQ

Council Facebook page

A link to the survey was placed on Councilrsquos Facebook page The link was lsquoboostedrsquo which meant the page connected anyone in the LGA who had clicked on anything to do with disability which significantly broadened the surveys reach

MyLink Group Advice and information about the DIAP including a link to the survey was distributed to Councils MyLink group MyLink is an email group of members including Not for Profit Groups and Non-Government Organisations (NGOs) such as disability service and support providers The MyLink email group keeps its members informed of upcoming meetings local events professional development opportunities and other important information Notifications of updates are sent to the MyLink email list weekly

Libraries Paper copies of the surveys were provided to the Tomaree and Raymond Terrace Libraries for distribution to disability groups (including disability support groups) who use the library

Media release Media release in the Port Stephens Examiner and online version of the Port Stephens Examiner

Schools Every school in the LGA was contacted via telephone and the survey and link distributed via email Schools then placed the information about the survey and the link in school community newsletters and on Facebook pages

Eagleton Ridge Respite Centre

Eagleton Ridge Respite Centre was contacted and information forwarded about the survey along with a link

Flyer Flyers were developed to help promote the project which contained information about the survey and where to access it Flyers were delivered to doctors surgeries disability service providers and Council run pools

Internal stakeholder meeting

Internal stakeholder meeting and ongoing consultation to go over elements of the DIAP

14 Port Stephens Council

Summary of priorities Returned surveys and consultation meetings presented a clear picture of priorities with suggestions and solutions Looking across all questions in the survey the following outlines the most important priorities for the Port Stephens community

1 Footpathsramps 2 Accessibility to eventsactivities

shops sporting and recreation facilities and parks

3 Provision of venues services events 4 Public toilets 5 Parking 6 Public transport 7 Public education 8 Respectful and inclusive community

and services

Some of the priorities for the community in the consultation for the DIAP were also identified in the Port Stephens Disability Action Plan 2014-2018 Furthermore the Port Stephens Integrated Plans aims to ldquomake future provisions for people with disabilities their families and carersrdquo via several actions including implementing the Disability Inclusion Action Plan

Results of the community consultation were arranged in to the DIAPrsquos four focus groups and actions were developed that align with these areas These focus areas were identified as part of extensive community consultation during development of the NSW Disability Inclusion Plan As such these focus areas became a requirement to be in all NSW agency DIAPs These actions recognise the rights of people with a disability to full and effective participation in an inclusive society the same as those without a disability The following action plan outlines Councilrsquos role and action and priority level

Results of the community consultation were arranged into the DIAPrsquos four focus groups and actions were developed that contribute a more inclusive accessible and liveable society

ACTION PLANDisability Inclusion

15

Act

ion

plan

ning

Liveable Communities

Item for

improvement Priority

Time-

frame

Coun-

cilRole

Action

Outcome

IPRRefer-

ence

Responsibility

Foot

path

s an

d1

-2 y

ears

Se

rvic

eU

nder

take

revi

ew o

f foo

tpat

hs a

nd ra

mps

Upd

ated

and

impl

emen

tatio

n of

42

13

Asse

ts

ram

ps th

roug

hout

Prov

ider

th

roug

hout

LG

A to

det

erm

ine

a pr

iorit

ised

the

Pede

stria

n Ac

cess

and

Mob

ility

LGA

appr

oach

to im

plem

enta

tion

of g

aps

Plan

con

side

rs a

nd p

riorit

ises

peo

ple

upgr

ades

and

new

foot

path

infra

stru

ctur

e

with

dis

abilit

y

0-1

year

U

pdat

ed a

nd im

plem

enta

tion

of th

e Pe

dest

rian

13

16

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ngAc

cess

and

Mob

ility

Plan

con

sider

s an

d pr

iorit

ises

peop

le w

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isabi

lity

Out

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ces

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1 -2

yea

rs

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ice

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rise

revi

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nd a

udit

Cou

ncil

build

ings

Pr

ovid

er

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out

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spa

ces

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ings

to d

eter

min

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re w

ork

isre

quire

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y m

aint

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ce a

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2- 4

yea

rs

Serv

ice

Impl

emen

t tw

o lib

erty

sw

ings

Loc

atio

nsPr

ovid

er

to b

e pr

iotis

ed in

col

labo

ratio

n w

ithSo

cial

Pla

nnin

g

Out

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ces

and

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ings

inc

ludi

ng a

cces

sto

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mai

ntai

ned

and

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lope

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ble

anin

clusiv

e co

mm

unity

for p

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e w

ith d

isabi

lity

Two

liber

ty s

win

gs a

re in

stal

led

in a

ppro

pria

telo

catio

ns s

o fa

mily

and

car

ers

of p

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e w

ithhi

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e to

acc

ess

recr

eatio

nal

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rtuni

ties

(peo

ple

in w

heel

chai

rs i

nclu

ding

adul

ts c

an e

xper

ienc

e a

sens

e of

free

dom

)

52

12

Faci

litie

s an

dSe

rvic

es

52

12

Faci

litie

s an

dSe

rvic

es

Prov

isio

n of

0 ndash

1Ad

voca

te

Dev

elop

the

Plan

of M

anag

emen

t to

The

Ngi

oka

Cen

tre is

man

aged

and

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rate

d 1

31

1 Fa

cilit

ies

and

prog

ram

s an

dye

ars

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rmin

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rmal

ise

futu

re lo

ng te

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End

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ur F

ound

atio

n by

way

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se

rvic

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atus

e of

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land

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giok

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ort S

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Ong

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ham

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n Aq

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Con

tinua

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of S

aila

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and

ong

oing

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ess

to1

31

2 C

omm

unity

Ser

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ader

R

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ve fo

r use

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ith a

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Ong

oing

Se

rvic

eO

ngoi

ng p

rovi

sion

of w

heel

in w

heel

out

The

Blue

Dot

Ser

vice

13

13

Com

mun

ity S

ervi

ces

Lead

er

garb

age

bin

serv

ice

(Blu

e D

ot S

ervi

ce)

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

y liv

ing

at h

ome

Ong

oing

O

ngoi

ng a

cces

s to

chi

ldre

ns

serv

ices

13

14

Com

mun

ity S

ervi

ces

prog

ram

s fo

r chi

ldre

n w

ith a

dditio

nal n

eeds

at O

utsid

e Sc

hool

Hou

rs C

are

(Ray

mon

dTe

rrace

and

Med

owie

) P

ort S

teph

ens

Activ

ity V

an a

nd F

amily

Day

Car

e

16

Ong

oing

Se

rvic

eO

ngoi

ng p

rovi

sion

and

exp

ansi

on o

fIn

crea

sed

awar

enes

s an

d su

ppor

t for

peo

ple

13

15

Com

mun

ity S

ervi

ces

Prov

ider

as

sist

ive

and

adap

tive

tech

nolo

gyw

ith a

dis

abilit

y an

d in

crea

sed

livea

bilit

y

Cus

tom

er R

elat

ions

incl

udin

gbull

Audi

o re

ad n

avig

ator

sbull

Zoom

text

scr

een

read

er s

oftw

are

bull La

rge

prin

t boo

ksbull

Audi

o bo

oks

Publ

ic to

ilets

2

ndash 4

year

s

Serv

ice

Audi

t of p

ublic

toile

ts to

iden

tify

loca

tions

Impr

oved

acc

essib

ility

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

disa

bility

52

14

Faci

litie

s an

dPr

ovid

er

whe

re a

dult

chan

ge fa

cilit

ies

for p

eopl

ean

d as

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nce

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arer

s c

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Serv

ices

w

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abilit

y ar

e w

arra

nted

- or

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gh n

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an area could be modified to cater for

peop

le w

ith a

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h ne

ed d

isab

ility

durin

gFo

rwar

d W

orks

Pla

n

Advo

cate

Po

rt St

ephe

ns d

isab

ility

acce

ss to

ilets

are

incl

uded

on

the

Aust

ralia

n Pu

blic

Toile

trsquos s

oftw

are

appl

icat

ion

Dis

abilit

y pa

rkin

g1

-2 y

ears

Se

rvic

eR

evie

w d

isab

ility

park

ing

spac

es a

ssp

aces

thro

ugho

utPr

ovid

er identified to ensure compliance against

the

LGA

curre

nt s

tand

ards

and

or

relo

catin

g to

meet compliance (via traffic committee)

1 -2

yea

rs

At re

view

upd

ate

Plan

s of

Man

agem

ent

to in

clud

e di

scus

sion

of d

isab

ility

park

ing

and

impr

ovin

g ac

cess

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y be

twee

ndi

sabi

lity

park

ing

par

ks a

nd d

isab

ility

acce

ssib

le to

ilets

Incr

ease

in c

ompl

iant

dis

abilit

y pa

rkin

g so

52

14

Faci

litie

s an

d As

sets

pe

ople

who

exp

erie

nce

disa

bilit

y ca

n en

joy

am

ore

seam

less

exp

erie

nce

that

is n

avig

able

and

man

agea

ble

ther

eby

bein

g m

ore

incl

usiv

ean

d va

lue

addi

ng

52

14

Fa

cilit

ies

and

Asse

ts

Publ

ic tr

ansp

ort

1 -2

yea

rs

Advo

cate

M

eet w

ith p

ublic

tran

spor

t pro

vider

s to

Impr

oved

legi

bilit

y an

d ac

cess

to p

ublic

13

16

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ngpr

ovid

e fe

edba

ck fr

om D

IAP

and

addr

ess

trans

port

optio

ns a

nd im

prov

ed p

atro

nage

of

any

conc

erns

whe

re p

ossib

le

peop

le w

ith a

dis

abilit

y

Fund

ing

Ong

oing

Se

rvic

eAc

tivel

y se

ek g

rant

fund

ing

for p

roje

cts

An in

crea

se in

ser

vice

s in

frast

ruct

ure

and

52

14

Faci

litie

s an

dop

portu

nitie

s pr

ovid

er

whi

ch e

ncou

rage

acc

ess

and

incl

usio

n in

activ

ities

that

ens

ure

incl

usiv

enes

s an

dSe

rvic

esLe

ader

th

e co

mm

unity

ac

cess

ibilit

y fo

r peo

ple

who

exp

erie

nce

Com

mun

itydi

sabi

lity

thei

r fam

ilies

and

care

rs

Dev

elop

men

t and

Enga

gem

ent

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ng

Acce

ssib

le e

vent

s O

ngoi

ng

Serv

ice

Form

alis

e a

12 m

onth

tria

l pro

gram

Incr

ease

in th

e nu

mbe

r of e

vent

s th

at a

re2

11

5C

omm

unity

prov

ider

of

the

Even

t Ten

t w

hich

pro

mot

esac

cess

ible

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

y D

evel

opm

ent a

nd5

31

5Ad

voca

te

and

enab

les

grea

ter p

artic

ipat

ion

atEn

gage

men

t5

41

1co

mm

unity

eve

nts

of p

eopl

e an

d fa

milie

sTo

uris

m a

nd E

vent

s w

ho h

ave

a di

sabi

lity

17

18

Improving access to services through better systems and processes

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Alig

ning

Act

ion

Ong

oing

Le

ader

En

sure

that

the

DIA

P al

igns

with

This

pla

n m

eets

the

Loca

l5

31

13

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ngPl

an w

ith In

tegr

ated

the

Inte

grat

ed R

epor

ting

Fram

ing

Gov

ernm

ent D

IAP

guid

elin

eR

epor

ting

and

that

the

actio

ns in

this

Act

ion

requ

irem

ents

and

act

ions

are

Fram

ewor

k Pl

an a

re in

clud

ed in

the

(4 y

ear)

impl

emen

ted

Del

iver

y Pr

ogra

m a

nd th

e An

nual

Ope

ratio

nal P

lan

Info

rmat

ion

to th

e0

ndash 1

year

Le

ader

and

Enab

le th

e ab

ility

to p

rovi

de a

ndM

ore

peop

le a

re a

ble

to a

cces

s5

31

6 Office of the General

publ

ic

Serv

ice

rece

ive

info

rmat

ion

to a

nd fr

om th

ein

form

atio

n an

d pa

rticip

ate

in th

eir

Man

ager

Pr

ovid

er

publ

ic in

a ra

nge

of fo

rmat

s R

evie

wlo

cal c

omm

unity

and

the

affa

irs o

fpu

blic

exh

ibiti

on te

mpl

ate

to m

ake

loca

l gov

ernm

ent

clea

rer t

hat w

e ac

cept

sub

mis

sion

sin

all

form

ats

not

just

writ

ten

eg

vide

o v

oice

rec

ordi

ng

Mai

ntai

n w

ebsi

te a

cces

sibi

lity

55

18

Com

mun

icat

ions

(WAA

G) 2

0 A

A le

vel

Polic

ies

and

1 -2

yea

rs

Lead

erS

ervi

ceC

ounc

il inv

estig

ates

opt

ions

toR

emov

e ob

stac

les

for p

eopl

e w

ith1

31

6 St

rate

gic

Plan

ning

pr

oced

ures

Pr

ovid

er

impr

ove

unde

rsta

ndin

g of

pol

icies

and

a di

sabi

lity

to e

nabl

e ac

hiev

emen

tpr

oced

ures

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

disa

bility

of

pos

itive

and

sus

tain

able

empl

oym

ent o

utco

mes

Supporting access to meaningful employment

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Volu

ntee

ring

1 -2

yea

rs

Lead

er

Rev

iew

vol

unte

erin

g pr

oces

ses

for

Incr

ease

d ac

cess

to v

olun

teer

ing

16

13

Com

mun

ity S

ervi

ces

proc

esse

s Po

rt St

ephe

ns C

ounc

il to

ens

ure

oppo

rtuni

ties

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

that

they

are

wel

com

ing

of p

eopl

edi

sabi

lity

w

ith d

isab

ility

Rec

ruitm

ent

Ong

oing

Le

ader

C

ontin

ue to

offe

r can

dida

tes

anO

ngoi

ng e

mpl

oym

ent o

ppor

tuni

ties

51

42

Org

anis

atio

nal

proc

esse

s op

tion

to d

iscl

ose

whe

ther

or n

otfo

r peo

ple

who

hav

e a

disa

bilit

y w

ithD

evel

opm

ent

they

hav

e a

disa

bilit

y du

ring

the

Port

Step

hens

Cou

ncil

appl

icat

ion

proc

ess

so th

at C

ounc

ilar

e ab

le to

ens

ure

that

app

lican

tsw

ith a

dis

abilit

y ar

e an

d fe

elsu

ppor

ted

thro

ugho

ut th

e pr

oces

s

Attitudes and Behaviours

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Educ

atio

n fo

r sho

p0

- 1 y

ear

Advo

cate

Aw

aren

ess

and

educ

atio

nO

utco

me

is a

rais

ed a

war

enes

s of

41

24

Econ

omic

owne

rsb

usin

esse

sca

mpa

igns

targ

etin

g bu

sine

ss

the

need

s of

peo

ple

with

a d

isab

ility

Dev

elop

men

ton

acc

ess

issue

s fo

row

ners

via

Biz

Lin

k ne

twor

kac

cess

issu

espe

ople

with

disa

bility

ne

wsl

ette

rs a

nd b

usin

ess

cham

bers

to fo

ster

and

enc

oura

ge th

efo

llow

ing

initi

ativ

es

bull D

evel

op c

ompa

nion

car

d fri

endl

yin

itiat

ive

whi

ch e

nabl

es fr

ee e

ntry

to c

erta

in v

enue

sev

ents

for

care

rs to

acc

ompa

ny p

eopl

e w

itha

disa

bilit

y

1-2

year

s Ad

voca

te

bull Pr

efer

red

empl

oyer

aw

ards

for

41

24

Econ

omic

disa

bilit

y ac

cess

ible

wor

kpla

ce

Dev

elop

men

t

Sta

ff ar

e su

pp

orte

d a

nd h

ave

gre

ater

know

led

ge

of th

e va

riety

of n

eed

s of

peo

ple

with

a d

isab

ility

and

the

need

for i

nclu

sion

Staf

f aw

aren

ess

of1

-2 y

ears

Le

ader

To

pro

vide

train

ing

for C

ounc

il sta

ffSt

aff a

re s

uppo

rted

and

have

51

42

Org

anis

atio

nal

the

need

s of

peo

ple

on h

ow to

wor

k w

ith a

nd u

nder

stan

dgr

eate

r kno

wle

dge

of th

e va

riety

of

Dev

elop

men

tw

ith d

isab

ility

peop

le w

ith d

isabi

lity th

roug

h C

ounc

ilsne

eds

of p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

y an

d

The

prio

rity

timef

ram

e ra

ting

indi

cate

s th

at a

Hig

h pr

iorit

y sh

ould

be

com

plet

ed w

ithin

1 y

ear

Med

ium

prio

rity

with

in 2

yea

rs a

nd L

ow p

riorit

y w

ithin

3 to

4 y

ears

Wor

kpla

ce E

quity

amp D

ivers

ityC

omm

ittee

and

Gui

de (a

ttach

ed)

the

need

for i

nclu

sion

19

Governance monitoring and evaulation To ensure implementation of the Plan an internal working group made up of stakeholders who have responsibility for implementing actions with the plan will be ongoing The working group will meet quarterly to discuss the Action Plan and linkages to both current and future projects and programs including

bull Each new capital works project will consider disability improvements to inclusion and accessibility within the Project Management Plan scoping and procurement document (in addition to Disability Discrimination Act compliance) Improvements for consideration include Location of the

proposed project and Improvements to carpark access to

and from kerb ramp location and availability and pathwayrsquos etc that enable more seamless connectivity

Progress of the plan will be monitored and implementation of actions within the Plan will be reported through a range of governance processes including

bull Six monthly reporting to Councils Executive Leadership team and Council

bull Operational Plan annual reporting as part of the Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework

bull Annual Report bull End of Term Reporting bull Customer satisfaction annual survey and

reporting To enable effective measurement and monitoring of actions within the plan the Port Stephens Customer Satisfaction Survey will include a section within the survey of questions that people who experience disability their families carers and people who work in the disability sector can elect to answer

20 Port Stephens Council

Conclusion Port Stephens Council has a strong commitment to enhancing life experience of people with a disability in the Local Government Area

In developing the Disability Inclusion Action Plan Port Stephens Council has built on the strengths of existing Council resources Council structurestaff plans policies and the local closely connected community by consulting with a broad range of stakeholders

The priorities identified above reflect Council values and principles The individual objectives once approved by Council are to be included in the 2017-2021 Delivery Program and the Annual Operational Plans for each of those four (4) years Within the Integrated and Strategic Planning framework the responsibility reporting and resourcing for the objectives will be defined

Draw together diverse interests and strive towards attaining greater consensus on sustainable outcomes for the local government area

ACTION PLANDisability Inclusion

21

understanding of your requirements and helpful (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

11a Please provide details of your experiences with Council staff

12 Any other comments

Appendix 1 DIAP Survey 1 What is your age 2 What suburb do you live in

(Required) 3 Gender 4 Language used at home 5 Are you a carer or a person with

disability (Choose all that apply) a Carer b Person with disability c Family member

6 Do you think the Port Stephens Community is welcoming of people with disabilities Eg businesses shops etc (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

6a Please give us some examples of positive or negative experiences you have had

7 Have you encountered any problems barriers or issues in using transport options (Choose all that apply) a Walking or wheelchair use b Local buses c Electric Scooter d Other

7a Please give us some examples of positive or negative experiences you have had

8 Do you think facilities and services are accessible and inclusive in Port Stephens a Councilrsquos Administration Building Yes No b Community centres Yes No c Events Yes No d Libraries Yes No e Parks Yes No f Pools Yes No g Other Yes No

22 Port Stephens Council

8a Can you give us any examples for improvements

9 Do you find Councilrsquos information publications accessible

Website Yes No Newsletters Yes No

9a Do you have suggestions for improvements

10 Would you like to see an improvement in online services through Councilrsquos website such as the electronic payment of rates andor fees and charges (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

11 Do you find Council staff at all of its locations and facilities approachable

Appendix 2 community consultation Results from consultation and the survey The areas identified for improvement by were framed around the four priority areas the Port Stephens community are (in order for an inclusive community Liveable of priority) communities Attitudes and behaviours Employment and Systems and processes

Liveable Communities

Focus Area Comments Foot pathsramps ldquoFootpathsramps ndash uneven rough need ramps to access

roads need lighting on paths and stairs need more footpaths wider footpaths some ramps too steeprdquo

ldquoAll new kerb ramps should have no step between the bottom of the ramp and the gutterroad The small step that is still mostly used at the bottom of curb ramps is completely unnecessary (it doesnrsquot improve water flow in the gutter as some people think it does) but it makes it harder for a wheelchair user even if the step is only 2cm or less The same argument applies to drivewaysrdquo

ACTION PLAN

Accessibility to ldquoCluttered walkways access to beaches (wheelchair accessible eventsactivities ramps) Braille on signage audio description at places of shops sporting interest Henderson Park upgrade (steep steps to pontoon facilities parks no disability parking) access to pontoons for fishing (Karuah

good example of how to do it) Wider access passageways and doorways (eg some places have double doors but keep one door locked eg Salamander library)rdquo

Provision of venues ldquoLack of disability services in parks (eg Liberty swingswing services events with 5-point harness) lack of covered areas in parks (many

sun-sensitive due to medication plus rain cover) hydrotherapy pool fences around parks disability friendly slide at parks audio loop neededrdquo

ldquoI would like to see more programs that support carers and the families of people with disabilities in the Port Stephens Local Government Area as their (sic) simply isnrsquot enough I would also like more programs to support people with disabilities so that as a community we can start supporting each other through the hardship of living with a disabilityrdquo

Disability Inclusion 23

Focus Area Comments Public toilets ldquoThere are lack of amenities in disabled toilets (eg adults who

need help changing continence aids hoists in toilets) need more (eg Nelson Bay)rdquo

ldquoDisabled toilets do not cater for older persons with a disability who require nappy changing facilities It is not nice to change on the floor of a disabled toilet and parents room tables are too smallrdquo

Parking ldquoThere is a lack of disabled parking some disabled parks are not wheelchair friendlyrdquo

ldquoSubstandard pavement surfaces for walker frames and mobility scooters Lack of disability parking spaces at Soldiers Point Boat ramp and Salamander Bay wharf and various other areas within the Port Stephens areardquo

Public transport ldquoInfrastructure improvements for more and better transport limited timetables too many transfers to get to destination want regular community bus (low cost or for free)rdquo

Attitudes and Behaviours

Focus Area Comments Respectful and It should be noted that most people reported positive encounters inclusive community with the public and council staff One comment stated ldquocould and services improve empathy and understanding from public on what it is

like to have a disabilityrdquo

ldquoHearing impaired when asked to speak slower shop people yell and pull faces as if trying to mouth out each word very embarrassingrdquo

ldquoStaring commentingrdquo

Public education ldquoEducation for people in shops about disability disabled amenitiesfacilities being used by public (change-rooms toilets parking) but consideration needed so as not to discriminate against those who do not ldquoappearrdquo to have a disabilityrdquo

It should be noted that most people reported positive encounters with the public and council staff

24 Port Stephens Council

Employment

Focus Area Comments No issues identified however it was acknowledged in internal communication with staff that Council could lead the way in more employment of people with a disability this could include recruitment processes which are lsquomore welcomingrsquo and encourage people to apply for positions It also was acknowledged that Council policies procedures systems and processes could be reviewed for lsquoeasy readrsquo format

Systems and Processes

Focus Area Comments Range of information dissemination

Promotion and awareness of activitesevents services

ldquoNot everyone gets newspaper so send information in other ways (emailed with rates) need to consider information dissemination for people with hearing and vision impairedrdquo

ldquoI have rarely seen a Council newsletter Also the website needs to be cleaner clearer more navigable and user friendlyrdquo

ldquoLeft-aligning text might seem like a visual imposition to the sighted person but this simple change is the difference between being able to read for people who are blind or who have low visionrdquo

ldquoEye level display for people using wheelchairsrdquo

Some people were confused or unaware of services amenities available to them

In some areas ldquoFor those of us who get their bills via email it would be great if we were emailed regularly about items on public exhibition etc to replace what other residents would see in your adds in the Examinerrdquo

ldquoMore information areas to access helprdquo

ldquoDidnrsquot know you had a newsletterrdquo

Consulation on council infrastructure

Respondents welcomed the Council distributing this survey for comment but others felt more consideration of disability issues was needed

ldquoPlanning doesnrsquot seem to include disabled accessibility issues for new projectsrdquo

ldquoConsideration of people who are blind or low vision in future planning ie Braille on all signage (or on poles or mounts for elevated signage) Audio description at places of interest geographical cultural or historical significance Blind people miss out on our beautiful views they deserve to be catered to with regard to what else PS has to offer Infrastructure improvements that support more and better public transport to Port Stephensrdquo

Disabilit y Inclusion ACTION PLAN 25

Do you think the Port Stephens Community is welcoming of people with disabilities Eg businesses shops etc Most people felt Port Stephens is welcoming (68)

Have you encountered any problems barriers or issues in using transport options

68

0 10 20 30 40 50

Electric Scooter

Walking or wheelchair use

Local buses

Other

Do you think facilities and services are accessible and inclusive in Port Stephens

Focus Area Yes No

Councils Administration Building 57 6

Community centres 53 8

Events 36 21

Libraries 60 2

Parks 38 27

Pools 43 15

Other 18 13

26 Port Stephens Council

Do you find Councilrsquos information publications accessible

Focus area website

Would you like to see an improvement in online services through Councilrsquos website such as the electronic payment of rates and or fees and charges

Do you find Council staff at all of its locations and facilities approachable understanding of your requirements and helpful

Most comments in this section indicated council staff was very helpful and polite

Any other comments

Items for improvement (in order of priority)

Yes 36

Yes 55

Yes 48

No 6

No 18

No 11

1 Provision of venues services events 2 Roadscrossings 3 Footpathsramps 4 Public toilets 5 Public education The following summary outlines the priorities identified across all questions of the survey

ACTION PLANDisabilit y Inclusion

27

App

endi

x 3

Func

tions

ser

vice

s an

d as

sets

Function Area Community Services Sector

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Man

ager

Ngi

oka

Com

mun

ityH

ortic

ultu

ral

Serv

ices

Th

erap

yC

entre

Volu

ntee

r wor

kfor

ce o

f up

to80

0 p

rovi

sion

of lsquo

whe

el in

whe

el o

utrsquo g

arba

ge c

olle

ctio

nfo

r peo

ple

with

dis

abilit

y liv

ing

at h

ome

Pro

visi

on o

fpr

ogra

ms

for c

hild

ren

with

addi

tiona

l nee

ds a

t Out

side

of S

choo

l Hou

rs C

are

Chi

ldre

nsrsquo a

ctiv

ity V

an a

ndFa

mily

Day

Car

e P

rovi

sion

of la

rge

prin

t boo

ks t

alki

ngbo

oks

and

audi

o an

d vi

sual

navi

gatio

n ai

ds a

t lib

rarie

sLe

ar to

sw

im p

rogr

ams

atco

unci

l aqu

atic

cen

tres

Info

rmat

ion

on w

ebsi

te re

Leas

e of

Gra

ham

stow

nVo

lunt

eer s

trate

gy35

5vo

lunt

eers

Aqua

tic R

eser

ve fo

r use

by

Part

A an

d Pa

rt B

com

mitt

ees

Saila

bilit

y (P

SC le

ase

the

Larg

e te

xt fo

rmat

ting

onla

nd fr

om H

unte

r Wat

er a

ndw

ebsi

te

Saila

bilit

y su

b-le

ase

the

land

of P

SC)

Link

s to

vol

unte

er re

sour

ces

in J

ob a

genc

ies

TAF

Eot

her a

reas

bus

ines

ses

etc

univ

ersi

ties

sch

ools

Brai

lle a

nd la

rge

font

com

pute

rs

Rev

iew

pol

icie

spr

oced

ures

toen

sure

they

are

lsquoeas

y re

adrsquo f

orm

at

Busi

ness

lead

ersh

ipto

enh

ance

Ngi

oka

as a

mul

ti-pu

rpos

ece

ntre

and

to p

rom

ote

and

alig

n w

ith N

DIS

pers

onal

pla

ns

28

Function Area Community Services ndash Library Services

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Resource

Libr

ary

Civ

il Ass

ets

Serv

ices

Sect

ion

Man

ager

M

anag

erC

omm

unity

and

Rec

reat

ion

Assets Officer

Paid

Lib

rary

Sta

ff x

24C

asua

l Lib

rary

Sta

ff x

11Li

brar

y Vo

lunt

eers

x 5

5As

sist

ive

Adap

tive

tech

nolo

gy(A

udio

Rea

d na

viga

tors

Zoo

mTe

xt s

cree

n re

ader

sof

twar

ela

rge

prin

t boo

ks a

udio

boo

ks

IInfo

rmat

ion

on a

ll Li

brar

ySe

rvic

es re

late

d to

ser

vice

spr

ogra

ms

and

activ

ities

ndashdi

spla

yed

in b

ranc

hes

via

(flyerspostersTV monitors)

and

on

bull Fa

cebo

ok W

ebsi

tebull

Scho

ol N

ewsl

ette

rs W

hatrsquos

on in

our

Bac

kyar

dbull

PS E

xam

iner

bull N

ews

of th

e Ar

ea (T

eaG

arde

ns N

elso

n Ba

y an

dM

edow

ie)

Thou

Wal

la S

choo

ls a

sC

omm

uniti

es C

entre

New

cast

le R

egio

n Li

brar

y C

o-op

erat

ive

Cen

tral E

ast Z

one

(Reg

iona

lLi

brar

ies

Gro

up)

Publ

ic L

ibra

ries

NSW

Hun

ter W

EAH

isto

rical

and

Fam

ily H

isto

rySo

ciet

ies

RT

Art S

pace

Gro

upR

eal F

utur

es F

ound

atio

n

Inte

rnet

Usa

ge P

olic

yW

aivi

ng O

verd

ueC

harg

esSo

cial

Med

ia P

olic

yLi

brar

y U

ser

Gui

delin

esPS

C L

ibra

ry B

roch

ure

New

cast

le re

gion

Libr

ary

Broc

hure

Volu

ntee

r Pos

ition

Des

crip

tions

and

Han

dboo

kH

isto

rical

Soc

iety

Fa

mily

His

tory

Gro

upAg

reem

ents

Wor

k H

ealth

and

Safe

tyC

omm

ittee

WH

S R

ep-

rese

ntat

ives

Com

mitt

eeW

orkp

lace

Equi

ty a

ndD

iver

sity

Com

mitt

eeC

onsu

ltativ

eC

omm

ittee

Her

itage

Advi

sory

Com

mitt

ee

Dis

able

d to

ilets

do

not c

ater

for o

lder

per

sons

with

a d

isab

ility

who

req

uire

nap

py

chan

gin

g fa

cilit

ies

It is

not

nic

e to

cha

nge

on th

e flo

orof

a d

isab

led

toile

t and

par

ents

room

tab

les

are

too

smal

l

29

Function Area Assets Section

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Asse

t Sec

tion

Man

ager

C

omm

unity

land

man

age-

men

t pu

blic

toile

ts p

arks

pl

aygr

ound

sre

serv

es

fore

shor

es

mar

ine

ac-

cess

spo

rting

fields sports

faci

litie

sco

mm

unity

build

ings

co

mm

unity

halls

sig

nage

Mai

ntai

n an

d up

grad

e pu

blic

Asse

ts re

gist

er c

ondi

tion

Gov

ernm

ent a

genc

ies

gra

ntVa

rious

pla

ns o

fsp

aces

fac

ilitie

s a

sset

s an

dra

ting

syst

em

fund

ing

sche

mes

pro

perty

Management (specific

plac

es in

line

with

legi

slat

ive

deve

lope

rs c

omm

unity

and

gene

ric)

Cou

ncil

Ope

ns S

pace

Stra

tegy

requ

irem

ents

and

com

mun

itygr

oups

int

eres

t gro

ups

polic

ies

Man

agem

ent

(und

erw

ay)

need

s D

irect

ives

Spor

ts C

oun-

cils

355

Com

-m

ittee

sC

omm

unity

grou

ps P

arks

and

Res

erve

sC

omm

ittee

s

Ensu

reth

at th

ede

sign

and

cons

truct

ion

of n

ewfa

cilit

ies

and

infra

stru

ctur

eis

con

side

rate

to li

mite

dac

cess

com

mun

itym

embe

rs

Ensu

re th

at u

pgra

des

and

mai

nten

ance

to c

omm

unity

faci

litie

s ar

e al

igne

d w

ithpr

iorit

ies

for i

nclu

sion

Prep

are

the

Ope

n Sp

ace

Stra

tegy

pla

ns fo

r upg

rade

s to

com

mun

ity fa

cilit

ies

and

area

sw

here

infra

stru

ctur

e ne

eds

to b

e co

nsid

erat

e of

lim

ited

acce

ss c

omm

unity

mem

bers

Ensu

re 3

55 c

omm

ittee

sco

nsid

er a

cces

s an

d in

clus

ion

whe

n th

inki

ng a

bout

pro

gram

sEn

sure

355

Com

mitt

ees

use

fund

s pr

ovid

ed b

y C

ounc

il to

cons

ider

acc

ess

and

incl

usio

nw

hen

build

ing

infra

stru

ctur

e

Activ

ely

seek

gra

nt fu

ndin

gfor projects identified within

the

Ope

ns S

pace

Stra

tegy

in o

rder

to im

prov

e ac

cess

to in

clus

ion

to c

omm

unity

faci

litie

s an

d ar

eas

thro

ugho

utth

e LG

A

Rev

iew

and

upd

ate

exis

ting

plan

s an

dpo

licie

s in

line

with

legi

slat

ive

chan

ges

and identified needs

of th

e co

mm

unity

O

pens

Spa

ceSt

rate

gy (u

nder

way

)

Enco

urag

eco

mm

unity

grou

ps a

ndco

mm

ittee

to u

nder

take

proj

ects

and

prog

ram

s to

enco

urag

eac

cess

incl

usio

n

30

Function Area Human Resource Sector

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners

and agency

collaboration

Plans and Policies

Brochures documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

PotentialResource

Man

ager

Rec

ruitm

ent o

f new

sta

ffIn

form

atio

n on

web

site

in

Rec

ruitm

ent p

olic

ypr

oced

ures

Vo

lunt

eer

Hum

anhard file and on intra net

35

5 C

om-

Management of staffing

Res

ourc

es

mitt

ees

(leav

e A

war

d pr

ovis

ions

su

pera

nnua

tion

etc)

Rec

ruitm

ent p

roce

sses

toIn

form

atio

n in

rang

e of

Job

netw

ork

Rec

ruitm

ent p

roce

ss w

hich

isbe

wel

com

ing

of p

eopl

e w

ithfo

rmat

s in

clud

ing

soci

alag

enci

es

wel

com

ing

of p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

ydi

sabi

lity

olde

r peo

ple

med

ia e

tc P

lus

help

for

busi

ness

es

(adv

ertis

ing

whi

ch w

elco

mes

peo

ple

thos

e w

ho h

ave

a di

sabi

lity

with

a d

isab

ility

+ pr

oces

ses

whi

char

e no

t too

com

plex

Function Area Environment amp PlanningPublic Domain and Services

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners

and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Man

ager

Toile

ts p

ublic

spa

ces

(ieM

aint

ain

and

upgr

ade

publ

icAs

sets

regi

ster

Dev

elop

ers

Publ

ic S

pace

sU

rban

adv

isor

yEn

viro

nmen

tparks sporting fields) and

spac

es a

nd p

lace

s in

line

with

polic

y co

mm

ittee

Ope

n Sp

aces

stra

tegy

and

Plan

ning

bu

ildin

gs (c

omm

unity

hal

ls)

legi

slat

ion

Ensu

re th

at u

pgra

des

toO

pen

Spac

es s

trate

gy to

publ

ic s

pace

s ar

e al

igne

d w

ithin

clud

e up

grad

es to

are

aspr

iorit

ies

for i

nclu

sion

w

here

infra

stru

ctur

e ne

eds

tobe

mor

e in

clus

ive

(ie ra

mps

inm

ajor

hal

ls th

at a

re u

sed)

31

Function Area Communications

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision

of Goods or

services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Com

mun

ica-

Web

site

Pr

ovid

eIn

form

atio

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35

Disability Inclusion

ACTION PLAN

Disability InclusionInclusionDisability InclusionInclusionDisability

For more information please contact Development Services councilportstephensnswgovau | 02 4980 0255 | PORTSTEPHENSNSWGOVAU

Page 15: Port Stephens Council DIAP 2016 - facs.nsw.gov.au · In 2016, Port Stephens had a population of 64,807 at the 2016 Census. This igure is predicted to rise by up to 23,000 over the

Summary of priorities Returned surveys and consultation meetings presented a clear picture of priorities with suggestions and solutions Looking across all questions in the survey the following outlines the most important priorities for the Port Stephens community

1 Footpathsramps 2 Accessibility to eventsactivities

shops sporting and recreation facilities and parks

3 Provision of venues services events 4 Public toilets 5 Parking 6 Public transport 7 Public education 8 Respectful and inclusive community

and services

Some of the priorities for the community in the consultation for the DIAP were also identified in the Port Stephens Disability Action Plan 2014-2018 Furthermore the Port Stephens Integrated Plans aims to ldquomake future provisions for people with disabilities their families and carersrdquo via several actions including implementing the Disability Inclusion Action Plan

Results of the community consultation were arranged in to the DIAPrsquos four focus groups and actions were developed that align with these areas These focus areas were identified as part of extensive community consultation during development of the NSW Disability Inclusion Plan As such these focus areas became a requirement to be in all NSW agency DIAPs These actions recognise the rights of people with a disability to full and effective participation in an inclusive society the same as those without a disability The following action plan outlines Councilrsquos role and action and priority level

