Disability Inclusion Action Plan by Wagga Wagga City Council

DISABILITY INCLUSION ACTION PLAN 2017 - 2021

acknowledgement of country

Image: Heidrun Lohr

Wagga Wagga City Council would like to acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the Land - Wiradjuri country, and to pay respects to Elders past and present. Wagga Wagga City Council has a long history and association with the local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities within the Local Government Area (LGA). Council values the diversity of our local community and supports reconciliation by working consistently in partnership with its local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, always ensuring that the process is based on respect, trust and a spirit of openness.

WAGGA WAGGA CITY COUNCIL DISABILITY INCLUSION ACTION PLAN 2017 - 2021

table of contents Acknowlegement of country. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Liveability. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Message from Mayor .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Where Disability Action Planning sits within the sustainable planning framework . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Vision and Guiding Principles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Meaningful Employment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Definitions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Demographics of the Local Government Area (LGA). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Understanding Legislation and Policy. . . . . . . . . . 13 Developing the plan .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 The path Wagga Wagga City Council took. . . . 19 Overview of Consultation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Attitudes and Behaviours

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Photography: All photography by Joshua Thomas unless otherwise stated.

Version control: June 2017 4

Improve access to services through better systems and Processes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Services in the Wagga Wagga Local Government Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

from the mayor Message from the Mayor, Councilor Greg Conkey (OAM) As Mayor of the City of Wagga Wagga I am pleased to be presenting the Wagga Wagga City Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Disability Inclusion Action Plan. I am personally committed to doing all I can to see our city become a place that allows all of us opportunities in our work and play, but more specifically that increases opportunities and a sense of value for people living in our community with visible or invisible disabilities.

thank our community members who worked with us to develop this plan. This plan is the road map for the next four years, providing a level of action and accountability moving forward. It is my hope that our leadership in increasing access and strengthening a more inclusive culture will decrease the discrimination faced by people with disabilities and will be an example to lead the way for many other agencies and businesses to follow.

Our Disability Inclusion Action Plan links strategically with the NSW Disability Inclusion Plan by ensuring action plans align with their four identified priority areas in addition to our Community Strategic Plan, a city wide strategy with a vision to make Wagga Wagga a thriving, innovative, connected and inclusive community. This plan has been built on the strength of the voices in our community. People across our city shared the barriers which exist for them that decrease their ability to live a life where they feel included, considered and valued. I would like to

Image: Wagga Wagga City Council

WAGGA WAGGA CITY COUNCIL DISABILITY INCLUSION ACTION PLAN 2017 - 2021

our reporting framework

State and Regional Plans

1 2

This strategy is considered a level two document within the Integrated Planning and Reporting (IPR) Framework.

LEVEL

Long term plan that clearly defines what we want as a community.

Council Strategies Providing directions

economic

environmental

civic leadership

Business Planning Process

Community Engagement

Divisional process informing resourcing and delivery

Delivery Program 4 years

Operational Plan 1 year

LEVEL

The development of the DIAP has occurred using the principles identified in the Integrated Planning and Reporting Manual for Local Government in NSW and the priorities identified in the NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014.The DIAP has also sought to integrate with other Wagga Wagga City Council strategies to ensure the principle of inclusion is embedded in all planning frameworks.

social

LEVEL

The Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) provides a clear direction to ensure Wagga Wagga City Council is developing a liveable city which is thriving, connected, innovative and inclusive. The plan has been written to provide a list of actions Wagga Wagga City Council will deliver over the next four years within the Local Government Area to remove barriers to access and increase opportunities for inclusion of people with a disability.

LEVEL

Where does the Disability Inclusion Action Plan sit within the sustainable planning framework?

Community Strategic Plan

Identifies the elected Council’s priorities for their term of office.

Identifies the projects, programs and services to be delivered.

Individual Performance and Development Plan

Monitoring and reporting 6

Resourcing Strategies Internal instruments (how) we deliver:  Long Term Financial Plan  Asset Management Plan  Workforce Plan  Section 94 Developer Contributions

Policies, operating standards, guidelines and procedures  Local Environment Plan (LEP)  Development Control Plan (DCP)

Vision

Guiding principles

During the development of the Community Strategic Plan a vision for the city’s future was developed and tested within the community. This vision states:

To ensure we achieve our community’s vision in the future, we will embed the four principles across all aspects of work that we do

“The community of Wagga is a thriving, innovative, connected and inclusive community on the Murrumbidgee. Rich in opportunity, choice, learning and environment. Wagga is a place where paths cross and people meet.”

Thriving

The Disability Inclusion Action Plan will consider how we can promote the liveability of Wagga Wagga and increase the success of people with disabilities within our community

Innovation

The Disability Inclusion Action Plan will consider how we can all feel part of the community, build better relationships through attitudes and behaviours and improve access through place and space integration.

Connected

The Disability Inclusion Action Plan will consider how we can create efficient and effective systems and processes to better accommodate people living with disabilities and to create best practice where that is possible in our service delivery

Inclusive

The Disability Inclusion Action Plan will consider how we are inclusive in all aspects of our work from employment to design and planning.

