A City for All Inclusion (Disability) Action Plan 2017-2021
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A City for All Inclusion (Disability) Action Plan 2017-2021
A City for All: Inclusion (Disability) Action Plan 2017-2021
01/ Lord Mayor’s Message 01
02/ Acknowledgement 02
03/ Inclusion (Disability) Advisory Panel 03
Lord Mayor’s
04/ Summary 04
SECTION A: Setting the scene 08
Message
05/ The case for inclusion 09
06/ Policy and legislative context 10
07/ Community profile 14
SECTION B: Approach and directions 17
08/ Statement of commitment 18
Direction 1: Positive community attitudes
and behaviours 19
Direction 2: Liveable communities 21
Direction 3: Meaningful employment 25
Direction 4: Equitable access to
The City of Sydney’s ongoing commitment to The Inclusion (Disability) Action Plan recognises the
mainstream services 28 making Sydney truly inclusive and welcoming underlying social responsibility for Local Government
SECTION C: Development and implementation 31 is embodied in our fourth Inclusion (Disability) to work to remove barriers to inclusive participation in
Action Plan. our communities, to protect the rights of people with
09/ Community Consultation Outcomes 32 disability and promote the value of diversity and
This plan aligns the City’s long-term vision of an
10/ Actions 36 inclusion across the community, and create a better
inclusive City of Sydney with important new priorities
11/ Implementation and governance 52 future for everyone.
resulting from the NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014
12/ Measuring success 53 and the City of Sydney’s Social Sustainability Policy
- A City for All that recognises human rights at its core.
13/ Acronyms 54
Our plan includes a series of actions designed
14/ Appendix A 55
to actively address barriers faced by people with
15/ References and endnotes 56 disability. They build on the success of previous work,
and harness new and emerging opportunities.
The plan sets out practical ways we can continue to
create a more inclusive city. Inclusive cities are easy
to get around, they provide people with disability
opportunities for participation in the diverse social,
cultural life of the City and access to meaningful
Image credits employment opportunities. These actions show that
an inclusive city benefits everyone – not just people
p3 Katherine Griffiths/City of Sydney
with disability.
p7 David Clare First light photography/City of Sydney
p8 Josef Nalevansky I am proud of the diverse communities who live in
p14 Piri Rutherford the City of Sydney. We work to make sure all people
p15 Katherine Griffiths/City of Sydney are welcome, regardless of their traditions, religious
p17 Damian Shaw/City of Sydney Clover Moore
and spiritual practices, languages, abilities, sexual
p20 Ability Links NSW Lord Mayor
orientation or lifestyle.
p22 Paul Patterson/City of Sydney
p23 Katherine Griffiths/City of Sydney
p24 Katherine Griffiths/City of Sydney
p29 Katherine Griffiths/City of Sydney
p30 Damian Shaw/City of Sydney
p32-33 Katherine Griffiths/City of Sydney
p34 Damian Shaw/City of Sydney
p35 Katherine Griffiths/City of Sydney
Sydney2030/Green/Global/Connected
City of Sydney A City for All: Inclusion (Disability) Action Plan 2017-2021
Acknowledgement Inclusion (Disability)
Advisory Panel
The Council of the City of Sydney acknowledges There are many sites across our local government The Inclusion (Disability) Advisory Panel provides
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the area with historical and cultural significance for strategic, expert and impartial advice to the City on
traditional custodians of our land – Australia. The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. the development, implementation, and review of the
City acknowledges the Gadigal of the Eora Nation The City has documented many of these in Barani City’s policies, strategies and plans to advance the
as the traditional custodians of this place we now / Barrabagu (Yesterday / Tomorrow) as its first inclusion of people with disability. Panel members are
call Sydney. expression of the Eora Journey project. a key source of advice and expertise on the City’s
access and inclusion issues.
In 1788, the British established a convict outpost The City works with, and has achieved much with,
on the shores of Sydney Harbour. This had far Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and The panel of 10-12 community members bring a
reaching and devastating impacts on the Eora the City’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander diverse range of expertise. The panel members
Nation, including the occupation and appropriation Advisory Panel, consistent with the Principles of provide independent and external advice to:
of their traditional lands. Cooperation signed between the City of Sydney
–– review the City’s policies and plans, and provide
and the Metropolitan Aboriginal Land Council in
Today, Sydney is of prime importance as the advice to Council across all areas relevant to
2006. The City is deeply committed to Reconciliation
first place in which longstanding ways of life were people with disability
in partnership with its Aboriginal and Torres Strait
disrupted by invasion, as well as an ongoing centre
Islander peoples and in 2015 adopted our inaugural –– enhance inclusion and accessibility of the City’s
for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities,
Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan. In 2016, the infrastructure, facilities, events, services, programs,
cultures, traditions and histories.