Results of the community consultation were arranged into the DIAPrsquos four focus groups and actions were developed that contribute a more inclusive accessible and liveable society

ACTION PLANDisability Inclusion

15

Act

ion

plan

ning

Liveable Communities

Item for

improvement Priority

Time-

frame

Coun-

cilRole

Action

Outcome

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ence

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Upd

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to p

ublic

13

16

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ngpr

ovid

e fe

edba

ck fr

om D

IAP

and

addr

ess

trans

port

optio

ns a

nd im

prov

ed p

atro

nage

of

any

conc

erns

whe

re p

ossib

le

peop

le w

ith a

dis

abilit

y

Fund

ing

Ong

oing

Se

rvic

eAc

tivel

y se

ek g

rant

fund

ing

for p

roje

cts

An in

crea

se in

ser

vice

s in

frast

ruct

ure

and

52

14

Faci

litie

s an

dop

portu

nitie

s pr

ovid

er

whi

ch e

ncou

rage

acc

ess

and

incl

usio

n in

activ

ities

that

ens

ure

incl

usiv

enes

s an

dSe

rvic

esLe

ader

th

e co

mm

unity

ac

cess

ibilit

y fo

r peo

ple

who

exp

erie

nce

Com

mun

itydi

sabi

lity

thei

r fam

ilies

and

care

rs

Dev

elop

men

t and

Enga

gem

ent

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ng

Acce

ssib

le e

vent

s O

ngoi

ng

Serv

ice

Form

alis

e a

12 m

onth

tria

l pro

gram

Incr

ease

in th

e nu

mbe

r of e

vent

s th

at a

re2

11

5C

omm

unity

prov

ider

of

the

Even

t Ten

t w

hich

pro

mot

esac

cess

ible

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

y D

evel

opm

ent a

nd5

31

5Ad

voca

te

and

enab

les

grea

ter p

artic

ipat

ion

atEn

gage

men

t5

41

1co

mm

unity

eve

nts

of p

eopl

e an

d fa

milie

sTo

uris

m a

nd E

vent

s w

ho h

ave

a di

sabi

lity

17

18

Improving access to services through better systems and processes

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Alig

ning

Act

ion

Ong

oing

Le

ader

En

sure

that

the

DIA

P al

igns

with

This

pla

n m

eets

the

Loca

l5

31

13

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ngPl

an w

ith In

tegr

ated

the

Inte

grat

ed R

epor

ting

Fram

ing

Gov

ernm

ent D

IAP

guid

elin

eR

epor

ting

and

that

the

actio

ns in

this

Act

ion

requ

irem

ents

and

act

ions

are

Fram

ewor

k Pl

an a

re in

clud

ed in

the

(4 y

ear)

impl

emen

ted

Del

iver

y Pr

ogra

m a

nd th

e An

nual

Ope

ratio

nal P

lan

Info

rmat

ion

to th

e0

ndash 1

year

Le

ader

and

Enab

le th

e ab

ility

to p

rovi

de a

ndM

ore

peop

le a

re a

ble

to a

cces

s5

31

6 Office of the General

publ

ic

Serv

ice

rece

ive

info

rmat

ion

to a

nd fr

om th

ein

form

atio

n an

d pa

rticip

ate

in th

eir

Man

ager

Pr

ovid

er

publ

ic in

a ra

nge

of fo

rmat

s R

evie

wlo

cal c

omm

unity

and

the

affa

irs o

fpu

blic

exh

ibiti

on te

mpl

ate

to m

ake

loca

l gov

ernm

ent

clea

rer t

hat w

e ac

cept

sub

mis

sion

sin

all

form

ats

not

just

writ

ten

eg

vide

o v

oice

rec

ordi

ng

Mai

ntai

n w

ebsi

te a

cces

sibi

lity

55

18

Com

mun

icat

ions

(WAA

G) 2

0 A

A le

vel

Polic

ies

and

1 -2

yea

rs

Lead

erS

ervi

ceC

ounc

il inv

estig

ates

opt

ions

toR

emov

e ob

stac

les

for p

eopl

e w

ith1

31

6 St

rate

gic

Plan

ning

pr

oced

ures

Pr

ovid

er

impr

ove

unde

rsta

ndin

g of

pol

icies

and

a di

sabi

lity

to e

nabl

e ac

hiev

emen

tpr

oced

ures

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

disa

bility

of

pos

itive

and

sus

tain

able

empl

oym

ent o

utco

mes

Supporting access to meaningful employment

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Volu

ntee

ring

1 -2

yea

rs

Lead

er

Rev

iew

vol

unte

erin

g pr

oces

ses

for

Incr

ease

d ac

cess

to v

olun

teer

ing

16

13

Com

mun

ity S

ervi

ces

proc

esse

s Po

rt St

ephe

ns C

ounc

il to

ens

ure

oppo

rtuni

ties

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

that

they

are

wel

com

ing

of p

eopl

edi

sabi

lity

w

ith d

isab

ility

Rec

ruitm

ent

Ong

oing

Le

ader

C

ontin

ue to

offe

r can

dida

tes

anO

ngoi

ng e

mpl

oym

ent o

ppor

tuni

ties

51

42

Org

anis

atio

nal

proc

esse

s op

tion

to d

iscl

ose

whe

ther

or n

otfo

r peo

ple

who

hav

e a

disa

bilit

y w

ithD

evel

opm

ent

they

hav

e a

disa

bilit

y du

ring

the

Port

Step

hens

Cou

ncil

appl

icat

ion

proc

ess

so th

at C

ounc

ilar

e ab

le to

ens

ure

that

app

lican

tsw

ith a

dis

abilit

y ar

e an

d fe

elsu

ppor

ted

thro

ugho

ut th

e pr

oces

s

Attitudes and Behaviours

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Educ

atio

n fo

r sho

p0

- 1 y

ear

Advo

cate

Aw

aren

ess

and

educ

atio

nO

utco

me

is a

rais

ed a

war

enes

s of

41

24

Econ

omic

owne

rsb

usin

esse

sca

mpa

igns

targ

etin

g bu

sine

ss

the

need

s of

peo

ple

with

a d

isab

ility

Dev

elop

men

ton

acc

ess

issue

s fo

row

ners

via

Biz

Lin

k ne

twor

kac

cess

issu

espe

ople

with

disa

bility

ne

wsl

ette

rs a

nd b

usin

ess

cham

bers

to fo

ster

and

enc

oura

ge th

efo

llow

ing

initi

ativ

es

bull D

evel

op c

ompa

nion

car

d fri

endl

yin

itiat

ive

whi

ch e

nabl

es fr

ee e

ntry

to c

erta

in v

enue

sev

ents

for

care

rs to

acc

ompa

ny p

eopl

e w

itha

disa

bilit

y

1-2

year

s Ad

voca

te

bull Pr

efer

red

empl

oyer

aw

ards

for

41

24

Econ

omic

disa

bilit

y ac

cess

ible

wor

kpla

ce

Dev

elop

men

t

Sta

ff ar

e su

pp

orte

d a

nd h

ave

gre

ater

know

led

ge

of th

e va

riety

of n

eed

s of

peo

ple

with

a d

isab

ility

and

the

need

for i

nclu

sion

Staf

f aw

aren

ess

of1

-2 y

ears

Le

ader

To

pro

vide

train

ing

for C

ounc

il sta

ffSt

aff a

re s

uppo

rted

and

have

51

42

Org

anis

atio

nal

the

need

s of

peo

ple

on h

ow to

wor

k w

ith a

nd u

nder

stan

dgr

eate

r kno

wle

dge

of th

e va

riety

of

Dev

elop

men

tw

ith d

isab

ility

peop

le w

ith d

isabi

lity th

roug

h C

ounc

ilsne

eds

of p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

y an

d

The

prio

rity

timef

ram

e ra

ting

indi

cate

s th

at a

Hig

h pr

iorit

y sh

ould

be

com

plet

ed w

ithin

1 y

ear

Med

ium

prio

rity

with

in 2

yea

rs a

nd L

ow p

riorit

y w

ithin

3 to

4 y

ears

Wor

kpla

ce E

quity

amp D

ivers

ityC

omm

ittee

and

Gui

de (a

ttach

ed)

the

need

for i

nclu

sion

19

Governance monitoring and evaulation To ensure implementation of the Plan an internal working group made up of stakeholders who have responsibility for implementing actions with the plan will be ongoing The working group will meet quarterly to discuss the Action Plan and linkages to both current and future projects and programs including

bull Each new capital works project will consider disability improvements to inclusion and accessibility within the Project Management Plan scoping and procurement document (in addition to Disability Discrimination Act compliance) Improvements for consideration include Location of the

proposed project and Improvements to carpark access to

and from kerb ramp location and availability and pathwayrsquos etc that enable more seamless connectivity

Progress of the plan will be monitored and implementation of actions within the Plan will be reported through a range of governance processes including

bull Six monthly reporting to Councils Executive Leadership team and Council

bull Operational Plan annual reporting as part of the Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework

bull Annual Report bull End of Term Reporting bull Customer satisfaction annual survey and

reporting To enable effective measurement and monitoring of actions within the plan the Port Stephens Customer Satisfaction Survey will include a section within the survey of questions that people who experience disability their families carers and people who work in the disability sector can elect to answer

20 Port Stephens Council

Conclusion Port Stephens Council has a strong commitment to enhancing life experience of people with a disability in the Local Government Area

In developing the Disability Inclusion Action Plan Port Stephens Council has built on the strengths of existing Council resources Council structurestaff plans policies and the local closely connected community by consulting with a broad range of stakeholders

The priorities identified above reflect Council values and principles The individual objectives once approved by Council are to be included in the 2017-2021 Delivery Program and the Annual Operational Plans for each of those four (4) years Within the Integrated and Strategic Planning framework the responsibility reporting and resourcing for the objectives will be defined

Draw together diverse interests and strive towards attaining greater consensus on sustainable outcomes for the local government area

ACTION PLANDisability Inclusion

21

understanding of your requirements and helpful (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

11a Please provide details of your experiences with Council staff

12 Any other comments

Appendix 1 DIAP Survey 1 What is your age 2 What suburb do you live in

(Required) 3 Gender 4 Language used at home 5 Are you a carer or a person with

disability (Choose all that apply) a Carer b Person with disability c Family member

6 Do you think the Port Stephens Community is welcoming of people with disabilities Eg businesses shops etc (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

6a Please give us some examples of positive or negative experiences you have had

7 Have you encountered any problems barriers or issues in using transport options (Choose all that apply) a Walking or wheelchair use b Local buses c Electric Scooter d Other

7a Please give us some examples of positive or negative experiences you have had

8 Do you think facilities and services are accessible and inclusive in Port Stephens a Councilrsquos Administration Building Yes No b Community centres Yes No c Events Yes No d Libraries Yes No e Parks Yes No f Pools Yes No g Other Yes No

22 Port Stephens Council

8a Can you give us any examples for improvements

9 Do you find Councilrsquos information publications accessible

Website Yes No Newsletters Yes No

9a Do you have suggestions for improvements

10 Would you like to see an improvement in online services through Councilrsquos website such as the electronic payment of rates andor fees and charges (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

11 Do you find Council staff at all of its locations and facilities approachable

Appendix 2 community consultation Results from consultation and the survey The areas identified for improvement by were framed around the four priority areas the Port Stephens community are (in order for an inclusive community Liveable of priority) communities Attitudes and behaviours Employment and Systems and processes

Liveable Communities

Focus Area Comments Foot pathsramps ldquoFootpathsramps ndash uneven rough need ramps to access

roads need lighting on paths and stairs need more footpaths wider footpaths some ramps too steeprdquo

ldquoAll new kerb ramps should have no step between the bottom of the ramp and the gutterroad The small step that is still mostly used at the bottom of curb ramps is completely unnecessary (it doesnrsquot improve water flow in the gutter as some people think it does) but it makes it harder for a wheelchair user even if the step is only 2cm or less The same argument applies to drivewaysrdquo

ACTION PLAN

Accessibility to ldquoCluttered walkways access to beaches (wheelchair accessible eventsactivities ramps) Braille on signage audio description at places of shops sporting interest Henderson Park upgrade (steep steps to pontoon facilities parks no disability parking) access to pontoons for fishing (Karuah

good example of how to do it) Wider access passageways and doorways (eg some places have double doors but keep one door locked eg Salamander library)rdquo

Provision of venues ldquoLack of disability services in parks (eg Liberty swingswing services events with 5-point harness) lack of covered areas in parks (many

sun-sensitive due to medication plus rain cover) hydrotherapy pool fences around parks disability friendly slide at parks audio loop neededrdquo

ldquoI would like to see more programs that support carers and the families of people with disabilities in the Port Stephens Local Government Area as their (sic) simply isnrsquot enough I would also like more programs to support people with disabilities so that as a community we can start supporting each other through the hardship of living with a disabilityrdquo

Disability Inclusion 23

Focus Area Comments Public toilets ldquoThere are lack of amenities in disabled toilets (eg adults who

need help changing continence aids hoists in toilets) need more (eg Nelson Bay)rdquo

ldquoDisabled toilets do not cater for older persons with a disability who require nappy changing facilities It is not nice to change on the floor of a disabled toilet and parents room tables are too smallrdquo

Parking ldquoThere is a lack of disabled parking some disabled parks are not wheelchair friendlyrdquo

ldquoSubstandard pavement surfaces for walker frames and mobility scooters Lack of disability parking spaces at Soldiers Point Boat ramp and Salamander Bay wharf and various other areas within the Port Stephens areardquo

Public transport ldquoInfrastructure improvements for more and better transport limited timetables too many transfers to get to destination want regular community bus (low cost or for free)rdquo

Attitudes and Behaviours

Focus Area Comments Respectful and It should be noted that most people reported positive encounters inclusive community with the public and council staff One comment stated ldquocould and services improve empathy and understanding from public on what it is

like to have a disabilityrdquo

ldquoHearing impaired when asked to speak slower shop people yell and pull faces as if trying to mouth out each word very embarrassingrdquo

ldquoStaring commentingrdquo

Public education ldquoEducation for people in shops about disability disabled amenitiesfacilities being used by public (change-rooms toilets parking) but consideration needed so as not to discriminate against those who do not ldquoappearrdquo to have a disabilityrdquo

It should be noted that most people reported positive encounters with the public and council staff

24 Port Stephens Council

Employment

Focus Area Comments No issues identified however it was acknowledged in internal communication with staff that Council could lead the way in more employment of people with a disability this could include recruitment processes which are lsquomore welcomingrsquo and encourage people to apply for positions It also was acknowledged that Council policies procedures systems and processes could be reviewed for lsquoeasy readrsquo format

Systems and Processes

Focus Area Comments Range of information dissemination

Promotion and awareness of activitesevents services

ldquoNot everyone gets newspaper so send information in other ways (emailed with rates) need to consider information dissemination for people with hearing and vision impairedrdquo

ldquoI have rarely seen a Council newsletter Also the website needs to be cleaner clearer more navigable and user friendlyrdquo

ldquoLeft-aligning text might seem like a visual imposition to the sighted person but this simple change is the difference between being able to read for people who are blind or who have low visionrdquo

ldquoEye level display for people using wheelchairsrdquo

Some people were confused or unaware of services amenities available to them

In some areas ldquoFor those of us who get their bills via email it would be great if we were emailed regularly about items on public exhibition etc to replace what other residents would see in your adds in the Examinerrdquo

ldquoMore information areas to access helprdquo

ldquoDidnrsquot know you had a newsletterrdquo

Consulation on council infrastructure

Respondents welcomed the Council distributing this survey for comment but others felt more consideration of disability issues was needed

ldquoPlanning doesnrsquot seem to include disabled accessibility issues for new projectsrdquo

ldquoConsideration of people who are blind or low vision in future planning ie Braille on all signage (or on poles or mounts for elevated signage) Audio description at places of interest geographical cultural or historical significance Blind people miss out on our beautiful views they deserve to be catered to with regard to what else PS has to offer Infrastructure improvements that support more and better public transport to Port Stephensrdquo

Disabilit y Inclusion ACTION PLAN 25

Do you think the Port Stephens Community is welcoming of people with disabilities Eg businesses shops etc Most people felt Port Stephens is welcoming (68)

Have you encountered any problems barriers or issues in using transport options

68

0 10 20 30 40 50

Electric Scooter

Walking or wheelchair use

Local buses

Other

Do you think facilities and services are accessible and inclusive in Port Stephens

Focus Area Yes No

Councils Administration Building 57 6

Community centres 53 8

Events 36 21

Libraries 60 2

Parks 38 27

Pools 43 15

Other 18 13

26 Port Stephens Council

Do you find Councilrsquos information publications accessible

Focus area website

Would you like to see an improvement in online services through Councilrsquos website such as the electronic payment of rates and or fees and charges

Do you find Council staff at all of its locations and facilities approachable understanding of your requirements and helpful

Most comments in this section indicated council staff was very helpful and polite

Any other comments

Items for improvement (in order of priority)

Yes 36

Yes 55

Yes 48

No 6

No 18

No 11

1 Provision of venues services events 2 Roadscrossings 3 Footpathsramps 4 Public toilets 5 Public education The following summary outlines the priorities identified across all questions of the survey

ACTION PLANDisabilit y Inclusion

27

App

endi

x 3

Func

tions

ser

vice

s an

d as

sets

Function Area Community Services Sector

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Man

ager

Ngi

oka

Com

mun

ityH

ortic

ultu

ral

Serv

ices

Th

erap

yC

entre

Volu

ntee

r wor

kfor

ce o

f up

to80

0 p

rovi

sion

of lsquo

whe

el in

whe

el o

utrsquo g

arba

ge c

olle

ctio

nfo

r peo

ple

with

dis

abilit

y liv

ing

at h

ome

Pro

visi

on o

fpr

ogra

ms

for c

hild

ren

with

addi

tiona

l nee

ds a

t Out

side

of S

choo

l Hou

rs C

are

Chi

ldre

nsrsquo a

ctiv

ity V

an a

ndFa

mily

Day

Car

e P

rovi

sion

of la

rge

prin

t boo

ks t

alki

ngbo

oks

and

audi

o an

d vi

sual

navi

gatio

n ai

ds a

t lib

rarie

sLe

ar to

sw

im p

rogr

ams

atco

unci

l aqu

atic

cen

tres

Info

rmat

ion

on w

ebsi

te re

Leas

e of

Gra

ham

stow

nVo

lunt

eer s

trate

gy35

5vo

lunt

eers

Aqua

tic R

eser

ve fo

r use

by

Part

A an

d Pa

rt B

com

mitt

ees

Saila

bilit

y (P

SC le

ase

the

Larg

e te

xt fo

rmat

ting

onla

nd fr

om H

unte

r Wat

er a

ndw

ebsi

te

Saila

bilit

y su

b-le

ase

the

land

of P

SC)

Link

s to

vol

unte

er re

sour

ces

in J

ob a

genc

ies

TAF

Eot

her a

reas

bus

ines

ses

etc

univ

ersi

ties

sch

ools

Brai

lle a

nd la

rge

font

com

pute

rs

Rev

iew

pol

icie

spr

oced

ures

toen

sure

they

are

lsquoeas

y re

adrsquo f

orm

at

Busi

ness

lead

ersh

ipto

enh

ance

Ngi

oka

as a

mul

ti-pu

rpos

ece

ntre

and

to p

rom

ote

and

alig

n w

ith N

DIS

pers

onal

pla

ns

28

Function Area Community Services ndash Library Services

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Resource

Libr

ary

Civ

il Ass

ets

Serv

ices

Sect

ion

Man

ager

M

anag

erC

omm

unity

and

Rec

reat

ion

Assets Officer

Paid

Lib

rary

Sta

ff x

24C

asua

l Lib

rary

Sta

ff x

11Li

brar

y Vo

lunt

eers

x 5

5As

sist

ive

Adap

tive

tech

nolo

gy(A

udio

Rea

d na

viga

tors

Zoo

mTe

xt s

cree

n re

ader

sof

twar

ela

rge

prin

t boo

ks a

udio

boo

ks

IInfo

rmat

ion

on a

ll Li

brar

ySe

rvic

es re

late

d to

ser

vice

spr

ogra

ms

and

activ

ities

ndashdi

spla

yed

in b

ranc

hes

via

(flyerspostersTV monitors)

and

on

bull Fa

cebo

ok W

ebsi

tebull

Scho

ol N

ewsl

ette

rs W

hatrsquos

on in

our

Bac

kyar

dbull

PS E

xam

iner

bull N

ews

of th

e Ar

ea (T

eaG

arde

ns N

elso

n Ba

y an

dM

edow

ie)

Thou

Wal

la S

choo

ls a

sC

omm

uniti

es C

entre

New

cast

le R

egio

n Li

brar

y C

o-op

erat

ive

Cen

tral E

ast Z

one

(Reg

iona

lLi

brar

ies

Gro

up)

Publ

ic L

ibra

ries

NSW

Hun

ter W

EAH

isto

rical

and

Fam

ily H

isto

rySo

ciet

ies

RT

Art S

pace

Gro

upR

eal F

utur

es F

ound

atio

n

Inte

rnet

Usa

ge P

olic

yW

aivi

ng O

verd

ueC

harg

esSo

cial

Med

ia P

olic

yLi

brar

y U

ser

Gui

delin

esPS

C L

ibra

ry B

roch

ure

New

cast

le re

gion

Libr

ary

Broc

hure

Volu

ntee

r Pos

ition

Des

crip

tions

and

Han

dboo

kH

isto

rical

Soc

iety

Fa

mily

His

tory

Gro

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Function Area Assets Section

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35

Disability Inclusion

ACTION PLAN

Disability InclusionInclusionDisability InclusionInclusionDisability

For more information please contact Development Services councilportstephensnswgovau | 02 4980 0255 | PORTSTEPHENSNSWGOVAU

Page 16: Port Stephens Council DIAP 2016 - facs.nsw.gov.au · In 2016, Port Stephens had a population of 64,807 at the 2016 Census. This igure is predicted to rise by up to 23,000 over the

Act

ion

plan

ning

Liveable Communities

Item for

improvement Priority

Time-

frame

Coun-

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Action

Outcome

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lope

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clusiv

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mm

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for p

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isabi

lity

Two

liber

ty s

win

gs a

re in

stal

led

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ppro

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telo

catio

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o fa

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and

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ers

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ithhi

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eeds

are

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nal

oppo

rtuni

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(peo

ple

in w

heel

chai

rs i

nclu

ding

adul

ts c

an e

xper

ienc

e a

sens

e of

free

dom

)

52

12

Faci

litie

s an

dSe

rvic

es

52

12

Faci

litie

s an

dSe

rvic

es

Prov

isio

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0 ndash

1Ad

voca

te

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elop

the

Plan

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anag

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tre is

man

aged

and

ope

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d 1

31

1 Fa

cilit

ies

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prog

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se

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tre to

by

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sed

for d

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DIS

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rvic

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e th

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ham

stow

n Aq

uatic

Con

tinua

tion

of S

aila

bility

and

ong

oing

acc

ess

to1

31

2 C

omm

unity

Ser

vice

sLe

ader

R

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ve fo

r use

by

Saila

bility

re

crea

tion

activ

ities

for p

eopl

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ith a

dis

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y

Ong

oing

Se

rvic

eO

ngoi

ng p

rovi

sion

of w

heel

in w

heel

out

The

Blue

Dot

Ser

vice

13

13

Com

mun

ity S

ervi

ces

Lead

er

garb

age

bin

serv

ice

(Blu

e D

ot S

ervi

ce)

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

y liv

ing

at h

ome

Ong

oing

O

ngoi

ng a

cces

s to

chi

ldre

ns

serv

ices

13

14

Com

mun

ity S

ervi

ces

prog

ram

s fo

r chi

ldre

n w

ith a

dditio

nal n

eeds

at O

utsid

e Sc

hool

Hou

rs C

are

(Ray

mon

dTe

rrace

and

Med

owie

) P

ort S

teph

ens

Activ

ity V

an a

nd F

amily

Day

Car

e

16

Ong

oing

Se

rvic

eO

ngoi

ng p

rovi

sion

and

exp

ansi

on o

fIn

crea

sed

awar

enes

s an

d su

ppor

t for

peo

ple

13

15

Com

mun

ity S

ervi

ces

Prov

ider

as

sist

ive

and

adap

tive

tech

nolo

gyw

ith a

dis

abilit

y an

d in

crea

sed

livea

bilit

y

Cus

tom

er R

elat

ions

incl

udin

gbull

Audi

o re

ad n

avig

ator

sbull

Zoom

text

scr

een

read

er s

oftw

are

bull La

rge

prin

t boo

ksbull

Audi

o bo

oks

Publ

ic to

ilets

2

ndash 4

year

s

Serv

ice

Audi

t of p

ublic

toile

ts to

iden

tify

loca

tions

Impr

oved

acc

essib

ility

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

disa

bility

52

14

Faci

litie

s an

dPr

ovid

er

whe

re a

dult

chan

ge fa

cilit

ies

for p

eopl

ean

d as

sista

nce

for c

arer

s c

arin

g fo

r peo

ple

with

Serv

ices

w

ith a

dis

abilit

y ar

e w

arra

nted

- or

whe

rehi

gh n

eeds

an area could be modified to cater for

peop

le w

ith a

hig

h ne

ed d

isab

ility

durin

gFo

rwar

d W

orks

Pla

n

Advo

cate

Po

rt St

ephe

ns d

isab

ility

acce

ss to

ilets

are

incl

uded

on

the

Aust

ralia

n Pu

blic

Toile

trsquos s

oftw

are

appl

icat

ion

Dis

abilit

y pa

rkin

g1

-2 y

ears

Se

rvic

eR

evie

w d

isab

ility

park

ing

spac

es a

ssp

aces

thro

ugho

utPr

ovid

er identified to ensure compliance against

the

LGA

curre

nt s

tand

ards

and

or

relo

catin

g to

meet compliance (via traffic committee)

1 -2

yea

rs

At re

view

upd

ate

Plan

s of

Man

agem

ent

to in

clud

e di

scus

sion

of d

isab

ility

park

ing

and

impr

ovin

g ac

cess

ibilit

y be

twee

ndi

sabi

lity

park

ing

par

ks a

nd d

isab

ility

acce

ssib

le to

ilets

Incr

ease

in c

ompl

iant

dis

abilit

y pa

rkin

g so

52

14

Faci

litie

s an

d As

sets

pe

ople

who

exp

erie

nce

disa

bilit

y ca

n en

joy

am

ore

seam

less

exp

erie

nce

that

is n

avig

able

and

man

agea

ble

ther

eby

bein

g m

ore

incl

usiv

ean

d va

lue

addi

ng

52

14

Fa

cilit

ies

and

Asse

ts

Publ

ic tr

ansp

ort

1 -2

yea

rs

Advo

cate

M

eet w

ith p

ublic

tran

spor

t pro

vider

s to

Impr

oved

legi

bilit

y an

d ac

cess

to p

ublic

13

16

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ngpr

ovid

e fe

edba

ck fr

om D

IAP

and

addr

ess

trans

port

optio

ns a

nd im

prov

ed p

atro

nage

of

any

conc

erns

whe

re p

ossib

le

peop

le w

ith a

dis

abilit

y

Fund

ing

Ong

oing

Se

rvic

eAc

tivel

y se

ek g

rant

fund

ing

for p

roje

cts

An in

crea

se in

ser

vice

s in

frast

ruct

ure

and

52

14

Faci

litie

s an

dop

portu

nitie

s pr

ovid

er

whi

ch e

ncou

rage

acc

ess

and

incl

usio

n in

activ

ities

that

ens

ure

incl

usiv

enes

s an

dSe

rvic

esLe

ader

th

e co

mm

unity

ac

cess

ibilit

y fo

r peo

ple

who

exp

erie

nce

Com

mun

itydi

sabi

lity

thei

r fam

ilies

and

care

rs

Dev

elop

men

t and

Enga

gem

ent

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ng

Acce

ssib

le e

vent

s O

ngoi

ng

Serv

ice

Form

alis

e a

12 m

onth

tria

l pro

gram

Incr

ease

in th

e nu

mbe

r of e

vent

s th

at a

re2

11

5C

omm

unity

prov

ider

of

the

Even

t Ten

t w

hich

pro

mot

esac

cess

ible

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

y D

evel

opm

ent a

nd5

31

5Ad

voca

te

and

enab

les

grea

ter p

artic

ipat

ion

atEn

gage

men

t5

41

1co

mm

unity

eve

nts

of p

eopl

e an

d fa

milie

sTo

uris

m a

nd E

vent

s w

ho h

ave

a di

sabi

lity

17

18

Improving access to services through better systems and processes

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Alig

ning

Act

ion

Ong

oing

Le

ader

En

sure

that

the

DIA

P al

igns

with

This

pla

n m

eets

the

Loca

l5

31

13

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ngPl

an w

ith In

tegr

ated

the

Inte

grat

ed R

epor

ting

Fram

ing

Gov

ernm

ent D

IAP

guid

elin

eR

epor

ting

and

that

the

actio

ns in

this

Act

ion

requ

irem

ents

and

act

ions

are

Fram

ewor

k Pl

an a

re in

clud

ed in

the

(4 y

ear)

impl

emen

ted

Del

iver

y Pr

ogra

m a

nd th

e An

nual

Ope

ratio

nal P

lan

Info

rmat

ion

to th

e0

ndash 1

year

Le

ader

and

Enab

le th

e ab

ility

to p

rovi

de a

ndM

ore

peop

le a

re a

ble

to a

cces

s5

31

6 Office of the General

publ

ic

Serv

ice

rece

ive

info

rmat

ion

to a

nd fr

om th

ein

form

atio

n an

d pa

rticip

ate

in th

eir

Man

ager

Pr

ovid

er

publ

ic in

a ra

nge

of fo

rmat

s R

evie

wlo

cal c

omm

unity

and

the

affa

irs o

fpu

blic

exh

ibiti

on te

mpl

ate

to m

ake

loca

l gov

ernm

ent

clea

rer t

hat w

e ac

cept

sub

mis

sion

sin

all

form

ats

not

just

writ

ten

eg

vide

o v

oice

rec

ordi

ng

Mai

ntai

n w

ebsi

te a

cces

sibi

lity

55

18

Com

mun

icat

ions

(WAA

G) 2

0 A

A le

vel

Polic

ies

and

1 -2

yea

rs

Lead

erS

ervi

ceC

ounc

il inv

estig

ates

opt

ions

toR

emov

e ob

stac

les

for p

eopl

e w

ith1

31

6 St

rate

gic

Plan

ning

pr

oced

ures

Pr

ovid

er

impr

ove

unde

rsta

ndin

g of

pol

icies

and

a di

sabi

lity

to e

nabl

e ac

hiev

emen

tpr

oced

ures

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

disa

bility

of

pos

itive

and

sus

tain

able

empl

oym

ent o

utco

mes

Supporting access to meaningful employment

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Volu

ntee

ring

1 -2

yea

rs

Lead

er

Rev

iew

vol

unte

erin

g pr

oces

ses

for

Incr

ease

d ac

cess

to v

olun

teer

ing

16

13

Com

mun

ity S

ervi

ces

proc

esse

s Po

rt St

ephe

ns C

ounc

il to

ens

ure

oppo

rtuni

ties

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

that

they

are

wel

com

ing

of p

eopl

edi

sabi

lity

w

ith d

isab

ility

Rec

ruitm

ent

Ong

oing

Le

ader

C

ontin

ue to

offe

r can

dida

tes

anO

ngoi

ng e

mpl

oym

ent o

ppor

tuni

ties

51

42

Org

anis

atio

nal

proc

esse

s op

tion

to d

iscl

ose

whe

ther

or n

otfo

r peo

ple

who

hav

e a

disa

bilit

y w

ithD

evel

opm

ent

they

hav

e a

disa

bilit

y du

ring

the

Port

Step

hens

Cou

ncil

appl

icat

ion

proc

ess

so th

at C

ounc

ilar

e ab

le to

ens

ure

that

app

lican

tsw

ith a

dis

abilit

y ar

e an

d fe

elsu

ppor

ted

thro

ugho

ut th

e pr

oces

s

Attitudes and Behaviours

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Educ

atio

n fo

r sho

p0

- 1 y

ear

Advo

cate

Aw

aren

ess

and

educ

atio

nO

utco

me

is a

rais

ed a

war

enes

s of

41

24

Econ

omic

owne

rsb

usin

esse

sca

mpa

igns

targ

etin

g bu

sine

ss

the

need

s of

peo

ple

with

a d

isab

ility

Dev

elop

men

ton

acc

ess

issue

s fo

row

ners

via

Biz

Lin

k ne

twor

kac

cess

issu

espe

ople

with

disa

bility

ne

wsl

ette

rs a

nd b

usin

ess

cham

bers

to fo

ster

and

enc

oura

ge th

efo

llow

ing

initi

ativ

es

bull D

evel

op c

ompa

nion

car

d fri

endl

yin

itiat

ive

whi

ch e

nabl

es fr

ee e

ntry

to c

erta

in v

enue

sev

ents

for

care

rs to

acc

ompa

ny p

eopl

e w

itha

disa

bilit

y

1-2

year

s Ad

voca

te

bull Pr

efer

red

empl

oyer

aw

ards

for

41

24

Econ

omic

disa

bilit

y ac

cess

ible

wor

kpla

ce

Dev

elop

men

t

Sta

ff ar

e su

pp

orte

d a

nd h

ave

gre

ater

know

led

ge

of th

e va

riety

of n

eed

s of

peo

ple

with

a d

isab

ility

and

the

need

for i

nclu

sion

Staf

f aw

aren

ess

of1

-2 y

ears

Le

ader

To

pro

vide

train

ing

for C

ounc

il sta

ffSt

aff a

re s

uppo

rted

and

have

51

42

Org

anis

atio

nal

the

need

s of

peo

ple

on h

ow to

wor

k w

ith a

nd u

nder

stan

dgr

eate

r kno

wle

dge

of th

e va

riety

of

Dev

elop

men

tw

ith d

isab

ility

peop

le w

ith d

isabi

lity th

roug

h C

ounc

ilsne

eds

of p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

y an

d

The

prio

rity

timef

ram

e ra

ting

indi

cate

s th

at a

Hig

h pr

iorit

y sh

ould

be

com

plet

ed w

ithin

1 y

ear

Med

ium

prio

rity

with

in 2

yea

rs a

nd L

ow p

riorit

y w

ithin

3 to

4 y

ears

Wor

kpla

ce E

quity

amp D

ivers

ityC

omm

ittee

and

Gui

de (a

ttach

ed)

the

need

for i

nclu

sion

19

Governance monitoring and evaulation To ensure implementation of the Plan an internal working group made up of stakeholders who have responsibility for implementing actions with the plan will be ongoing The working group will meet quarterly to discuss the Action Plan and linkages to both current and future projects and programs including

bull Each new capital works project will consider disability improvements to inclusion and accessibility within the Project Management Plan scoping and procurement document (in addition to Disability Discrimination Act compliance) Improvements for consideration include Location of the

proposed project and Improvements to carpark access to

and from kerb ramp location and availability and pathwayrsquos etc that enable more seamless connectivity

Progress of the plan will be monitored and implementation of actions within the Plan will be reported through a range of governance processes including

bull Six monthly reporting to Councils Executive Leadership team and Council

bull Operational Plan annual reporting as part of the Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework

bull Annual Report bull End of Term Reporting bull Customer satisfaction annual survey and

reporting To enable effective measurement and monitoring of actions within the plan the Port Stephens Customer Satisfaction Survey will include a section within the survey of questions that people who experience disability their families carers and people who work in the disability sector can elect to answer

20 Port Stephens Council

Conclusion Port Stephens Council has a strong commitment to enhancing life experience of people with a disability in the Local Government Area

In developing the Disability Inclusion Action Plan Port Stephens Council has built on the strengths of existing Council resources Council structurestaff plans policies and the local closely connected community by consulting with a broad range of stakeholders

The priorities identified above reflect Council values and principles The individual objectives once approved by Council are to be included in the 2017-2021 Delivery Program and the Annual Operational Plans for each of those four (4) years Within the Integrated and Strategic Planning framework the responsibility reporting and resourcing for the objectives will be defined

Draw together diverse interests and strive towards attaining greater consensus on sustainable outcomes for the local government area

ACTION PLANDisability Inclusion

21

understanding of your requirements and helpful (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

11a Please provide details of your experiences with Council staff

12 Any other comments

Appendix 1 DIAP Survey 1 What is your age 2 What suburb do you live in

(Required) 3 Gender 4 Language used at home 5 Are you a carer or a person with

disability (Choose all that apply) a Carer b Person with disability c Family member

6 Do you think the Port Stephens Community is welcoming of people with disabilities Eg businesses shops etc (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

6a Please give us some examples of positive or negative experiences you have had

7 Have you encountered any problems barriers or issues in using transport options (Choose all that apply) a Walking or wheelchair use b Local buses c Electric Scooter d Other

7a Please give us some examples of positive or negative experiences you have had

8 Do you think facilities and services are accessible and inclusive in Port Stephens a Councilrsquos Administration Building Yes No b Community centres Yes No c Events Yes No d Libraries Yes No e Parks Yes No f Pools Yes No g Other Yes No

22 Port Stephens Council

8a Can you give us any examples for improvements

9 Do you find Councilrsquos information publications accessible

Website Yes No Newsletters Yes No

9a Do you have suggestions for improvements

10 Would you like to see an improvement in online services through Councilrsquos website such as the electronic payment of rates andor fees and charges (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