WAGGA WAGGA CITY COUNCIL DISABILITY INCLUSION ACTION PLAN 2017 - 2021

introduction “Wagga Wagga City Council’s Disability Inclusion Action Plan 2017-2021 demonstrates our ongoing commitment to accessibility and inclusiveness for people living with a disability across our community” Janice Summerhayes, Director Community. From July 2017 all government agencies across Australia will have a Disability Inclusion Action Plan. In NSW these plans will address four key areas, these are; • developing positive community attitudes and behaviours • creating liveable communities • supporting access to meaningful employment • improving access to services through better systems and processes Wagga Wagga City Council can be a strong change agent and leader to improve the city to ensure outcomes from the four key areas. This plan is a living document that will guide us to do this based on what people living and working in the community told us were intrinsic to increasing connection and opportunity in the Wagga Wagga local government area. We want Wagga to be a liveable community for all, one which has facilities and services which increase opportunity for all community members with a diverse range of needs, to engage with and maintain independence in everyday community life. Therefore, when referring to accessibility throughout the Disability Inclusion Action Plan 2017-2021, it not only relates to Council facilities and hard infrastructure, like footpaths, 8

buildings, parks, public places and spaces. It is also relative to opportunities to be able to obtain and use information, to provide opportunity to access employment, education and social activities. To change the lens to make it habitual to consider access and inclusion in everything Wagga Wagga City Council deliver, build or do and in the way people relate to one another. The objectives of Wagga Wagga City Council’s Disability Inclusion Action Plan are to: • Improve attitudes and behaviours towards people living with a disability through increasing awareness of ability and changing language to reflect the capabilities of individuals. • Improve the accessibility and inclusion of community members living with disability in the City of Wagga Wagga to public spaces and places through applying universal design principles and improving connectivity. • Increase meaningful employment options for individual’s living with disability, including volunteer and work experience opportunities. • Increase access to information regarding a range of Council services and facilities, as well as other services in the community through improved usability and availability of information.

definitions

WAGGA WAGGA CITY COUNCIL DISABILITY INCLUSION ACTION PLAN 2017 - 2021

The Disability Inclusion Act (2014) defines disability as: ‘The long-term physical, mental, intellectual or sensory impairment which an interaction with various barriers may hinder the full and effective participation in society on an equal basis with others.’ The World Health Organisation (WHO) shifts the understanding of disability from a focus on impairment of individuals to improving barriers to access. WHO identifies not just physical or mental conditions but rather defines disability as being interconnected with features of the society in which he or she lives. “Overcoming the difficulties faced by people with disabilities requires interventions to remove environmental and social barriers” Wagga Wagga City Council acknowledges all forms of disability, both visible and invisible, when identifying the importance of accessibility and inclusion for all. For the purpose of the Disability Inclusion Action Plan, we will define disability to include, but not be limited to, the following types of disability;

• Intellectual • Physical • Auditory • Cognitive • Significant mental health issues • Visual • Sensory • Psychosocial

demographics of local government area (LGA)

WAGGA WAGGA CITY COUNCIL DISABILITY INCLUSION ACTION PLAN 2017 - 2021

The population forecast for Wagga Wagga in 2017 is

65,712

*Estimate from forecast.id.au/wagga-wagga

18.2% of the

population are individuals living with a disability. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s approx. 12,000 individuals *Australian Bureau of Statistics 2012 Disability estimates

9.4% of

4.6%

population are carers for persons with a disability

of the population identify as either Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander

*FACS District data profiles 2014- 2015

*Based on 2011 Census data

The average success rate for participants in the Disability Management Service stream (job seekers with disability, injury or health condition who are not expected to need long term support) for Disability employment services in reaching a 26 week outcome is

35% 2651

There are mobility permit holders in Wagga Wagga (as at Nov 2016)

*Data from RMS of Mobility Parking Scheme (MPS) permit holders as at Nov 2016

2550 of people

living with a disability in the Murrumbidgee are clients of NSW Family and Community Services *FACS District data profiles 2014- 2015

The highest % of people living with a disability are in the suburbs of Ashmont, Mount Austin and Tatton *Based on 2011 Census data

11.4% of

the population were receiving aged pension, disability and sickness benefits *Data from Local Health District NSW 2010

The average placement rate for participants in the Disability Management Service (job seekers with disability, injury or health condition who are not expected to need long term support) stream for Disability employment services is

34% 95% of Wagga

10.5% of Wagga

*Based on 2011 Census data

Waggaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s population were classified as employed, in either full time or part time work

Wagga Cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s labour force aged 15 to 24 years were classed as unemployed

The average success rate for participants in the Employment Support Service stream (job seekers with permanent disability and will need ongoing and regular support) at a Disability employment services in reaching a 26 week outcome is

51%

*Data from Labour Market Information portal, June 2016

The average placement rate for participants in the Employment Support Service (job seekers with permanent disability and will need ongoing and regular support) stream for Disability employment services is

49%

*Data from Labour Market Information portal, June 2016

understanding legislation and policy

WAGGA WAGGA CITY COUNCIL DISABILITY INCLUSION ACTION PLAN 2017 - 2021

Understanding Legislation & Policy UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities

National Disability Strategy (NDS)

National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)

NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014 (DIA)

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

Local Government Disability Inclusion Action planning

Community Strategic Plan Delivery Plan Operational Plan

All inclusive NSW

There are a number of laws, policies and standards that assist services and government agencies to understand what they have to comply with or how best to work with people with disabilities in all aspects of what they do. These exist at an International level, a Commonwealth and State Government level and also at a Local Government level.

United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) Australia was one of the first countries to ratify the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities on 17 July 2008. The Convention aims to enhance opportunities for people with disability to participate in all aspects of social and political life including access to employment, education, health care, information, justice, public transport and the built environment.

