6 April 2017 – Media Release
Cumberland Council has unveiled its draft Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP), which provides a strategic framework for Council to prepare for and respond to issues of accessibility over the next four years.
Informed by extensive consultation with people with disability, their carers, families, service providers and the general public, Cumberland Council General Manager Malcolm Ryan said the draft DIAP builds upon Cumberland Council’s proven track record of supporting disability inclusion planning.
“Both the former Auburn and Holroyd council’s had disability action plans before such plans were compulsory,” Mr Ryan said.
“The new DIAP will replace these and outlines Cumberland Council’s commitment to improving access to services, facilities and employment opportunities; creating more liveable communities; recognising the rights and contributions of people with disability; and championing diversity.
“We want the Cumberland area to be a place where everyone can belong. The DIAP will ensure all our services and facilities are accessible, while working with the wider community to remove those obstacles people with disability face to community participation.”
“Council has proposed establishing the Cumberland Access and Inclusion Panel to oversee the implementation of the Plan, and ensure ongoing community input and specialist advice to Council.”
“At every stage of drafting the Plan, people with a disability, their carers and families have been involved. We will continue to make sure people with a disability are involved every step of the way.”
“I invite all people to have their say on the Plan during the exhibition period. While Council is ultimately responsible for delivering the Plan, the local community remains our most important partner in delivering it.”
The Draft Plan will be available in various accessible formats on Council’s have your say section for everyone to have their say from Tuesday 11 April 2017 up until Monday 8 May 2017.