11 Do you find Council staff at all of its locations and facilities approachable

Appendix 2 community consultation Results from consultation and the survey The areas identified for improvement by were framed around the four priority areas the Port Stephens community are (in order for an inclusive community Liveable of priority) communities Attitudes and behaviours Employment and Systems and processes

Liveable Communities

Focus Area Comments Foot pathsramps ldquoFootpathsramps ndash uneven rough need ramps to access

roads need lighting on paths and stairs need more footpaths wider footpaths some ramps too steeprdquo

ldquoAll new kerb ramps should have no step between the bottom of the ramp and the gutterroad The small step that is still mostly used at the bottom of curb ramps is completely unnecessary (it doesnrsquot improve water flow in the gutter as some people think it does) but it makes it harder for a wheelchair user even if the step is only 2cm or less The same argument applies to drivewaysrdquo

ACTION PLAN

Accessibility to ldquoCluttered walkways access to beaches (wheelchair accessible eventsactivities ramps) Braille on signage audio description at places of shops sporting interest Henderson Park upgrade (steep steps to pontoon facilities parks no disability parking) access to pontoons for fishing (Karuah

good example of how to do it) Wider access passageways and doorways (eg some places have double doors but keep one door locked eg Salamander library)rdquo

Provision of venues ldquoLack of disability services in parks (eg Liberty swingswing services events with 5-point harness) lack of covered areas in parks (many

sun-sensitive due to medication plus rain cover) hydrotherapy pool fences around parks disability friendly slide at parks audio loop neededrdquo

ldquoI would like to see more programs that support carers and the families of people with disabilities in the Port Stephens Local Government Area as their (sic) simply isnrsquot enough I would also like more programs to support people with disabilities so that as a community we can start supporting each other through the hardship of living with a disabilityrdquo

Disability Inclusion 23

Focus Area Comments Public toilets ldquoThere are lack of amenities in disabled toilets (eg adults who

need help changing continence aids hoists in toilets) need more (eg Nelson Bay)rdquo

ldquoDisabled toilets do not cater for older persons with a disability who require nappy changing facilities It is not nice to change on the floor of a disabled toilet and parents room tables are too smallrdquo

Parking ldquoThere is a lack of disabled parking some disabled parks are not wheelchair friendlyrdquo

ldquoSubstandard pavement surfaces for walker frames and mobility scooters Lack of disability parking spaces at Soldiers Point Boat ramp and Salamander Bay wharf and various other areas within the Port Stephens areardquo

Public transport ldquoInfrastructure improvements for more and better transport limited timetables too many transfers to get to destination want regular community bus (low cost or for free)rdquo

Attitudes and Behaviours

Focus Area Comments Respectful and It should be noted that most people reported positive encounters inclusive community with the public and council staff One comment stated ldquocould and services improve empathy and understanding from public on what it is

like to have a disabilityrdquo

ldquoHearing impaired when asked to speak slower shop people yell and pull faces as if trying to mouth out each word very embarrassingrdquo

ldquoStaring commentingrdquo

Public education ldquoEducation for people in shops about disability disabled amenitiesfacilities being used by public (change-rooms toilets parking) but consideration needed so as not to discriminate against those who do not ldquoappearrdquo to have a disabilityrdquo

It should be noted that most people reported positive encounters with the public and council staff

24 Port Stephens Council

Employment

Focus Area Comments No issues identified however it was acknowledged in internal communication with staff that Council could lead the way in more employment of people with a disability this could include recruitment processes which are lsquomore welcomingrsquo and encourage people to apply for positions It also was acknowledged that Council policies procedures systems and processes could be reviewed for lsquoeasy readrsquo format

Systems and Processes

Focus Area Comments Range of information dissemination

Promotion and awareness of activitesevents services

ldquoNot everyone gets newspaper so send information in other ways (emailed with rates) need to consider information dissemination for people with hearing and vision impairedrdquo

ldquoI have rarely seen a Council newsletter Also the website needs to be cleaner clearer more navigable and user friendlyrdquo

ldquoLeft-aligning text might seem like a visual imposition to the sighted person but this simple change is the difference between being able to read for people who are blind or who have low visionrdquo

ldquoEye level display for people using wheelchairsrdquo

Some people were confused or unaware of services amenities available to them

In some areas ldquoFor those of us who get their bills via email it would be great if we were emailed regularly about items on public exhibition etc to replace what other residents would see in your adds in the Examinerrdquo

ldquoMore information areas to access helprdquo

ldquoDidnrsquot know you had a newsletterrdquo

Consulation on council infrastructure

Respondents welcomed the Council distributing this survey for comment but others felt more consideration of disability issues was needed

ldquoPlanning doesnrsquot seem to include disabled accessibility issues for new projectsrdquo

ldquoConsideration of people who are blind or low vision in future planning ie Braille on all signage (or on poles or mounts for elevated signage) Audio description at places of interest geographical cultural or historical significance Blind people miss out on our beautiful views they deserve to be catered to with regard to what else PS has to offer Infrastructure improvements that support more and better public transport to Port Stephensrdquo

Disabilit y Inclusion ACTION PLAN 25

Do you think the Port Stephens Community is welcoming of people with disabilities Eg businesses shops etc Most people felt Port Stephens is welcoming (68)

Have you encountered any problems barriers or issues in using transport options

68

0 10 20 30 40 50

Electric Scooter

Walking or wheelchair use

Local buses

Other

Do you think facilities and services are accessible and inclusive in Port Stephens

Focus Area Yes No

Councils Administration Building 57 6

Community centres 53 8

Events 36 21

Libraries 60 2

Parks 38 27

Pools 43 15

Other 18 13

26 Port Stephens Council

Do you find Councilrsquos information publications accessible

Focus area website

Would you like to see an improvement in online services through Councilrsquos website such as the electronic payment of rates and or fees and charges

Do you find Council staff at all of its locations and facilities approachable understanding of your requirements and helpful

Most comments in this section indicated council staff was very helpful and polite

Any other comments

Items for improvement (in order of priority)

Yes 36

Yes 55

Yes 48

No 6

No 18

No 11

1 Provision of venues services events 2 Roadscrossings 3 Footpathsramps 4 Public toilets 5 Public education The following summary outlines the priorities identified across all questions of the survey

ACTION PLANDisabilit y Inclusion

27

App

endi

x 3

Func

tions

ser

vice

s an

d as

sets

Function Area Community Services Sector

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Man

ager

Ngi

oka

Com

mun

ityH

ortic

ultu

ral

Serv

ices

Th

erap

yC

entre

Volu

ntee

r wor

kfor

ce o

f up

to80

0 p

rovi

sion

of lsquo

whe

el in

whe

el o

utrsquo g

arba

ge c

olle

ctio

nfo

r peo

ple

with

dis

abilit

y liv

ing

at h

ome

Pro

visi

on o

fpr

ogra

ms

for c

hild

ren

with

addi

tiona

l nee

ds a

t Out

side

of S

choo

l Hou

rs C

are

Chi

ldre

nsrsquo a

ctiv

ity V

an a

ndFa

mily

Day

Car

e P

rovi

sion

of la

rge

prin

t boo

ks t

alki

ngbo

oks

and

audi

o an

d vi

sual

navi

gatio

n ai

ds a

t lib

rarie

sLe

ar to

sw

im p

rogr

ams

atco

unci

l aqu

atic

cen

tres

Info

rmat

ion

on w

ebsi

te re

Leas

e of

Gra

ham

stow

nVo

lunt

eer s

trate

gy35

5vo

lunt

eers

Aqua

tic R

eser

ve fo

r use

by

Part

A an

d Pa

rt B

com

mitt

ees

Saila

bilit

y (P

SC le

ase

the

Larg

e te

xt fo

rmat

ting

onla

nd fr

om H

unte

r Wat

er a

ndw

ebsi

te

Saila

bilit

y su

b-le

ase

the

land

of P

SC)

Link

s to

vol

unte

er re

sour

ces

in J

ob a

genc

ies

TAF

Eot

her a

reas

bus

ines

ses

etc

univ

ersi

ties

sch

ools

Brai

lle a

nd la

rge

font

com

pute

rs

Rev

iew

pol

icie

spr

oced

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toen

sure

they

are

lsquoeas

y re

adrsquo f

orm

at

Busi

ness

lead

ersh

ipto

enh

ance

Ngi

oka

as a

mul

ti-pu

rpos

ece

ntre

and

to p

rom

ote

and

alig

n w

ith N

DIS

pers

onal

pla

ns

28

Function Area Community Services ndash Library Services

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

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tees of

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Resource

Libr

ary

Civ

il Ass

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Sect

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Man

ager

M

anag

erC

omm

unity

and

Rec

reat

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Assets Officer

Paid

Lib

rary

Sta

ff x

24C

asua

l Lib

rary

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ff x

11Li

brar

y Vo

lunt

eers

x 5

5As

sist

ive

Adap

tive

tech

nolo

gy(A

udio

Rea

d na

viga

tors

Zoo

mTe

xt s

cree

n re

ader

sof

twar

ela

rge

prin

t boo

ks a

udio

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ks

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rmat

ion

on a

ll Li

brar

ySe

rvic

es re

late

d to

ser

vice

spr

ogra

ms

and

activ

ities

ndashdi

spla

yed

in b

ranc

hes

via

(flyerspostersTV monitors)

and

on

bull Fa

cebo

ok W

ebsi

tebull

Scho

ol N

ewsl

ette

rs W

hatrsquos

on in

our

Bac

kyar

dbull

PS E

xam

iner

bull N

ews

of th

e Ar

ea (T

eaG

arde

ns N

elso

n Ba

y an

dM

edow

ie)

Thou

Wal

la S

choo

ls a

sC

omm

uniti

es C

entre

New

cast

le R

egio

n Li

brar

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o-op

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tral E

ast Z

one

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iona

lLi

brar

ies

Gro

up)

Publ

ic L

ibra

ries

NSW

Hun

ter W

EAH

isto

rical

and

Fam

ily H

isto

rySo

ciet

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RT

Art S

pace

Gro

upR

eal F

utur

es F

ound

atio

n

Inte

rnet

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ge P

olic

yW

aivi

ng O

verd

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esSo

cial

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ia P

olic

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brar

y U

ser

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delin

esPS

C L

ibra

ry B

roch

ure

New

cast

le re

gion

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ary

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hure

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ntee

r Pos

ition

Des

crip

tions

and

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dboo

kH

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rical

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iety

Fa

mily

His

tory

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upAg

reem

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k H

ealth

and

Safe

tyC

omm

ittee

WH

S R

ep-

rese

ntat

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Com

mitt

eeW

orkp

lace

Equi

ty a

ndD

iver

sity

Com

mitt

eeC

onsu

ltativ

eC

omm

ittee

Her

itage

Advi

sory

Com

mitt

ee

Dis

able

d to

ilets

do

not c

ater

for o

lder

per

sons

with

a d

isab

ility

who

req

uire

nap

py

chan

gin

g fa

cilit

ies

It is

not

nic

e to

cha

nge

on th

e flo

orof

a d

isab

led

toile

t and

par

ents

room

tab

les

are

too

smal

l

29

Function Area Assets Section

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Asse

t Sec

tion

Man

ager

C

omm

unity

land

man

age-

men

t pu

blic

toile

ts p

arks

pl

aygr

ound

sre

serv

es

fore

shor

es

mar

ine

ac-

cess

spo

rting

fields sports

faci

litie

sco

mm

unity

build

ings

co

mm

unity

halls

sig

nage

Mai

ntai

n an

d up

grad

e pu

blic

Asse

ts re

gist

er c

ondi

tion

Gov

ernm

ent a

genc

ies

gra

ntVa

rious

pla

ns o

fsp

aces

fac

ilitie

s a

sset

s an

dra

ting

syst

em

fund

ing

sche

mes

pro

perty

Management (specific

plac

es in

line

with

legi

slat

ive

deve

lope

rs c

omm

unity

and

gene

ric)

Cou

ncil

Ope

ns S

pace

Stra

tegy

requ

irem

ents

and

com

mun

itygr

oups

int

eres

t gro

ups

polic

ies

Man

agem

ent

(und

erw

ay)

need

s D

irect

ives

Spor

ts C

oun-

cils

355

Com

-m

ittee

sC

omm

unity

grou

ps P

arks

and

Res

erve

sC

omm

ittee

s

Ensu

reth

at th

ede

sign

and

cons

truct

ion

of n

ewfa

cilit

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and

infra

stru

ctur

eis

con

side

rate

to li

mite

dac

cess

com

mun

itym

embe

rs

Ensu

re th

at u

pgra

des

and

mai

nten

ance

to c

omm

unity

faci

litie

s ar

e al

igne

d w

ithpr

iorit

ies

for i

nclu

sion

Prep

are

the

Ope

n Sp

ace

Stra

tegy

pla

ns fo

r upg

rade

s to

com

mun

ity fa

cilit

ies

and

area

sw

here

infra

stru

ctur

e ne

eds

to b

e co

nsid

erat

e of

lim

ited

acce

ss c

omm

unity

mem

bers

Ensu

re 3

55 c

omm

ittee

sco

nsid

er a

cces

s an

d in

clus

ion

whe

n th

inki

ng a

bout

pro

gram

sEn

sure

355

Com

mitt

ees

use

fund

s pr

ovid

ed b

y C

ounc

il to

cons

ider

acc

ess

and

incl

usio

nw

hen

build

ing

infra

stru

ctur

e

Activ

ely

seek

gra

nt fu

ndin

gfor projects identified within

the

Ope

ns S

pace

Stra

tegy

in o

rder

to im

prov

e ac

cess

to in

clus

ion

to c

omm

unity

faci

litie

s an

d ar

eas

thro

ugho

utth

e LG

A

Rev

iew

and

upd

ate

exis

ting

plan

s an

dpo

licie

s in

line

with

legi

slat

ive

chan

ges

and identified needs

of th

e co

mm

unity

O

pens

Spa

ceSt

rate

gy (u

nder

way

)

Enco

urag

eco

mm

unity

grou

ps a

ndco

mm

ittee

to u

nder

take

proj

ects

and

prog

ram

s to

enco

urag

eac

cess

incl

usio

n

30

Function Area Human Resource Sector

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners

and agency

collaboration

Plans and Policies

Brochures documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

PotentialResource

Man

ager

Rec

ruitm

ent o

f new

sta

ffIn

form

atio

n on

web

site

in

Rec

ruitm

ent p

olic

ypr

oced

ures

Vo

lunt

eer

Hum

anhard file and on intra net

35

5 C

om-

Management of staffing

Res

ourc

es

mitt

ees

(leav

e A

war

d pr

ovis

ions

su

pera

nnua

tion

etc)

Rec

ruitm

ent p

roce

sses

toIn

form

atio

n in

rang

e of

Job

netw

ork

Rec

ruitm

ent p

roce

ss w

hich

isbe

wel

com

ing

of p

eopl

e w

ithfo

rmat

s in

clud

ing

soci

alag

enci

es

wel

com

ing

of p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

ydi

sabi

lity

olde

r peo

ple

med

ia e

tc P

lus

help

for

busi

ness

es

(adv

ertis

ing

whi

ch w

elco

mes

peo

ple

thos

e w

ho h

ave

a di

sabi

lity

with

a d

isab

ility

+ pr

oces

ses

whi

char

e no

t too

com

plex

Function Area Environment amp PlanningPublic Domain and Services

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners

and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Man

ager

Toile

ts p

ublic

spa

ces

(ieM

aint

ain

and

upgr

ade

publ

icAs

sets

regi

ster

Dev

elop

ers

Publ

ic S

pace

sU

rban

adv

isor

yEn

viro

nmen

tparks sporting fields) and

spac

es a

nd p

lace

s in

line

with

polic

y co

mm

ittee

Ope

n Sp

aces

stra

tegy

and

Plan

ning

bu

ildin

gs (c

omm

unity

hal

ls)

legi

slat

ion

Ensu

re th

at u

pgra

des

toO

pen

Spac

es s

trate

gy to

publ

ic s

pace

s ar

e al

igne

d w

ithin

clud

e up

grad

es to

are

aspr

iorit

ies

for i

nclu

sion

w

here

infra

stru

ctur

e ne

eds

tobe

mor

e in

clus

ive

(ie ra

mps

inm

ajor

hal

ls th

at a

re u

sed)

31

Function Area Communications

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision

of Goods or

services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Com

mun

ica-

Web

site

Pr

ovid

eIn

form

atio

nC

omm

unic

atio

ntio

ns M

anag

er

soci

al m

edia

in

form

atio

n in

on w

ebsi

te

polic

y ha

rd c

opy

rang

e of

form

ats

Dire

ctor

y on

plan

s p

olic

ies

to th

e pu

blic

w

ebsi

tean

d pr

oce-

Larg

e te

xtdu

res

form

attin

g on

web

site

Com

mun

ityD

evel

opm

ent

and

Enga

gem

ent

Man

ager

Exhi

bitio

n Su

bmis

sion

s an

d G

rant

opp

ortu

nitie

sC

omm

unity

Dev

elop

men

t and

Eng

agem

ent p

artn

ers

impr

ovem

ents

incl

udin

gbull

MyL

ink

grou

pbull

Abor

igin

al S

trate

gic

Com

mun

itybull

Your

th p

anel

bull Bu

sine

ss g

roup

sbull

365

Com

mitt

ees

Left-

alig

ning

text

mig

ht s

eem

like

a v

isua

l im

pos

ition

to th

e si

ght

edp

erso

n b

ut th

is s

imp

le c

hang

e is

the

diff

eren

ce b

etw

een

bei

ng a

ble

tore

ad fo

r peo

ple

who

are

blin

d o

r who

hav

e lo

w v

isio

n

32

Function Area Strategy and Environment

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision

of Goods or

services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Committees of

Council

Nox

ious

wee

dH

erita

ge g

rant

sLa

ndow

ners

bus

ines

ses

and

Envi

ronm

enta

lVo

lunt

eer w

eed

cont

rol s

ervi

ces

Resource

Man

ager

Stra

tegy

and

control landfill

orga

nisa

tions

st

rate

gies

pla

nsEn

viro

nmen

tal

355

Her

itage

Com

mitt

eeEn

viro

nmen

t an

d po

licie

sgr

ants

Gra

nt g

uide

lines

Potential

supp

ort p

roje

cts

that

enco

urag

e ac

cess

and

incl

usio

n

Function Area Community Development

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-Directory

Partners

and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Committees

of Council

Potential Resource

Com

mun

ity35

5 Ad

viso

ryG

rant

Pro

gram

s ac

ross

Mai

ntai

n C

ounc

ilrsquos w

ebsi

te C

omm

unity

Com

mun

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Abor

igin

al S

trate

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Dev

elop

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ory

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ncie

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gage

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tC

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ittee

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unity

Und

erta

ke C

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unity

gra

ntSt

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Enga

gem

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mun

ity e

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mun

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emen

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ss a

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clusio

n

33

Function Area Civil Assets

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities in-

frastructure

Provision

of Goods or

services

Information-

Directory

Partners and

agency

collaboration

Plans and Policies

Brochures

documents

Committees

of Council

Potential Resource

Civ

il Ass

ets

Publ

ic tr

ansp

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Mai

ntai

n an

d up

grad

eAs

sets

regi

ster

con

ditio

nG

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nmen

t age

ncie

s g

rant

Plan

ning

infra

stru

ctur

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asse

ts a

ndra

ting

syst

em

fund

ing

sche

mes

pro

perty

Man

ager

fo

otpa

ths

sha

red

publ

ic s

pace

s in

deve

lope

rs c

omm

unity

path

s k

erb

ram

ps

line

with

legi

slat

ive

grou

ps i

nter

est g

roup

sre

quire

men

ts a

ndco

mm

unity

nee

ds

Port

Step

hens

Inte

grat

edpl

ans

(201

6-20

26)

Stra

tegi

cAs

set M

anag

emen

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Plan

Ass

essm

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f Foo

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Shel

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Stan

dard

s fo

r Acc

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Publ

ic T

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dis

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sib

ility

issu

es fo

r new

pro

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srdquo

34

Function Area Community Development

Staff

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bility

Facilities in-

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Information-

Directory

Partners

and agency

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Committees of

Council

Potential Resource

Com

mun

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5 Ad

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irect

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com

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Function Area General Managers Office

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sibility

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nce

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roje

cts

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ager

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ard

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ayor

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nds

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nt g

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ects

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ees

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nder

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d pr

o-gr

ams

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ncou

rage

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ess

and

inclu

sion

35

Disability Inclusion

ACTION PLAN

Disability InclusionInclusionDisability InclusionInclusionDisability

For more information please contact Development Services councilportstephensnswgovau | 02 4980 0255 | PORTSTEPHENSNSWGOVAU

Page 17: Port Stephens Council DIAP 2016 - facs.nsw.gov.au · In 2016, Port Stephens had a population of 64,807 at the 2016 Census. This igure is predicted to rise by up to 23,000 over the

Ong

oing

Se

rvic

eO

ngoi

ng p

rovi

sion

and

exp

ansi

on o

fIn

crea

sed

awar

enes

s an

d su

ppor

t for

peo

ple

13

15

Com

mun

ity S

ervi

ces

Prov

ider

as

sist

ive

and

adap

tive

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nolo

gyw

ith a

dis

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y an

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sed

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bilit

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elat

ions

incl

udin

gbull

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avig

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sbull

Zoom

text

scr

een

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er s

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bull La

rge

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t boo

ksbull

Audi

o bo

oks

Publ

ic to

ilets

2

ndash 4

year

s

Serv

ice

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t of p

ublic

toile

ts to

iden

tify

loca

tions

Impr

oved

acc

essib

ility

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

disa

bility

52

14

Faci

litie

s an

dPr

ovid

er

whe

re a

dult

chan

ge fa

cilit

ies

for p

eopl

ean

d as

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nce

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ices

w

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dis

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y ar

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nted

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gh n

eeds

an area could be modified to cater for

peop

le w

ith a

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isab

ility

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gFo

rwar

d W

orks

Pla

n

Advo

cate

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rt St

ephe

ns d

isab

ility

acce

ss to

ilets

are

incl

uded

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Aust

ralia

n Pu

blic

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trsquos s

oftw

are

appl

icat

ion

Dis

abilit

y pa

rkin

g1

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ears

Se

rvic

eR

evie

w d

isab

ility

park

ing

spac

es a

ssp

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ugho

utPr

ovid

er identified to ensure compliance against

the

LGA

curre

nt s

tand

ards

and

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relo

catin

g to

meet compliance (via traffic committee)

1 -2

yea

rs

At re

view

upd

ate

Plan

s of

Man

agem

ent

to in

clud

e di

scus

sion

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isab

ility

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ovin

g ac

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y be

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ndi

sabi

lity

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ing

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ks a

nd d

isab

ility

acce

ssib

le to

ilets

Incr

ease

in c

ompl

iant

dis

abilit

y pa

rkin

g so

52

14

Faci

litie

s an

d As

sets

pe

ople

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erie

nce

disa

bilit

y ca

n en

joy

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ore

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less

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avig

able

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ble

ther

eby

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g m

ore

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ean

d va

lue

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ng

52

14

Fa

cilit

ies

and

Asse

ts

Publ

ic tr

ansp

ort

1 -2

yea

rs

Advo

cate

M

eet w

ith p

ublic

tran

spor

t pro

vider

s to

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oved

legi

bilit

y an

d ac

cess

to p

ublic

13

16

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ngpr

ovid

e fe

edba

ck fr

om D

IAP

and

addr

ess

trans

port

optio

ns a

nd im

prov

ed p

atro

nage

of

any

conc

erns

whe

re p

ossib

le

peop

le w

ith a

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y

Fund

ing

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oing

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rvic

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tivel

y se

ek g

rant

fund

ing

for p

roje

cts

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crea

se in

ser

vice

s in

frast

ruct

ure

and

52

14

Faci

litie

s an

dop

portu

nitie

s pr

ovid

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ncou

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acc

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and

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n in

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ities

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dSe

rvic

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ader

th

e co

mm

unity

ac

cess

ibilit

y fo

r peo

ple

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nce

Com

mun

itydi

sabi

lity

thei

r fam

ilies

and

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rs

Dev

elop

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t and

Enga

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ent

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ng

Acce

ssib

le e

vent

s O

ngoi

ng

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Form

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e a

12 m

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tria

l pro

gram

Incr

ease

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e nu

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re2

11

5C

omm

unity

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ider

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Even

t Ten

t w

hich

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esac

cess

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for p

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ith a

dis

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y D

evel

opm

ent a

nd5

31

5Ad

voca

te

and

enab

les

grea

ter p

artic

ipat

ion

atEn

gage

men

t5

41

1co

mm

unity

eve

nts

of p

eopl

e an

d fa

milie

sTo

uris

m a

nd E

vent

s w

ho h

ave

a di

sabi

lity

17

18

Improving access to services through better systems and processes

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Alig

ning

Act

ion

Ong

oing

Le

ader

En

sure

that

the

DIA

P al

igns

with

This

pla

n m

eets

the

Loca

l5

31

13

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ngPl

an w

ith In

tegr

ated

the

Inte

grat

ed R

epor

ting

Fram

ing

Gov

ernm

ent D

IAP

guid

elin

eR

epor

ting

and

that

the

actio

ns in

this

Act

ion

requ

irem

ents

and

act

ions

are

Fram

ewor

k Pl

an a

re in

clud

ed in

the

(4 y

ear)

impl

emen

ted

Del

iver

y Pr

ogra

m a

nd th

e An

nual

Ope

ratio

nal P

lan

Info

rmat

ion

to th

e0

ndash 1

year

Le

ader

and

Enab

le th

e ab

ility

to p

rovi

de a

ndM

ore

peop

le a

re a

ble

to a

cces

s5

31

6 Office of the General

publ

ic

Serv

ice

rece

ive

info

rmat

ion

to a

nd fr

om th

ein

form

atio

n an

d pa

rticip

ate

in th

eir

Man

ager

Pr

ovid

er

publ

ic in

a ra

nge

of fo

rmat

s R

evie

wlo

cal c

omm

unity

and

the

affa

irs o

fpu

blic

exh

ibiti

on te

mpl

ate

to m

ake

loca

l gov

ernm

ent

clea

rer t

hat w

e ac

cept

sub

mis

sion

sin

all

form

ats

not

just

writ

ten

eg

vide

o v

oice

rec

ordi

ng

Mai

ntai

n w

ebsi

te a

cces

sibi

lity

55

18

Com

mun

icat

ions

(WAA

G) 2

0 A

A le

vel

Polic

ies

and

1 -2

yea

rs

Lead

erS

ervi

ceC

ounc

il inv

estig

ates

opt

ions

toR

emov

e ob

stac

les

for p

eopl

e w

ith1

31

6 St

rate

gic

Plan

ning

pr

oced

ures

Pr

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er

impr

ove

unde

rsta

ndin

g of

pol

icies

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sabi

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tpr

oced

ures

for p

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ith a

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of

pos

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and

sus

tain

able

empl

oym

ent o

utco

mes

Supporting access to meaningful employment

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Volu

ntee

ring

1 -2

yea

rs

Lead

er

Rev

iew

vol

unte

erin

g pr

oces

ses

for

Incr

ease

d ac

cess

to v

olun

teer

ing

16

13

Com

mun

ity S

ervi

ces

proc

esse

s Po

rt St

ephe

ns C

ounc

il to

ens

ure

oppo

rtuni

ties

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

that

they

are

wel

com

ing

of p

eopl

edi

sabi

lity

w

ith d

isab

ility

Rec

ruitm

ent

Ong

oing

Le

ader

C

ontin

ue to

offe

r can

dida

tes

anO

ngoi

ng e

mpl

oym

ent o

ppor

tuni

ties

51

42

Org

anis

atio

nal

proc

esse

s op

tion

to d

iscl

ose

whe

ther

or n

otfo

r peo

ple

who

hav

e a

disa

bilit

y w

ithD

evel

opm

ent

they

hav

e a

disa

bilit

y du

ring

the

Port

Step

hens

Cou

ncil

appl

icat

ion

proc

ess

so th

at C

ounc

ilar

e ab

le to

ens

ure

that

app

lican

tsw

ith a

dis

abilit

y ar

e an

d fe

elsu

ppor

ted

thro

ugho

ut th

e pr

oces

s

Attitudes and Behaviours

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Educ

atio

n fo

r sho

p0

- 1 y

ear

Advo

cate

Aw

aren

ess

and

educ

atio

nO

utco

me

is a

rais

ed a

war

enes

s of

41

24

Econ

omic

owne

rsb

usin

esse

sca

mpa

igns

targ

etin

g bu

sine

ss

the

need

s of

peo

ple

with

a d

isab

ility

Dev

elop

men

ton

acc

ess

issue

s fo

row

ners

via

Biz

Lin

k ne

twor

kac

cess

issu

espe

ople

with

disa

bility

ne

wsl

ette

rs a

nd b

usin

ess

cham

bers

to fo

ster

and

enc

oura

ge th

efo

llow

ing

initi

ativ

es

bull D

evel

op c

ompa

nion

car

d fri

endl

yin

itiat

ive

whi

ch e

nabl

es fr

ee e

ntry

to c

erta

in v

enue

sev

ents

for

care

rs to

acc

ompa

ny p

eopl

e w

itha

disa

bilit

y

1-2

year

s Ad

voca

te

bull Pr

efer

red

empl

oyer

aw

ards

for

41

24

Econ

omic

disa

bilit

y ac

cess

ible

wor

kpla

ce

Dev

elop

men

t

Sta

ff ar

e su

pp

orte

d a

nd h

ave

gre

ater

know

led

ge

of th

e va

riety

of n

eed

s of

peo

ple

with

a d

isab

ility

and

the

need

for i

nclu

sion

Staf

f aw

aren

ess

of1

-2 y

ears

Le

ader

To

pro

vide

train

ing

for C

ounc

il sta

ffSt

aff a

re s

uppo

rted

and

have

51

42

Org

anis

atio

nal

the

need

s of

peo

ple

on h

ow to

wor

k w

ith a

nd u

nder

stan

dgr

eate

r kno

wle

dge

of th

e va

riety

of

Dev

elop

men

tw

ith d

isab

ility

peop

le w

ith d

isabi

lity th

roug

h C

ounc

ilsne

eds

of p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

y an

d

The

prio

rity

timef

ram

e ra

ting

indi

cate

s th

at a

Hig

h pr

iorit

y sh

ould

be

com

plet

ed w

ithin

1 y

ear

Med

ium

prio

rity

with

in 2

yea

rs a

nd L

ow p

riorit

y w

ithin

3 to

4 y

ears

Wor

kpla

ce E

quity

amp D

ivers

ityC

omm

ittee

and

Gui

de (a

ttach

ed)

the

need

for i

nclu

sion

19

Governance monitoring and evaulation To ensure implementation of the Plan an internal working group made up of stakeholders who have responsibility for implementing actions with the plan will be ongoing The working group will meet quarterly to discuss the Action Plan and linkages to both current and future projects and programs including

bull Each new capital works project will consider disability improvements to inclusion and accessibility within the Project Management Plan scoping and procurement document (in addition to Disability Discrimination Act compliance) Improvements for consideration include Location of the

proposed project and Improvements to carpark access to

and from kerb ramp location and availability and pathwayrsquos etc that enable more seamless connectivity

Progress of the plan will be monitored and implementation of actions within the Plan will be reported through a range of governance processes including

bull Six monthly reporting to Councils Executive Leadership team and Council

bull Operational Plan annual reporting as part of the Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework

bull Annual Report bull End of Term Reporting bull Customer satisfaction annual survey and

reporting To enable effective measurement and monitoring of actions within the plan the Port Stephens Customer Satisfaction Survey will include a section within the survey of questions that people who experience disability their families carers and people who work in the disability sector can elect to answer

20 Port Stephens Council

Conclusion Port Stephens Council has a strong commitment to enhancing life experience of people with a disability in the Local Government Area

In developing the Disability Inclusion Action Plan Port Stephens Council has built on the strengths of existing Council resources Council structurestaff plans policies and the local closely connected community by consulting with a broad range of stakeholders

The priorities identified above reflect Council values and principles The individual objectives once approved by Council are to be included in the 2017-2021 Delivery Program and the Annual Operational Plans for each of those four (4) years Within the Integrated and Strategic Planning framework the responsibility reporting and resourcing for the objectives will be defined

Draw together diverse interests and strive towards attaining greater consensus on sustainable outcomes for the local government area

ACTION PLANDisability Inclusion

21

understanding of your requirements and helpful (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

11a Please provide details of your experiences with Council staff

12 Any other comments

Appendix 1 DIAP Survey 1 What is your age 2 What suburb do you live in

(Required) 3 Gender 4 Language used at home 5 Are you a carer or a person with

disability (Choose all that apply) a Carer b Person with disability c Family member

6 Do you think the Port Stephens Community is welcoming of people with disabilities Eg businesses shops etc (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

6a Please give us some examples of positive or negative experiences you have had

7 Have you encountered any problems barriers or issues in using transport options (Choose all that apply) a Walking or wheelchair use b Local buses c Electric Scooter d Other

7a Please give us some examples of positive or negative experiences you have had

8 Do you think facilities and services are accessible and inclusive in Port Stephens a Councilrsquos Administration Building Yes No b Community centres Yes No c Events Yes No d Libraries Yes No e Parks Yes No f Pools Yes No g Other Yes No

22 Port Stephens Council

8a Can you give us any examples for improvements

9 Do you find Councilrsquos information publications accessible

Website Yes No Newsletters Yes No

9a Do you have suggestions for improvements

10 Would you like to see an improvement in online services through Councilrsquos website such as the electronic payment of rates andor fees and charges (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

11 Do you find Council staff at all of its locations and facilities approachable

Appendix 2 community consultation Results from consultation and the survey The areas identified for improvement by were framed around the four priority areas the Port Stephens community are (in order for an inclusive community Liveable of priority) communities Attitudes and behaviours Employment and Systems and processes

Liveable Communities

Focus Area Comments Foot pathsramps ldquoFootpathsramps ndash uneven rough need ramps to access

roads need lighting on paths and stairs need more footpaths wider footpaths some ramps too steeprdquo

ldquoAll new kerb ramps should have no step between the bottom of the ramp and the gutterroad The small step that is still mostly used at the bottom of curb ramps is completely unnecessary (it doesnrsquot improve water flow in the gutter as some people think it does) but it makes it harder for a wheelchair user even if the step is only 2cm or less The same argument applies to drivewaysrdquo

ACTION PLAN

Accessibility to ldquoCluttered walkways access to beaches (wheelchair accessible eventsactivities ramps) Braille on signage audio description at places of shops sporting interest Henderson Park upgrade (steep steps to pontoon facilities parks no disability parking) access to pontoons for fishing (Karuah

good example of how to do it) Wider access passageways and doorways (eg some places have double doors but keep one door locked eg Salamander library)rdquo

Provision of venues ldquoLack of disability services in parks (eg Liberty swingswing services events with 5-point harness) lack of covered areas in parks (many

sun-sensitive due to medication plus rain cover) hydrotherapy pool fences around parks disability friendly slide at parks audio loop neededrdquo

ldquoI would like to see more programs that support carers and the families of people with disabilities in the Port Stephens Local Government Area as their (sic) simply isnrsquot enough I would also like more programs to support people with disabilities so that as a community we can start supporting each other through the hardship of living with a disabilityrdquo

Disability Inclusion 23

Focus Area Comments Public toilets ldquoThere are lack of amenities in disabled toilets (eg adults who

need help changing continence aids hoists in toilets) need more (eg Nelson Bay)rdquo

ldquoDisabled toilets do not cater for older persons with a disability who require nappy changing facilities It is not nice to change on the floor of a disabled toilet and parents room tables are too smallrdquo

Parking ldquoThere is a lack of disabled parking some disabled parks are not wheelchair friendlyrdquo

ldquoSubstandard pavement surfaces for walker frames and mobility scooters Lack of disability parking spaces at Soldiers Point Boat ramp and Salamander Bay wharf and various other areas within the Port Stephens areardquo

Public transport ldquoInfrastructure improvements for more and better transport limited timetables too many transfers to get to destination want regular community bus (low cost or for free)rdquo

Attitudes and Behaviours

Focus Area Comments Respectful and It should be noted that most people reported positive encounters inclusive community with the public and council staff One comment stated ldquocould and services improve empathy and understanding from public on what it is

like to have a disabilityrdquo

ldquoHearing impaired when asked to speak slower shop people yell and pull faces as if trying to mouth out each word very embarrassingrdquo

ldquoStaring commentingrdquo

Public education ldquoEducation for people in shops about disability disabled amenitiesfacilities being used by public (change-rooms toilets parking) but consideration needed so as not to discriminate against those who do not ldquoappearrdquo to have a disabilityrdquo

It should be noted that most people reported positive encounters with the public and council staff

24 Port Stephens Council

Employment

Focus Area Comments No issues identified however it was acknowledged in internal communication with staff that Council could lead the way in more employment of people with a disability this could include recruitment processes which are lsquomore welcomingrsquo and encourage people to apply for positions It also was acknowledged that Council policies procedures systems and processes could be reviewed for lsquoeasy readrsquo format