National Disability Strategy 2010 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2020 The National Disability Strategy 2010-2020 provides a ten-year national policy framework for improving life for Australians with disability, their families and carers. It represents a commitment by all levels of government, industry and the community to a unified, national

approach to policy and program development. This new approach aims to address the challenges faced by people with disability, both now and into the future.

capability so they can participate in the community and employment.2

Importantly, action taken under the strategy to improve the accessibility of mainstream services for people with disability will complement specialist disability services and programs currently provided by Commonwealth, State and Territory Governments, including those provided through the National Disability Insurance Scheme.

Disability Discrimination Act

The strategy was formally endorsed by the Council of Australian Governments on 13 February 2011. The development of the strategy was informed by a nation-wide public consultation process, involving more than 2,500 people and reported in Shut Out: The Experience of People with Disabilities and their Families in Australia.1

National Disability Insurance Scheme Act (NDISA) 2013 The NDISA is the legislation which establishes the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA). The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is the new way of providing support for Australians with disability, their families and carers. As an insurance scheme, the NDIS takes a lifetime approach, investing in people with disability early to improve their outcomes later in life. The NDIS supports people with disability to build skills and

The Federal Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (DDA) provides protection for everyone in Australia against discrimination based on disability. It encourages everyone to be involved in implementing the Act and to share in the overall benefits to the community and the economy that flow from participation by the widest range of people. 1. Excerpt taken from the Australian Government Department of Social Services website. https://www.dss.gov.au/ 2. Excerpt taken from the NDIS website: https://www.ndis.gov.au/index.html

Disability discrimination happens when people with a disability are treated less fairly than people without a disability. Disability discrimination also occurs when people are treated less fairly because they are relatives, friends, carers, co-workers or associates of a person with a disability3

NSW Disability Inclusion Act (2014) and Disability Inclusion Regulation (2014) The Act has two broad aims. The first aim is to set out how NSW Family and Community Services will provide disability supports and services up until the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) has been rolled out

WAGGA WAGGA CITY COUNCIL DISABILITY INCLUSION ACTION PLAN 2017 - 2021

across the whole of NSW by mid- 2018. The second aim is to make sure that after moving to the NDIS, NSW continues to be a place where people with disability have access to mainstream services and are part of their community.

Wagga Wagga City Council’s Disability Inclusion Action Plan

The Disability Inclusion Regulation 2014 (the Regulation) supports the Act and provides the necessary detail for the Act to work properly.

The plan aligns with Wagga View, Community Strategic Plan 2040 in that it aims to promote inclusion and connectivity of individuals with disability in the community by increasing access to information, services, employment, education and social opportunities.

The Act: • makes it clear that people with disability have the same human rights as other people • promotes the inclusion of people with disability by requiring government departments and local councils to engage in disability inclusion action planning • supports people with disability to exercise choice and control through individualised funding wherever possible • provides safeguards for people accessing NSW funded disability supports and services, including new employment screening requirements and the need for disability accommodation providers to report abuse or neglect of people with disability to the Ombudsman. Funded providers of centre-based day programs are also required to report incidents to the Ombudsman in relation to people with disability living in supported group accommodation4. 3. Excerpt taken from the Australia Human Rights Commission website. https:// www.humanrights.gov.au/

The Disability Inclusion Action Plan sits within the Community Strategic Plan as a direct response to inclusion being identified as a guiding principle in the Community Strategic Plan. It is also a legislative requirement proposed in the NSW Disability Inclusion Act (2014).

Other relevant legislation and policy There are a number of pieces of legislation, standards and policies that guide direction and ensure consistent standards are adhered to across many aspects of our lives, these sit across legislation at all three tiers of government. Whilst not exhaustive, some of the legislation and policies considered in the development of the plan are listed:

• National Disability Strategy 2010-2020 (NDS) • National Standards for Disability Services • NSW Government Sector Employment Act 2013 • NSW Disability Services Standards • NSW Anti-discrimination Act 1977 4. Excerpt taken from the NSW Family and Community Services, ageing, Disability and Homecare site. http://www.adhc.nsw.gov.au/

developing the plan

WAGGA WAGGA CITY COUNCIL DISABILITY INCLUSION ACTION PLAN 2017 - 2021

To ensure Wagga Wagga City Council’s Disability Inclusion Action Plan is inclusive of the wider community, a number of consultations took place. These consultations ranged in method of delivery and included approximately 2500 community members. These methods included the Community Strategic Plan consultations, a Disability Inclusion Action Plan Public Forum, online surveys and individual and group consultations with a number of people with a disability, their families, carers and service providers. The plan is broken into four sections; • developing positive community attitudes and behaviours • creating livable communities • supporting access to meaningful employment • improving access to services through better systems and processes

Each section provides you with a snapshot of: 1) What you said. This section includes excerpts in the community’s words of what was said that the Wagga Wagga City Council needed to focus on to increase inclusion and accessibility. 2) What Wagga Wagga City Council has done. Wagga Wagga City Council has been committed to inclusion and access for some time and this section details the actions already achieved to increase liveability in the city. 3) What Wagga Wagga City Council will do. The Action Plan highlights what Wagga Wagga City Council can commit to or strive to achieve, in the next four years 2017 – 2021.