Eora Journey Economic Development Plan was systems and information for people with disability
Despite the destructive impact of this invasion, adopted. These actions and others will help to ensure –– advise the City on its relevant submissions relating
Aboriginal culture endured and are now globally their political, economic, social and cultural rights City of Sydney Inclusion (Disability) Advisory Panel
to State and Federal Government policy and
recognised as one of the world’s oldest living are embedded in subsequent economic, social, legislation; and
cultures. Aboriginal peoples have shown, and environmental and cultural change. The City of Sydney Inclusion (Disability)
continue to show, enormous resilience coupled –– provide advice to Council on how to identify issues Advisory Panel.
Sustainable Sydney 2030 recognises Sydney’s that are relevant to people with disability.
with generosity of spirit towards other peoples
Aboriginal heritage and contemporary Aboriginal –– Front row left to right: Mark Relf, Paul
with whom they now share their land. The panel was instrumental in the design and
and Torres Strait Islander cultures. Aboriginal and Nunnari, Mark Tonga, Susan Thompson
The Council of the City of Sydney recognises that, Torres Strait Islander communities in the City were development of this plan and will continue to play
by acknowledging our shared past, we are laying a critical role in monitoring and providing advice for –– Back Row left to right: Phillippa Carnemolla,
extensively consulted for Sustainable Sydney 2030
the groundwork for a future which embraces all the plan’s implementation. Jane Bringolf, Young-Joo Byun, Naomi
and this consultation continues today. The City of
Australians, a future based on mutual respect and Malone, Judy Harwood, Julie Millard
Sydney is committed to acknowledging, sharing and
shared responsibility for our land. The ongoing celebrating a living culture in the heart of our city. Absent – Michael Bartels, Morwenna Collett
custodianship of the Gadigal of the Eora Nation is an
essential part of this future, as is Sydney’s continuing
place as centre of Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander cultures and communities.
Sydney2030/Green/Global/Connected Sydney2030/Green/Global/Connected
City of Sydney A City for All: Inclusion (Disability) Action Plan 2017-2021
Summary This is the City
of Sydney’s fourth
Inclusion (Disability)
Action Plan
The City of Sydney’s ongoing commitment Understanding disability In the context of planning for mainstream services Role of this plan
to making Sydney truly inclusive and welcoming and infrastructure that local government is
Almost one in five Australians live with disability, This Inclusion (Disability) Action Plan will set the
is embodied in our fourth Inclusion (Disability) responsible for, the City of Sydney uses a social
increasing to more than one in two Australians after framework and priorities for:
Action Plan. model of disability. Under the model, disability
the age of 65. Additionally, one in four Australians will
is understood as a product of the barriers that –– meeting the City’s responsibilities under the NSW
This plan aligns the City’s long-term vision of an experience a mental health issue in their lifetime. In
communities allow to remain in place. In the local Disability Inclusion Act 2014, the (Cth) Disability
inclusive City of Sydney with important new priorities NSW more than 11% of residents identify as being
government context such barriers may be: Discrimination Act 1992 and the NSW Carers
resulting from the (Cth) Disability Inclusion Act 2014. a carer for someone with disability or chronic illness
(Recognition) Act 2010
or mental health issue. The City recognises that –– physical - such as inaccessible facilities,
This plan includes a series of actions designed
disability can affect anyone of any age at any time. streetscapes, or parks and open spaces; or –– identifying barriers to inclusion, and developing
to actively address barriers faced by people with
strategies and actions that will respond to and
disability in all age groups. They build on the success What these statistics reveal is that disability is part of –– social - such as a lack of information in accessible
address those barriers
of previous plans, and harness new and emerging the human experience; that if a person does not have formats or systems that create barriers, often
opportunities. disability now, chances are that at some point in their unintended, for people with disability to participate –– continuous improvement in relation to inclusion
lives they will experience some form of disability either in community life; or and access for people with disability
The plan has been developed though consultation
with people with disability and/or caring personally or as a carer. –– attitudinal - such as assumptions that people with –– achieving outcomes for people with disability
responsibilities, local disability service providers, The NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014 reflects this disability cannot participate in certain activities or and/or caring responsibilities in line with the City of
peak disability representative and advocacy understanding of disability. The Act defines disability perform certain jobs. Sydney’s Social Sustainability Policy - A City for All
organisations and the City of Sydney Inclusion as including: and forthcoming action plan.
When these barriers are removed, the majority
(Disability) Advisory Panel.
of people with disability will experience greater
“A long-term physical, mental, independence and dignity, and equitable Four key directions
intellectual or sensory impairment, opportunities for social and economic inclusion. This action plan focuses on four key directions:
that, in interaction with various The City recognises there is an underlying social –– the development of positive community
barriers, may hinder [a] person’s responsibility to remove barriers from the mainstream attitudes and behaviours towards people
full and effective participation in services it provides, the employment opportunities it with disability and carers
provides to the community and the infrastructure and
the community on an equal basis public spaces it manages.