Systems and Processes

Focus Area Comments Range of information dissemination

Promotion and awareness of activitesevents services

ldquoNot everyone gets newspaper so send information in other ways (emailed with rates) need to consider information dissemination for people with hearing and vision impairedrdquo

ldquoI have rarely seen a Council newsletter Also the website needs to be cleaner clearer more navigable and user friendlyrdquo

ldquoLeft-aligning text might seem like a visual imposition to the sighted person but this simple change is the difference between being able to read for people who are blind or who have low visionrdquo

ldquoEye level display for people using wheelchairsrdquo

Some people were confused or unaware of services amenities available to them

In some areas ldquoFor those of us who get their bills via email it would be great if we were emailed regularly about items on public exhibition etc to replace what other residents would see in your adds in the Examinerrdquo

ldquoMore information areas to access helprdquo

ldquoDidnrsquot know you had a newsletterrdquo

Consulation on council infrastructure

Respondents welcomed the Council distributing this survey for comment but others felt more consideration of disability issues was needed

ldquoPlanning doesnrsquot seem to include disabled accessibility issues for new projectsrdquo

ldquoConsideration of people who are blind or low vision in future planning ie Braille on all signage (or on poles or mounts for elevated signage) Audio description at places of interest geographical cultural or historical significance Blind people miss out on our beautiful views they deserve to be catered to with regard to what else PS has to offer Infrastructure improvements that support more and better public transport to Port Stephensrdquo

Disabilit y Inclusion ACTION PLAN 25

Do you think the Port Stephens Community is welcoming of people with disabilities Eg businesses shops etc Most people felt Port Stephens is welcoming (68)

Have you encountered any problems barriers or issues in using transport options

68

0 10 20 30 40 50

Electric Scooter

Walking or wheelchair use

Local buses

Other

Do you think facilities and services are accessible and inclusive in Port Stephens

Focus Area Yes No

Councils Administration Building 57 6

Community centres 53 8

Events 36 21

Libraries 60 2

Parks 38 27

Pools 43 15

Other 18 13

26 Port Stephens Council

Do you find Councilrsquos information publications accessible

Focus area website

Would you like to see an improvement in online services through Councilrsquos website such as the electronic payment of rates and or fees and charges

Do you find Council staff at all of its locations and facilities approachable understanding of your requirements and helpful

Most comments in this section indicated council staff was very helpful and polite

Any other comments

Items for improvement (in order of priority)

Yes 36

Yes 55

Yes 48

No 6

No 18

No 11

1 Provision of venues services events 2 Roadscrossings 3 Footpathsramps 4 Public toilets 5 Public education The following summary outlines the priorities identified across all questions of the survey

ACTION PLANDisabilit y Inclusion

27

App

endi

x 3

Func

tions

ser

vice

s an

d as

sets

Function Area Community Services Sector

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Man

ager

Ngi

oka

Com

mun

ityH

ortic

ultu

ral

Serv

ices

Th

erap

yC

entre

Volu

ntee

r wor

kfor

ce o

f up

to80

0 p

rovi

sion

of lsquo

whe

el in

whe

el o

utrsquo g

arba

ge c

olle

ctio

nfo

r peo

ple

with

dis

abilit

y liv

ing

at h

ome

Pro

visi

on o

fpr

ogra

ms

for c

hild

ren

with

addi

tiona

l nee

ds a

t Out

side

of S

choo

l Hou

rs C

are

Chi

ldre

nsrsquo a

ctiv

ity V

an a

ndFa

mily

Day

Car

e P

rovi

sion

of la

rge

prin

t boo

ks t

alki

ngbo

oks

and

audi

o an

d vi

sual

navi

gatio

n ai

ds a

t lib

rarie

sLe

ar to

sw

im p

rogr

ams

atco

unci

l aqu

atic

cen

tres

Info

rmat

ion

on w

ebsi

te re

Leas

e of

Gra

ham

stow

nVo

lunt

eer s

trate

gy35

5vo

lunt

eers

Aqua

tic R

eser

ve fo

r use

by

Part

A an

d Pa

rt B

com

mitt

ees

Saila

bilit

y (P

SC le

ase

the

Larg

e te

xt fo

rmat

ting

onla

nd fr

om H

unte

r Wat

er a

ndw

ebsi

te

Saila

bilit

y su

b-le

ase

the

land

of P

SC)

Link

s to

vol

unte

er re

sour

ces

in J

ob a

genc

ies

TAF

Eot

her a

reas

bus

ines

ses

etc

univ

ersi

ties

sch

ools

Brai

lle a

nd la

rge

font

com

pute

rs

Rev

iew

pol

icie

spr

oced

ures

toen

sure

they

are

lsquoeas

y re

adrsquo f

orm

at

Busi

ness

lead

ersh

ipto

enh

ance

Ngi

oka

as a

mul

ti-pu

rpos

ece

ntre

and

to p

rom

ote

and

alig

n w

ith N

DIS

pers

onal

pla

ns

28

Function Area Community Services ndash Library Services

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Resource

Libr

ary

Civ

il Ass

ets

Serv

ices

Sect

ion

Man

ager

M

anag

erC

omm

unity

and

Rec

reat

ion

Assets Officer

Paid

Lib

rary

Sta

ff x

24C

asua

l Lib

rary

Sta

ff x

11Li

brar

y Vo

lunt

eers

x 5

5As

sist

ive

Adap

tive

tech

nolo

gy(A

udio

Rea

d na

viga

tors

Zoo

mTe

xt s

cree

n re

ader

sof

twar

ela

rge

prin

t boo

ks a

udio

boo

ks

IInfo

rmat

ion

on a

ll Li

brar

ySe

rvic

es re

late

d to

ser

vice

spr

ogra

ms

and

activ

ities

ndashdi

spla

yed

in b

ranc

hes

via

(flyerspostersTV monitors)

and

on

bull Fa

cebo

ok W

ebsi

tebull

Scho

ol N

ewsl

ette

rs W

hatrsquos

on in

our

Bac

kyar

dbull

PS E

xam

iner

bull N

ews

of th

e Ar

ea (T

eaG

arde

ns N

elso

n Ba

y an

dM

edow

ie)

Thou

Wal

la S

choo

ls a

sC

omm

uniti

es C

entre

New

cast

le R

egio

n Li

brar

y C

o-op

erat

ive

Cen

tral E

ast Z

one

(Reg

iona

lLi

brar

ies

Gro

up)

Publ

ic L

ibra

ries

NSW

Hun

ter W

EAH

isto

rical

and

Fam

ily H

isto

rySo

ciet

ies

RT

Art S

pace

Gro

upR

eal F

utur

es F

ound

atio

n

Inte

rnet

Usa

ge P

olic

yW

aivi

ng O

verd

ueC

harg

esSo

cial

Med

ia P

olic

yLi

brar

y U

ser

Gui

delin

esPS

C L

ibra

ry B

roch

ure

New

cast

le re

gion

Libr

ary

Broc

hure

Volu

ntee

r Pos

ition

Des

crip

tions

and

Han

dboo

kH

isto

rical

Soc

iety

Fa

mily

His

tory

Gro

upAg

reem

ents

Wor

k H

ealth

and

Safe

tyC

omm

ittee

WH

S R

ep-

rese

ntat

ives

Com

mitt

eeW

orkp

lace

Equi

ty a

ndD

iver

sity

Com

mitt

eeC

onsu

ltativ

eC

omm

ittee

Her

itage

Advi

sory

Com

mitt

ee

Dis

able

d to

ilets

do

not c

ater

for o

lder

per

sons

with

a d

isab

ility

who

req

uire

nap

py

chan

gin

g fa

cilit

ies

It is

not

nic

e to

cha

nge

on th

e flo

orof

a d

isab

led

toile

t and

par

ents

room

tab

les

are

too

smal

l

29

Function Area Assets Section

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Asse

t Sec

tion

Man

ager

C

omm

unity

land

man

age-

men

t pu

blic

toile

ts p

arks

pl

aygr

ound

sre

serv

es

fore

shor

es

mar

ine

ac-

cess

spo

rting

fields sports

faci

litie

sco

mm

unity

build

ings

co

mm

unity

halls

sig

nage

Mai

ntai

n an

d up

grad

e pu

blic

Asse

ts re

gist

er c

ondi

tion

Gov

ernm

ent a

genc

ies

gra

ntVa

rious

pla

ns o

fsp

aces

fac

ilitie

s a

sset

s an

dra

ting

syst

em

fund

ing

sche

mes

pro

perty

Management (specific

plac

es in

line

with

legi

slat

ive

deve

lope

rs c

omm

unity

and

gene

ric)

Cou

ncil

Ope

ns S

pace

Stra

tegy

requ

irem

ents

and

com

mun

itygr

oups

int

eres

t gro

ups

polic

ies

Man

agem

ent

(und

erw

ay)

need

s D

irect

ives

Spor

ts C

oun-

cils

355

Com

-m

ittee

sC

omm

unity

grou

ps P

arks

and

Res

erve

sC

omm

ittee

s

Ensu

reth

at th

ede

sign

and

cons

truct

ion

of n

ewfa

cilit

ies

and

infra

stru

ctur

eis

con

side

rate

to li

mite

dac

cess

com

mun

itym

embe

rs

Ensu

re th

at u

pgra

des

and

mai

nten

ance

to c

omm

unity

faci

litie

s ar

e al

igne

d w

ithpr

iorit

ies

for i

nclu

sion

Prep

are

the

Ope

n Sp

ace

Stra

tegy

pla

ns fo

r upg

rade

s to

com

mun

ity fa

cilit

ies

and

area

sw

here

infra

stru

ctur

e ne

eds

to b

e co

nsid

erat

e of

lim

ited

acce

ss c

omm

unity

mem

bers

Ensu

re 3

55 c

omm

ittee

sco

nsid

er a

cces

s an

d in

clus

ion

whe

n th

inki

ng a

bout

pro

gram

sEn

sure

355

Com

mitt

ees

use

fund

s pr

ovid

ed b

y C

ounc

il to

cons

ider

acc

ess

and

incl

usio

nw

hen

build

ing

infra

stru

ctur

e

Activ

ely

seek

gra

nt fu

ndin

gfor projects identified within

the

Ope

ns S

pace

Stra

tegy

in o

rder

to im

prov

e ac

cess

to in

clus

ion

to c

omm

unity

faci

litie

s an

d ar

eas

thro

ugho

utth

e LG

A

Rev

iew

and

upd

ate

exis

ting

plan

s an

dpo

licie

s in

line

with

legi

slat

ive

chan

ges

and identified needs

of th

e co

mm

unity

O

pens

Spa

ceSt

rate

gy (u

nder

way

)

Enco

urag

eco

mm

unity

grou

ps a

ndco

mm

ittee

to u

nder

take

proj

ects

and

prog

ram

s to

enco

urag

eac

cess

incl

usio

n

30

Function Area Human Resource Sector

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners

and agency

collaboration

Plans and Policies

Brochures documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

PotentialResource

Man

ager

Rec

ruitm

ent o

f new

sta

ffIn

form

atio

n on

web

site

in

Rec

ruitm

ent p

olic

ypr

oced

ures

Vo

lunt

eer

Hum

anhard file and on intra net

35

5 C

om-

Management of staffing

Res

ourc

es

mitt

ees

(leav

e A

war

d pr

ovis

ions

su

pera

nnua

tion

etc)

Rec

ruitm

ent p

roce

sses

toIn

form

atio

n in

rang

e of

Job

netw

ork

Rec

ruitm

ent p

roce

ss w

hich

isbe

wel

com

ing

of p

eopl

e w

ithfo

rmat

s in

clud

ing

soci

alag

enci

es

wel

com

ing

of p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

ydi

sabi

lity

olde

r peo

ple

med

ia e

tc P

lus

help

for

busi

ness

es

(adv

ertis

ing

whi

ch w

elco

mes

peo

ple

thos

e w

ho h

ave

a di

sabi

lity

with

a d

isab

ility

+ pr

oces

ses

whi

char

e no

t too

com

plex

Function Area Environment amp PlanningPublic Domain and Services

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners

and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Man

ager

Toile

ts p

ublic

spa

ces

(ieM

aint

ain

and

upgr

ade

publ

icAs

sets

regi

ster

Dev

elop

ers

Publ

ic S

pace

sU

rban

adv

isor

yEn

viro

nmen

tparks sporting fields) and

spac

es a

nd p

lace

s in

line

with

polic

y co

mm

ittee

Ope

n Sp

aces

stra

tegy

and

Plan

ning

bu

ildin

gs (c

omm

unity

hal

ls)

legi

slat

ion

Ensu

re th

at u

pgra

des

toO

pen

Spac

es s

trate

gy to

publ

ic s

pace

s ar

e al

igne

d w

ithin

clud

e up

grad

es to

are

aspr

iorit

ies

for i

nclu

sion

w

here

infra

stru

ctur

e ne

eds

tobe

mor

e in

clus

ive

(ie ra

mps

inm

ajor

hal

ls th

at a

re u

sed)

31

Function Area Communications

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision

of Goods or

services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Com

mun

ica-

Web

site

Pr

ovid

eIn

form

atio

nC

omm

unic

atio

ntio

ns M

anag

er

soci

al m

edia

in

form

atio

n in

on w

ebsi

te

polic

y ha

rd c

opy

rang

e of

form

ats

Dire

ctor

y on

plan

s p

olic

ies

to th

e pu

blic

w

ebsi

tean

d pr

oce-

Larg

e te

xtdu

res

form

attin

g on

web

site

Com

mun

ityD

evel

opm

ent

and

Enga

gem

ent

Man

ager

Exhi

bitio

n Su

bmis

sion

s an

d G

rant

opp

ortu

nitie

sC

omm

unity

Dev

elop

men

t and

Eng

agem

ent p

artn

ers

impr

ovem

ents

incl

udin

gbull

MyL

ink

grou

pbull

Abor

igin

al S

trate

gic

Com

mun

itybull

Your

th p

anel

bull Bu

sine

ss g

roup

sbull

365

Com

mitt

ees

Left-

alig

ning

text

mig

ht s

eem

like

a v

isua

l im

pos

ition

to th

e si

ght

edp

erso

n b

ut th

is s

imp

le c

hang

e is

the

diff

eren

ce b

etw

een

bei

ng a

ble

tore

ad fo

r peo

ple

who

are

blin

d o

r who

hav

e lo

w v

isio

n

32

Function Area Strategy and Environment

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision

of Goods or

services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Committees of

Council

Nox

ious

wee

dH

erita

ge g

rant

sLa

ndow

ners

bus

ines

ses

and

Envi

ronm

enta

lVo

lunt

eer w

eed

cont

rol s

ervi

ces

Resource

Man

ager

Stra

tegy

and

control landfill

orga

nisa

tions

st

rate

gies

pla

nsEn

viro

nmen

tal

355

Her

itage

Com

mitt

eeEn

viro

nmen

t an

d po

licie

sgr

ants

Gra

nt g

uide

lines

Potential

supp

ort p

roje

cts

that

enco

urag

e ac

cess

and

incl

usio

n

Function Area Community Development

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-Directory

Partners

and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Committees

of Council

Potential Resource

Com

mun

ity35

5 Ad

viso

ryG

rant

Pro

gram

s ac

ross

Mai

ntai

n C

ounc

ilrsquos w

ebsi

te C

omm

unity

Com

mun

ityC

omm

unity

Abor

igin

al S

trate

gic

Dev

elop

men

tC

omm

ittee

sC

ounc

ilD

irect

ory

Serv

ices

age

ncie

sEn

gage

men

tC

omm

ittee

and

Polic

yC

omm

unity

Und

erta

ke C

ounc

ilrsquos k

eyC

omm

unity

gra

ntSt

rate

gic

Arts

Enga

gem

ent

enga

gem

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com

mun

ity e

vent

s ndash

Aust

ralia

awar

dees

C

ultu

ral P

lan

Com

mitt

eeC

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inat

or

proj

ects

Day

cel

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tions

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CYo

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Stra

tegy

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sory

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th w

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mun

ityC

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unity

Educ

atio

n an

d Em

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ards

de

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pmen

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nter

agen

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ojec

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Cou

ncil

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mun

itySt

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then

Cou

ncilrsquos

web

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Com

mun

ityev

ents

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essi

ble

Dire

ctor

y se

ctio

n on

DIA

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encie

sG

rant

gui

delin

es s

uppo

rtEn

sure

355

com

mitt

ees

cons

ider

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ess

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ects

that

enc

oura

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d in

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n w

hen

cons

ider

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prog

ram

sac

cess

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incl

usio

n En

sure

com

mun

ity e

ngag

emen

t pro

ject

sen

cour

age

acce

ss a

nd in

clusio

n

33

Function Area Civil Assets

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities in-

frastructure

Provision

of Goods or

services

Information-

Directory

Partners and

agency

collaboration

Plans and Policies

Brochures

documents

Committees

of Council

Potential Resource

Civ

il Ass

ets

Publ

ic tr

ansp

ort

Mai

ntai

n an

d up

grad

eAs

sets

regi

ster

con

ditio

nG

over

nmen

t age

ncie

s g

rant

Plan

ning

infra

stru

ctur

eC

ivil

asse

ts a

ndra

ting

syst

em

fund

ing

sche

mes

pro

perty

Man

ager

fo

otpa

ths

sha

red

publ

ic s

pace

s in

deve

lope

rs c

omm

unity

path

s k

erb

ram

ps

line

with

legi

slat

ive

grou

ps i

nter

est g

roup

sre

quire

men

ts a

ndco

mm

unity

nee

ds

Port

Step

hens

Inte

grat

edpl

ans

(201

6-20

26)

Stra

tegi

cAs

set M

anag

emen

tPl

an T

he P

athw

ays

Plan

Ass

essm

ent a

ndM

aint

enan

ce o

f Foo

tpat

hsan

d C

ycle

way

s Po

licy

Bus

Shel

ter P

olic

y D

isab

ility

Stan

dard

s fo

r Acc

essi

ble

Publ

ic T

rans

port

Ensu

re th

atEn

sure

that

upg

rade

sPr

epar

e up

grad

es to

civ

ilAc

tivel

y se

ek g

rant

fund

ing

Rev

iew

and

upd

ate

exis

ting

Enco

urag

eth

e de

sign

and

and

mai

nten

ance

toas

sets

and

infra

stru

ctur

efor projects identified within

plan

s an

d po

licie

s in

line

com

mun

ityco

nstru

ctio

n of

civi

l ass

ets

are

alig

ned

in c

onju

nctio

n w

ith P

AMP

the

Path

way

s Pl

an a

nd P

AMP

with

legi

slat

ive

chan

ges

grou

ps a

ndne

w fa

cilit

ies

and

with

prio

ritie

s fo

rpr

iorit

y re

quire

men

ts

in o

rder

to im

prov

e ac

cess

and identified needs of the

com

mitt

ees

infra

stru

ctur

e is

incl

usio

n th

roug

hout

the

LGA

com

mun

ity

to u

nder

take

cons

ider

ate

topr

ojec

ts a

ndlim

ited

acce

sspr

ogra

ms

toco

mm

unity

enco

urag

em

embe

rs

acce

ss a

ndin

clus

ion

Pla

nnin

g d

oesn

rsquot se

em to

incl

ude

dis

able

d a

cces

sib

ility

issu

es fo

r new

pro

ject

srdquo

34

Function Area Community Development

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities in-

frastructure

Provision

of Goods or

services

Information-

Directory

Partners

and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Committees of

Council

Potential Resource

Com

mun

ity35

5 Ad

viso

ry C

om-

Gra

nt P

rogr

ams

acro

ssM

aint

ain

Cou

ncilrsquos

web

site

Com

mun

ity S

ervi

ces

Com

mun

ityAb

orig

inal

Stra

tegi

cD

evel

opm

ent

mitt

ees

Cou

ncil

Com

mun

ity D

irect

ory

agen

cies

Enga

gem

ent P

olic

yC

omm

ittee

and

Com

mun

ity e

n-U

nder

take

Cou

ncilrsquos

Com

mun

ity g

rant

Cul

tura

l Pla

nSt

rate

gic

Arts

Com

mitt

eeEn

gage

men

tga

gem

ent p

roje

cts

key

com

mun

ity e

vent

s ndash

awar

dees

Yo

uth

Stra

tegy

Yo

uth

Advi

sory

Pan

elC

oord

inat

or

Aust

ralia

Day

cel

ebra

tions

C

omm

unity

dev

el-

Educ

atio

n an

d Em

ploy

-N

AID

OC

wee

k Y

outh

opm

ent p

roje

cts

men

t Int

erag

ency

wee

k c

omm

unity

aw

ards

Cou

ncil

run

com

mun

ityev

ents

are

acc

essi

ble

Gra

nt g

uide

lines

sup

port

proj

ects

that

enc

oura

geac

cess

and

incl

usio

n

Stre

ngth

en C

ounc

ilrsquos w

ebsit

eC

omm

unity

Dire

ctor

y se

ctio

n on

DIA

P ag

encie

sEn

sure

355

com

mitt

ees

cons

ider

acc

ess

and

inclu

sion

whe

n co

nsid

erin

g pr

ogra

ms

Ensu

re c

omm

unity

eng

agem

ent

proj

ects

enc

oura

ge a

cces

s an

din

clusio

n

Function Area General Managers Office

Staff

Respon-

sibility

Facilities infrastructure

Provision

of Goods

or ser-

vices

Infor-

mation

Direc-

tory

Partners

and agen-

cy collab-

oration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Committees

of Council

Gov

erna

nce

Com

mun

ity P

roje

cts

gran

tResource

Man

ager

W

ard

Fund

sM

ayor

al fu

nds

Gra

nt g

uide

lines

sup

port

proj

ects

that

Enco

urag

e co

mm

unity

gro

ups

and

com

-Potential

enco

urag

e ac

cess

and

inclu

sion

mitt

ees

to u

nder

take

pro

ject

s an

d pr

o-gr

ams

to e

ncou

rage

acc

ess

and

inclu

sion

35

Disability Inclusion

ACTION PLAN

Disability InclusionInclusionDisability InclusionInclusionDisability

For more information please contact Development Services councilportstephensnswgovau | 02 4980 0255 | PORTSTEPHENSNSWGOVAU

Page 18: Port Stephens Council DIAP 2016 - facs.nsw.gov.au · In 2016, Port Stephens had a population of 64,807 at the 2016 Census. This igure is predicted to rise by up to 23,000 over the

18

Improving access to services through better systems and processes

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Alig

ning

Act

ion

Ong

oing

Le

ader

En

sure

that

the

DIA

P al

igns

with

This

pla

n m

eets

the

Loca

l5

31

13

Stra

tegi

c Pl

anni

ngPl

an w

ith In

tegr

ated

the

Inte

grat

ed R

epor

ting

Fram

ing

Gov

ernm

ent D

IAP

guid

elin

eR

epor

ting

and

that

the

actio

ns in

this

Act

ion

requ

irem

ents

and

act

ions

are

Fram

ewor

k Pl

an a

re in

clud

ed in

the

(4 y

ear)

impl

emen

ted

Del

iver

y Pr

ogra

m a

nd th

e An

nual

Ope

ratio

nal P

lan

Info

rmat

ion

to th

e0

ndash 1

year

Le

ader

and

Enab

le th

e ab

ility

to p

rovi

de a

ndM

ore

peop

le a

re a

ble

to a

cces

s5

31

6 Office of the General

publ

ic

Serv

ice

rece

ive

info

rmat

ion

to a

nd fr

om th

ein

form

atio

n an

d pa

rticip

ate

in th

eir

Man

ager

Pr

ovid

er

publ

ic in

a ra

nge

of fo

rmat

s R

evie

wlo

cal c

omm

unity

and

the

affa

irs o

fpu

blic

exh

ibiti

on te

mpl

ate

to m

ake

loca

l gov

ernm

ent

clea

rer t

hat w

e ac

cept

sub

mis

sion

sin

all

form

ats

not

just

writ

ten

eg

vide

o v

oice

rec

ordi

ng

Mai

ntai

n w

ebsi

te a

cces

sibi

lity

55

18

Com

mun

icat

ions

(WAA

G) 2

0 A

A le

vel

Polic

ies

and

1 -2

yea

rs

Lead

erS

ervi

ceC

ounc

il inv

estig

ates

opt

ions

toR

emov

e ob

stac

les

for p

eopl

e w

ith1

31

6 St

rate

gic

Plan

ning

pr

oced

ures

Pr

ovid

er

impr

ove

unde

rsta

ndin

g of

pol

icies

and

a di

sabi

lity

to e

nabl

e ac

hiev

emen

tpr

oced

ures

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

disa

bility

of

pos

itive

and

sus

tain

able

empl

oym

ent o

utco

mes

Supporting access to meaningful employment

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Volu

ntee

ring

1 -2

yea

rs

Lead

er

Rev

iew

vol

unte

erin

g pr

oces

ses

for

Incr

ease

d ac

cess

to v

olun

teer

ing

16

13

Com

mun

ity S

ervi

ces

proc

esse

s Po

rt St

ephe

ns C

ounc

il to

ens

ure

oppo

rtuni

ties

for p

eopl

e w

ith a

that

they

are

wel

com

ing

of p

eopl

edi

sabi

lity

w

ith d

isab

ility

Rec

ruitm

ent

Ong

oing

Le

ader

C

ontin

ue to

offe

r can

dida

tes

anO

ngoi

ng e

mpl

oym

ent o

ppor

tuni

ties

51

42

Org

anis

atio

nal

proc

esse

s op

tion

to d

iscl

ose

whe

ther

or n

otfo

r peo

ple

who

hav

e a

disa

bilit

y w

ithD

evel

opm

ent

they

hav

e a

disa

bilit

y du

ring

the

Port

Step

hens

Cou

ncil

appl

icat

ion

proc

ess

so th

at C

ounc

ilar

e ab

le to

ens

ure

that

app

lican

tsw

ith a

dis

abilit

y ar

e an

d fe

elsu

ppor

ted

thro

ugho

ut th

e pr

oces

s

Attitudes and Behaviours

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Educ

atio

n fo

r sho

p0

- 1 y

ear

Advo

cate

Aw

aren

ess

and

educ

atio

nO

utco

me

is a

rais

ed a

war

enes

s of

41

24

Econ

omic

owne

rsb

usin

esse

sca

mpa

igns

targ

etin

g bu

sine

ss

the

need

s of

peo

ple

with

a d

isab

ility

Dev

elop

men

ton

acc

ess

issue

s fo

row

ners

via

Biz

Lin

k ne

twor

kac

cess

issu

espe

ople

with

disa

bility

ne

wsl

ette

rs a

nd b

usin

ess

cham

bers

to fo

ster

and

enc

oura

ge th

efo

llow

ing

initi

ativ

es

bull D

evel

op c

ompa

nion

car

d fri

endl

yin

itiat

ive

whi

ch e

nabl

es fr

ee e

ntry

to c

erta

in v

enue

sev

ents

for

care

rs to

acc

ompa

ny p

eopl

e w

itha

disa

bilit

y

1-2

year

s Ad

voca

te

bull Pr

efer

red

empl

oyer

aw

ards

for

41

24

Econ

omic

disa

bilit

y ac

cess

ible

wor

kpla

ce

Dev

elop

men

t

Sta

ff ar

e su

pp

orte

d a

nd h

ave

gre

ater

know

led

ge

of th

e va

riety

of n

eed

s of

peo

ple

with

a d

isab

ility

and

the

need

for i

nclu

sion

Staf

f aw

aren

ess

of1

-2 y

ears

Le

ader

To

pro

vide

train

ing

for C

ounc

il sta

ffSt

aff a

re s

uppo

rted

and

have

51

42

Org

anis

atio

nal

the

need

s of

peo

ple

on h

ow to

wor

k w

ith a

nd u

nder

stan

dgr

eate

r kno

wle

dge

of th

e va

riety

of

Dev

elop

men

tw

ith d

isab

ility

peop

le w

ith d

isabi

lity th

roug

h C

ounc

ilsne

eds

of p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

y an

d

The

prio

rity

timef

ram

e ra

ting

indi

cate

s th

at a

Hig

h pr

iorit

y sh

ould

be

com

plet

ed w

ithin

1 y

ear

Med

ium

prio

rity

with

in 2

yea

rs a

nd L

ow p

riorit

y w

ithin

3 to

4 y

ears

Wor

kpla

ce E

quity

amp D

ivers

ityC

omm

ittee

and

Gui

de (a

ttach

ed)

the

need

for i

nclu

sion

19

Governance monitoring and evaulation To ensure implementation of the Plan an internal working group made up of stakeholders who have responsibility for implementing actions with the plan will be ongoing The working group will meet quarterly to discuss the Action Plan and linkages to both current and future projects and programs including

bull Each new capital works project will consider disability improvements to inclusion and accessibility within the Project Management Plan scoping and procurement document (in addition to Disability Discrimination Act compliance) Improvements for consideration include Location of the

proposed project and Improvements to carpark access to

and from kerb ramp location and availability and pathwayrsquos etc that enable more seamless connectivity

Progress of the plan will be monitored and implementation of actions within the Plan will be reported through a range of governance processes including

bull Six monthly reporting to Councils Executive Leadership team and Council

bull Operational Plan annual reporting as part of the Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework

bull Annual Report bull End of Term Reporting bull Customer satisfaction annual survey and

reporting To enable effective measurement and monitoring of actions within the plan the Port Stephens Customer Satisfaction Survey will include a section within the survey of questions that people who experience disability their families carers and people who work in the disability sector can elect to answer

20 Port Stephens Council

Conclusion Port Stephens Council has a strong commitment to enhancing life experience of people with a disability in the Local Government Area

In developing the Disability Inclusion Action Plan Port Stephens Council has built on the strengths of existing Council resources Council structurestaff plans policies and the local closely connected community by consulting with a broad range of stakeholders

The priorities identified above reflect Council values and principles The individual objectives once approved by Council are to be included in the 2017-2021 Delivery Program and the Annual Operational Plans for each of those four (4) years Within the Integrated and Strategic Planning framework the responsibility reporting and resourcing for the objectives will be defined

Draw together diverse interests and strive towards attaining greater consensus on sustainable outcomes for the local government area

ACTION PLANDisability Inclusion

21

understanding of your requirements and helpful (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

11a Please provide details of your experiences with Council staff

12 Any other comments

Appendix 1 DIAP Survey 1 What is your age 2 What suburb do you live in

(Required) 3 Gender 4 Language used at home 5 Are you a carer or a person with

disability (Choose all that apply) a Carer b Person with disability c Family member

6 Do you think the Port Stephens Community is welcoming of people with disabilities Eg businesses shops etc (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

6a Please give us some examples of positive or negative experiences you have had

7 Have you encountered any problems barriers or issues in using transport options (Choose all that apply) a Walking or wheelchair use b Local buses c Electric Scooter d Other

7a Please give us some examples of positive or negative experiences you have had

8 Do you think facilities and services are accessible and inclusive in Port Stephens a Councilrsquos Administration Building Yes No b Community centres Yes No c Events Yes No d Libraries Yes No e Parks Yes No f Pools Yes No g Other Yes No

22 Port Stephens Council

8a Can you give us any examples for improvements

9 Do you find Councilrsquos information publications accessible

Website Yes No Newsletters Yes No

9a Do you have suggestions for improvements

10 Would you like to see an improvement in online services through Councilrsquos website such as the electronic payment of rates andor fees and charges (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

11 Do you find Council staff at all of its locations and facilities approachable

Appendix 2 community consultation Results from consultation and the survey The areas identified for improvement by were framed around the four priority areas the Port Stephens community are (in order for an inclusive community Liveable of priority) communities Attitudes and behaviours Employment and Systems and processes

Liveable Communities

Focus Area Comments Foot pathsramps ldquoFootpathsramps ndash uneven rough need ramps to access

roads need lighting on paths and stairs need more footpaths wider footpaths some ramps too steeprdquo

ldquoAll new kerb ramps should have no step between the bottom of the ramp and the gutterroad The small step that is still mostly used at the bottom of curb ramps is completely unnecessary (it doesnrsquot improve water flow in the gutter as some people think it does) but it makes it harder for a wheelchair user even if the step is only 2cm or less The same argument applies to drivewaysrdquo

ACTION PLAN

Accessibility to ldquoCluttered walkways access to beaches (wheelchair accessible eventsactivities ramps) Braille on signage audio description at places of shops sporting interest Henderson Park upgrade (steep steps to pontoon facilities parks no disability parking) access to pontoons for fishing (Karuah

good example of how to do it) Wider access passageways and doorways (eg some places have double doors but keep one door locked eg Salamander library)rdquo

Provision of venues ldquoLack of disability services in parks (eg Liberty swingswing services events with 5-point harness) lack of covered areas in parks (many

sun-sensitive due to medication plus rain cover) hydrotherapy pool fences around parks disability friendly slide at parks audio loop neededrdquo

ldquoI would like to see more programs that support carers and the families of people with disabilities in the Port Stephens Local Government Area as their (sic) simply isnrsquot enough I would also like more programs to support people with disabilities so that as a community we can start supporting each other through the hardship of living with a disabilityrdquo

Disability Inclusion 23

Focus Area Comments Public toilets ldquoThere are lack of amenities in disabled toilets (eg adults who

need help changing continence aids hoists in toilets) need more (eg Nelson Bay)rdquo

ldquoDisabled toilets do not cater for older persons with a disability who require nappy changing facilities It is not nice to change on the floor of a disabled toilet and parents room tables are too smallrdquo

Parking ldquoThere is a lack of disabled parking some disabled parks are not wheelchair friendlyrdquo

ldquoSubstandard pavement surfaces for walker frames and mobility scooters Lack of disability parking spaces at Soldiers Point Boat ramp and Salamander Bay wharf and various other areas within the Port Stephens areardquo

Public transport ldquoInfrastructure improvements for more and better transport limited timetables too many transfers to get to destination want regular community bus (low cost or for free)rdquo

Attitudes and Behaviours

Focus Area Comments Respectful and It should be noted that most people reported positive encounters inclusive community with the public and council staff One comment stated ldquocould and services improve empathy and understanding from public on what it is

like to have a disabilityrdquo

ldquoHearing impaired when asked to speak slower shop people yell and pull faces as if trying to mouth out each word very embarrassingrdquo

ldquoStaring commentingrdquo

Public education ldquoEducation for people in shops about disability disabled amenitiesfacilities being used by public (change-rooms toilets parking) but consideration needed so as not to discriminate against those who do not ldquoappearrdquo to have a disabilityrdquo

It should be noted that most people reported positive encounters with the public and council staff

24 Port Stephens Council

Employment

Focus Area Comments No issues identified however it was acknowledged in internal communication with staff that Council could lead the way in more employment of people with a disability this could include recruitment processes which are lsquomore welcomingrsquo and encourage people to apply for positions It also was acknowledged that Council policies procedures systems and processes could be reviewed for lsquoeasy readrsquo format

Systems and Processes

Focus Area Comments Range of information dissemination

Promotion and awareness of activitesevents services

ldquoNot everyone gets newspaper so send information in other ways (emailed with rates) need to consider information dissemination for people with hearing and vision impairedrdquo

ldquoI have rarely seen a Council newsletter Also the website needs to be cleaner clearer more navigable and user friendlyrdquo

ldquoLeft-aligning text might seem like a visual imposition to the sighted person but this simple change is the difference between being able to read for people who are blind or who have low visionrdquo

ldquoEye level display for people using wheelchairsrdquo

Some people were confused or unaware of services amenities available to them

In some areas ldquoFor those of us who get their bills via email it would be great if we were emailed regularly about items on public exhibition etc to replace what other residents would see in your adds in the Examinerrdquo

ldquoMore information areas to access helprdquo

ldquoDidnrsquot know you had a newsletterrdquo

Consulation on council infrastructure

Respondents welcomed the Council distributing this survey for comment but others felt more consideration of disability issues was needed

ldquoPlanning doesnrsquot seem to include disabled accessibility issues for new projectsrdquo

ldquoConsideration of people who are blind or low vision in future planning ie Braille on all signage (or on poles or mounts for elevated signage) Audio description at places of interest geographical cultural or historical significance Blind people miss out on our beautiful views they deserve to be catered to with regard to what else PS has to offer Infrastructure improvements that support more and better public transport to Port Stephensrdquo

Disabilit y Inclusion ACTION PLAN 25

Do you think the Port Stephens Community is welcoming of people with disabilities Eg businesses shops etc Most people felt Port Stephens is welcoming (68)

Have you encountered any problems barriers or issues in using transport options

68

0 10 20 30 40 50

Electric Scooter

Walking or wheelchair use

Local buses

Other

Do you think facilities and services are accessible and inclusive in Port Stephens

Focus Area Yes No

Councils Administration Building 57 6

Community centres 53 8

Events 36 21

Libraries 60 2

Parks 38 27

Pools 43 15

Other 18 13

26 Port Stephens Council

Do you find Councilrsquos information publications accessible

Focus area website

Would you like to see an improvement in online services through Councilrsquos website such as the electronic payment of rates and or fees and charges

Do you find Council staff at all of its locations and facilities approachable understanding of your requirements and helpful

Most comments in this section indicated council staff was very helpful and polite

Any other comments

Items for improvement (in order of priority)

Yes 36

Yes 55

Yes 48

No 6

No 18

No 11

1 Provision of venues services events 2 Roadscrossings 3 Footpathsramps 4 Public toilets 5 Public education The following summary outlines the priorities identified across all questions of the survey