Is the action funded or unfunded? All items in the action plan are linked to outcomes and strategies identified in the Community Strategic Plan (CSP). Whilst Wagga Wagga City Council has made a financial commitment to many items in the plan, some items do not yet have funding. The plan identifies, through an Integrated Planning and Reporting (IPR) framework, which action items will be incorporated into operations or which items will receive additional capital funding or have been approved by council for future consideration in a ‘concepts’ list. It is the intent that these items listed as ‘unfunded’ or as ‘concepts’ may be further progressed through seeking funding opportunities to be able to progress these items, in many cases, through grant applications. No date for completion is noted against the unfunded items as the Wagga Wagga City Council cannot commit to delivering items which do not yet have available funds. All other items have a clear timeline that Wagga Wagga City Council agrees to deliver them by. Opportunities will be sought for partnership projects and / or funding with State and Federal Government where actions plan items align.

the path Wagga Wagga City Council took

WAGGA WAGGA CITY COUNCIL DISABILITY INCLUSION ACTION PLAN 2017 - 2021

The path Wagga Wagga City Council took

POLICY ANALYSIS Review Council Policy

Review Disability Legislation and any ongoing changes in the political landscape

CONSULTATION Consult Community Strategic Plan

ISSUES AND STRATEGIES IDENTIFIED Priority areas identified in key consultations both internally and externally driven

Individual and group consultations Staff survey Community online survey Public forum Internal consultation with Council staff

REVIEW Collate data Compile action plan

6. 20

Draft circulated IMPLEMENTATION AND MONITORING

Endorsed by Councillors Plan on Public Exhibition

DEVELOP STRATEGY AND DRAFT ACTION PLAN Review other agencies Disability Inclusion Action Plan guidelines Review 2011 census data and service delivery profile Internal consulatation with Council staff representative of a broad range of services

overview of consultation

WAGGA WAGGA CITY COUNCIL DISABILITY INCLUSION ACTION PLAN 2017 - 2021

“We have found the people of Wagga are friendly and helpful without being patronising, and are quick to assist with access to shops and facilities. Also, the overhanging verandahs of some parts of central are very welcoming, providing shade and protection from the heat of summer and the rain of winter”

Wagga Wagga City Council received satisfied/high satisfaction ratings in the following areas:

Priority areas for Wagga Wagga City Council that contained a low satisfaction rating:

Top five responses from community about what would make a difference to their experience living in Wagga Wagga:

• Oasis Regional Aquatic Centre • Wagga Wagga Art Gallery • Wagga Wagga City Library • Wagga Wagga Civic Theatre • Designated parking for people with a disability

• Public toilets, in particular adult change rooms • Footpaths and connectivity • Parks/open space and sporting fields

• Accessible adult change room/toilet • Inclusive play space for older individuals with disability • Create meaningful job opportunities • Provide access to the lake to enable those with disabilities to fish/go on a boat • Flexible and supportive induction and training processes

attitudes and behaviours

WAGGA WAGGA CITY COUNCIL DISABILITY INCLUSION ACTION PLAN 2017 - 2021

Objective Improve community wide attitudes and behaviours towards people living with a disability through promoting awareness of ability, understanding barriers to access and changing language to reflect the capabilities of individuals.

Changing language Throughout the consultations one of the things that became evident was the need to change the lens on disability through changing language. When disabled toilets were discussed the advice was where possible Wagga Wagga City Council should be talking about accessible toilets. People shared their personal experiences of being defined in their schooling, social life, community and workplaces by their disability and not by their skills and strengths. Wagga Wagga City Council hope one of the first steps in improving attitudes and behaviours will be shown through changing language.

What you said…

“It feels like there is a sign on your forehead”

“More acceptability and equity within our community”

“Wagga needs to have more open conversations about mental health and domestic violence, especially for males. More services need to be available and more acceptance”

“Most of the staff at the Oasis are so friendly and know my name”

“Celebrate diversity and strengths, breakdown the stigma that still exists” “More awareness campaigns needed”

What Wagga Wagga City Council has done

Inclusive is an adopted guiding principle in our Community Strategic Plan and everything we do will be measured against it

People living with a disability are consulted on all major plan developments eg: Wagga Integrated Transport Strategy

ATTITUDES AND BEHAVIOURS

Auspiced the Sector support Ageing and Disability team who work with services across 32 Local Government Areas.

Financial support of the International Day of People with Disabilities and the Wagga Disability Dance Party

Multiple resources including large print books, read along learning and services like speech therapy are made available through our Library

Weekly programs at the Museum of the Riverina in partnership with the Leisure Company

Prominent art exhibitions in partnership with local services to showcase the work of artists living with a disability in our Art Gallery

WAGGA WAGGA CITY COUNCIL DISABILITY INCLUSION ACTION PLAN 2017 - 2021

What Wagga Wagga City Council will do Improve attitudes and behaviours towards people living with a disability through increasing awareness of ability and changing language to reflect the capabilities of individuals. CSP Outcome and Strategy

Responsible Manager

IPR funding type or unfunded

Key Performance Indicator

Year 1

Manager People and Culture

Operational

• Induction program reviewed and amended

1.2 Provide front of house staff with skills in the use of technological resources to increase accessibility for people with a disability.

Year 2

Manager Information and Customer Service and Manager People and Culture

Operational

• Relevant guides and manuals are located on council intranet • Inclusion is embedded in all front of house training

1.3 A suite of inclusive programs are offered across the City of Wagga Wagga’s cultural facilities that include targeted programs, shows and exhibitions for people with disabilities

Ongoing

Manager Community Services

Operational and opportunities sought for grant funding

• Number of inclusive programs available through all cultural

1.4 Promote programming in cultural facilities to services working with people with disabilities and included in council news

Ongoing

Manager Community Services

Operational and opportunities sought for grant funding

• All accessible programs and exhibitions are actively promoted

1.5 Include images that represent the diversity of our community in future plans and publications e.g. people with disabilities and culturally, socially diverse groups

Ongoing

Marketing and Communications coordinator and Manager City Strategy

Operational

• 100% of all future plans and publications with imagery

1.6 Review language used in all future documents/signage to ensure it is inclusive and focuses on accessibility, ability and inclusion

Year 2

Marketing and Communications coordinator

Operational

Action

We have a variety 1.1 Review induction program to ensure the content promotes inclusion and of education consideration of people with a disability. and training opportunities. Strategy: Provide opportunities for training and lifelong learning. We are a centre for Arts and Culture. Strategy: Deliver arts and cultural program and Deliver a range of performances for all audiences

Everyone in our community feels they have been heard and understand.

Timing

to services who provide support and assistance to people with a disability through networks

developed by council will be inclusive and represent our community’s diversity

Strategy: Create inclusive and accessible engagement strategies

facilities annually

• Style guide is reviewed in line with best practice • Style guide is inclusive and showcases best practice

Groups, program and activities bring us together.

1.7 Promote days and weeks that celebrate ability and diversity such as Mental Health Month, International Day of people with a disability to our community.

Strategy: Create events, programs and activities 1.8 Work with local agencies and to encourage organisations that provide awards participation e.g. Wagga Wagga Seniors festival community service awards, service clubs, business chamber to advocate for an accessibility award to recognise businesses increasing access through redesign, policies and process to increase access for people with disabilities We have vibrant precincts. Strategy: Design accessible community hubs and Create a people focused Central Activity District

Ongoing

1.9 Raise awareness with local services and businesses about how they can become more inclusive in the layout of their design (eg.shops) and how they can attract the business of people with a disability.

Ongoing

1.10 Promote the recharge scheme with local businesses and shopping centres to increase access for people with mobility devices through promoting locations to recharge their devices.

Ongoing

• Publicise inclusive events through council’s social media

Manager Community Services

Operational

Manager Community Services

Unfunded seek available grants

• Local recognition for excellence around inclusion and access

Manager Community Services

Unfunded grant funds to be sourced

• Information is developed and provided to local businesses to

Manager Community Services

Unfunded grant funds to be sourced

• Recharge scheme is promoted in shopping centres and high

channels and existing databases

are established on an annual basis

increase accessibility in shops and recreational spaces

traffic areas

WAGGA WAGGA CITY COUNCIL DISABILITY INCLUSION ACTION PLAN 2017 - 2021

liveability

Objective Improve the accessibility and inclusion of community members living with disability in Wagga Wagga to public spaces and places through applying universal design principles and improving connectivity.

What is Liveability? Liveability is an assessment of what a place is like to live in, taking into account particular qualities and standards. These can include sustainability, accessibility, inclusion, access to education, healthcare, crime and safety, environment, recreational facilities and cultural activities. Wagga Wagga City Council aims to continue building Wagga Wagga as a sustainable liveable community, through increased access and inclusion for all.

What you said…

“We need access to calming spaces across the city“ “Would be cool to have better access to parks and recreational assets”

“A lot of people don’t have transport. The hospital gives you two hours leave and no transport to take you anywhere but taxis. Buses are $8 per trip, taxis are more. Subsidied cost for transport for mental health services would be hugely beneficial.”

“The doors to the art gallery are not open, and I can’t open them”

“We need to create a liveable community for all, people with a disability, parents with prams, the ageing population, people who are vision or hearing impaired.”

Source: Fairlie, Paul. 2011. Meaningful Work, Employee Engagement, and Other Key Employee Outcomes. Advances in Developing Human Resources, Vol 13, Issue 4, pp. 508 - 525

“There are no accessible bathrooms in Wagga Wagga with a hoist and an adult change table so this limits our attending things in the community and even shopping. Sometimes events are just too hard to attend as we cannot change our daughter. Then the whole family misses out.”

“I don’t feel safe on the bed in the change room at the Oasis, it needs to be more stable and larger” “We need more shade, it takes us longer to get places”

WAGGA WAGGA CITY COUNCIL DISABILITY INCLUSION ACTION PLAN 2017 - 2021

What Wagga Wagga City Council has done

Inclusive is an adopted principle guiding the development of the Community Strategic Plan

Installed change facilities with a hoist in the Oasis Regional Aquatic Centre

Installation of a sensory wall in the Wagga Wagga City Library

Recharge stations have been installed in council facilities

LIVEABILITY

Automated doors added to accessible toilets in multiple sites

Installation of hearing loops and counter loops in multiple publically accessible sites across council

Increased accessible parking spots around the city centre

Wagga Wagga Art Gallery and Wagga Wagga Civic Theatre have completed access audits

WAGGA WAGGA CITY COUNCIL DISABILITY INCLUSION ACTION PLAN 2017 - 2021

What Wagga Wagga City Council will do Improve the accessibility and inclusion of community members living with a disability in the City Of Wagga Wagga to public spaces and places through applying universal design principles and improving connectivity. CSP Outcome and Strategy We activate our community spaces to create connectedness. Strategy: Ensure spaces are accessible through universal design principles

Recreation is a part of everyday life. Strategy: Create inclusive play spaces and recreation facilities

Action

Timing

2.1 Consult with people with disabilities to assist in reviewing barriers to access in Baylis St and Fitzmaurice St.

Year 1

2.2 Audit high usage council owned community centres and halls and identify barriers to access e.g. Ramps into buildings and develop a plan to address these