ACTION PLANDisabilit y Inclusion

27

App

endi

x 3

Func

tions

ser

vice

s an

d as

sets

Function Area Community Services Sector

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Man

ager

Ngi

oka

Com

mun

ityH

ortic

ultu

ral

Serv

ices

Th

erap

yC

entre

Volu

ntee

r wor

kfor

ce o

f up

to80

0 p

rovi

sion

of lsquo

whe

el in

whe

el o

utrsquo g

arba

ge c

olle

ctio

nfo

r peo

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gic

Arts

Com

mitt

eeEn

gage

men

tga

gem

ent p

roje

cts

key

com

mun

ity e

vent

s ndash

awar

dees

Yo

uth

Stra

tegy

Yo

uth

Advi

sory

Pan

elC

oord

inat

or

Aust

ralia

Day

cel

ebra

tions

C

omm

unity

dev

el-

Educ

atio

n an

d Em

ploy

-N

AID

OC

wee

k Y

outh

opm

ent p

roje

cts

men

t Int

erag

ency

wee

k c

omm

unity

aw

ards

Cou

ncil

run

com

mun

ityev

ents

are

acc

essi

ble

Gra

nt g

uide

lines

sup

port

proj

ects

that

enc

oura

geac

cess

and

incl

usio

n

Stre

ngth

en C

ounc

ilrsquos w

ebsit

eC

omm

unity

Dire

ctor

y se

ctio

n on

DIA

P ag

encie

sEn

sure

355

com

mitt

ees

cons

ider

acc

ess

and

inclu

sion

whe

n co

nsid

erin

g pr

ogra

ms

Ensu

re c

omm

unity

eng

agem

ent

proj

ects

enc

oura

ge a

cces

s an

din

clusio

n

Function Area General Managers Office

Staff

Respon-

sibility

Facilities infrastructure

Provision

of Goods

or ser-

vices

Infor-

mation

Direc-

tory

Partners

and agen-

cy collab-

oration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Committees

of Council

Gov

erna

nce

Com

mun

ity P

roje

cts

gran

tResource

Man

ager

W

ard

Fund

sM

ayor

al fu

nds

Gra

nt g

uide

lines

sup

port

proj

ects

that

Enco

urag

e co

mm

unity

gro

ups

and

com

-Potential

enco

urag

e ac

cess

and

inclu

sion

mitt

ees

to u

nder

take

pro

ject

s an

d pr

o-gr

ams

to e

ncou

rage

acc

ess

and

inclu

sion

35

Disability Inclusion

ACTION PLAN

Disability InclusionInclusionDisability InclusionInclusionDisability

For more information please contact Development Services councilportstephensnswgovau | 02 4980 0255 | PORTSTEPHENSNSWGOVAU

Page 19: Port Stephens Council DIAP 2016 - facs.nsw.gov.au · In 2016, Port Stephens had a population of 64,807 at the 2016 Census. This igure is predicted to rise by up to 23,000 over the

Attitudes and Behaviours

Item for

improvement Priority

Timeframe Council

Role

Action

Outcome

IPRReference

Responsibility

Educ

atio

n fo

r sho

p0

- 1 y

ear

Advo

cate

Aw

aren

ess

and

educ

atio

nO

utco

me

is a

rais

ed a

war

enes

s of

41

24

Econ

omic

owne

rsb

usin

esse

sca

mpa

igns

targ

etin

g bu

sine

ss

the

need

s of

peo

ple

with

a d

isab

ility

Dev

elop

men

ton

acc

ess

issue

s fo

row

ners

via

Biz

Lin

k ne

twor

kac

cess

issu

espe

ople

with

disa

bility

ne

wsl

ette

rs a

nd b

usin

ess

cham

bers

to fo

ster

and

enc

oura

ge th

efo

llow

ing

initi

ativ

es

bull D

evel

op c

ompa

nion

car

d fri

endl

yin

itiat

ive

whi

ch e

nabl

es fr

ee e

ntry

to c

erta

in v

enue

sev

ents

for

care

rs to

acc

ompa

ny p

eopl

e w

itha

disa

bilit

y

1-2

year

s Ad

voca

te

bull Pr

efer

red

empl

oyer

aw

ards

for

41

24

Econ

omic

disa

bilit

y ac

cess

ible

wor

kpla

ce

Dev

elop

men

t

Sta

ff ar

e su

pp

orte

d a

nd h

ave

gre

ater

know

led

ge

of th

e va

riety

of n

eed

s of

peo

ple

with

a d

isab

ility

and

the

need

for i

nclu

sion

Staf

f aw

aren

ess

of1

-2 y

ears

Le

ader

To

pro

vide

train

ing

for C

ounc

il sta

ffSt

aff a

re s

uppo

rted

and

have

51

42

Org

anis

atio

nal

the

need

s of

peo

ple

on h

ow to

wor

k w

ith a

nd u

nder

stan

dgr

eate

r kno

wle

dge

of th

e va

riety

of

Dev

elop

men

tw

ith d

isab

ility

peop

le w

ith d

isabi

lity th

roug

h C

ounc

ilsne

eds

of p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

y an

d

The

prio

rity

timef

ram

e ra

ting

indi

cate

s th

at a

Hig

h pr

iorit

y sh

ould

be

com

plet

ed w

ithin

1 y

ear

Med

ium

prio

rity

with

in 2

yea

rs a

nd L

ow p

riorit

y w

ithin

3 to

4 y

ears

Wor

kpla

ce E

quity

amp D

ivers

ityC

omm

ittee

and

Gui

de (a

ttach

ed)

the

need

for i

nclu

sion

19

Governance monitoring and evaulation To ensure implementation of the Plan an internal working group made up of stakeholders who have responsibility for implementing actions with the plan will be ongoing The working group will meet quarterly to discuss the Action Plan and linkages to both current and future projects and programs including

bull Each new capital works project will consider disability improvements to inclusion and accessibility within the Project Management Plan scoping and procurement document (in addition to Disability Discrimination Act compliance) Improvements for consideration include Location of the

proposed project and Improvements to carpark access to

and from kerb ramp location and availability and pathwayrsquos etc that enable more seamless connectivity

Progress of the plan will be monitored and implementation of actions within the Plan will be reported through a range of governance processes including

bull Six monthly reporting to Councils Executive Leadership team and Council

bull Operational Plan annual reporting as part of the Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework

bull Annual Report bull End of Term Reporting bull Customer satisfaction annual survey and

reporting To enable effective measurement and monitoring of actions within the plan the Port Stephens Customer Satisfaction Survey will include a section within the survey of questions that people who experience disability their families carers and people who work in the disability sector can elect to answer

20 Port Stephens Council

Conclusion Port Stephens Council has a strong commitment to enhancing life experience of people with a disability in the Local Government Area

In developing the Disability Inclusion Action Plan Port Stephens Council has built on the strengths of existing Council resources Council structurestaff plans policies and the local closely connected community by consulting with a broad range of stakeholders

The priorities identified above reflect Council values and principles The individual objectives once approved by Council are to be included in the 2017-2021 Delivery Program and the Annual Operational Plans for each of those four (4) years Within the Integrated and Strategic Planning framework the responsibility reporting and resourcing for the objectives will be defined

Draw together diverse interests and strive towards attaining greater consensus on sustainable outcomes for the local government area

ACTION PLANDisability Inclusion

21

understanding of your requirements and helpful (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

11a Please provide details of your experiences with Council staff

12 Any other comments

Appendix 1 DIAP Survey 1 What is your age 2 What suburb do you live in

(Required) 3 Gender 4 Language used at home 5 Are you a carer or a person with

disability (Choose all that apply) a Carer b Person with disability c Family member

6 Do you think the Port Stephens Community is welcoming of people with disabilities Eg businesses shops etc (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

6a Please give us some examples of positive or negative experiences you have had

7 Have you encountered any problems barriers or issues in using transport options (Choose all that apply) a Walking or wheelchair use b Local buses c Electric Scooter d Other

7a Please give us some examples of positive or negative experiences you have had

8 Do you think facilities and services are accessible and inclusive in Port Stephens a Councilrsquos Administration Building Yes No b Community centres Yes No c Events Yes No d Libraries Yes No e Parks Yes No f Pools Yes No g Other Yes No

22 Port Stephens Council

8a Can you give us any examples for improvements

9 Do you find Councilrsquos information publications accessible

Website Yes No Newsletters Yes No

9a Do you have suggestions for improvements

10 Would you like to see an improvement in online services through Councilrsquos website such as the electronic payment of rates andor fees and charges (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

11 Do you find Council staff at all of its locations and facilities approachable

Appendix 2 community consultation Results from consultation and the survey The areas identified for improvement by were framed around the four priority areas the Port Stephens community are (in order for an inclusive community Liveable of priority) communities Attitudes and behaviours Employment and Systems and processes

Liveable Communities

Focus Area Comments Foot pathsramps ldquoFootpathsramps ndash uneven rough need ramps to access

roads need lighting on paths and stairs need more footpaths wider footpaths some ramps too steeprdquo

ldquoAll new kerb ramps should have no step between the bottom of the ramp and the gutterroad The small step that is still mostly used at the bottom of curb ramps is completely unnecessary (it doesnrsquot improve water flow in the gutter as some people think it does) but it makes it harder for a wheelchair user even if the step is only 2cm or less The same argument applies to drivewaysrdquo

ACTION PLAN

Accessibility to ldquoCluttered walkways access to beaches (wheelchair accessible eventsactivities ramps) Braille on signage audio description at places of shops sporting interest Henderson Park upgrade (steep steps to pontoon facilities parks no disability parking) access to pontoons for fishing (Karuah

good example of how to do it) Wider access passageways and doorways (eg some places have double doors but keep one door locked eg Salamander library)rdquo

Provision of venues ldquoLack of disability services in parks (eg Liberty swingswing services events with 5-point harness) lack of covered areas in parks (many

sun-sensitive due to medication plus rain cover) hydrotherapy pool fences around parks disability friendly slide at parks audio loop neededrdquo

ldquoI would like to see more programs that support carers and the families of people with disabilities in the Port Stephens Local Government Area as their (sic) simply isnrsquot enough I would also like more programs to support people with disabilities so that as a community we can start supporting each other through the hardship of living with a disabilityrdquo

Disability Inclusion 23

Focus Area Comments Public toilets ldquoThere are lack of amenities in disabled toilets (eg adults who

need help changing continence aids hoists in toilets) need more (eg Nelson Bay)rdquo

ldquoDisabled toilets do not cater for older persons with a disability who require nappy changing facilities It is not nice to change on the floor of a disabled toilet and parents room tables are too smallrdquo

Parking ldquoThere is a lack of disabled parking some disabled parks are not wheelchair friendlyrdquo

ldquoSubstandard pavement surfaces for walker frames and mobility scooters Lack of disability parking spaces at Soldiers Point Boat ramp and Salamander Bay wharf and various other areas within the Port Stephens areardquo

Public transport ldquoInfrastructure improvements for more and better transport limited timetables too many transfers to get to destination want regular community bus (low cost or for free)rdquo

Attitudes and Behaviours

Focus Area Comments Respectful and It should be noted that most people reported positive encounters inclusive community with the public and council staff One comment stated ldquocould and services improve empathy and understanding from public on what it is

like to have a disabilityrdquo

ldquoHearing impaired when asked to speak slower shop people yell and pull faces as if trying to mouth out each word very embarrassingrdquo

ldquoStaring commentingrdquo

Public education ldquoEducation for people in shops about disability disabled amenitiesfacilities being used by public (change-rooms toilets parking) but consideration needed so as not to discriminate against those who do not ldquoappearrdquo to have a disabilityrdquo

It should be noted that most people reported positive encounters with the public and council staff

24 Port Stephens Council

Employment

Focus Area Comments No issues identified however it was acknowledged in internal communication with staff that Council could lead the way in more employment of people with a disability this could include recruitment processes which are lsquomore welcomingrsquo and encourage people to apply for positions It also was acknowledged that Council policies procedures systems and processes could be reviewed for lsquoeasy readrsquo format

Systems and Processes

Focus Area Comments Range of information dissemination

Promotion and awareness of activitesevents services

ldquoNot everyone gets newspaper so send information in other ways (emailed with rates) need to consider information dissemination for people with hearing and vision impairedrdquo

ldquoI have rarely seen a Council newsletter Also the website needs to be cleaner clearer more navigable and user friendlyrdquo

ldquoLeft-aligning text might seem like a visual imposition to the sighted person but this simple change is the difference between being able to read for people who are blind or who have low visionrdquo

ldquoEye level display for people using wheelchairsrdquo

Some people were confused or unaware of services amenities available to them

In some areas ldquoFor those of us who get their bills via email it would be great if we were emailed regularly about items on public exhibition etc to replace what other residents would see in your adds in the Examinerrdquo

ldquoMore information areas to access helprdquo

ldquoDidnrsquot know you had a newsletterrdquo

Consulation on council infrastructure

Respondents welcomed the Council distributing this survey for comment but others felt more consideration of disability issues was needed

ldquoPlanning doesnrsquot seem to include disabled accessibility issues for new projectsrdquo

ldquoConsideration of people who are blind or low vision in future planning ie Braille on all signage (or on poles or mounts for elevated signage) Audio description at places of interest geographical cultural or historical significance Blind people miss out on our beautiful views they deserve to be catered to with regard to what else PS has to offer Infrastructure improvements that support more and better public transport to Port Stephensrdquo

Disabilit y Inclusion ACTION PLAN 25

Do you think the Port Stephens Community is welcoming of people with disabilities Eg businesses shops etc Most people felt Port Stephens is welcoming (68)

Have you encountered any problems barriers or issues in using transport options

68

0 10 20 30 40 50

Electric Scooter

Walking or wheelchair use

Local buses

Other

Do you think facilities and services are accessible and inclusive in Port Stephens

Focus Area Yes No

Councils Administration Building 57 6

Community centres 53 8

Events 36 21

Libraries 60 2

Parks 38 27

Pools 43 15

Other 18 13

26 Port Stephens Council

Do you find Councilrsquos information publications accessible

Focus area website

Would you like to see an improvement in online services through Councilrsquos website such as the electronic payment of rates and or fees and charges

Do you find Council staff at all of its locations and facilities approachable understanding of your requirements and helpful

Most comments in this section indicated council staff was very helpful and polite

Any other comments

Items for improvement (in order of priority)

Yes 36

Yes 55

Yes 48

No 6

No 18

No 11

1 Provision of venues services events 2 Roadscrossings 3 Footpathsramps 4 Public toilets 5 Public education The following summary outlines the priorities identified across all questions of the survey

ACTION PLANDisabilit y Inclusion

27

App

endi

x 3

Func

tions

ser

vice

s an

d as

sets

Function Area Community Services Sector

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Man

ager

Ngi

oka

Com

mun

ityH

ortic

ultu

ral

Serv

ices

Th

erap

yC

entre

Volu

ntee

r wor

kfor

ce o

f up

to80

0 p

rovi

sion

of lsquo

whe

el in

whe

el o

utrsquo g

arba

ge c

olle

ctio

nfo

r peo

ple

with

dis

abilit

y liv

ing

at h

ome

Pro

visi

on o

fpr

ogra

ms

for c

hild

ren

with

addi

tiona

l nee

ds a

t Out

side

of S

choo

l Hou

rs C

are

Chi

ldre

nsrsquo a

ctiv

ity V

an a

ndFa

mily

Day

Car

e P

rovi

sion

of la

rge

prin

t boo

ks t

alki

ngbo

oks

and

audi

o an

d vi

sual

navi

gatio

n ai

ds a

t lib

rarie

sLe

ar to

sw

im p

rogr

ams

atco

unci

l aqu

atic

cen

tres

Info

rmat

ion

on w

ebsi

te re

Leas

e of

Gra

ham

stow

nVo

lunt

eer s

trate

gy35

5vo

lunt

eers

Aqua

tic R

eser

ve fo

r use

by

Part

A an

d Pa

rt B

com

mitt

ees

Saila

bilit

y (P

SC le

ase

the

Larg

e te

xt fo

rmat

ting

onla

nd fr

om H

unte

r Wat

er a

ndw

ebsi

te

Saila

bilit

y su

b-le

ase

the

land

of P

SC)

Link

s to

vol

unte

er re

sour

ces

in J

ob a

genc

ies

TAF

Eot

her a

reas

bus

ines

ses

etc

univ

ersi

ties

sch

ools

Brai

lle a

nd la

rge

font

com

pute

rs

Rev

iew

pol

icie

spr

oced

ures

toen

sure

they

are

lsquoeas

y re

adrsquo f

orm

at

Busi

ness

lead

ersh

ipto

enh

ance

Ngi

oka

as a

mul

ti-pu

rpos

ece

ntre

and

to p

rom

ote

and

alig

n w

ith N

DIS

pers

onal

pla

ns

28

Function Area Community Services ndash Library Services

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Resource

Libr

ary

Civ

il Ass

ets

Serv

ices

Sect

ion

Man

ager

M

anag

erC

omm

unity

and

Rec

reat

ion

Assets Officer

Paid

Lib

rary

Sta

ff x

24C

asua

l Lib

rary

Sta

ff x

11Li

brar

y Vo

lunt

eers

x 5

5As

sist

ive

Adap

tive

tech

nolo

gy(A

udio

Rea

d na

viga

tors

Zoo

mTe

xt s

cree

n re

ader

sof

twar

ela

rge

prin

t boo

ks a

udio

boo

ks

IInfo

rmat

ion

on a

ll Li

brar

ySe

rvic

es re

late

d to

ser

vice

spr

ogra

ms

and

activ

ities

ndashdi

spla

yed

in b

ranc

hes

via

(flyerspostersTV monitors)

and

on

bull Fa

cebo

ok W

ebsi

tebull

Scho

ol N

ewsl

ette

rs W

hatrsquos

on in

our

Bac

kyar

dbull

PS E

xam

iner

bull N

ews

of th

e Ar

ea (T

eaG

arde

ns N

elso

n Ba

y an

dM

edow

ie)

Thou

Wal

la S

choo

ls a

sC

omm

uniti

es C

entre

New

cast

le R

egio

n Li

brar

y C

o-op

erat

ive

Cen

tral E

ast Z

one

(Reg

iona

lLi

brar

ies

Gro

up)

Publ

ic L

ibra

ries

NSW

Hun

ter W

EAH

isto

rical

and

Fam

ily H

isto

rySo

ciet

ies

RT

Art S

pace

Gro

upR

eal F

utur

es F

ound

atio

n

Inte

rnet

Usa

ge P

olic

yW

aivi

ng O

verd

ueC

harg

esSo

cial

Med

ia P

olic

yLi

brar

y U

ser

Gui

delin

esPS

C L

ibra

ry B

roch

ure

New

cast

le re

gion

Libr

ary

Broc

hure

Volu

ntee

r Pos

ition

Des

crip

tions

and

Han

dboo

kH

isto

rical

Soc

iety

Fa

mily

His

tory

Gro

upAg

reem

ents

Wor

k H

ealth

and

Safe

tyC

omm

ittee

WH

S R

ep-

rese

ntat

ives

Com

mitt

eeW

orkp

lace

Equi

ty a

ndD

iver

sity

Com

mitt

eeC

onsu

ltativ

eC

omm

ittee

Her

itage

Advi

sory

Com

mitt

ee

Dis

able

d to

ilets

do

not c

ater

for o

lder

per

sons

with

a d

isab

ility

who

req

uire

nap

py

chan

gin

g fa

cilit

ies

It is

not

nic

e to

cha

nge

on th

e flo

orof

a d

isab

led

toile

t and

par

ents

room

tab

les

are

too

smal

l

29

Function Area Assets Section

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Asse

t Sec

tion

Man

ager

C

omm

unity

land

man

age-

men

t pu

blic

toile

ts p

arks

pl

aygr

ound

sre

serv

es

fore

shor

es

mar

ine

ac-

cess

spo

rting

fields sports

faci

litie

sco

mm

unity

build

ings

co

mm

unity

halls

sig

nage

Mai

ntai

n an

d up

grad

e pu

blic

Asse

ts re

gist

er c

ondi

tion

Gov

ernm

ent a

genc

ies

gra

ntVa

rious

pla

ns o

fsp

aces

fac

ilitie

s a

sset

s an

dra

ting

syst

em

fund

ing

sche

mes

pro

perty

Management (specific

plac

es in

line

with

legi

slat

ive

deve

lope

rs c

omm

unity

and

gene

ric)

Cou

ncil

Ope

ns S

pace

Stra

tegy

requ

irem

ents

and

com

mun

itygr

oups

int

eres

t gro

ups

polic

ies

Man

agem

ent

(und

erw

ay)

need

s D

irect

ives

Spor

ts C

oun-

cils

355

Com

-m

ittee

sC

omm

unity

grou

ps P

arks

and

Res

erve

sC

omm

ittee

s

Ensu

reth

at th

ede

sign

and

cons

truct

ion

of n

ewfa

cilit

ies

and

infra

stru

ctur

eis

con

side

rate

to li

mite

dac

cess

com

mun

itym

embe

rs

Ensu

re th

at u

pgra

des

and

mai

nten

ance

to c

omm

unity

faci

litie

s ar

e al

igne

d w

ithpr

iorit

ies

for i

nclu

sion

Prep

are

the

Ope

n Sp

ace

Stra

tegy

pla

ns fo

r upg

rade

s to

com

mun

ity fa

cilit

ies

and

area

sw

here

infra

stru

ctur

e ne

eds

to b

e co

nsid

erat

e of

lim

ited

acce

ss c

omm

unity

mem

bers

Ensu

re 3

55 c

omm

ittee

sco

nsid

er a

cces

s an

d in

clus

ion

whe

n th

inki

ng a

bout

pro

gram

sEn

sure

355

Com

mitt

ees

use

fund

s pr

ovid

ed b

y C

ounc

il to

cons

ider

acc

ess

and

incl

usio

nw

hen

build

ing

infra

stru

ctur

e

Activ

ely

seek

gra

nt fu

ndin

gfor projects identified within

the

Ope

ns S

pace

Stra

tegy

in o

rder

to im

prov

e ac

cess

to in

clus

ion

to c

omm

unity

faci

litie

s an

d ar

eas

thro

ugho

utth

e LG

A

Rev

iew

and

upd

ate

exis

ting

plan

s an

dpo

licie

s in

line

with

legi

slat

ive

chan

ges

and identified needs

of th

e co

mm

unity

O

pens

Spa

ceSt

rate

gy (u

nder

way

)

Enco

urag

eco

mm

unity

grou

ps a

ndco

mm

ittee

to u

nder

take

proj

ects

and

prog

ram

s to

enco

urag

eac

cess

incl

usio

n

30

Function Area Human Resource Sector

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners

and agency

collaboration

Plans and Policies

Brochures documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

PotentialResource

Man

ager

Rec

ruitm

ent o

f new

sta

ffIn

form

atio

n on

web

site

in

Rec

ruitm

ent p

olic

ypr

oced

ures

Vo

lunt

eer

Hum

anhard file and on intra net

35

5 C

om-

Management of staffing

Res

ourc

es

mitt

ees

(leav

e A

war

d pr

ovis

ions

su

pera

nnua

tion

etc)

Rec

ruitm

ent p

roce

sses

toIn

form

atio

n in

rang

e of

Job

netw

ork

Rec

ruitm

ent p

roce

ss w

hich

isbe

wel

com

ing

of p

eopl

e w

ithfo

rmat

s in

clud

ing

soci

alag

enci

es

wel

com

ing

of p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

ydi

sabi

lity

olde

r peo

ple

med

ia e

tc P

lus

help

for

busi

ness

es

(adv

ertis

ing

whi

ch w

elco

mes

peo

ple

thos

e w

ho h

ave

a di

sabi

lity

with

a d

isab

ility

+ pr

oces

ses

whi

char

e no

t too

com

plex

Function Area Environment amp PlanningPublic Domain and Services

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners

and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Man

ager

Toile

ts p

ublic

spa

ces

(ieM

aint

ain

and

upgr

ade

publ

icAs

sets

regi

ster

Dev

elop

ers

Publ

ic S

pace

sU

rban

adv

isor

yEn

viro

nmen

tparks sporting fields) and

spac

es a

nd p

lace

s in

line

with

polic

y co

mm

ittee

Ope

n Sp

aces

stra

tegy

and

Plan

ning

bu

ildin

gs (c

omm

unity

hal

ls)

legi

slat

ion

Ensu

re th

at u

pgra

des

toO

pen

Spac

es s

trate

gy to

publ

ic s

pace

s ar

e al

igne

d w

ithin

clud

e up

grad

es to

are

aspr

iorit

ies

for i

nclu

sion

w

here

infra

stru

ctur

e ne

eds

tobe

mor

e in

clus

ive

(ie ra

mps

inm

ajor

hal

ls th

at a

re u

sed)

31

Function Area Communications

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision

of Goods or

services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Com

mun

ica-

Web

site

Pr

ovid

eIn

form

atio

nC

omm

unic

atio

ntio

ns M

anag

er

soci

al m

edia

in

form

atio

n in

on w

ebsi

te

polic

y ha

rd c

opy

rang

e of

form

ats

Dire

ctor

y on

plan

s p

olic

ies

to th

e pu

blic

w

ebsi

tean

d pr

oce-

Larg

e te

xtdu

res

form

attin

g on

web

site

Com

mun

ityD

evel

opm

ent

and

Enga

gem

ent

Man

ager

Exhi

bitio

n Su

bmis

sion

s an

d G

rant

opp

ortu

nitie

sC

omm

unity

Dev

elop

men

t and

Eng

agem

ent p

artn

ers

impr

ovem

ents

incl

udin

gbull

MyL

ink

grou

pbull

Abor

igin

al S

trate

gic

Com

mun

itybull

Your

th p

anel

bull Bu

sine

ss g

roup

sbull

365

Com

mitt

ees

Left-

alig

ning

text

mig

ht s

eem

like

a v

isua

l im

pos

ition

to th

e si

ght

edp

erso

n b

ut th

is s

imp

le c

hang

e is

the

diff

eren

ce b

etw

een

bei

ng a

ble

tore

ad fo

r peo

ple

who

are

blin

d o

r who

hav

e lo

w v

isio

n

32

Function Area Strategy and Environment

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision

of Goods or

services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Committees of

Council

Nox

ious

wee

dH

erita

ge g

rant

sLa

ndow

ners

bus

ines

ses

and

Envi

ronm

enta

lVo

lunt

eer w

eed

cont

rol s

ervi

ces

Resource

Man

ager

Stra

tegy

and

control landfill

orga

nisa

tions

st

rate

gies

pla

nsEn

viro

nmen

tal

355

Her

itage

Com

mitt

eeEn

viro

nmen

t an

d po

licie

sgr

ants

Gra

nt g

uide

lines

Potential

supp

ort p

roje

cts

that

enco

urag

e ac

cess

and

incl

usio

n

Function Area Community Development

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-Directory

Partners

and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Committees

of Council

Potential Resource

Com

mun

ity35

5 Ad

viso

ryG

rant

Pro

gram

s ac

ross

Mai

ntai

n C

ounc

ilrsquos w

ebsi

te C

omm

unity

Com

mun

ityC

omm

unity

Abor

igin

al S

trate

gic

Dev

elop

men

tC

omm

ittee

sC

ounc

ilD

irect

ory

Serv

ices

age

ncie

sEn

gage

men

tC

omm

ittee

and

Polic

yC

omm

unity

Und

erta

ke C

ounc

ilrsquos k

eyC

omm

unity

gra

ntSt

rate

gic

Arts

Enga

gem

ent

enga

gem

ent

com

mun

ity e

vent

s ndash

Aust

ralia

awar

dees

C

ultu

ral P

lan

Com

mitt

eeC

oord

inat

or

proj

ects

Day

cel

ebra

tions

NAI

DO

CYo

uth

Stra

tegy

Yo

uth

Advi

sory

Pan

elw

eek

You

th w

eek

com

mun

ityC

omm

unity

Educ

atio

n an

d Em

-aw

ards

de

velo

pmen

tpl

oym

ent I

nter

agen

cypr

ojec

ts

Cou

ncil

run

com

mun

itySt

reng

then

Cou

ncilrsquos

web

site

Com

mun

ityev

ents

are

acc

essi

ble

Dire

ctor

y se

ctio

n on

DIA

P ag

encie

sG

rant

gui

delin

es s

uppo

rtEn

sure

355

com

mitt

ees

cons

ider

acc

ess

proj

ects

that

enc

oura

gean

d in

clusio

n w

hen

cons

ider

ing

prog

ram

sac

cess

and

incl

usio

n En

sure

com

mun

ity e

ngag

emen

t pro

ject

sen

cour

age

acce

ss a

nd in

clusio

n

33

Function Area Civil Assets

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities in-

frastructure

Provision

of Goods or

services

Information-

Directory

Partners and

agency

collaboration

Plans and Policies

Brochures

documents

Committees

of Council

Potential Resource

Civ

il Ass

ets

Publ

ic tr

ansp

ort

Mai

ntai

n an

d up

grad

eAs

sets

regi

ster

con

ditio

nG

over

nmen

t age

ncie

s g

rant

Plan

ning

infra

stru

ctur

eC

ivil

asse

ts a

ndra

ting

syst

em

fund

ing

sche

mes

pro

perty

Man

ager

fo

otpa

ths

sha

red

publ

ic s

pace

s in

deve

lope

rs c

omm

unity

path

s k

erb

ram

ps

line

with

legi

slat

ive

grou

ps i

nter

est g

roup

sre

quire

men

ts a

ndco

mm

unity

nee

ds

Port

Step

hens

Inte

grat

edpl

ans

(201

6-20

26)

Stra

tegi

cAs

set M

anag

emen

tPl

an T

he P

athw

ays

Plan

Ass

essm

ent a

ndM

aint

enan

ce o

f Foo

tpat

hsan

d C

ycle

way

s Po

licy

Bus

Shel

ter P

olic

y D

isab

ility

Stan

dard

s fo

r Acc

essi

ble

Publ

ic T

rans

port

Ensu

re th

atEn

sure

that

upg

rade

sPr

epar

e up

grad

es to

civ

ilAc

tivel

y se

ek g

rant

fund

ing

Rev

iew

and

upd

ate

exis

ting

Enco

urag

eth

e de

sign

and

and

mai

nten

ance

toas

sets

and

infra

stru

ctur

efor projects identified within

plan

s an

d po

licie

s in

line

com

mun

ityco

nstru

ctio

n of

civi

l ass

ets

are

alig

ned

in c

onju

nctio

n w

ith P

AMP

the

Path

way

s Pl

an a

nd P

AMP

with

legi

slat

ive

chan

ges

grou

ps a

ndne

w fa

cilit

ies

and

with

prio

ritie

s fo

rpr

iorit

y re

quire

men

ts

in o

rder

to im

prov

e ac

cess

and identified needs of the

com

mitt

ees

infra

stru

ctur

e is

incl

usio

n th

roug

hout

the

LGA

com

mun

ity

to u

nder

take

cons

ider

ate

topr

ojec

ts a

ndlim

ited

acce

sspr

ogra

ms

toco

mm

unity

enco

urag

em

embe

rs

acce

ss a

ndin

clus

ion

Pla

nnin

g d

oesn

rsquot se

em to

incl

ude

dis

able

d a

cces

sib

ility

issu

es fo

r new

pro

ject

srdquo

34

Function Area Community Development

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities in-

frastructure

Provision

of Goods or

services

Information-

Directory

Partners

and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Committees of

Council

Potential Resource

Com

mun

ity35

5 Ad

viso

ry C

om-

Gra

nt P

rogr

ams

acro

ssM

aint

ain

Cou

ncilrsquos

web

site

Com

mun

ity S

ervi

ces

Com

mun

ityAb

orig

inal

Stra

tegi

cD

evel

opm

ent

mitt

ees

Cou

ncil

Com

mun

ity D

irect

ory

agen

cies

Enga

gem

ent P

olic

yC

omm

ittee

and

Com

mun

ity e

n-U

nder

take

Cou

ncilrsquos

Com

mun

ity g

rant

Cul

tura

l Pla

nSt

rate

gic

Arts

Com

mitt

eeEn

gage

men

tga

gem

ent p

roje

cts

key

com

mun

ity e

vent

s ndash

awar

dees

Yo

uth

Stra

tegy

Yo

uth

Advi

sory

Pan

elC

oord

inat

or

Aust

ralia

Day

cel

ebra

tions

C

omm

unity

dev

el-

Educ

atio

n an

d Em

ploy

-N

AID

OC

wee

k Y

outh

opm

ent p

roje

cts

men

t Int

erag

ency

wee

k c

omm

unity

aw

ards

Cou

ncil

run

com

mun

ityev

ents

are

acc

essi

ble

Gra

nt g

uide

lines

sup

port

proj

ects

that

enc

oura

geac

cess

and

incl

usio

n

Stre

ngth

en C

ounc

ilrsquos w

ebsit

eC

omm

unity

Dire

ctor

y se

ctio

n on

DIA

P ag

encie

sEn

sure

355

com

mitt

ees

cons

ider

acc

ess

and

inclu

sion

whe

n co

nsid

erin

g pr

ogra

ms

Ensu

re c

omm

unity

eng

agem

ent

proj

ects

enc

oura

ge a

cces

s an

din

clusio

n

Function Area General Managers Office

Staff

Respon-

sibility

Facilities infrastructure

Provision

of Goods

or ser-

vices

Infor-

mation

Direc-

tory

Partners

and agen-

cy collab-

oration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Committees

of Council

Gov

erna

nce

Com

mun

ity P

roje

cts

gran

tResource

Man

ager

W

ard

Fund

sM

ayor

al fu

nds

Gra

nt g

uide

lines

sup

port

proj

ects

that

Enco

urag

e co

mm

unity

gro

ups

and

com

-Potential

enco

urag

e ac

cess

and

inclu

sion

mitt

ees

to u

nder

take

pro

ject

s an

d pr

o-gr

ams

to e

ncou

rage

acc

ess

and

inclu

sion

35

Disability Inclusion

ACTION PLAN

Disability InclusionInclusionDisability InclusionInclusionDisability

For more information please contact Development Services councilportstephensnswgovau | 02 4980 0255 | PORTSTEPHENSNSWGOVAU

Page 20: Port Stephens Council DIAP 2016 - facs.nsw.gov.au · In 2016, Port Stephens had a population of 64,807 at the 2016 Census. This igure is predicted to rise by up to 23,000 over the

Governance monitoring and evaulation To ensure implementation of the Plan an internal working group made up of stakeholders who have responsibility for implementing actions with the plan will be ongoing The working group will meet quarterly to discuss the Action Plan and linkages to both current and future projects and programs including

bull Each new capital works project will consider disability improvements to inclusion and accessibility within the Project Management Plan scoping and procurement document (in addition to Disability Discrimination Act compliance) Improvements for consideration include Location of the

proposed project and Improvements to carpark access to

and from kerb ramp location and availability and pathwayrsquos etc that enable more seamless connectivity

Progress of the plan will be monitored and implementation of actions within the Plan will be reported through a range of governance processes including

bull Six monthly reporting to Councils Executive Leadership team and Council

bull Operational Plan annual reporting as part of the Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework

bull Annual Report bull End of Term Reporting bull Customer satisfaction annual survey and

reporting To enable effective measurement and monitoring of actions within the plan the Port Stephens Customer Satisfaction Survey will include a section within the survey of questions that people who experience disability their families carers and people who work in the disability sector can elect to answer

20 Port Stephens Council

Conclusion Port Stephens Council has a strong commitment to enhancing life experience of people with a disability in the Local Government Area

In developing the Disability Inclusion Action Plan Port Stephens Council has built on the strengths of existing Council resources Council structurestaff plans policies and the local closely connected community by consulting with a broad range of stakeholders

The priorities identified above reflect Council values and principles The individual objectives once approved by Council are to be included in the 2017-2021 Delivery Program and the Annual Operational Plans for each of those four (4) years Within the Integrated and Strategic Planning framework the responsibility reporting and resourcing for the objectives will be defined

Draw together diverse interests and strive towards attaining greater consensus on sustainable outcomes for the local government area

ACTION PLANDisability Inclusion

21

understanding of your requirements and helpful (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

11a Please provide details of your experiences with Council staff

12 Any other comments

Appendix 1 DIAP Survey 1 What is your age 2 What suburb do you live in

(Required) 3 Gender 4 Language used at home 5 Are you a carer or a person with

disability (Choose all that apply) a Carer b Person with disability c Family member

6 Do you think the Port Stephens Community is welcoming of people with disabilities Eg businesses shops etc (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

6a Please give us some examples of positive or negative experiences you have had

7 Have you encountered any problems barriers or issues in using transport options (Choose all that apply) a Walking or wheelchair use b Local buses c Electric Scooter d Other

7a Please give us some examples of positive or negative experiences you have had

8 Do you think facilities and services are accessible and inclusive in Port Stephens a Councilrsquos Administration Building Yes No b Community centres Yes No c Events Yes No d Libraries Yes No e Parks Yes No f Pools Yes No g Other Yes No

22 Port Stephens Council

8a Can you give us any examples for improvements

9 Do you find Councilrsquos information publications accessible

Website Yes No Newsletters Yes No

9a Do you have suggestions for improvements

10 Would you like to see an improvement in online services through Councilrsquos website such as the electronic payment of rates andor fees and charges (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

11 Do you find Council staff at all of its locations and facilities approachable

Appendix 2 community consultation Results from consultation and the survey The areas identified for improvement by were framed around the four priority areas the Port Stephens community are (in order for an inclusive community Liveable of priority) communities Attitudes and behaviours Employment and Systems and processes

Liveable Communities

Focus Area Comments Foot pathsramps ldquoFootpathsramps ndash uneven rough need ramps to access

roads need lighting on paths and stairs need more footpaths wider footpaths some ramps too steeprdquo

ldquoAll new kerb ramps should have no step between the bottom of the ramp and the gutterroad The small step that is still mostly used at the bottom of curb ramps is completely unnecessary (it doesnrsquot improve water flow in the gutter as some people think it does) but it makes it harder for a wheelchair user even if the step is only 2cm or less The same argument applies to drivewaysrdquo

ACTION PLAN

Accessibility to ldquoCluttered walkways access to beaches (wheelchair accessible eventsactivities ramps) Braille on signage audio description at places of shops sporting interest Henderson Park upgrade (steep steps to pontoon facilities parks no disability parking) access to pontoons for fishing (Karuah

good example of how to do it) Wider access passageways and doorways (eg some places have double doors but keep one door locked eg Salamander library)rdquo

Provision of venues ldquoLack of disability services in parks (eg Liberty swingswing services events with 5-point harness) lack of covered areas in parks (many

sun-sensitive due to medication plus rain cover) hydrotherapy pool fences around parks disability friendly slide at parks audio loop neededrdquo

ldquoI would like to see more programs that support carers and the families of people with disabilities in the Port Stephens Local Government Area as their (sic) simply isnrsquot enough I would also like more programs to support people with disabilities so that as a community we can start supporting each other through the hardship of living with a disabilityrdquo

Disability Inclusion 23

Focus Area Comments Public toilets ldquoThere are lack of amenities in disabled toilets (eg adults who

need help changing continence aids hoists in toilets) need more (eg Nelson Bay)rdquo

ldquoDisabled toilets do not cater for older persons with a disability who require nappy changing facilities It is not nice to change on the floor of a disabled toilet and parents room tables are too smallrdquo

Parking ldquoThere is a lack of disabled parking some disabled parks are not wheelchair friendlyrdquo

ldquoSubstandard pavement surfaces for walker frames and mobility scooters Lack of disability parking spaces at Soldiers Point Boat ramp and Salamander Bay wharf and various other areas within the Port Stephens areardquo

Public transport ldquoInfrastructure improvements for more and better transport limited timetables too many transfers to get to destination want regular community bus (low cost or for free)rdquo

Attitudes and Behaviours

Focus Area Comments Respectful and It should be noted that most people reported positive encounters inclusive community with the public and council staff One comment stated ldquocould and services improve empathy and understanding from public on what it is

like to have a disabilityrdquo

ldquoHearing impaired when asked to speak slower shop people yell and pull faces as if trying to mouth out each word very embarrassingrdquo

ldquoStaring commentingrdquo

Public education ldquoEducation for people in shops about disability disabled amenitiesfacilities being used by public (change-rooms toilets parking) but consideration needed so as not to discriminate against those who do not ldquoappearrdquo to have a disabilityrdquo

It should be noted that most people reported positive encounters with the public and council staff

24 Port Stephens Council

Employment

Focus Area Comments No issues identified however it was acknowledged in internal communication with staff that Council could lead the way in more employment of people with a disability this could include recruitment processes which are lsquomore welcomingrsquo and encourage people to apply for positions It also was acknowledged that Council policies procedures systems and processes could be reviewed for lsquoeasy readrsquo format

Systems and Processes

Focus Area Comments Range of information dissemination

Promotion and awareness of activitesevents services

ldquoNot everyone gets newspaper so send information in other ways (emailed with rates) need to consider information dissemination for people with hearing and vision impairedrdquo

ldquoI have rarely seen a Council newsletter Also the website needs to be cleaner clearer more navigable and user friendlyrdquo

ldquoLeft-aligning text might seem like a visual imposition to the sighted person but this simple change is the difference between being able to read for people who are blind or who have low visionrdquo

ldquoEye level display for people using wheelchairsrdquo

Some people were confused or unaware of services amenities available to them

In some areas ldquoFor those of us who get their bills via email it would be great if we were emailed regularly about items on public exhibition etc to replace what other residents would see in your adds in the Examinerrdquo

ldquoMore information areas to access helprdquo

ldquoDidnrsquot know you had a newsletterrdquo

Consulation on council infrastructure

Respondents welcomed the Council distributing this survey for comment but others felt more consideration of disability issues was needed

ldquoPlanning doesnrsquot seem to include disabled accessibility issues for new projectsrdquo

ldquoConsideration of people who are blind or low vision in future planning ie Braille on all signage (or on poles or mounts for elevated signage) Audio description at places of interest geographical cultural or historical significance Blind people miss out on our beautiful views they deserve to be catered to with regard to what else PS has to offer Infrastructure improvements that support more and better public transport to Port Stephensrdquo

Disabilit y Inclusion ACTION PLAN 25

Do you think the Port Stephens Community is welcoming of people with disabilities Eg businesses shops etc Most people felt Port Stephens is welcoming (68)

Have you encountered any problems barriers or issues in using transport options

68

0 10 20 30 40 50

Electric Scooter

Walking or wheelchair use

Local buses

Other

Do you think facilities and services are accessible and inclusive in Port Stephens

Focus Area Yes No

Councils Administration Building 57 6

Community centres 53 8

Events 36 21

Libraries 60 2

Parks 38 27

Pools 43 15

Other 18 13

26 Port Stephens Council

Do you find Councilrsquos information publications accessible

Focus area website

Would you like to see an improvement in online services through Councilrsquos website such as the electronic payment of rates and or fees and charges

Do you find Council staff at all of its locations and facilities approachable understanding of your requirements and helpful

Most comments in this section indicated council staff was very helpful and polite

Any other comments

Items for improvement (in order of priority)

Yes 36

Yes 55

Yes 48

No 6

No 18

No 11

1 Provision of venues services events 2 Roadscrossings 3 Footpathsramps 4 Public toilets 5 Public education The following summary outlines the priorities identified across all questions of the survey

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34

Function Area Community Development

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities in-

frastructure

Provision

of Goods or

services

Information-

Directory

Partners

and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Committees of

Council

Potential Resource

Com

mun

ity35

5 Ad

viso

ry C

om-

Gra

nt P

rogr

ams

acro

ssM

aint

ain

Cou

ncilrsquos

web

site

Com

mun

ity S

ervi

ces

Com

mun

ityAb

orig

inal

Stra

tegi

cD

evel

opm

ent

mitt

ees

Cou

ncil

Com

mun

ity D

irect

ory

agen

cies

Enga

gem

ent P

olic

yC

omm

ittee

and

Com

mun

ity e

n-U

nder

take

Cou

ncilrsquos

Com

mun

ity g

rant

Cul

tura

l Pla

nSt

rate

gic

Arts

Com

mitt

eeEn

gage

men

tga

gem

ent p

roje

cts

key

com

mun

ity e

vent

s ndash

awar

dees

Yo

uth

Stra

tegy

Yo

uth

Advi

sory

Pan

elC

oord

inat

or

Aust

ralia

Day

cel

ebra

tions

C

omm

unity

dev

el-

Educ

atio

n an

d Em

ploy

-N

AID

OC

wee

k Y

outh

opm

ent p

roje

cts

men

t Int

erag

ency

wee

k c

omm

unity

aw

ards

Cou

ncil

run

com

mun

ityev

ents

are

acc

essi

ble

Gra

nt g

uide

lines

sup

port

proj

ects

that

enc

oura

geac

cess

and

incl

usio

n

Stre

ngth

en C

ounc

ilrsquos w

ebsit

eC

omm

unity

Dire

ctor

y se

ctio

n on

DIA

P ag

encie

sEn

sure

355

com

mitt

ees

cons

ider

acc

ess

and

inclu

sion

whe

n co

nsid

erin

g pr

ogra

ms

Ensu

re c

omm

unity

eng

agem

ent

proj

ects

enc

oura

ge a

cces

s an

din

clusio

n

Function Area General Managers Office

Staff

Respon-

sibility

Facilities infrastructure

Provision

of Goods

or ser-

vices

Infor-

mation

Direc-

tory

Partners

and agen-

cy collab-

oration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Committees

of Council

Gov

erna

nce

Com

mun

ity P

roje

cts

gran

tResource

Man

ager

W

ard

Fund

sM

ayor

al fu

nds

Gra

nt g

uide

lines

sup

port

proj

ects

that

Enco

urag

e co

mm

unity

gro

ups

and

com

-Potential

enco

urag

e ac

cess

and

inclu

sion

mitt

ees

to u

nder

take

pro

ject

s an

d pr

o-gr

ams

to e

ncou

rage

acc

ess

and

inclu

sion

35

Disability Inclusion

ACTION PLAN

Disability InclusionInclusionDisability InclusionInclusionDisability

For more information please contact Development Services councilportstephensnswgovau | 02 4980 0255 | PORTSTEPHENSNSWGOVAU

Page 21: Port Stephens Council DIAP 2016 - facs.nsw.gov.au · In 2016, Port Stephens had a population of 64,807 at the 2016 Census. This igure is predicted to rise by up to 23,000 over the

Conclusion Port Stephens Council has a strong commitment to enhancing life experience of people with a disability in the Local Government Area

In developing the Disability Inclusion Action Plan Port Stephens Council has built on the strengths of existing Council resources Council structurestaff plans policies and the local closely connected community by consulting with a broad range of stakeholders

The priorities identified above reflect Council values and principles The individual objectives once approved by Council are to be included in the 2017-2021 Delivery Program and the Annual Operational Plans for each of those four (4) years Within the Integrated and Strategic Planning framework the responsibility reporting and resourcing for the objectives will be defined

Draw together diverse interests and strive towards attaining greater consensus on sustainable outcomes for the local government area

ACTION PLANDisability Inclusion

21

understanding of your requirements and helpful (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

11a Please provide details of your experiences with Council staff

12 Any other comments

Appendix 1 DIAP Survey 1 What is your age 2 What suburb do you live in

(Required) 3 Gender 4 Language used at home 5 Are you a carer or a person with

disability (Choose all that apply) a Carer b Person with disability c Family member

6 Do you think the Port Stephens Community is welcoming of people with disabilities Eg businesses shops etc (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

6a Please give us some examples of positive or negative experiences you have had

7 Have you encountered any problems barriers or issues in using transport options (Choose all that apply) a Walking or wheelchair use b Local buses c Electric Scooter d Other

7a Please give us some examples of positive or negative experiences you have had

8 Do you think facilities and services are accessible and inclusive in Port Stephens a Councilrsquos Administration Building Yes No b Community centres Yes No c Events Yes No d Libraries Yes No e Parks Yes No f Pools Yes No g Other Yes No

22 Port Stephens Council

8a Can you give us any examples for improvements

9 Do you find Councilrsquos information publications accessible

Website Yes No Newsletters Yes No

9a Do you have suggestions for improvements

10 Would you like to see an improvement in online services through Councilrsquos website such as the electronic payment of rates andor fees and charges (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

11 Do you find Council staff at all of its locations and facilities approachable

Appendix 2 community consultation Results from consultation and the survey The areas identified for improvement by were framed around the four priority areas the Port Stephens community are (in order for an inclusive community Liveable of priority) communities Attitudes and behaviours Employment and Systems and processes

Liveable Communities

Focus Area Comments Foot pathsramps ldquoFootpathsramps ndash uneven rough need ramps to access

roads need lighting on paths and stairs need more footpaths wider footpaths some ramps too steeprdquo

ldquoAll new kerb ramps should have no step between the bottom of the ramp and the gutterroad The small step that is still mostly used at the bottom of curb ramps is completely unnecessary (it doesnrsquot improve water flow in the gutter as some people think it does) but it makes it harder for a wheelchair user even if the step is only 2cm or less The same argument applies to drivewaysrdquo

ACTION PLAN

Accessibility to ldquoCluttered walkways access to beaches (wheelchair accessible eventsactivities ramps) Braille on signage audio description at places of shops sporting interest Henderson Park upgrade (steep steps to pontoon facilities parks no disability parking) access to pontoons for fishing (Karuah

good example of how to do it) Wider access passageways and doorways (eg some places have double doors but keep one door locked eg Salamander library)rdquo

Provision of venues ldquoLack of disability services in parks (eg Liberty swingswing services events with 5-point harness) lack of covered areas in parks (many

sun-sensitive due to medication plus rain cover) hydrotherapy pool fences around parks disability friendly slide at parks audio loop neededrdquo

ldquoI would like to see more programs that support carers and the families of people with disabilities in the Port Stephens Local Government Area as their (sic) simply isnrsquot enough I would also like more programs to support people with disabilities so that as a community we can start supporting each other through the hardship of living with a disabilityrdquo

Disability Inclusion 23

Focus Area Comments Public toilets ldquoThere are lack of amenities in disabled toilets (eg adults who

need help changing continence aids hoists in toilets) need more (eg Nelson Bay)rdquo

ldquoDisabled toilets do not cater for older persons with a disability who require nappy changing facilities It is not nice to change on the floor of a disabled toilet and parents room tables are too smallrdquo

Parking ldquoThere is a lack of disabled parking some disabled parks are not wheelchair friendlyrdquo

ldquoSubstandard pavement surfaces for walker frames and mobility scooters Lack of disability parking spaces at Soldiers Point Boat ramp and Salamander Bay wharf and various other areas within the Port Stephens areardquo

Public transport ldquoInfrastructure improvements for more and better transport limited timetables too many transfers to get to destination want regular community bus (low cost or for free)rdquo

Attitudes and Behaviours

Focus Area Comments Respectful and It should be noted that most people reported positive encounters inclusive community with the public and council staff One comment stated ldquocould and services improve empathy and understanding from public on what it is

like to have a disabilityrdquo

ldquoHearing impaired when asked to speak slower shop people yell and pull faces as if trying to mouth out each word very embarrassingrdquo

ldquoStaring commentingrdquo

Public education ldquoEducation for people in shops about disability disabled amenitiesfacilities being used by public (change-rooms toilets parking) but consideration needed so as not to discriminate against those who do not ldquoappearrdquo to have a disabilityrdquo

It should be noted that most people reported positive encounters with the public and council staff

24 Port Stephens Council

Employment

Focus Area Comments No issues identified however it was acknowledged in internal communication with staff that Council could lead the way in more employment of people with a disability this could include recruitment processes which are lsquomore welcomingrsquo and encourage people to apply for positions It also was acknowledged that Council policies procedures systems and processes could be reviewed for lsquoeasy readrsquo format

Systems and Processes

Focus Area Comments Range of information dissemination

Promotion and awareness of activitesevents services

ldquoNot everyone gets newspaper so send information in other ways (emailed with rates) need to consider information dissemination for people with hearing and vision impairedrdquo

ldquoI have rarely seen a Council newsletter Also the website needs to be cleaner clearer more navigable and user friendlyrdquo

ldquoLeft-aligning text might seem like a visual imposition to the sighted person but this simple change is the difference between being able to read for people who are blind or who have low visionrdquo

ldquoEye level display for people using wheelchairsrdquo

Some people were confused or unaware of services amenities available to them

In some areas ldquoFor those of us who get their bills via email it would be great if we were emailed regularly about items on public exhibition etc to replace what other residents would see in your adds in the Examinerrdquo

ldquoMore information areas to access helprdquo

ldquoDidnrsquot know you had a newsletterrdquo

Consulation on council infrastructure

Respondents welcomed the Council distributing this survey for comment but others felt more consideration of disability issues was needed

ldquoPlanning doesnrsquot seem to include disabled accessibility issues for new projectsrdquo

ldquoConsideration of people who are blind or low vision in future planning ie Braille on all signage (or on poles or mounts for elevated signage) Audio description at places of interest geographical cultural or historical significance Blind people miss out on our beautiful views they deserve to be catered to with regard to what else PS has to offer Infrastructure improvements that support more and better public transport to Port Stephensrdquo

Disabilit y Inclusion ACTION PLAN 25

Do you think the Port Stephens Community is welcoming of people with disabilities Eg businesses shops etc Most people felt Port Stephens is welcoming (68)

Have you encountered any problems barriers or issues in using transport options

68

0 10 20 30 40 50

Electric Scooter

Walking or wheelchair use

Local buses

Other

Do you think facilities and services are accessible and inclusive in Port Stephens

Focus Area Yes No

Councils Administration Building 57 6

Community centres 53 8

Events 36 21

Libraries 60 2

Parks 38 27

Pools 43 15

Other 18 13

26 Port Stephens Council

Do you find Councilrsquos information publications accessible

Focus area website

Would you like to see an improvement in online services through Councilrsquos website such as the electronic payment of rates and or fees and charges

Do you find Council staff at all of its locations and facilities approachable understanding of your requirements and helpful

Most comments in this section indicated council staff was very helpful and polite

Any other comments

Items for improvement (in order of priority)

Yes 36

Yes 55

Yes 48

No 6

No 18

No 11

1 Provision of venues services events 2 Roadscrossings 3 Footpathsramps 4 Public toilets 5 Public education The following summary outlines the priorities identified across all questions of the survey

ACTION PLANDisabilit y Inclusion

27

App

endi

x 3

Func

tions

ser

vice

s an

d as

sets

Function Area Community Services Sector

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Man

ager

Ngi

oka

Com

mun

ityH

ortic

ultu

ral

Serv

ices

Th

erap

yC

entre

Volu

ntee

r wor

kfor

ce o

f up

to80

0 p

rovi

sion

of lsquo

whe

el in

whe

el o

utrsquo g

arba

ge c

olle

ctio

nfo

r peo

ple

with

dis

abilit

y liv

ing

at h

ome

Pro

visi

on o

fpr

ogra

ms

for c

hild

ren

with

addi

tiona

l nee

ds a

t Out

side

of S

choo

l Hou

rs C

are

Chi

ldre

nsrsquo a

ctiv

ity V

an a

ndFa

mily

Day

Car

e P

rovi

sion

of la

rge

prin

t boo

ks t

alki

ngbo

oks

and

audi

o an

d vi

sual

navi

gatio

n ai

ds a

t lib

rarie

sLe

ar to

sw

im p

rogr

ams

atco

unci

l aqu

atic

cen

tres

Info

rmat

ion

on w

ebsi

te re

Leas

e of

Gra

ham

stow

nVo

lunt

eer s

trate

gy35

5vo

lunt

eers

Aqua

tic R

eser

ve fo

r use

by

Part

A an

d Pa

rt B

com

mitt

ees

Saila

bilit

y (P

SC le

ase

the

Larg

e te

xt fo

rmat

ting

onla

nd fr

om H

unte

r Wat

er a

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ebsi

te

Saila

bilit

y su

b-le

ase

the

land

of P

SC)

Link

s to

vol

unte

er re

sour

ces

in J

ob a

genc

ies

TAF

Eot

her a

reas

bus

ines

ses

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univ

ersi

ties

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ools

Brai

lle a

nd la

rge

font

com

pute

rs

Rev

iew

pol

icie

spr

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ures

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sure

they

are

lsquoeas

y re

adrsquo f

orm

at

Busi

ness

lead

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ipto

enh

ance

Ngi

oka

as a

mul

ti-pu

rpos

ece

ntre

and

to p

rom

ote

and

alig

n w

ith N

DIS

pers

onal

pla

ns

28

Function Area Community Services ndash Library Services

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Resource

Libr

ary

Civ

il Ass

ets

Serv

ices

Sect

ion

Man

ager

M

anag

erC

omm

unity

and

Rec

reat

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Assets Officer

Paid

Lib

rary

Sta

ff x

24C

asua

l Lib

rary

Sta

ff x

11Li

brar

y Vo

lunt

eers

x 5

5As

sist

ive

Adap

tive

tech

nolo

gy(A

udio

Rea

d na

viga

tors

Zoo

mTe

xt s

cree

n re

ader

sof

twar

ela

rge

prin

t boo

ks a

udio

boo

ks

IInfo

rmat

ion

on a

ll Li

brar

ySe

rvic

es re

late

d to

ser

vice

spr

ogra

ms

and

activ

ities

ndashdi

spla

yed

in b

ranc

hes

via

(flyerspostersTV monitors)

and

on

bull Fa

cebo

ok W

ebsi

tebull

Scho

ol N

ewsl

ette

rs W

hatrsquos

on in

our

Bac

kyar

dbull

PS E

xam

iner

bull N

ews

of th

e Ar

ea (T

eaG

arde

ns N

elso

n Ba

y an

dM

edow

ie)

Thou

Wal

la S

choo

ls a

sC

omm

uniti

es C

entre

New

cast

le R

egio

n Li

brar

y C

o-op

erat

ive

Cen

tral E

ast Z

one

(Reg

iona

lLi

brar

ies

Gro

up)

Publ

ic L

ibra

ries

NSW

Hun

ter W

EAH

isto

rical

and

Fam

ily H

isto

rySo

ciet

ies

RT

Art S

pace

Gro

upR

eal F

utur

es F

ound

atio

n

Inte

rnet

Usa

ge P

olic

yW

aivi

ng O

verd

ueC

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esSo

cial

Med

ia P

olic

yLi

brar

y U

ser

Gui

delin

esPS

C L

ibra

ry B

roch

ure

New

cast

le re

gion

Libr

ary

Broc

hure

Volu

ntee

r Pos

ition

Des

crip

tions

and

Han

dboo

kH

isto

rical

Soc

iety

Fa

mily

His

tory

Gro

upAg

reem

ents

Wor

k H

ealth

and

Safe

tyC

omm

ittee

WH

S R

ep-

rese

ntat

ives

Com

mitt

eeW

orkp

lace

Equi

ty a

ndD

iver

sity

Com

mitt

eeC

onsu

ltativ

eC

omm

ittee

Her

itage

Advi

sory

Com

mitt

ee

Dis

able

d to

ilets

do

not c

ater

for o

lder

per

sons

with

a d

isab

ility

who

req

uire

nap

py

chan

gin

g fa

cilit

ies

It is

not

nic

e to

cha

nge

on th

e flo

orof

a d

isab

led

toile

t and

par

ents

room

tab

les

are

too

smal

l

29

Function Area Assets Section

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Asse

t Sec

tion

Man

ager

C

omm

unity

land

man

age-

men

t pu

blic

toile

ts p

arks

pl

aygr

ound

sre

serv

es

fore

shor

es

mar

ine

ac-

cess

spo

rting

fields sports

faci

litie

sco

mm

unity

build

ings

co

mm

unity

halls

sig

nage

Mai

ntai

n an

d up

grad

e pu

blic

Asse

ts re

gist

er c

ondi

tion

Gov

ernm

ent a

genc

ies

gra

ntVa

rious

pla

ns o

fsp

aces

fac

ilitie

s a

sset

s an

dra

ting

syst

em

fund

ing

sche

mes

pro

perty

Management (specific

plac

es in

line

with

legi

slat

ive

deve

lope

rs c

omm

unity

and

gene

ric)

Cou

ncil

Ope

ns S

pace

Stra

tegy

requ

irem

ents

and

com

mun

itygr

oups

int

eres

t gro

ups

polic

ies

Man

agem

ent

(und

erw

ay)

need

s D

irect

ives

Spor

ts C

oun-

cils

355

Com

-m

ittee

sC

omm

unity

grou

ps P

arks

and

Res

erve

sC

omm

ittee

s

Ensu

reth

at th

ede

sign

and

cons

truct

ion

of n

ewfa

cilit

ies

and

infra

stru

ctur

eis

con

side

rate

to li

mite

dac

cess

com

mun

itym

embe

rs

Ensu

re th

at u

pgra

des

and

mai

nten

ance

to c

omm

unity

faci

litie

s ar

e al

igne

d w

ithpr

iorit

ies

for i

nclu

sion

Prep

are

the

Ope

n Sp

ace

Stra

tegy

pla

ns fo

r upg

rade

s to

com

mun

ity fa

cilit

ies

and

area

sw

here

infra

stru

ctur

e ne

eds

to b

e co

nsid

erat

e of

lim

ited

acce

ss c

omm

unity

mem

bers

Ensu

re 3

55 c

omm

ittee

sco

nsid

er a

cces

s an

d in

clus

ion

whe

n th

inki

ng a

bout

pro

gram

sEn

sure

355

Com

mitt

ees

use

fund

s pr

ovid

ed b

y C

ounc

il to

cons

ider

acc

ess

and

incl

usio

nw

hen

build

ing

infra

stru

ctur

e

Activ

ely

seek

gra

nt fu

ndin

gfor projects identified within

the

Ope

ns S

pace

Stra

tegy

in o

rder

to im

prov

e ac

cess

to in

clus

ion

to c

omm

unity

faci

litie

s an

d ar

eas

thro

ugho

utth

e LG

A

Rev

iew

and

upd

ate

exis

ting

plan

s an

dpo

licie

s in

line

with

legi

slat

ive

chan

ges

and identified needs

of th

e co

mm

unity

O

pens

Spa

ceSt

rate

gy (u

nder

way

)

Enco

urag

eco

mm

unity

grou

ps a

ndco

mm

ittee

to u

nder

take

proj

ects

and

prog

ram

s to

enco

urag

eac

cess

incl

usio

n

30

Function Area Human Resource Sector

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners

and agency

collaboration

Plans and Policies

Brochures documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

PotentialResource

Man

ager

Rec

ruitm

ent o

f new

sta

ffIn

form

atio

n on

web

site

in

Rec

ruitm

ent p

olic

ypr

oced

ures

Vo

lunt

eer

Hum

anhard file and on intra net

35

5 C

om-

Management of staffing

Res

ourc

es

mitt

ees

(leav

e A

war

d pr

ovis

ions

su

pera

nnua

tion

etc)

Rec

ruitm

ent p

roce

sses

toIn

form

atio

n in

rang

e of

Job

netw

ork

Rec

ruitm

ent p

roce

ss w

hich

isbe

wel

com

ing

of p

eopl

e w

ithfo

rmat

s in

clud

ing

soci

alag

enci

es

wel

com

ing

of p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

ydi

sabi

lity

olde

r peo

ple

med

ia e

tc P

lus

help

for

busi

ness

es

(adv

ertis

ing

whi

ch w

elco

mes

peo

ple

thos

e w

ho h

ave

a di

sabi

lity

with

a d

isab

ility

+ pr

oces

ses

whi

char

e no

t too

com

plex

Function Area Environment amp PlanningPublic Domain and Services

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners

and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Man

ager

Toile

ts p

ublic

spa

ces

(ieM

aint

ain

and

upgr

ade

publ

icAs

sets

regi

ster

Dev

elop

ers

Publ

ic S

pace

sU

rban

adv

isor

yEn

viro

nmen

tparks sporting fields) and

spac

es a

nd p

lace

s in

line

with

polic

y co

mm

ittee

Ope

n Sp

aces

stra

tegy

and

Plan

ning

bu

ildin

gs (c

omm

unity

hal

ls)

legi

slat

ion

Ensu

re th

at u

pgra

des

toO

pen

Spac

es s

trate

gy to

publ

ic s

pace

s ar

e al

igne

d w

ithin

clud

e up

grad

es to

are

aspr

iorit

ies

for i

nclu

sion

w

here

infra

stru

ctur

e ne

eds

tobe

mor

e in

clus

ive

(ie ra

mps

inm

ajor

hal

ls th

at a

re u

sed)

31

Function Area Communications

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision

of Goods or

services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Com

mun

ica-

Web

site

Pr

ovid

eIn

form

atio

nC

omm

unic

atio

ntio

ns M

anag

er

soci

al m

edia

in

form

atio

n in

on w

ebsi

te

polic

y ha

rd c

opy

rang

e of

form

ats

Dire

ctor

y on

plan

s p

olic

ies

to th

e pu

blic

w

ebsi

tean

d pr

oce-

Larg

e te

xtdu

res

form

attin

g on

web

site

Com

mun

ityD

evel

opm

ent

and

Enga

gem

ent

Man

ager

Exhi

bitio

n Su

bmis

sion

s an

d G

rant

opp

ortu

nitie

sC

omm

unity

Dev

elop

men

t and

Eng

agem

ent p

artn

ers

impr

ovem

ents

incl

udin

gbull

MyL

ink

grou

pbull

Abor

igin

al S

trate

gic

Com

mun

itybull

Your

th p

anel

bull Bu

sine

ss g

roup

sbull

365

Com

mitt

ees

Left-

alig

ning

text

mig

ht s

eem

like

a v

isua

l im

pos

ition

to th

e si

ght

edp

erso

n b

ut th

is s

imp

le c

hang

e is

the

diff

eren

ce b

etw

een

bei

ng a

ble

tore

ad fo

r peo

ple

who

are

blin

d o

r who

hav

e lo

w v

isio

n

32

Function Area Strategy and Environment

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision

of Goods or

services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Committees of

Council

Nox

ious

wee

dH

erita

ge g

rant

sLa

ndow

ners

bus

ines

ses

and

Envi

ronm

enta

lVo

lunt

eer w

eed

cont

rol s

ervi

ces

Resource

Man

ager

Stra

tegy

and

control landfill

orga

nisa

tions

st

rate

gies

pla

nsEn

viro

nmen

tal

355

Her

itage

Com

mitt

eeEn

viro

nmen

t an

d po

licie

sgr

ants

Gra

nt g

uide

lines

Potential

supp

ort p

roje

cts

that

enco

urag

e ac

cess

and

incl

usio

n

Function Area Community Development

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-Directory

Partners

and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Committees

of Council

Potential Resource

Com

mun

ity35

5 Ad

viso

ryG

rant

Pro

gram

s ac

ross

Mai

ntai

n C

ounc

ilrsquos w

ebsi

te C

omm

unity

Com

mun

ityC

omm

unity

Abor

igin

al S

trate

gic

Dev

elop

men

tC

omm

ittee

sC

ounc

ilD

irect

ory

Serv

ices

age

ncie

sEn

gage

men

tC

omm

ittee

and

Polic

yC

omm

unity

Und

erta

ke C

ounc

ilrsquos k

eyC

omm

unity

gra

ntSt

rate

gic

Arts

Enga

gem

ent

enga

gem

ent

com

mun

ity e

vent

s ndash

Aust

ralia

awar

dees

C

ultu

ral P

lan

Com

mitt

eeC

oord

inat

or

proj

ects

Day

cel

ebra

tions

NAI

DO

CYo

uth

Stra

tegy

Yo

uth

Advi

sory

Pan

elw

eek

You

th w

eek

com

mun

ityC

omm

unity

Educ

atio

n an

d Em

-aw

ards

de

velo

pmen

tpl

oym

ent I

nter

agen

cypr

ojec

ts

Cou

ncil

run

com

mun

itySt

reng

then

Cou

ncilrsquos

web

site

Com

mun

ityev

ents

are

acc

essi

ble

Dire

ctor

y se

ctio

n on

DIA

P ag

encie

sG

rant

gui

delin

es s

uppo

rtEn

sure

355

com

mitt

ees

cons

ider

acc

ess

proj

ects

that

enc

oura

gean

d in

clusio

n w

hen

cons

ider

ing

prog

ram

sac

cess

and

incl

usio

n En

sure

com

mun

ity e

ngag

emen

t pro

ject

sen

cour

age

acce

ss a

nd in

clusio

n

33

Function Area Civil Assets

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities in-

frastructure

Provision

of Goods or

services

Information-

Directory

Partners and

agency

collaboration

Plans and Policies

Brochures

documents

Committees

of Council

Potential Resource

Civ

il Ass

ets

Publ

ic tr

ansp

ort

Mai

ntai

n an

d up

grad

eAs

sets

regi

ster

con

ditio

nG

over

nmen

t age

ncie

s g

rant

Plan

ning

infra

stru

ctur

eC

ivil

asse

ts a

ndra

ting

syst

em

fund

ing

sche

mes

pro

perty

Man

ager

fo

otpa

ths

sha

red

publ

ic s

pace

s in

deve

lope

rs c

omm

unity

path

s k

erb

ram

ps

line

with

legi

slat

ive

grou

ps i

nter

est g

roup

sre

quire

men

ts a

ndco

mm

unity

nee

ds

Port

Step

hens

Inte

grat

edpl

ans

(201

6-20

26)

Stra

tegi

cAs

set M

anag

emen

tPl

an T

he P

athw

ays

Plan

Ass

essm

ent a

ndM

aint

enan

ce o

f Foo

tpat

hsan

d C

ycle

way

s Po

licy

Bus

Shel

ter P

olic

y D

isab

ility

Stan

dard

s fo

r Acc

essi

ble

Publ

ic T

rans

port

Ensu

re th

atEn

sure

that

upg

rade

sPr

epar

e up

grad

es to

civ

ilAc

tivel

y se

ek g

rant

fund

ing

Rev

iew

and

upd

ate

exis

ting

Enco

urag

eth

e de

sign

and

and

mai

nten

ance

toas

sets

and

infra

stru

ctur

efor projects identified within

plan

s an

d po

licie

s in

line

com

mun

ityco

nstru

ctio

n of

civi

l ass

ets

are

alig

ned

in c

onju

nctio

n w

ith P

AMP

the

Path

way

s Pl

an a

nd P

AMP

with

legi

slat

ive

chan

ges

grou

ps a

ndne

w fa

cilit

ies

and

with

prio

ritie

s fo

rpr

iorit

y re

quire

men

ts

in o

rder

to im

prov

e ac

cess

and identified needs of the

com

mitt

ees

infra

stru

ctur

e is

incl

usio

n th

roug

hout

the

LGA

com

mun

ity

to u

nder

take

cons

ider

ate

topr

ojec

ts a

ndlim

ited

acce

sspr

ogra

ms

toco

mm

unity

enco

urag

em

embe

rs

acce

ss a

ndin

clus

ion

Pla

nnin

g d

oesn

rsquot se

em to

incl

ude

dis

able

d a

cces

sib

ility

issu

es fo

r new

pro

ject

srdquo

34

Function Area Community Development

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities in-

frastructure

Provision

of Goods or

services

Information-

Directory

Partners

and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Committees of

Council

Potential Resource

Com

mun

ity35

5 Ad

viso

ry C

om-

Gra

nt P

rogr

ams

acro

ssM

aint

ain

Cou

ncilrsquos

web

site

Com

mun

ity S

ervi

ces

Com

mun

ityAb

orig

inal

Stra

tegi

cD

evel

opm

ent

mitt

ees

Cou

ncil

Com

mun

ity D

irect

ory

agen

cies

Enga

gem

ent P

olic

yC

omm

ittee

and

Com

mun

ity e

n-U

nder

take

Cou

ncilrsquos

Com

mun

ity g

rant

Cul

tura

l Pla

nSt

rate

gic

Arts

Com

mitt

eeEn

gage

men

tga

gem

ent p

roje

cts

key

com

mun

ity e

vent

s ndash

awar

dees

Yo

uth

Stra

tegy

Yo

uth

Advi

sory

Pan

elC

oord

inat

or

Aust

ralia

Day

cel

ebra

tions

C

omm

unity

dev

el-

Educ

atio

n an

d Em

ploy

-N

AID

OC

wee

k Y

outh

opm

ent p

roje

cts

men

t Int

erag

ency

wee

k c

omm

unity

aw

ards

Cou

ncil

run

com

mun

ityev

ents

are

acc

essi

ble

Gra

nt g

uide

lines

sup

port

proj

ects

that

enc

oura

geac

cess

and

incl

usio

n

Stre

ngth

en C

ounc

ilrsquos w

ebsit

eC

omm

unity

Dire

ctor

y se

ctio

n on

DIA

P ag

encie

sEn

sure

355

com

mitt

ees

cons

ider

acc

ess

and

inclu

sion

whe

n co

nsid

erin

g pr

ogra

ms

Ensu

re c

omm

unity

eng

agem

ent

proj

ects

enc

oura

ge a

cces

s an

din

clusio

n

Function Area General Managers Office

Staff

Respon-

sibility

Facilities infrastructure

Provision

of Goods

or ser-

vices

Infor-

mation

Direc-

tory

Partners

and agen-

cy collab-

oration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Committees

of Council

Gov

erna

nce

Com

mun

ity P

roje

cts

gran

tResource

Man

ager

W

ard

Fund

sM

ayor

al fu

nds

Gra

nt g

uide

lines

sup

port

proj

ects

that

Enco

urag

e co

mm

unity

gro

ups

and

com

-Potential

enco

urag

e ac

cess

and

inclu

sion

mitt

ees

to u

nder

take

pro

ject

s an

d pr

o-gr

ams

to e

ncou

rage

acc

ess

and

inclu

sion

35

Disability Inclusion

ACTION PLAN

Disability InclusionInclusionDisability InclusionInclusionDisability

For more information please contact Development Services councilportstephensnswgovau | 02 4980 0255 | PORTSTEPHENSNSWGOVAU

Page 22: Port Stephens Council DIAP 2016 - facs.nsw.gov.au · In 2016, Port Stephens had a population of 64,807 at the 2016 Census. This igure is predicted to rise by up to 23,000 over the

understanding of your requirements and helpful (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

11a Please provide details of your experiences with Council staff

12 Any other comments

Appendix 1 DIAP Survey 1 What is your age 2 What suburb do you live in

(Required) 3 Gender 4 Language used at home 5 Are you a carer or a person with

disability (Choose all that apply) a Carer b Person with disability c Family member

6 Do you think the Port Stephens Community is welcoming of people with disabilities Eg businesses shops etc (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

6a Please give us some examples of positive or negative experiences you have had

7 Have you encountered any problems barriers or issues in using transport options (Choose all that apply) a Walking or wheelchair use b Local buses c Electric Scooter d Other

7a Please give us some examples of positive or negative experiences you have had

8 Do you think facilities and services are accessible and inclusive in Port Stephens a Councilrsquos Administration Building Yes No b Community centres Yes No c Events Yes No d Libraries Yes No e Parks Yes No f Pools Yes No g Other Yes No

22 Port Stephens Council

8a Can you give us any examples for improvements

9 Do you find Councilrsquos information publications accessible

Website Yes No Newsletters Yes No

9a Do you have suggestions for improvements

10 Would you like to see an improvement in online services through Councilrsquos website such as the electronic payment of rates andor fees and charges (Choose all that apply) a Yes b No

11 Do you find Council staff at all of its locations and facilities approachable

Appendix 2 community consultation Results from consultation and the survey The areas identified for improvement by were framed around the four priority areas the Port Stephens community are (in order for an inclusive community Liveable of priority) communities Attitudes and behaviours Employment and Systems and processes