Year 2

2.3 A ramp is built to connect the indoor and outdoor environment at the Ngurra Hub Ashmont.

Year 1

Responsible Manager

IPR funding type or unfunded

Manager Community Services

Operational

Key Performance Indicator

• Undertake audit and develop report • Scope of work is costed out and presented to council for

consideration for inclusion in the long term financial plan and implementation

Manager Operations

Operational

• List of high usage facilities defined and identified • Audit of facilities conducted • Scope of work is costed out and presented to council for consideration for inclusion in the long term financial plan

2.4 Train staff to embed the principles of access and universal design in the undertaking of accessibility audits of places and spaces to improve accessibility

Manager Project Operations

Operational

• Undertake scope of work and costings • Plans are presented to users for consideration and feedback • Construction of Ramp is complete

Manager People and Culture, Manager Project Operations and Manager Operations

Unfunded (possible budget variation or external funds sought)

• Training gaps are identified • Training schedules are developed • Training is delivered to identified employees • A system to ensure compliance with accessibility requirements is developed

• Checklist is incorporated into the project management methodology

• Develop a rolling program to up skill staff in inclusion 2.5 An all abilities fenced playground is designed and built in the Bolton park precinct.

Year 1

Manager City Strategy

Capital works and grant funding

• Revise design of proposed playground with community consultation

• Design and build all abilities playground in Bolton Park precinct to agreed specifications

2.6 Upgrades to existing parks and playgrounds are undertaken in line with existing works schedule to increase accessibility where possible

Ongoing

Manager City Strategy

Capital works and grant funding to be sourced for further improvements

• Upgrades to parks and playground (in line with existing works

schedule) increase accessibility through embedding principles of universal design

We have a strong sense of place. Strategy: Provide annual grants to support community groups to develop spaces

2.7 Support funding for community groups and services to improve accessibility and apply principles of universal design in buildings and service delivery

Ongoing

Manager Community Services

Operational

2.8 Undertake an audit of civic centre and key facilities owned by council where accessibility devices e.g. counter loops, are utilised and or required and develop implementation schedule

Manager Operations

Unfunded

2.9 Develop a maintenance schedule to ensure all access devices are well signed and maintained to appropriate standards or updated when required

Manager Operations

• Annual grant category of health and wellbeing is amended to

include a requirement for applicants to demonstrate how they plan to “Increase access, equity and participation for people living with a disability”. • Community Programs and projects category is fully expended. • Support letters are written upon request to all agencies and community based organisations seeking other grants to increase accessibility.

• Undertake audit • Develop checklist • Recommendations provided to council for consideration in the LTFP

• Recommendations are implemented Unfunded

• Schedule is developed and included in regular operational practice and maintenance

2.10 Increase community access to the Lake Albert Community facility by installing access ramp

Year 1

Manager Operations

Capital

• Ramp is installed to standards

2.11 Review options to increase accessibility to Lake Albert for recreational fishing etc

Year 3

Manager City Strategy

Operational

• Review of access to Lake Albert is completed • Cost of works to increase access is scoped • Recommendations provided to council for consideration in LTFP

WAGGA WAGGA CITY COUNCIL DISABILITY INCLUSION ACTION PLAN 2017 - 2021

We Activate our community spaces to create connectedness.

2.12 Review and Implement Pedestrian Access and Mobility Plan (PAMP) and Engineering guidelines in line with other relevant council plans to increase connectivity across the city

Strategy: Ensure spaces 2.13 Increase number of accessible are accessible parking spaces to reflect proportion of through universal permit holders in the community. design principles

Year 2

Manager Project Operations and Manager Operations

Concepts

• PAMP is reviewed • Recommendations are provided to council for consideration.

Ongoing

Manager Project Operations and Manager Operations

Operational

• Prepare and submit reports on number of parking spaces to traffic committee

• Submit reports for recommendations to council for approval • Report recommendations are implemented • Accessible parking spaces are installed

2.14 Improve connections of footpaths to increase connectivity to community infrastructure

Ongoing

Manager Projects Operations

Capital works

• Prioritisation of high usage areas in conducted • Footpaths are laid in line with priority listings e.g. Jack Avenue

2.15 Continue shared path network along Riverside

Year 1

Manager City Strategy and Manager Operations

Capital works

• Shared pathway network works continuation is completed

2.16 Implement urban canopy strategy to increase shade in along high usage paths.

• Strategy is developed • Strategy is provided to council for approval • Increased shade cover is present in the Central Activity District

Manager City Strategy and Manager Operations

along connecting footpaths and in parklands and playgrounds.

We improve the facilities of our places and spaces. Strategy: Increase the accessibility for people with a disability to access amenities and change facilities

2.17 Supply and install of 1 x mobile accessible adult change facilities are made available in CBD

Manager Operations

2.19 Double the Master Locksmith Association Key scheme for 3 council owned accessible toilets

Capital works

• A mobile accessible adult change facility is purchased and located in central location

2.18 Supply and install of 1 fixed accessible adult change facility is located in the CBD

2.20 Supply and install accessible toilet in the Bolton Park precinct to service the all abilities playground

Year 1

Unfunded

• A fixed accessible change room is located in the main street of Wagga in close proximity to shopping centres.