Liveable Communities

Focus Area Comments Foot pathsramps ldquoFootpathsramps ndash uneven rough need ramps to access

roads need lighting on paths and stairs need more footpaths wider footpaths some ramps too steeprdquo

ldquoAll new kerb ramps should have no step between the bottom of the ramp and the gutterroad The small step that is still mostly used at the bottom of curb ramps is completely unnecessary (it doesnrsquot improve water flow in the gutter as some people think it does) but it makes it harder for a wheelchair user even if the step is only 2cm or less The same argument applies to drivewaysrdquo

ACTION PLAN

Accessibility to ldquoCluttered walkways access to beaches (wheelchair accessible eventsactivities ramps) Braille on signage audio description at places of shops sporting interest Henderson Park upgrade (steep steps to pontoon facilities parks no disability parking) access to pontoons for fishing (Karuah

good example of how to do it) Wider access passageways and doorways (eg some places have double doors but keep one door locked eg Salamander library)rdquo

Provision of venues ldquoLack of disability services in parks (eg Liberty swingswing services events with 5-point harness) lack of covered areas in parks (many

sun-sensitive due to medication plus rain cover) hydrotherapy pool fences around parks disability friendly slide at parks audio loop neededrdquo

ldquoI would like to see more programs that support carers and the families of people with disabilities in the Port Stephens Local Government Area as their (sic) simply isnrsquot enough I would also like more programs to support people with disabilities so that as a community we can start supporting each other through the hardship of living with a disabilityrdquo

Disability Inclusion 23

Focus Area Comments Public toilets ldquoThere are lack of amenities in disabled toilets (eg adults who

need help changing continence aids hoists in toilets) need more (eg Nelson Bay)rdquo

ldquoDisabled toilets do not cater for older persons with a disability who require nappy changing facilities It is not nice to change on the floor of a disabled toilet and parents room tables are too smallrdquo

Parking ldquoThere is a lack of disabled parking some disabled parks are not wheelchair friendlyrdquo

ldquoSubstandard pavement surfaces for walker frames and mobility scooters Lack of disability parking spaces at Soldiers Point Boat ramp and Salamander Bay wharf and various other areas within the Port Stephens areardquo

Public transport ldquoInfrastructure improvements for more and better transport limited timetables too many transfers to get to destination want regular community bus (low cost or for free)rdquo

Attitudes and Behaviours

Focus Area Comments Respectful and It should be noted that most people reported positive encounters inclusive community with the public and council staff One comment stated ldquocould and services improve empathy and understanding from public on what it is

like to have a disabilityrdquo

ldquoHearing impaired when asked to speak slower shop people yell and pull faces as if trying to mouth out each word very embarrassingrdquo

ldquoStaring commentingrdquo

Public education ldquoEducation for people in shops about disability disabled amenitiesfacilities being used by public (change-rooms toilets parking) but consideration needed so as not to discriminate against those who do not ldquoappearrdquo to have a disabilityrdquo

It should be noted that most people reported positive encounters with the public and council staff

24 Port Stephens Council

Employment

Focus Area Comments No issues identified however it was acknowledged in internal communication with staff that Council could lead the way in more employment of people with a disability this could include recruitment processes which are lsquomore welcomingrsquo and encourage people to apply for positions It also was acknowledged that Council policies procedures systems and processes could be reviewed for lsquoeasy readrsquo format

Systems and Processes

Focus Area Comments Range of information dissemination

Promotion and awareness of activitesevents services

ldquoNot everyone gets newspaper so send information in other ways (emailed with rates) need to consider information dissemination for people with hearing and vision impairedrdquo

ldquoI have rarely seen a Council newsletter Also the website needs to be cleaner clearer more navigable and user friendlyrdquo

ldquoLeft-aligning text might seem like a visual imposition to the sighted person but this simple change is the difference between being able to read for people who are blind or who have low visionrdquo

ldquoEye level display for people using wheelchairsrdquo

Some people were confused or unaware of services amenities available to them

In some areas ldquoFor those of us who get their bills via email it would be great if we were emailed regularly about items on public exhibition etc to replace what other residents would see in your adds in the Examinerrdquo

ldquoMore information areas to access helprdquo

ldquoDidnrsquot know you had a newsletterrdquo

Consulation on council infrastructure

Respondents welcomed the Council distributing this survey for comment but others felt more consideration of disability issues was needed

ldquoPlanning doesnrsquot seem to include disabled accessibility issues for new projectsrdquo

ldquoConsideration of people who are blind or low vision in future planning ie Braille on all signage (or on poles or mounts for elevated signage) Audio description at places of interest geographical cultural or historical significance Blind people miss out on our beautiful views they deserve to be catered to with regard to what else PS has to offer Infrastructure improvements that support more and better public transport to Port Stephensrdquo

Disabilit y Inclusion ACTION PLAN 25

Do you think the Port Stephens Community is welcoming of people with disabilities Eg businesses shops etc Most people felt Port Stephens is welcoming (68)

Have you encountered any problems barriers or issues in using transport options

68

0 10 20 30 40 50

Electric Scooter

Walking or wheelchair use

Local buses

Other

Do you think facilities and services are accessible and inclusive in Port Stephens

Focus Area Yes No

Councils Administration Building 57 6

Community centres 53 8

Events 36 21

Libraries 60 2

Parks 38 27

Pools 43 15

Other 18 13

26 Port Stephens Council

Do you find Councilrsquos information publications accessible

Focus area website

Would you like to see an improvement in online services through Councilrsquos website such as the electronic payment of rates and or fees and charges

Do you find Council staff at all of its locations and facilities approachable understanding of your requirements and helpful

Most comments in this section indicated council staff was very helpful and polite

Any other comments

Items for improvement (in order of priority)

Yes 36

Yes 55

Yes 48

No 6

No 18

No 11

1 Provision of venues services events 2 Roadscrossings 3 Footpathsramps 4 Public toilets 5 Public education The following summary outlines the priorities identified across all questions of the survey

ACTION PLANDisabilit y Inclusion

27

App

endi

x 3

Func

tions

ser

vice

s an

d as

sets

Function Area Community Services Sector

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Man

ager

Ngi

oka

Com

mun

ityH

ortic

ultu

ral

Serv

ices

Th

erap

yC

entre

Volu

ntee

r wor

kfor

ce o

f up

to80

0 p

rovi

sion

of lsquo

whe

el in

whe

el o

utrsquo g

arba

ge c

olle

ctio

nfo

r peo

ple

with

dis

abilit

y liv

ing

at h

ome

Pro

visi

on o

fpr

ogra

ms

for c

hild

ren

with

addi

tiona

l nee

ds a

t Out

side

of S

choo

l Hou

rs C

are

Chi

ldre

nsrsquo a

ctiv

ity V

an a

ndFa

mily

Day

Car

e P

rovi

sion

of la

rge

prin

t boo

ks t

alki

ngbo

oks

and

audi

o an

d vi

sual

navi

gatio

n ai

ds a

t lib

rarie

sLe

ar to

sw

im p

rogr

ams

atco

unci

l aqu

atic

cen

tres

Info

rmat

ion

on w

ebsi

te re

Leas

e of

Gra

ham

stow

nVo

lunt

eer s

trate

gy35

5vo

lunt

eers

Aqua

tic R

eser

ve fo

r use

by

Part

A an

d Pa

rt B

com

mitt

ees

Saila

bilit

y (P

SC le

ase

the

Larg

e te

xt fo

rmat

ting

onla

nd fr

om H

unte

r Wat

er a

ndw

ebsi

te

Saila

bilit

y su

b-le

ase

the

land

of P

SC)

Link

s to

vol

unte

er re

sour

ces

in J

ob a

genc

ies

TAF

Eot

her a

reas

bus

ines

ses

etc

univ

ersi

ties

sch

ools

Brai

lle a

nd la

rge

font

com

pute

rs

Rev

iew

pol

icie

spr

oced

ures

toen

sure

they

are

lsquoeas

y re

adrsquo f

orm

at

Busi

ness

lead

ersh

ipto

enh

ance

Ngi

oka

as a

mul

ti-pu

rpos

ece

ntre

and

to p

rom

ote

and

alig

n w

ith N

DIS

pers

onal

pla

ns

28

Function Area Community Services ndash Library Services

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Resource

Libr

ary

Civ

il Ass

ets

Serv

ices

Sect

ion

Man

ager

M

anag

erC

omm

unity

and

Rec

reat

ion

Assets Officer

Paid

Lib

rary

Sta

ff x

24C

asua

l Lib

rary

Sta

ff x

11Li

brar

y Vo

lunt

eers

x 5

5As

sist

ive

Adap

tive

tech

nolo

gy(A

udio

Rea

d na

viga

tors

Zoo

mTe

xt s

cree

n re

ader

sof

twar

ela

rge

prin

t boo

ks a

udio

boo

ks

IInfo

rmat

ion

on a

ll Li

brar

ySe

rvic

es re

late

d to

ser

vice

spr

ogra

ms

and

activ

ities

ndashdi

spla

yed

in b

ranc

hes

via

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Function Area Assets Section

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Function Area Human Resource Sector

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35

Disability Inclusion

ACTION PLAN

Disability InclusionInclusionDisability InclusionInclusionDisability

For more information please contact Development Services councilportstephensnswgovau | 02 4980 0255 | PORTSTEPHENSNSWGOVAU

Page 23: Port Stephens Council DIAP 2016 - facs.nsw.gov.au · In 2016, Port Stephens had a population of 64,807 at the 2016 Census. This igure is predicted to rise by up to 23,000 over the

Appendix 2 community consultation Results from consultation and the survey The areas identified for improvement by were framed around the four priority areas the Port Stephens community are (in order for an inclusive community Liveable of priority) communities Attitudes and behaviours Employment and Systems and processes

Liveable Communities

Focus Area Comments Foot pathsramps ldquoFootpathsramps ndash uneven rough need ramps to access

roads need lighting on paths and stairs need more footpaths wider footpaths some ramps too steeprdquo

ldquoAll new kerb ramps should have no step between the bottom of the ramp and the gutterroad The small step that is still mostly used at the bottom of curb ramps is completely unnecessary (it doesnrsquot improve water flow in the gutter as some people think it does) but it makes it harder for a wheelchair user even if the step is only 2cm or less The same argument applies to drivewaysrdquo

ACTION PLAN

Accessibility to ldquoCluttered walkways access to beaches (wheelchair accessible eventsactivities ramps) Braille on signage audio description at places of shops sporting interest Henderson Park upgrade (steep steps to pontoon facilities parks no disability parking) access to pontoons for fishing (Karuah

good example of how to do it) Wider access passageways and doorways (eg some places have double doors but keep one door locked eg Salamander library)rdquo

Provision of venues ldquoLack of disability services in parks (eg Liberty swingswing services events with 5-point harness) lack of covered areas in parks (many

sun-sensitive due to medication plus rain cover) hydrotherapy pool fences around parks disability friendly slide at parks audio loop neededrdquo

ldquoI would like to see more programs that support carers and the families of people with disabilities in the Port Stephens Local Government Area as their (sic) simply isnrsquot enough I would also like more programs to support people with disabilities so that as a community we can start supporting each other through the hardship of living with a disabilityrdquo

Disability Inclusion 23

Focus Area Comments Public toilets ldquoThere are lack of amenities in disabled toilets (eg adults who

need help changing continence aids hoists in toilets) need more (eg Nelson Bay)rdquo

ldquoDisabled toilets do not cater for older persons with a disability who require nappy changing facilities It is not nice to change on the floor of a disabled toilet and parents room tables are too smallrdquo

Parking ldquoThere is a lack of disabled parking some disabled parks are not wheelchair friendlyrdquo

ldquoSubstandard pavement surfaces for walker frames and mobility scooters Lack of disability parking spaces at Soldiers Point Boat ramp and Salamander Bay wharf and various other areas within the Port Stephens areardquo

Public transport ldquoInfrastructure improvements for more and better transport limited timetables too many transfers to get to destination want regular community bus (low cost or for free)rdquo

Attitudes and Behaviours

Focus Area Comments Respectful and It should be noted that most people reported positive encounters inclusive community with the public and council staff One comment stated ldquocould and services improve empathy and understanding from public on what it is

like to have a disabilityrdquo

ldquoHearing impaired when asked to speak slower shop people yell and pull faces as if trying to mouth out each word very embarrassingrdquo

ldquoStaring commentingrdquo

Public education ldquoEducation for people in shops about disability disabled amenitiesfacilities being used by public (change-rooms toilets parking) but consideration needed so as not to discriminate against those who do not ldquoappearrdquo to have a disabilityrdquo

It should be noted that most people reported positive encounters with the public and council staff

24 Port Stephens Council

Employment

Focus Area Comments No issues identified however it was acknowledged in internal communication with staff that Council could lead the way in more employment of people with a disability this could include recruitment processes which are lsquomore welcomingrsquo and encourage people to apply for positions It also was acknowledged that Council policies procedures systems and processes could be reviewed for lsquoeasy readrsquo format

Systems and Processes

Focus Area Comments Range of information dissemination

Promotion and awareness of activitesevents services

ldquoNot everyone gets newspaper so send information in other ways (emailed with rates) need to consider information dissemination for people with hearing and vision impairedrdquo

ldquoI have rarely seen a Council newsletter Also the website needs to be cleaner clearer more navigable and user friendlyrdquo

ldquoLeft-aligning text might seem like a visual imposition to the sighted person but this simple change is the difference between being able to read for people who are blind or who have low visionrdquo

ldquoEye level display for people using wheelchairsrdquo

Some people were confused or unaware of services amenities available to them

In some areas ldquoFor those of us who get their bills via email it would be great if we were emailed regularly about items on public exhibition etc to replace what other residents would see in your adds in the Examinerrdquo

ldquoMore information areas to access helprdquo

ldquoDidnrsquot know you had a newsletterrdquo

Consulation on council infrastructure

Respondents welcomed the Council distributing this survey for comment but others felt more consideration of disability issues was needed

ldquoPlanning doesnrsquot seem to include disabled accessibility issues for new projectsrdquo

ldquoConsideration of people who are blind or low vision in future planning ie Braille on all signage (or on poles or mounts for elevated signage) Audio description at places of interest geographical cultural or historical significance Blind people miss out on our beautiful views they deserve to be catered to with regard to what else PS has to offer Infrastructure improvements that support more and better public transport to Port Stephensrdquo

Disabilit y Inclusion ACTION PLAN 25

Do you think the Port Stephens Community is welcoming of people with disabilities Eg businesses shops etc Most people felt Port Stephens is welcoming (68)

Have you encountered any problems barriers or issues in using transport options

68

0 10 20 30 40 50

Electric Scooter

Walking or wheelchair use

Local buses

Other

Do you think facilities and services are accessible and inclusive in Port Stephens

Focus Area Yes No

Councils Administration Building 57 6

Community centres 53 8

Events 36 21

Libraries 60 2

Parks 38 27

Pools 43 15

Other 18 13

26 Port Stephens Council

Do you find Councilrsquos information publications accessible

Focus area website

Would you like to see an improvement in online services through Councilrsquos website such as the electronic payment of rates and or fees and charges

Do you find Council staff at all of its locations and facilities approachable understanding of your requirements and helpful

Most comments in this section indicated council staff was very helpful and polite

Any other comments

Items for improvement (in order of priority)

Yes 36

Yes 55

Yes 48

No 6

No 18

No 11

1 Provision of venues services events 2 Roadscrossings 3 Footpathsramps 4 Public toilets 5 Public education The following summary outlines the priorities identified across all questions of the survey

ACTION PLANDisabilit y Inclusion

27

App

endi

x 3

Func

tions

ser

vice

s an

d as

sets

Function Area Community Services Sector

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Man

ager

Ngi

oka

Com

mun

ityH

ortic

ultu

ral

Serv

ices

Th

erap

yC

entre

Volu

ntee

r wor

kfor

ce o

f up

to80

0 p

rovi

sion

of lsquo

whe

el in

whe

el o

utrsquo g

arba

ge c

olle

ctio

nfo

r peo

ple

with

dis

abilit

y liv

ing

at h

ome

Pro

visi

on o

fpr

ogra

ms

for c

hild

ren

with

addi

tiona

l nee

ds a

t Out

side

of S

choo

l Hou

rs C

are

Chi

ldre

nsrsquo a

ctiv

ity V

an a

ndFa

mily

Day

Car

e P

rovi

sion

of la

rge

prin

t boo

ks t

alki

ngbo

oks

and

audi

o an

d vi

sual

navi

gatio

n ai

ds a

t lib

rarie

sLe

ar to

sw

im p

rogr

ams

atco

unci

l aqu

atic

cen

tres

Info

rmat

ion

on w

ebsi

te re

Leas

e of

Gra

ham

stow

nVo

lunt

eer s

trate

gy35

5vo

lunt

eers

Aqua

tic R

eser

ve fo

r use

by

Part

A an

d Pa

rt B

com

mitt

ees

Saila

bilit

y (P

SC le

ase

the

Larg

e te

xt fo

rmat

ting

onla

nd fr

om H

unte

r Wat

er a

ndw

ebsi

te

Saila

bilit

y su

b-le

ase

the

land

of P

SC)

Link

s to

vol

unte

er re

sour

ces

in J

ob a

genc

ies

TAF

Eot

her a

reas

bus

ines

ses

etc

univ

ersi

ties

sch

ools

Brai

lle a

nd la

rge

font

com

pute

rs

Rev

iew

pol

icie

spr

oced

ures

toen

sure

they

are

lsquoeas

y re

adrsquo f

orm

at

Busi

ness

lead

ersh

ipto

enh

ance

Ngi

oka

as a

mul

ti-pu

rpos

ece

ntre

and

to p

rom

ote

and

alig

n w

ith N

DIS

pers

onal

pla

ns

28

Function Area Community Services ndash Library Services

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Resource

Libr

ary

Civ

il Ass

ets

Serv

ices

Sect

ion

Man

ager

M

anag

erC

omm

unity

and

Rec

reat

ion

Assets Officer

Paid

Lib

rary

Sta

ff x

24C

asua

l Lib

rary

Sta

ff x

11Li

brar

y Vo

lunt

eers

x 5

5As

sist

ive

Adap

tive

tech

nolo

gy(A

udio

Rea

d na

viga

tors

Zoo

mTe

xt s

cree

n re

ader

sof

twar

ela

rge

prin

t boo

ks a

udio

boo

ks

IInfo

rmat

ion

on a

ll Li

brar

ySe

rvic

es re

late

d to

ser

vice

spr

ogra

ms

and

activ

ities

ndashdi

spla

yed

in b

ranc

hes

via

(flyerspostersTV monitors)

and

on

bull Fa

cebo

ok W

ebsi

tebull

Scho

ol N

ewsl

ette

rs W

hatrsquos

on in

our

Bac

kyar

dbull

PS E

xam

iner

bull N

ews

of th

e Ar

ea (T

eaG

arde

ns N

elso

n Ba

y an

dM

edow

ie)

Thou

Wal

la S

choo

ls a

sC

omm

uniti

es C

entre

New

cast

le R

egio

n Li

brar

y C

o-op

erat

ive

Cen

tral E

ast Z

one

(Reg

iona

lLi

brar

ies

Gro

up)

Publ

ic L

ibra

ries

NSW

Hun

ter W

EAH

isto

rical

and

Fam

ily H

isto

rySo

ciet

ies

RT

Art S

pace

Gro

upR

eal F

utur

es F

ound

atio

n

Inte

rnet

Usa

ge P

olic

yW

aivi

ng O

verd

ueC

harg

esSo

cial

Med

ia P

olic

yLi

brar

y U

ser

Gui

delin

esPS

C L

ibra

ry B

roch

ure

New

cast

le re

gion

Libr

ary

Broc

hure

Volu

ntee

r Pos

ition

Des

crip

tions

and

Han

dboo

kH

isto

rical

Soc

iety

Fa

mily

His

tory

Gro

upAg

reem

ents

Wor

k H

ealth

and

Safe

tyC

omm

ittee

WH

S R

ep-

rese

ntat

ives

Com

mitt

eeW

orkp

lace

Equi

ty a

ndD

iver

sity

Com

mitt

eeC

onsu

ltativ

eC

omm

ittee

Her

itage

Advi

sory

Com

mitt

ee

Dis

able

d to

ilets

do

not c

ater

for o

lder

per

sons

with

a d

isab

ility

who

req

uire

nap

py

chan

gin

g fa

cilit

ies

It is

not

nic

e to

cha

nge

on th

e flo

orof

a d

isab

led

toile

t and

par

ents

room

tab

les

are

too

smal

l

29

Function Area Assets Section

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Asse

t Sec

tion

Man

ager

C

omm

unity

land

man

age-

men

t pu

blic

toile

ts p

arks

pl

aygr

ound

sre

serv

es

fore

shor

es

mar

ine

ac-

cess

spo

rting

fields sports

faci

litie

sco

mm

unity

build

ings

co

mm

unity

halls

sig

nage

Mai

ntai

n an

d up

grad

e pu

blic

Asse

ts re

gist

er c

ondi

tion

Gov

ernm

ent a

genc

ies

gra

ntVa

rious

pla

ns o

fsp

aces

fac

ilitie

s a

sset

s an

dra

ting

syst

em

fund

ing

sche

mes

pro

perty

Management (specific

plac

es in

line

with

legi

slat

ive

deve

lope

rs c

omm

unity

and

gene

ric)

Cou

ncil

Ope

ns S

pace

Stra

tegy

requ

irem

ents

and

com

mun

itygr

oups

int

eres

t gro

ups

polic

ies

Man

agem

ent

(und

erw

ay)

need

s D

irect

ives

Spor

ts C

oun-

cils

355

Com

-m

ittee

sC

omm

unity

grou

ps P

arks

and

Res

erve

sC

omm

ittee

s

Ensu

reth

at th

ede

sign

and

cons

truct

ion

of n

ewfa

cilit

ies

and

infra

stru

ctur

eis

con

side

rate

to li

mite

dac

cess

com

mun

itym

embe

rs

Ensu

re th

at u

pgra

des

and

mai

nten

ance

to c

omm

unity

faci

litie

s ar

e al

igne

d w

ithpr

iorit

ies

for i

nclu

sion

Prep

are

the

Ope

n Sp

ace

Stra

tegy

pla

ns fo

r upg

rade

s to

com

mun

ity fa

cilit

ies

and

area

sw

here

infra

stru

ctur

e ne

eds

to b

e co

nsid

erat

e of

lim

ited

acce

ss c

omm

unity

mem

bers

Ensu

re 3

55 c

omm

ittee

sco

nsid

er a

cces

s an

d in

clus

ion

whe

n th

inki

ng a

bout

pro

gram

sEn

sure

355

Com

mitt

ees

use

fund

s pr

ovid

ed b

y C

ounc

il to

cons

ider

acc

ess

and

incl

usio

nw

hen

build

ing

infra

stru

ctur

e

Activ

ely

seek

gra

nt fu

ndin

gfor projects identified within

the

Ope

ns S

pace

Stra

tegy

in o

rder

to im

prov

e ac

cess

to in

clus

ion

to c

omm

unity

faci

litie

s an

d ar

eas

thro

ugho

utth

e LG

A

Rev

iew

and

upd

ate

exis

ting

plan

s an

dpo

licie

s in

line

with

legi

slat

ive

chan

ges

and identified needs

of th

e co

mm

unity

O

pens

Spa

ceSt

rate

gy (u

nder

way

)

Enco

urag

eco

mm

unity

grou

ps a

ndco

mm

ittee

to u

nder

take

proj

ects

and

prog

ram

s to

enco

urag

eac

cess

incl

usio

n

30

Function Area Human Resource Sector

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners

and agency

collaboration

Plans and Policies

Brochures documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

PotentialResource

Man

ager

Rec

ruitm

ent o

f new

sta

ffIn

form

atio

n on

web

site

in

Rec

ruitm

ent p

olic

ypr

oced

ures

Vo

lunt

eer

Hum

anhard file and on intra net

35

5 C

om-

Management of staffing

Res

ourc

es

mitt

ees

(leav

e A

war

d pr

ovis

ions

su

pera

nnua

tion

etc)

Rec

ruitm

ent p

roce

sses

toIn

form

atio

n in

rang

e of

Job

netw

ork

Rec

ruitm

ent p

roce

ss w

hich

isbe

wel

com

ing

of p

eopl

e w

ithfo

rmat

s in

clud

ing

soci

alag

enci

es

wel

com

ing

of p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

ydi

sabi

lity

olde

r peo

ple

med

ia e

tc P

lus

help

for

busi

ness

es

(adv

ertis

ing

whi

ch w

elco

mes

peo

ple

thos

e w

ho h

ave

a di

sabi

lity

with

a d

isab

ility

+ pr

oces

ses

whi

char

e no

t too

com

plex

Function Area Environment amp PlanningPublic Domain and Services

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners

and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Man

ager

Toile

ts p

ublic

spa

ces

(ieM

aint

ain

and

upgr

ade

publ

icAs

sets

regi

ster

Dev

elop

ers

Publ

ic S

pace

sU

rban

adv

isor

yEn

viro

nmen

tparks sporting fields) and

spac

es a

nd p

lace

s in

line

with

polic

y co

mm

ittee

Ope

n Sp

aces

stra

tegy

and

Plan

ning

bu

ildin

gs (c

omm

unity

hal

ls)

legi

slat

ion

Ensu

re th

at u

pgra

des

toO

pen

Spac

es s

trate

gy to

publ

ic s

pace

s ar

e al

igne

d w

ithin

clud

e up

grad

es to

are

aspr

iorit

ies

for i

nclu

sion

w

here

infra

stru

ctur

e ne

eds

tobe

mor

e in

clus

ive

(ie ra

mps

inm

ajor

hal

ls th

at a

re u

sed)

31

Function Area Communications

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision

of Goods or

services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Com

mun

ica-

Web

site

Pr

ovid

eIn

form

atio

nC

omm

unic

atio

ntio

ns M

anag

er

soci

al m

edia

in

form

atio

n in

on w

ebsi

te

polic

y ha

rd c

opy

rang

e of

form

ats

Dire

ctor

y on

plan

s p

olic

ies

to th

e pu

blic

w

ebsi

tean

d pr

oce-

Larg

e te

xtdu

res

form

attin

g on

web

site

Com

mun

ityD

evel

opm

ent

and

Enga

gem

ent

Man

ager

Exhi

bitio

n Su

bmis

sion

s an

d G

rant

opp

ortu

nitie

sC

omm

unity

Dev

elop

men

t and

Eng

agem

ent p

artn

ers

impr

ovem

ents

incl

udin

gbull

MyL

ink

grou

pbull

Abor

igin

al S

trate

gic

Com

mun

itybull

Your

th p

anel

bull Bu

sine

ss g

roup

sbull

365

Com

mitt

ees

Left-

alig

ning

text

mig

ht s

eem

like

a v

isua

l im

pos

ition

to th

e si

ght

edp

erso

n b

ut th

is s

imp

le c

hang

e is

the

diff

eren

ce b

etw

een

bei

ng a

ble

tore

ad fo

r peo

ple

who

are

blin

d o

r who

hav

e lo

w v

isio

n

32

Function Area Strategy and Environment

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision

of Goods or

services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Committees of

Council

Nox

ious

wee

dH

erita

ge g

rant

sLa

ndow

ners

bus

ines

ses

and

Envi

ronm

enta

lVo

lunt

eer w

eed

cont

rol s

ervi

ces

Resource

Man

ager

Stra

tegy

and

control landfill

orga

nisa

tions

st

rate

gies

pla

nsEn

viro

nmen

tal

355

Her

itage

Com

mitt

eeEn

viro

nmen

t an

d po

licie

sgr

ants

Gra

nt g

uide

lines

Potential

supp

ort p

roje

cts

that

enco

urag

e ac

cess

and

incl

usio

n

Function Area Community Development

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-Directory

Partners

and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Committees

of Council

Potential Resource

Com

mun

ity35

5 Ad

viso

ryG

rant

Pro

gram

s ac

ross

Mai

ntai

n C

ounc

ilrsquos w

ebsi

te C

omm

unity

Com

mun

ityC

omm

unity

Abor

igin

al S

trate

gic

Dev

elop

men

tC

omm

ittee

sC

ounc

ilD

irect

ory

Serv

ices

age

ncie

sEn

gage

men

tC

omm

ittee

and

Polic

yC

omm

unity

Und

erta

ke C

ounc

ilrsquos k

eyC

omm

unity

gra

ntSt

rate

gic

Arts

Enga

gem

ent

enga

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com

mun

ity e

vent

s ndash

Aust

ralia

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dees

C

ultu

ral P

lan

Com

mitt

eeC

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inat

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proj

ects

Day

cel

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NAI

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CYo

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tegy

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sory

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mun

ityC

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Educ

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n an

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ards

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pmen

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agen

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ojec

ts

Cou

ncil

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mun

itySt

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then

Cou

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web

site

Com

mun

ityev

ents

are

acc

essi

ble

Dire

ctor

y se

ctio

n on

DIA

P ag

encie

sG

rant

gui

delin

es s

uppo

rtEn

sure

355

com

mitt

ees

cons

ider

acc

ess

proj

ects

that

enc

oura

gean

d in

clusio

n w

hen

cons

ider

ing

prog

ram

sac

cess

and

incl

usio

n En

sure

com

mun

ity e

ngag

emen

t pro

ject

sen

cour

age

acce

ss a

nd in

clusio

n

33

Function Area Civil Assets

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities in-

frastructure

Provision

of Goods or

services

Information-

Directory

Partners and

agency

collaboration

Plans and Policies

Brochures

documents

Committees

of Council

Potential Resource

Civ

il Ass

ets

Publ

ic tr

ansp

ort

Mai

ntai

n an

d up

grad

eAs

sets

regi

ster

con

ditio

nG

over

nmen

t age

ncie

s g

rant

Plan

ning

infra

stru

ctur

eC

ivil

asse

ts a

ndra

ting

syst

em

fund

ing

sche

mes

pro

perty

Man

ager

fo

otpa

ths

sha

red

publ

ic s

pace

s in

deve

lope

rs c

omm

unity

path

s k

erb

ram

ps

line

with

legi

slat

ive

grou

ps i

nter

est g

roup

sre

quire

men

ts a

ndco

mm

unity

nee

ds

Port

Step

hens

Inte

grat

edpl

ans

(201

6-20

26)

Stra

tegi

cAs

set M

anag

emen

tPl

an T

he P

athw

ays

Plan

Ass

essm

ent a

ndM

aint

enan

ce o

f Foo

tpat

hsan

d C

ycle

way

s Po

licy

Bus

Shel

ter P

olic

y D

isab

ility

Stan

dard

s fo

r Acc

essi

ble

Publ

ic T

rans

port

Ensu

re th

atEn

sure

that

upg

rade

sPr

epar

e up

grad

es to

civ

ilAc

tivel

y se

ek g

rant

fund

ing

Rev

iew

and

upd

ate

exis

ting

Enco

urag

eth

e de

sign

and

and

mai

nten

ance

toas

sets

and

infra

stru

ctur

efor projects identified within

plan

s an

d po

licie

s in

line

com

mun

ityco

nstru

ctio

n of

civi

l ass

ets

are

alig

ned

in c

onju

nctio

n w

ith P

AMP

the

Path

way

s Pl

an a

nd P

AMP

with

legi

slat

ive

chan

ges

grou

ps a

ndne

w fa

cilit

ies

and

with

prio

ritie

s fo

rpr

iorit

y re

quire

men

ts

in o

rder

to im

prov

e ac

cess

and identified needs of the

com

mitt

ees

infra

stru

ctur

e is

incl

usio

n th

roug

hout

the

LGA

com

mun

ity

to u

nder

take

cons

ider

ate

topr

ojec

ts a

ndlim

ited

acce

sspr

ogra

ms

toco

mm

unity

enco

urag

em

embe

rs

acce

ss a

ndin

clus

ion

Pla

nnin

g d

oesn

rsquot se

em to

incl

ude

dis

able

d a

cces

sib

ility

issu

es fo

r new

pro

ject

srdquo

34

Function Area Community Development

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities in-

frastructure

Provision

of Goods or

services

Information-

Directory

Partners

and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Committees of

Council

Potential Resource

Com

mun

ity35

5 Ad

viso

ry C

om-

Gra

nt P

rogr

ams

acro

ssM

aint

ain

Cou

ncilrsquos

web

site

Com

mun

ity S

ervi

ces

Com

mun

ityAb

orig

inal

Stra

tegi

cD

evel

opm

ent

mitt

ees

Cou

ncil

Com

mun

ity D

irect

ory

agen

cies

Enga

gem

ent P

olic

yC

omm

ittee

and

Com

mun

ity e

n-U

nder

take

Cou

ncilrsquos

Com

mun

ity g

rant

Cul

tura

l Pla

nSt

rate

gic

Arts

Com

mitt

eeEn

gage

men

tga

gem

ent p

roje

cts

key

com

mun

ity e

vent

s ndash

awar

dees

Yo

uth

Stra

tegy

Yo

uth

Advi

sory

Pan

elC

oord

inat

or

Aust

ralia

Day

cel

ebra

tions

C

omm

unity

dev

el-

Educ

atio

n an

d Em

ploy

-N

AID

OC

wee

k Y

outh

opm

ent p

roje

cts

men

t Int

erag

ency

wee

k c

omm

unity

aw

ards

Cou

ncil

run

com

mun

ityev

ents

are

acc

essi

ble

Gra

nt g

uide

lines

sup

port

proj

ects

that

enc

oura

geac

cess

and

incl

usio

n

Stre

ngth

en C

ounc

ilrsquos w

ebsit

eC

omm

unity

Dire

ctor

y se

ctio

n on

DIA

P ag

encie

sEn

sure

355

com

mitt

ees

cons

ider

acc

ess

and

inclu

sion

whe

n co

nsid

erin

g pr

ogra

ms

Ensu

re c

omm

unity

eng

agem

ent

proj

ects

enc

oura

ge a

cces

s an

din

clusio

n

Function Area General Managers Office

Staff

Respon-

sibility

Facilities infrastructure

Provision

of Goods

or ser-

vices

Infor-

mation

Direc-

tory

Partners

and agen-

cy collab-

oration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Committees

of Council

Gov

erna

nce

Com

mun

ity P

roje

cts

gran

tResource

Man

ager

W

ard

Fund

sM

ayor

al fu

nds

Gra

nt g

uide

lines

sup

port

proj

ects

that

Enco

urag

e co

mm

unity

gro

ups

and

com

-Potential

enco

urag

e ac

cess

and

inclu

sion

mitt

ees

to u

nder

take

pro

ject

s an

d pr

o-gr

ams

to e

ncou

rage

acc

ess

and

inclu

sion

35

Disability Inclusion

ACTION PLAN

Disability InclusionInclusionDisability InclusionInclusionDisability

For more information please contact Development Services councilportstephensnswgovau | 02 4980 0255 | PORTSTEPHENSNSWGOVAU

Page 24: Port Stephens Council DIAP 2016 - facs.nsw.gov.au · In 2016, Port Stephens had a population of 64,807 at the 2016 Census. This igure is predicted to rise by up to 23,000 over the

Focus Area Comments Public toilets ldquoThere are lack of amenities in disabled toilets (eg adults who

need help changing continence aids hoists in toilets) need more (eg Nelson Bay)rdquo

ldquoDisabled toilets do not cater for older persons with a disability who require nappy changing facilities It is not nice to change on the floor of a disabled toilet and parents room tables are too smallrdquo

Parking ldquoThere is a lack of disabled parking some disabled parks are not wheelchair friendlyrdquo

ldquoSubstandard pavement surfaces for walker frames and mobility scooters Lack of disability parking spaces at Soldiers Point Boat ramp and Salamander Bay wharf and various other areas within the Port Stephens areardquo

Public transport ldquoInfrastructure improvements for more and better transport limited timetables too many transfers to get to destination want regular community bus (low cost or for free)rdquo

Attitudes and Behaviours

Focus Area Comments Respectful and It should be noted that most people reported positive encounters inclusive community with the public and council staff One comment stated ldquocould and services improve empathy and understanding from public on what it is

like to have a disabilityrdquo

ldquoHearing impaired when asked to speak slower shop people yell and pull faces as if trying to mouth out each word very embarrassingrdquo

ldquoStaring commentingrdquo

Public education ldquoEducation for people in shops about disability disabled amenitiesfacilities being used by public (change-rooms toilets parking) but consideration needed so as not to discriminate against those who do not ldquoappearrdquo to have a disabilityrdquo

It should be noted that most people reported positive encounters with the public and council staff

24 Port Stephens Council

Employment

Focus Area Comments No issues identified however it was acknowledged in internal communication with staff that Council could lead the way in more employment of people with a disability this could include recruitment processes which are lsquomore welcomingrsquo and encourage people to apply for positions It also was acknowledged that Council policies procedures systems and processes could be reviewed for lsquoeasy readrsquo format

Systems and Processes

Focus Area Comments Range of information dissemination

Promotion and awareness of activitesevents services

ldquoNot everyone gets newspaper so send information in other ways (emailed with rates) need to consider information dissemination for people with hearing and vision impairedrdquo

ldquoI have rarely seen a Council newsletter Also the website needs to be cleaner clearer more navigable and user friendlyrdquo

ldquoLeft-aligning text might seem like a visual imposition to the sighted person but this simple change is the difference between being able to read for people who are blind or who have low visionrdquo

ldquoEye level display for people using wheelchairsrdquo

Some people were confused or unaware of services amenities available to them

In some areas ldquoFor those of us who get their bills via email it would be great if we were emailed regularly about items on public exhibition etc to replace what other residents would see in your adds in the Examinerrdquo

ldquoMore information areas to access helprdquo

ldquoDidnrsquot know you had a newsletterrdquo

Consulation on council infrastructure

Respondents welcomed the Council distributing this survey for comment but others felt more consideration of disability issues was needed

ldquoPlanning doesnrsquot seem to include disabled accessibility issues for new projectsrdquo

ldquoConsideration of people who are blind or low vision in future planning ie Braille on all signage (or on poles or mounts for elevated signage) Audio description at places of interest geographical cultural or historical significance Blind people miss out on our beautiful views they deserve to be catered to with regard to what else PS has to offer Infrastructure improvements that support more and better public transport to Port Stephensrdquo