Year 2

Manager Operations and Manager Community Services

Operational

• Increase public facilities listed on the MLAK scheme (6)

Manager Operations

Concepts

• Accessible toilet is installed in the vicinity of the Bolton Park precinct all abilities playground

We have complete and accessible transport networks. Increase accessibility to public transport networks

Recreation is a part of everyday life Strategy: Create inclusive play spaces and recreation facilities We are a centre for arts and culture. Strategy: Promote and provide access to arts and cultural facilities such as the Art Gallery, Civic Theatre, Museum and Library

2.21 Promote subsidised schemes and community transport

Ongoing

Manager Community Services

Operational

• Schemes and community transport options are promoted through networks

• Advocate for increased access to public and community transport

Manager Community Services

Operational

Manager Operations

Capital Program

• Advocate to Roads and Maritime Services for further

2.22 Advocate for further development to pedestrian crossings at traffic lights to include timed crossings

Year 1

2.23 Improve bus shelters to be accessible (rolling scheme upgrades)

Ongoing

2.24 Install nonslip tiles in the Oasis Aquatic Centre.

Year 1

Manager Projects Operations

Capital funding and grant funds

• Non slip tiles are installed to Australian standards

2.25 Improve accessibility safety and stability of the adult change facilities at the Oasis Aquatic Centre

Year 1

Manager Oasis

Grant funded

• Adult change facilities are upgraded to meet standards

2.26 Complete civic Theatre Auditorium & Foyer Refurbishment Stage 1 includes: Over 50 removable seats in 2 sections of theatre replaced which can be removed for people with disabilities when required

Year 1

Manager Community Services

Capital

• Refurbishments are completed

Manager Community Services

Concepts

• Accessible lift allows people with disabilities to access stage

development of traffic treatments along major routes

• Improvement works are undertaken and consideration is given to increase accessibility to bus shelters

Stage 2 A permanent accessible lift is fitted to the access stage area and accessible backstage toilet

area

2.27 Replace existing Art Gallery doors with automated ones to increase accessibility

Year 1

Manager Community Services

Capital works

• Art Gallery door replacement completed

2.28 Replace existing Museum doors with automated ones to increase accessibility

Year 1

Manager Community Services

Capital works

• Museum door replacement completed

WAGGA WAGGA CITY COUNCIL DISABILITY INCLUSION ACTION PLAN 2017 - 2021

We improve the facilities of our spaces and places.

2.29 New signage installed includes provisions for accessibility and where appropriate Braille is included in high usage areas e.g. Civic Centre

Strategy Increase 2.30 Promote what council has achieved the accessibility in accessibility in the community through of recreational council news and online. spaces and buildings 2.31 Publicise the availability of accessible facilities through online mapping e.g. Accessible parking spaces and toilets and hearing loops

Year 2

Ongoing

Marketing and Communications coordinator

Operational

Marketing and Communications coordinator

Operational

Manager Information and Customer Service

Operational

• Signs for areas around council are designed for maximum clarity and access e.g. Inclusion of Braille and large print

• Number of articles promoting improvements to accessibility for the community published in council news and through social media.

• Online interactive maps are available for people to locate

accessible facilities within the Local Government Area on council website • Sites are updated and maintained

meaningful employment

WAGGA WAGGA CITY COUNCIL DISABILITY INCLUSION ACTION PLAN 2017 - 2021

Objective Increase meaningful employment options for individuals living with disability, including volunteer and work experience opportunities.

About meaningful employment Meaningful employment has shown to have a vast impact on an individual’s life, encompassing economic, social and psychological factors. Not only does it assist in obtaining a form of financial stability and feeling of contribution to the wider community, it has also shown to have positive increases in health, well-being, identity, self-worth and social inclusion. A lack of opportunity and access to meaningful employment for individuals therefore has shown to have negative impacts in each of these areas. Wagga Wagga City Council wants to show commitment to increasing meaningful employment opportunities within Council for individuals with disability5. 5. Sources: Commonwealth Department of Social Services. (2011). National Disability Strategy 2010 – 2020. Canberra, Australia. Retrieved from https:// www.dss.gov.au/ourresponsibilities/disability-and-carers/publications-articles/ policy-research/nationaldisability-strategy-2010-2020 Royal Australasian College of Physicians [RACP] & The Australasian Faculty of Occupational and Environmental Medicine. (2011). Position statement on realising the health benefits of work. Retrieved from https://www.racp.edu.au/ docs/defaultsource/advocacy-library/realising-the-health-benefits-of- work. pdf?sfvrsn=10

What you said…

“Flexible and supportive job application and interview processes”

“It would be great to see employment landscape change to enable all people of all abilities to have work options at council”

“I don’t recall the advertisement for my position stating that people with disabilities were encouraged to apply, someone in a physical impairment (i.e.: without the use of their legs) would be able to do this job”.

“There is a misunderstanding of what we will be like. You’re seen as a nuisance until you prove to be an asset”

“Need to be more proactive engaging those with disabilities -from advertising, active discrimination in favour and workplace design”

“More support needed within the workplace of mental health issues in order to help sustain meaningful employment mental health first aid”

What Wagga Wagga City Council has done

Employee support officers provide peer support to colleagues

A Diversity Strategy was introduced to ensure council is proactive in supporting all employees

Modifications and on the job design available

A needs based interview with appropriate access will be arranged for all applicants with accessibility needs

EMPLOYMENT

We are an employer of choice

Staff surveys completed to understand what we do well and can do better for staff with disabilities

Employee assistance program available to all employees

Some recruitment includes practical assessment for best match to role

WAGGA WAGGA CITY COUNCIL DISABILITY INCLUSION ACTION PLAN 2017 - 2021

What Wagga Wagga City Council will do Objective: Increase meaningful employment for individuals living with disability, including volunteer and work experience opportunities. CSP Outcome and Strategy We have career opportunities Strategies: Cater for employment of all abilities and; Encourage opportunities to volunteer

Action

Timing

3.1 A primary contact will be established for job service agencies (JSAs), that focus on support for people with disabilities to identify opportunities for employment where barriers to access may exist

Year 1

3.2 Review recruiting and volunteering policies and procedures to include equitable provisions for improved access by people with a disability.

Year 3

Responsible Manager

IPR funding type or unfunded

Manager People and Culture

Operational

Key Performance Indicator

• Primary contact is established and communicated • Advise JSA’s on the process to apply to council’s supply list when seeking to contract for labour hire

Manager People and Culture

Operational

• Policies/procedures are reviewed • Recommendations are implemented • Employee opinion survey conducted to identify type and level of support required

• Workforce profile is inclusive and reflective of community demographic where possible and supports meaningful employment opportunities

We have leaders that represent us. Strategy: Provide mentoring and leadership opportunities We have career opportunities Strategies: Cater for employment of all abilities

3.3 Managers and supervisors are provided with guidance on inclusion and appropriate practices and resources to support employees with a disability to achieve to succeed

Year 2

3.4 Undertake annual employee opinion Ongoing survey of employees to gauge workplace diversity and employees attitudes to inclusion and accessibility 3.5 Maintain support to employees through the training of Employee Support Officers (ESO) and through the provision of the Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Ongoing

Manager People and Culture

Operational

Manager People and Culture

Operational

• Resources promoting best inclusive practice are available to managers / supervisors as required

• Employee opinion survey completed • Information used to inform better decision making for employee support

Operational

• Actively promote ESO and EAP are available to all staff.

We have a variety 3.6 Provide Equal Employment Opportunity training to all employees as of education part of corporate training package. and training opportunities. Strategy: Provide opportunities for training and lifelong learning.

3.7 Review recruitment processes

Ongoing

Manager People and Culture

Operational

• Training is provided

Year 1

Manager People and Culture

Operational

• Recruitment packages reviewed to incorporate inclusive

Manager People and Culture

Operational

Manager People and Culture

Operational

employment practice and capture relevant data year one.

• Annual evaluation on Council employment rates in reaching

3.8 Increase number of people with a disability employed at Council towards a 10% target.

Year 4

3.9 Ensure online models of training are inclusive of people with disabilities.

Year 2

3.10 Provide training to all employees on bullying and harassment

Ongoing

Manager People and Culture

Operational

• Training is provided

3.11 Provide Mental Health Awareness Training to employees

Year 2

Manager People and Culture

Operational

• Training is provided

3.12 Provide mental health first aid training to identified employees

10% target

• Where required training is adapted ensure online learning supports learners capabilities

• Training is provided

WAGGA WAGGA CITY COUNCIL DISABILITY INCLUSION ACTION PLAN 2017 - 2021

improve access to services through better systems and process

Objective Increase access to information regarding a range of Wagga Wagga City Council’s services and facilities, as well as other services in the community through improved use ability and availability of information.

Guiding principles for system improvements The National Standards for Disability Services is a best practice guide to help shape Wagga Wagga City Council’s systems and processes, relating mainly to the delivery and accessibility of information regarding processes, from registering your pet to applying for a job and to enable participation and access to Community and Council run events and cultural activities. These best practice principals include: • All Wagga Wagga City Council staff are suitably qualified, skilled and supported; • Wagga Wagga City Council has systems to strengthen and maintain organisational capabilities to directly support individuals, their families and carers to have increased access to Wagga Wagga City Council and community information, events and employment; Wagga Wagga City Council has monitoring, feedback, learning and reflection processes, which support continuous improvement; • Wagga Wagga City Council employs a range of methods for active participation and consultation of people with disability and their family, friends, carers and advocates in planning, delivery and review across a number of departments.

What you said… “Adapting the workplace environment” “Free events need to be advertised better” “(Oasis) Swipe card system for the use of the toilet so there isn’t a need to ask” “Disability is an opportunity to make things better for everyone, not a hassle to deal with. Please put dyslexia font as an option on the council website”.

“Provide information such as stuff found in visitor information, to go into different organisations such as Sunflower house about events and things happening around town”

Source: Australian Government, Department of Social Services (2013). National Standards for Disability Services – Evidence Guide.

WAGGA WAGGA CITY COUNCIL DISABILITY INCLUSION ACTION PLAN 2017 - 2021

What Wagga Wagga City Council has done

Increased font in â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Whats Onâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Wagga

Personalised service for people with literacy difficulties eg. form completion

SYSTEMS AND PROCESSES

Our communications style guide requires all communications in plain English

Website meets Web content accessibility guideline (WCAG) level AA compliance

Council publishes annual community directory in online and print based format

Service support provided through sector support program

Visitor guide to Wagga Wagga highlights accessible rooms for visitors

What Wagga Wagga City Council will do Objective: Increase access to information regarding a range of Council services and facilities, as well as other services in the community through improved use ability and availability of information CSP Outcome and Strategy

Responsible Manager

IPR funding type or unfunded

Key Performance Indicator

We have services 4.1 Community directory is in accessible Year 2 format and includes information on that support us services for people with disabilities Strategy: Promote the 4.2 Promote opportunities for community Year 1 availability of training in transition to NDIS services and how to access them 4.3 Provide sector support to services in Year 1 Wagga Wagga

Manager Community Services

Operational

• Increase number of sidability services listed in Community

The City of Wagga Wagga has efficient and effective processes Strategy: Present easy to understand documentation

Action

4.4 High volume forms are available in large print when requested

Timing

Year 2