Disabilit y Inclusion ACTION PLAN 25

Do you think the Port Stephens Community is welcoming of people with disabilities Eg businesses shops etc Most people felt Port Stephens is welcoming (68)

Have you encountered any problems barriers or issues in using transport options

68

0 10 20 30 40 50

Electric Scooter

Walking or wheelchair use

Local buses

Other

Do you think facilities and services are accessible and inclusive in Port Stephens

Focus Area Yes No

Councils Administration Building 57 6

Community centres 53 8

Events 36 21

Libraries 60 2

Parks 38 27

Pools 43 15

Other 18 13

26 Port Stephens Council

Do you find Councilrsquos information publications accessible

Focus area website

Would you like to see an improvement in online services through Councilrsquos website such as the electronic payment of rates and or fees and charges

Do you find Council staff at all of its locations and facilities approachable understanding of your requirements and helpful

Most comments in this section indicated council staff was very helpful and polite

Any other comments

Items for improvement (in order of priority)

Yes 36

Yes 55

Yes 48

No 6

No 18

No 11

1 Provision of venues services events 2 Roadscrossings 3 Footpathsramps 4 Public toilets 5 Public education The following summary outlines the priorities identified across all questions of the survey

ACTION PLANDisabilit y Inclusion

27

App

endi

x 3

Func

tions

ser

vice

s an

d as

sets

Function Area Community Services Sector

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Man

ager

Ngi

oka

Com

mun

ityH

ortic

ultu

ral

Serv

ices

Th

erap

yC

entre

Volu

ntee

r wor

kfor

ce o

f up

to80

0 p

rovi

sion

of lsquo

whe

el in

whe

el o

utrsquo g

arba

ge c

olle

ctio

nfo

r peo

ple

with

dis

abilit

y liv

ing

at h

ome

Pro

visi

on o

fpr

ogra

ms

for c

hild

ren

with

addi

tiona

l nee

ds a

t Out

side

of S

choo

l Hou

rs C

are

Chi

ldre

nsrsquo a

ctiv

ity V

an a

ndFa

mily

Day

Car

e P

rovi

sion

of la

rge

prin

t boo

ks t

alki

ngbo

oks

and

audi

o an

d vi

sual

navi

gatio

n ai

ds a

t lib

rarie

sLe

ar to

sw

im p

rogr

ams

atco

unci

l aqu

atic

cen

tres

Info

rmat

ion

on w

ebsi

te re

Leas

e of

Gra

ham

stow

nVo

lunt

eer s

trate

gy35

5vo

lunt

eers

Aqua

tic R

eser

ve fo

r use

by

Part

A an

d Pa

rt B

com

mitt

ees

Saila

bilit

y (P

SC le

ase

the

Larg

e te

xt fo

rmat

ting

onla

nd fr

om H

unte

r Wat

er a

ndw

ebsi

te

Saila

bilit

y su

b-le

ase

the

land

of P

SC)

Link

s to

vol

unte

er re

sour

ces

in J

ob a

genc

ies

TAF

Eot

her a

reas

bus

ines

ses

etc

univ

ersi

ties

sch

ools

Brai

lle a

nd la

rge

font

com

pute

rs

Rev

iew

pol

icie

spr

oced

ures

toen

sure

they

are

lsquoeas

y re

adrsquo f

orm

at

Busi

ness

lead

ersh

ipto

enh

ance

Ngi

oka

as a

mul

ti-pu

rpos

ece

ntre

and

to p

rom

ote

and

alig

n w

ith N

DIS

pers

onal

pla

ns

28

Function Area Community Services ndash Library Services

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Resource

Libr

ary

Civ

il Ass

ets

Serv

ices

Sect

ion

Man

ager

M

anag

erC

omm

unity

and

Rec

reat

ion

Assets Officer

Paid

Lib

rary

Sta

ff x

24C

asua

l Lib

rary

Sta

ff x

11Li

brar

y Vo

lunt

eers

x 5

5As

sist

ive

Adap

tive

tech

nolo

gy(A

udio

Rea

d na

viga

tors

Zoo

mTe

xt s

cree

n re

ader

sof

twar

ela

rge

prin

t boo

ks a

udio

boo

ks

IInfo

rmat

ion

on a

ll Li

brar

ySe

rvic

es re

late

d to

ser

vice

spr

ogra

ms

and

activ

ities

ndashdi

spla

yed

in b

ranc

hes

via

(flyerspostersTV monitors)

and

on

bull Fa

cebo

ok W

ebsi

tebull

Scho

ol N

ewsl

ette

rs W

hatrsquos

on in

our

Bac

kyar

dbull

PS E

xam

iner

bull N

ews

of th

e Ar

ea (T

eaG

arde

ns N

elso

n Ba

y an

dM

edow

ie)

Thou

Wal

la S

choo

ls a

sC

omm

uniti

es C

entre

New

cast

le R

egio

n Li

brar

y C

o-op

erat

ive

Cen

tral E

ast Z

one

(Reg

iona

lLi

brar

ies

Gro

up)

Publ

ic L

ibra

ries

NSW

Hun

ter W

EAH

isto

rical

and

Fam

ily H

isto

rySo

ciet

ies

RT

Art S

pace

Gro

upR

eal F

utur

es F

ound

atio

n

Inte

rnet

Usa

ge P

olic

yW

aivi

ng O

verd

ueC

harg

esSo

cial

Med

ia P

olic

yLi

brar

y U

ser

Gui

delin

esPS

C L

ibra

ry B

roch

ure

New

cast

le re

gion

Libr

ary

Broc

hure

Volu

ntee

r Pos

ition

Des

crip

tions

and

Han

dboo

kH

isto

rical

Soc

iety

Fa

mily

His

tory

Gro

upAg

reem

ents

Wor

k H

ealth

and

Safe

tyC

omm

ittee

WH

S R

ep-

rese

ntat

ives

Com

mitt

eeW

orkp

lace

Equi

ty a

ndD

iver

sity

Com

mitt

eeC

onsu

ltativ

eC

omm

ittee

Her

itage

Advi

sory

Com

mitt

ee

Dis

able

d to

ilets

do

not c

ater

for o

lder

per

sons

with

a d

isab

ility

who

req

uire

nap

py

chan

gin

g fa

cilit

ies

It is

not

nic

e to

cha

nge

on th

e flo

orof

a d

isab

led

toile

t and

par

ents

room

tab

les

are

too

smal

l

29

Function Area Assets Section

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Asse

t Sec

tion

Man

ager

C

omm

unity

land

man

age-

men

t pu

blic

toile

ts p

arks

pl

aygr

ound

sre

serv

es

fore

shor

es

mar

ine

ac-

cess

spo

rting

fields sports

faci

litie

sco

mm

unity

build

ings

co

mm

unity

halls

sig

nage

Mai

ntai

n an

d up

grad

e pu

blic

Asse

ts re

gist

er c

ondi

tion

Gov

ernm

ent a

genc

ies

gra

ntVa

rious

pla

ns o

fsp

aces

fac

ilitie

s a

sset

s an

dra

ting

syst

em

fund

ing

sche

mes

pro

perty

Management (specific

plac

es in

line

with

legi

slat

ive

deve

lope

rs c

omm

unity

and

gene

ric)

Cou

ncil

Ope

ns S

pace

Stra

tegy

requ

irem

ents

and

com

mun

itygr

oups

int

eres

t gro

ups

polic

ies

Man

agem

ent

(und

erw

ay)

need

s D

irect

ives

Spor

ts C

oun-

cils

355

Com

-m

ittee

sC

omm

unity

grou

ps P

arks

and

Res

erve

sC

omm

ittee

s

Ensu

reth

at th

ede

sign

and

cons

truct

ion

of n

ewfa

cilit

ies

and

infra

stru

ctur

eis

con

side

rate

to li

mite

dac

cess

com

mun

itym

embe

rs

Ensu

re th

at u

pgra

des

and

mai

nten

ance

to c

omm

unity

faci

litie

s ar

e al

igne

d w

ithpr

iorit

ies

for i

nclu

sion

Prep

are

the

Ope

n Sp

ace

Stra

tegy

pla

ns fo

r upg

rade

s to

com

mun

ity fa

cilit

ies

and

area

sw

here

infra

stru

ctur

e ne

eds

to b

e co

nsid

erat

e of

lim

ited

acce

ss c

omm

unity

mem

bers

Ensu

re 3

55 c

omm

ittee

sco

nsid

er a

cces

s an

d in

clus

ion

whe

n th

inki

ng a

bout

pro

gram

sEn

sure

355

Com

mitt

ees

use

fund

s pr

ovid

ed b

y C

ounc

il to

cons

ider

acc

ess

and

incl

usio

nw

hen

build

ing

infra

stru

ctur

e

Activ

ely

seek

gra

nt fu

ndin

gfor projects identified within

the

Ope

ns S

pace

Stra

tegy

in o

rder

to im

prov

e ac

cess

to in

clus

ion

to c

omm

unity

faci

litie

s an

d ar

eas

thro

ugho

utth

e LG

A

Rev

iew

and

upd

ate

exis

ting

plan

s an

dpo

licie

s in

line

with

legi

slat

ive

chan

ges

and identified needs

of th

e co

mm

unity

O

pens

Spa

ceSt

rate

gy (u

nder

way

)

Enco

urag

eco

mm

unity

grou

ps a

ndco

mm

ittee

to u

nder

take

proj

ects

and

prog

ram

s to

enco

urag

eac

cess

incl

usio

n

30

Function Area Human Resource Sector

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners

and agency

collaboration

Plans and Policies

Brochures documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

PotentialResource

Man

ager

Rec

ruitm

ent o

f new

sta

ffIn

form

atio

n on

web

site

in

Rec

ruitm

ent p

olic

ypr

oced

ures

Vo

lunt

eer

Hum

anhard file and on intra net

35

5 C

om-

Management of staffing

Res

ourc

es

mitt

ees

(leav

e A

war

d pr

ovis

ions

su

pera

nnua

tion

etc)

Rec

ruitm

ent p

roce

sses

toIn

form

atio

n in

rang

e of

Job

netw

ork

Rec

ruitm

ent p

roce

ss w

hich

isbe

wel

com

ing

of p

eopl

e w

ithfo

rmat

s in

clud

ing

soci

alag

enci

es

wel

com

ing

of p

eopl

e w

ith a

dis

abilit

ydi

sabi

lity

olde

r peo

ple

med

ia e

tc P

lus

help

for

busi

ness

es

(adv

ertis

ing

whi

ch w

elco

mes

peo

ple

thos

e w

ho h

ave

a di

sabi

lity

with

a d

isab

ility

+ pr

oces

ses

whi

char

e no

t too

com

plex

Function Area Environment amp PlanningPublic Domain and Services

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners

and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Man

ager

Toile

ts p

ublic

spa

ces

(ieM

aint

ain

and

upgr

ade

publ

icAs

sets

regi

ster

Dev

elop

ers

Publ

ic S

pace

sU

rban

adv

isor

yEn

viro

nmen

tparks sporting fields) and

spac

es a

nd p

lace

s in

line

with

polic

y co

mm

ittee

Ope

n Sp

aces

stra

tegy

and

Plan

ning

bu

ildin

gs (c

omm

unity

hal

ls)

legi

slat

ion

Ensu

re th

at u

pgra

des

toO

pen

Spac

es s

trate

gy to

publ

ic s

pace

s ar

e al

igne

d w

ithin

clud

e up

grad

es to

are

aspr

iorit

ies

for i

nclu

sion

w

here

infra

stru

ctur

e ne

eds

tobe

mor

e in

clus

ive

(ie ra

mps

inm

ajor

hal

ls th

at a

re u

sed)

31

Function Area Communications

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision

of Goods or

services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Com

mun

ica-

Web

site

Pr

ovid

eIn

form

atio

nC

omm

unic

atio

ntio

ns M

anag

er

soci

al m

edia

in

form

atio

n in

on w

ebsi

te

polic

y ha

rd c

opy

rang

e of

form

ats

Dire

ctor

y on

plan

s p

olic

ies

to th

e pu

blic

w

ebsi

tean

d pr

oce-

Larg

e te

xtdu

res

form

attin

g on

web

site

Com

mun

ityD

evel

opm

ent

and

Enga

gem

ent

Man

ager

Exhi

bitio

n Su

bmis

sion

s an

d G

rant

opp

ortu

nitie

sC

omm

unity

Dev

elop

men

t and

Eng

agem

ent p

artn

ers

impr

ovem

ents

incl

udin

gbull

MyL

ink

grou

pbull

Abor

igin

al S

trate

gic

Com

mun

itybull

Your

th p

anel

bull Bu

sine

ss g

roup

sbull

365

Com

mitt

ees

Left-

alig

ning

text

mig

ht s

eem

like

a v

isua

l im

pos

ition

to th

e si

ght

edp

erso

n b

ut th

is s

imp

le c

hang

e is

the

diff

eren

ce b

etw

een

bei

ng a

ble

tore

ad fo

r peo

ple

who

are

blin

d o

r who

hav

e lo

w v

isio

n

32

Function Area Strategy and Environment

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision

of Goods or

services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Committees of

Council

Nox

ious

wee

dH

erita

ge g

rant

sLa

ndow

ners

bus

ines

ses

and

Envi

ronm

enta

lVo

lunt

eer w

eed

cont

rol s

ervi

ces

Resource

Man

ager

Stra

tegy

and

control landfill

orga

nisa

tions

st

rate

gies

pla

nsEn

viro

nmen

tal

355

Her

itage

Com

mitt

eeEn

viro

nmen

t an

d po

licie

sgr

ants

Gra

nt g

uide

lines

Potential

supp

ort p

roje

cts

that

enco

urag

e ac

cess

and

incl

usio

n

Function Area Community Development

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-Directory

Partners

and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Committees

of Council

Potential Resource

Com

mun

ity35

5 Ad

viso

ryG

rant

Pro

gram

s ac

ross

Mai

ntai

n C

ounc

ilrsquos w

ebsi

te C

omm

unity

Com

mun

ityC

omm

unity

Abor

igin

al S

trate

gic

Dev

elop

men

tC

omm

ittee

sC

ounc

ilD

irect

ory

Serv

ices

age

ncie

sEn

gage

men

tC

omm

ittee

and

Polic

yC

omm

unity

Und

erta

ke C

ounc

ilrsquos k

eyC

omm

unity

gra

ntSt

rate

gic

Arts

Enga

gem

ent

enga

gem

ent

com

mun

ity e

vent

s ndash

Aust

ralia

awar

dees

C

ultu

ral P

lan

Com

mitt

eeC

oord

inat

or

proj

ects

Day

cel

ebra

tions

NAI

DO

CYo

uth

Stra

tegy

Yo

uth

Advi

sory

Pan

elw

eek

You

th w

eek

com

mun

ityC

omm

unity

Educ

atio

n an

d Em

-aw

ards

de

velo

pmen

tpl

oym

ent I

nter

agen

cypr

ojec

ts

Cou

ncil

run

com

mun

itySt

reng

then

Cou

ncilrsquos

web

site

Com

mun

ityev

ents

are

acc

essi

ble

Dire

ctor

y se

ctio

n on

DIA

P ag

encie

sG

rant

gui

delin

es s

uppo

rtEn

sure

355

com

mitt

ees

cons

ider

acc

ess

proj

ects

that

enc

oura

gean

d in

clusio

n w

hen

cons

ider

ing

prog

ram

sac

cess

and

incl

usio

n En

sure

com

mun

ity e

ngag

emen

t pro

ject

sen

cour

age

acce

ss a

nd in

clusio

n

33

Function Area Civil Assets

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities in-

frastructure

Provision

of Goods or

services

Information-

Directory

Partners and

agency

collaboration

Plans and Policies

Brochures

documents

Committees

of Council

Potential Resource

Civ

il Ass

ets

Publ

ic tr

ansp

ort

Mai

ntai

n an

d up

grad

eAs

sets

regi

ster

con

ditio

nG

over

nmen

t age

ncie

s g

rant

Plan

ning

infra

stru

ctur

eC

ivil

asse

ts a

ndra

ting

syst

em

fund

ing

sche

mes

pro

perty

Man

ager

fo

otpa

ths

sha

red

publ

ic s

pace

s in

deve

lope

rs c

omm

unity

path

s k

erb

ram

ps

line

with

legi

slat

ive

grou

ps i

nter

est g

roup

sre

quire

men

ts a

ndco

mm

unity

nee

ds

Port

Step

hens

Inte

grat

edpl

ans

(201

6-20

26)

Stra

tegi

cAs

set M

anag

emen

tPl

an T

he P

athw

ays

Plan

Ass

essm

ent a

ndM

aint

enan

ce o

f Foo

tpat

hsan

d C

ycle

way

s Po

licy

Bus

Shel

ter P

olic

y D

isab

ility

Stan

dard

s fo

r Acc

essi

ble

Publ

ic T

rans

port

Ensu

re th

atEn

sure

that

upg

rade

sPr

epar

e up

grad

es to

civ

ilAc

tivel

y se

ek g

rant

fund

ing

Rev

iew

and

upd

ate

exis

ting

Enco

urag

eth

e de

sign

and

and

mai

nten

ance

toas

sets

and

infra

stru

ctur

efor projects identified within

plan

s an

d po

licie

s in

line

com

mun

ityco

nstru

ctio

n of

civi

l ass

ets

are

alig

ned

in c

onju

nctio

n w

ith P

AMP

the

Path

way

s Pl

an a

nd P

AMP

with

legi

slat

ive

chan

ges

grou

ps a

ndne

w fa

cilit

ies

and

with

prio

ritie

s fo

rpr

iorit

y re

quire

men

ts

in o

rder

to im

prov

e ac

cess

and identified needs of the

com

mitt

ees

infra

stru

ctur

e is

incl

usio

n th

roug

hout

the

LGA

com

mun

ity

to u

nder

take

cons

ider

ate

topr

ojec

ts a

ndlim

ited

acce

sspr

ogra

ms

toco

mm

unity

enco

urag

em

embe

rs

acce

ss a

ndin

clus

ion

Pla

nnin

g d

oesn

rsquot se

em to

incl

ude

dis

able

d a

cces

sib

ility

issu

es fo

r new

pro

ject

srdquo

34

Function Area Community Development

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities in-

frastructure

Provision

of Goods or

services

Information-

Directory

Partners

and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Committees of

Council

Potential Resource

Com

mun

ity35

5 Ad

viso

ry C

om-

Gra

nt P

rogr

ams

acro

ssM

aint

ain

Cou

ncilrsquos

web

site

Com

mun

ity S

ervi

ces

Com

mun

ityAb

orig

inal

Stra

tegi

cD

evel

opm

ent

mitt

ees

Cou

ncil

Com

mun

ity D

irect

ory

agen

cies

Enga

gem

ent P

olic

yC

omm

ittee

and

Com

mun

ity e

n-U

nder

take

Cou

ncilrsquos

Com

mun

ity g

rant

Cul

tura

l Pla

nSt

rate

gic

Arts

Com

mitt

eeEn

gage

men

tga

gem

ent p

roje

cts

key

com

mun

ity e

vent

s ndash

awar

dees

Yo

uth

Stra

tegy

Yo

uth

Advi

sory

Pan

elC

oord

inat

or

Aust

ralia

Day

cel

ebra

tions

C

omm

unity

dev

el-

Educ

atio

n an

d Em

ploy

-N

AID

OC

wee

k Y

outh

opm

ent p

roje

cts

men

t Int

erag

ency

wee

k c

omm

unity

aw

ards

Cou

ncil

run

com

mun

ityev

ents

are

acc

essi

ble

Gra

nt g

uide

lines

sup

port

proj

ects

that

enc

oura

geac

cess

and

incl

usio

n

Stre

ngth

en C

ounc

ilrsquos w

ebsit

eC

omm

unity

Dire

ctor

y se

ctio

n on

DIA

P ag

encie

sEn

sure

355

com

mitt

ees

cons

ider

acc

ess

and

inclu

sion

whe

n co

nsid

erin

g pr

ogra

ms

Ensu

re c

omm

unity

eng

agem

ent

proj

ects

enc

oura

ge a

cces

s an

din

clusio

n

Function Area General Managers Office

Staff

Respon-

sibility

Facilities infrastructure

Provision

of Goods

or ser-

vices

Infor-

mation

Direc-

tory

Partners

and agen-

cy collab-

oration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Committees

of Council

Gov

erna

nce

Com

mun

ity P

roje

cts

gran

tResource

Man

ager

W

ard

Fund

sM

ayor

al fu

nds

Gra

nt g

uide

lines

sup

port

proj

ects

that

Enco

urag

e co

mm

unity

gro

ups

and

com

-Potential

enco

urag

e ac

cess

and

inclu

sion

mitt

ees

to u

nder

take

pro

ject

s an

d pr

o-gr

ams

to e

ncou

rage

acc

ess

and

inclu

sion

35

Disability Inclusion

ACTION PLAN

Disability InclusionInclusionDisability InclusionInclusionDisability

For more information please contact Development Services councilportstephensnswgovau | 02 4980 0255 | PORTSTEPHENSNSWGOVAU

Page 25: Port Stephens Council DIAP 2016 - facs.nsw.gov.au · In 2016, Port Stephens had a population of 64,807 at the 2016 Census. This igure is predicted to rise by up to 23,000 over the

Employment

Focus Area Comments No issues identified however it was acknowledged in internal communication with staff that Council could lead the way in more employment of people with a disability this could include recruitment processes which are lsquomore welcomingrsquo and encourage people to apply for positions It also was acknowledged that Council policies procedures systems and processes could be reviewed for lsquoeasy readrsquo format

Systems and Processes

Focus Area Comments Range of information dissemination

Promotion and awareness of activitesevents services

ldquoNot everyone gets newspaper so send information in other ways (emailed with rates) need to consider information dissemination for people with hearing and vision impairedrdquo

ldquoI have rarely seen a Council newsletter Also the website needs to be cleaner clearer more navigable and user friendlyrdquo

ldquoLeft-aligning text might seem like a visual imposition to the sighted person but this simple change is the difference between being able to read for people who are blind or who have low visionrdquo

ldquoEye level display for people using wheelchairsrdquo

Some people were confused or unaware of services amenities available to them

In some areas ldquoFor those of us who get their bills via email it would be great if we were emailed regularly about items on public exhibition etc to replace what other residents would see in your adds in the Examinerrdquo

ldquoMore information areas to access helprdquo

ldquoDidnrsquot know you had a newsletterrdquo

Consulation on council infrastructure

Respondents welcomed the Council distributing this survey for comment but others felt more consideration of disability issues was needed

ldquoPlanning doesnrsquot seem to include disabled accessibility issues for new projectsrdquo

ldquoConsideration of people who are blind or low vision in future planning ie Braille on all signage (or on poles or mounts for elevated signage) Audio description at places of interest geographical cultural or historical significance Blind people miss out on our beautiful views they deserve to be catered to with regard to what else PS has to offer Infrastructure improvements that support more and better public transport to Port Stephensrdquo

Disabilit y Inclusion ACTION PLAN 25

Do you think the Port Stephens Community is welcoming of people with disabilities Eg businesses shops etc Most people felt Port Stephens is welcoming (68)

Have you encountered any problems barriers or issues in using transport options

68

0 10 20 30 40 50

Electric Scooter

Walking or wheelchair use

Local buses

Other

Do you think facilities and services are accessible and inclusive in Port Stephens

Focus Area Yes No

Councils Administration Building 57 6

Community centres 53 8

Events 36 21

Libraries 60 2

Parks 38 27

Pools 43 15

Other 18 13

26 Port Stephens Council

Do you find Councilrsquos information publications accessible

Focus area website

Would you like to see an improvement in online services through Councilrsquos website such as the electronic payment of rates and or fees and charges

Do you find Council staff at all of its locations and facilities approachable understanding of your requirements and helpful

Most comments in this section indicated council staff was very helpful and polite

Any other comments

Items for improvement (in order of priority)

Yes 36

Yes 55

Yes 48

No 6

No 18

No 11

1 Provision of venues services events 2 Roadscrossings 3 Footpathsramps 4 Public toilets 5 Public education The following summary outlines the priorities identified across all questions of the survey

ACTION PLANDisabilit y Inclusion

27

App

endi

x 3

Func

tions

ser

vice

s an

d as

sets

Function Area Community Services Sector

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Man

ager

Ngi

oka

Com

mun

ityH

ortic

ultu

ral

Serv

ices

Th

erap

yC

entre

Volu

ntee

r wor

kfor

ce o

f up

to80

0 p

rovi

sion

of lsquo

whe

el in

whe

el o

utrsquo g

arba

ge c

olle

ctio

nfo

r peo

ple

with

dis

abilit

y liv

ing

at h

ome

Pro

visi

on o

fpr

ogra

ms

for c

hild

ren

with

addi

tiona

l nee

ds a

t Out

side

of S

choo

l Hou

rs C

are

Chi

ldre

nsrsquo a

ctiv

ity V

an a

ndFa

mily

Day

Car

e P

rovi

sion

of la

rge

prin

t boo

ks t

alki

ngbo

oks

and

audi

o an

d vi

sual

navi

gatio

n ai

ds a

t lib

rarie

sLe

ar to

sw

im p

rogr

ams

atco

unci

l aqu

atic

cen

tres

Info

rmat

ion

on w

ebsi

te re

Leas

e of

Gra

ham

stow

nVo

lunt

eer s

trate

gy35

5vo

lunt

eers

Aqua

tic R

eser

ve fo

r use

by

Part

A an

d Pa

rt B

com

mitt

ees

Saila

bilit

y (P

SC le

ase

the

Larg

e te

xt fo

rmat

ting

onla

nd fr

om H

unte

r Wat

er a

ndw

ebsi

te

Saila

bilit

y su

b-le

ase

the

land

of P

SC)

Link

s to

vol

unte

er re

sour

ces

in J

ob a

genc

ies

TAF

Eot

her a

reas

bus

ines

ses

etc

univ

ersi

ties

sch

ools

Brai

lle a

nd la

rge

font

com

pute

rs

Rev

iew

pol

icie

spr

oced

ures

toen

sure

they

are

lsquoeas

y re

adrsquo f

orm

at

Busi

ness

lead

ersh

ipto

enh

ance

Ngi

oka

as a

mul

ti-pu

rpos

ece

ntre

and

to p

rom

ote

and

alig

n w

ith N

DIS

pers

onal

pla

ns

28

Function Area Community Services ndash Library Services

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency

collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Resource

Libr

ary

Civ

il Ass

ets

Serv

ices

Sect

ion

Man

ager

M

anag

erC

omm

unity

and

Rec

reat

ion

Assets Officer

Paid

Lib

rary

Sta

ff x

24C

asua

l Lib

rary

Sta

ff x

11Li

brar

y Vo

lunt

eers

x 5

5As

sist

ive

Adap

tive

tech

nolo

gy(A

udio

Rea

d na

viga

tors

Zoo

mTe

xt s

cree

n re

ader

sof

twar

ela

rge

prin

t boo

ks a

udio

boo

ks

IInfo

rmat

ion

on a

ll Li

brar

ySe

rvic

es re

late

d to

ser

vice

spr

ogra

ms

and

activ

ities

ndashdi

spla

yed

in b

ranc

hes

via

(flyerspostersTV monitors)

and

on

bull Fa

cebo

ok W

ebsi

tebull

Scho

ol N

ewsl

ette

rs W

hatrsquos

on in

our

Bac

kyar

dbull

PS E

xam

iner

bull N

ews

of th

e Ar

ea (T

eaG

arde

ns N

elso

n Ba

y an

dM

edow

ie)

Thou

Wal

la S

choo

ls a

sC

omm

uniti

es C

entre

New

cast

le R

egio

n Li

brar

y C

o-op

erat

ive

Cen

tral E

ast Z

one

(Reg

iona

lLi

brar

ies

Gro

up)

Publ

ic L

ibra

ries

NSW

Hun

ter W

EAH

isto

rical

and

Fam

ily H

isto

rySo

ciet

ies

RT

Art S

pace

Gro

upR

eal F

utur

es F

ound

atio

n

Inte

rnet

Usa

ge P

olic

yW

aivi

ng O

verd

ueC

harg

esSo

cial

Med

ia P

olic

yLi

brar

y U

ser

Gui

delin

esPS

C L

ibra

ry B

roch

ure

New

cast

le re

gion

Libr

ary

Broc

hure

Volu

ntee

r Pos

ition

Des

crip

tions

and

Han

dboo

kH

isto

rical

Soc

iety

Fa

mily

His

tory

Gro

upAg

reem

ents

Wor

k H

ealth

and

Safe

tyC

omm

ittee

WH

S R

ep-

rese

ntat

ives

Com

mitt

eeW

orkp

lace

Equi

ty a

ndD

iver

sity

Com

mitt

eeC

onsu

ltativ

eC

omm

ittee

Her

itage

Advi

sory

Com

mitt

ee

Dis

able

d to

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do

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30

Function Area Human Resource Sector

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bility

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and agency

collaboration

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31

Function Area Communications

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of Goods or

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Plans and

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35

Disability Inclusion

ACTION PLAN

Disability InclusionInclusionDisability InclusionInclusionDisability

For more information please contact Development Services councilportstephensnswgovau | 02 4980 0255 | PORTSTEPHENSNSWGOVAU

Page 26: Port Stephens Council DIAP 2016 - facs.nsw.gov.au · In 2016, Port Stephens had a population of 64,807 at the 2016 Census. This igure is predicted to rise by up to 23,000 over the

Do you think the Port Stephens Community is welcoming of people with disabilities Eg businesses shops etc Most people felt Port Stephens is welcoming (68)

Have you encountered any problems barriers or issues in using transport options

68

0 10 20 30 40 50

Electric Scooter

Walking or wheelchair use

Local buses

Other

Do you think facilities and services are accessible and inclusive in Port Stephens

Focus Area Yes No

Councils Administration Building 57 6

Community centres 53 8

Events 36 21

Libraries 60 2

Parks 38 27

Pools 43 15

Other 18 13

26 Port Stephens Council

Do you find Councilrsquos information publications accessible

Focus area website

Would you like to see an improvement in online services through Councilrsquos website such as the electronic payment of rates and or fees and charges

Do you find Council staff at all of its locations and facilities approachable understanding of your requirements and helpful

Most comments in this section indicated council staff was very helpful and polite

Any other comments

Items for improvement (in order of priority)

Yes 36

Yes 55

Yes 48

No 6

No 18

No 11

1 Provision of venues services events 2 Roadscrossings 3 Footpathsramps 4 Public toilets 5 Public education The following summary outlines the priorities identified across all questions of the survey

ACTION PLANDisabilit y Inclusion

27

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Plans and

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ctor

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ctio

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355

com

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Function Area General Managers Office

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Respon-

sibility

Facilities infrastructure

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Plans and

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Com

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inclu

sion

35

Disability Inclusion

ACTION PLAN

Disability InclusionInclusionDisability InclusionInclusionDisability

For more information please contact Development Services councilportstephensnswgovau | 02 4980 0255 | PORTSTEPHENSNSWGOVAU

Page 27: Port Stephens Council DIAP 2016 - facs.nsw.gov.au · In 2016, Port Stephens had a population of 64,807 at the 2016 Census. This igure is predicted to rise by up to 23,000 over the

Do you find Councilrsquos information publications accessible

Focus area website

Would you like to see an improvement in online services through Councilrsquos website such as the electronic payment of rates and or fees and charges

Do you find Council staff at all of its locations and facilities approachable understanding of your requirements and helpful

Most comments in this section indicated council staff was very helpful and polite

Any other comments

Items for improvement (in order of priority)

Yes 36

Yes 55

Yes 48

No 6

No 18

No 11

1 Provision of venues services events 2 Roadscrossings 3 Footpathsramps 4 Public toilets 5 Public education The following summary outlines the priorities identified across all questions of the survey

ACTION PLANDisabilit y Inclusion

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29

Function Area Assets Section

Staff

Responsi-

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Facilities

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Information-

Directory

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Potential Resource

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30

Function Area Human Resource Sector

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision of Goods

or services

Information-

Directory

Partners

and agency

collaboration

Plans and Policies

Brochures documents

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tees of

Council

PotentialResource

Man

ager

Rec

ruitm

ent o

f new

sta

ffIn

form

atio

n on

web

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in

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ruitm

ent p

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(leav

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ruitm

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n in

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e of

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ork

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Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities infra-

structure

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or services

Information-

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and agency

collaboration

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tees of

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Potential Resource

Man

ager

Toile

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ublic

spa

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stra

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and

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ning

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omm

unity

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ls)

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e in

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mps

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ls th

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31

Function Area Communications

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

structure

Provision

of Goods or

services

Information-

Directory

Partners and agency collaboration

Plans and

Policies

Brochures

documents

Commit-

tees of

Council

Potential Resource

Com

mun

ica-

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Pr

ovid

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form

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nC

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unic

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ntio

ns M

anag

er

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in

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n in

on w

ebsi

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rd c

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to th

e pu

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w

ebsi

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e te

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form

attin

g on

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mun

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opm

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gem

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32

Function Area Strategy and Environment

Staff

Responsi-

bility

Facilities

infra-

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of Goods or

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collaboration

Plans and

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Nox

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33

Function Area Civil Assets

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Disability Inclusion

ACTION PLAN

Disability InclusionInclusionDisability InclusionInclusionDisability

For more information please contact Development Services councilportstephensnswgovau | 02 4980 0255 | PORTSTEPHENSNSWGOVAU

Page 28: Port Stephens Council DIAP 2016 - facs.nsw.gov.au · In 2016, Port Stephens had a population of 64,807 at the 2016 Census. This igure is predicted to rise by up to 23,000 over the

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35

Disability Inclusion

ACTION PLAN

Disability InclusionInclusionDisability InclusionInclusionDisability

For more information please contact Development Services councilportstephensnswgovau | 02 4980 0255 | PORTSTEPHENSNSWGOVAU

Page 29: Port Stephens Council DIAP 2016 - facs.nsw.gov.au · In 2016, Port Stephens had a population of 64,807 at the 2016 Census. This igure is predicted to rise by up to 23,000 over the

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Disability Inclusion

ACTION PLAN

Disability InclusionInclusionDisability InclusionInclusionDisability

For more information please contact Development Services councilportstephensnswgovau | 02 4980 0255 | PORTSTEPHENSNSWGOVAU

Page 30: Port Stephens Council DIAP 2016 - facs.nsw.gov.au · In 2016, Port Stephens had a population of 64,807 at the 2016 Census. This igure is predicted to rise by up to 23,000 over the

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Disability Inclusion

ACTION PLAN

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For more information please contact Development Services councilportstephensnswgovau | 02 4980 0255 | PORTSTEPHENSNSWGOVAU

Page 31: Port Stephens Council DIAP 2016 - facs.nsw.gov.au · In 2016, Port Stephens had a population of 64,807 at the 2016 Census. This igure is predicted to rise by up to 23,000 over the

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35

Disability Inclusion

ACTION PLAN

Disability InclusionInclusionDisability InclusionInclusionDisability

For more information please contact Development Services councilportstephensnswgovau | 02 4980 0255 | PORTSTEPHENSNSWGOVAU

Page 32: Port Stephens Council DIAP 2016 - facs.nsw.gov.au · In 2016, Port Stephens had a population of 64,807 at the 2016 Census. This igure is predicted to rise by up to 23,000 over the

Function Area Communications

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35

Disability Inclusion

ACTION PLAN

Disability InclusionInclusionDisability InclusionInclusionDisability

For more information please contact Development Services councilportstephensnswgovau | 02 4980 0255 | PORTSTEPHENSNSWGOVAU

Page 33: Port Stephens Council DIAP 2016 - facs.nsw.gov.au · In 2016, Port Stephens had a population of 64,807 at the 2016 Census. This igure is predicted to rise by up to 23,000 over the

Function Area Strategy and Environment

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Function Area Civil Assets

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35

Disability Inclusion

ACTION PLAN

Disability InclusionInclusionDisability InclusionInclusionDisability

For more information please contact Development Services councilportstephensnswgovau | 02 4980 0255 | PORTSTEPHENSNSWGOVAU

Page 34: Port Stephens Council DIAP 2016 - facs.nsw.gov.au · In 2016, Port Stephens had a population of 64,807 at the 2016 Census. This igure is predicted to rise by up to 23,000 over the

Function Area Civil Assets

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Disability Inclusion

ACTION PLAN

Disability InclusionInclusionDisability InclusionInclusionDisability

For more information please contact Development Services councilportstephensnswgovau | 02 4980 0255 | PORTSTEPHENSNSWGOVAU

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Function Area Community Development

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35

Disability Inclusion

ACTION PLAN

Disability InclusionInclusionDisability InclusionInclusionDisability

For more information please contact Development Services councilportstephensnswgovau | 02 4980 0255 | PORTSTEPHENSNSWGOVAU

Page 36: Port Stephens Council DIAP 2016 - facs.nsw.gov.au · In 2016, Port Stephens had a population of 64,807 at the 2016 Census. This igure is predicted to rise by up to 23,000 over the

Disability Inclusion

ACTION PLAN

Disability InclusionInclusionDisability InclusionInclusionDisability

For more information please contact Development Services councilportstephensnswgovau | 02 4980 0255 | PORTSTEPHENSNSWGOVAU