–– the creation of more liveable communities for
with others.”1 people with disability and carers
The City also recognises our role in protecting the
–– the achievement of a higher rate of meaningful
rights of people with disability of all ages and in
employment participation by people with disability
promoting the value of diversity and inclusion across
and carers through inclusive employment practices
the community.
–– more equitable access to mainstream services
for people with disability through better systems
and processes.
Sydney2030/Green/Global/Connected Sydney2030/Green/Global/Connected
City of Sydney A City for All: Inclusion (Disability) Action Plan 2017-2021
Inclusive Play at Piramma Park East Village Shopping Centre in Zetland
Direction 1: Positive Community Direction 2: Liveable communities We will work to create a sense of belonging and Direction 4: Equitable Access to
Attitudes and Behaviours connection to place by providing opportunities for Mainstream Services
We will work to deliver accessible places and
inclusive participation at City of Sydney facilities and
We will work to build harmony and social cohesion, spaces. We will work to ensure: We will work to ensure balanced and inclusive
ensuring people with disability can easily identify
and ensure: –– public domain infrastructure is accessible, and opportunities that meet their preferences and needs. local decision making, where everyone can have
that its design, maintenance and management a say and where everyone has civic knowledge and
–– City of Sydney Staff are disability aware and We will work to build diverse thriving communities
enables everyone to travel in and around the City skills to enable their effective participation.
confident, and have access to specialist training by promoting events and tourist attractions in the
and development opportunities to deliver inclusive independently and with convenience and dignity We will work to provide transparent accountable
City that are accessible and inclusive of people
built environments and ensure our communications –– City of Sydney community facilities and venues with disability. governance, where City information is accessible
and services are accessible and inclusive of are accessible and provide the foundations for to all.
people with disability. They will have the skills We will work to create vibrant creative life in
inclusive participation We will work to enable public participation in
to meet requirements under the (Cth) Disability the city, where people with disability have equitable
–– emerging technologies empower greater opportunities to participate in cultural life and community life. New communications technology
Discrimination Act 1992 and the NSW Disability
independence for all people, including people with events in the city. procured by the City will be accessible and we will
Inclusion Act 2014 and deliver services that
disability, to navigate and access public spaces provide information about the access features of
contribute to inclusion, not just compliance.
Direction 3: Meaningful employment City of Sydney outdoor spaces, including recreation
–– positive community attitudes towards people with –– local businesses are more accessible and and open spaces. We will work with community
disability and lived experience of a mental health inclusive to people with disability, parents with We will work to develop Inclusive Growth transport services funded by the City of Sydney to
issues as well as carers, are enhanced through City prams and older people, as well as their friends, Opportunities. We will: be accessible to people with disability.
of Sydney programs that foster greater awareness, families and carers.
–– be an employer committed to social justice Detail on actions to deliver on these objectives is in
understanding and respect. We will work to encourage diverse housing tenures and inclusion section C.
and types, by encouraging more housing in the City
–– develop a diverse and inclusive workplace
of Sydney that is accessible and adaptable, and will
meet the needs of people with disability and support –– develop strategies to harness the City of Sydney’s
people to age in place. procurement policies to contribute to the creation
of more meaningful employment outcomes for
people with disability.
Sydney2030/Green/Global/Connected Sydney2030/Green/Global/Connected
City of Sydney A City for All: Inclusion (Disability) Action Plan 2017-2021
The case for
inclusion
Inclusion benefits everyone. As a community, we Inclusion is only possible when communities
are stronger with a diverse range of viewpoints are inclusive for all people, including those with
and perspectives, and as a whole we are enriched physical, intellectual, cognitive and sensory
through activities that promote inclusion. disability and people with lived experience of a
mental health issue.
Many residents described Sydney’s diversity as
one of its greatest assets. Responses to the 2015 Inclusive communities benefit everyone by:
Community Wellbeing Survey indicated that 88.3%
–– promoting physical access to businesses benefits
of people believe the community is richer and more
not only people with disability, but older people,
dynamic because it is made up of people of many
parents with prams and business owners by
nationalities, cultures, ages, incomes, abilities
expanding their business reach
and sexual orientations. There were calls for more
recognition and celebration of the city’s diversity, –– improving opportunities for participation for
seeing it as important for welcoming and including people with disability in the local economy, with
different groups, and for promoting harmony the potential to increase economic activity in the
and cohesion.2 City of Sydney
Inclusion reduces disadvantage, isolation and –– presenting through early planning and intervention,
discrimination, it is the foundation of a connected an opportunity for long-term savings to the
and cohesive society. community, reducing the need for retrospective
action such as retrofits, especially in the built
Inclusion has far reaching positive impacts across all
environment. Universal design approaches that
aspects of life, including health, wellbeing, education
consider the needs of everyone are particularly
and employment. These impacts are felt beyond the
important. Such approaches consider a range
Prince Alfred Park individual, with families and the broader community
of needs, including access needs of people with
all being enriched by an inclusive society. As a whole
disability, and the needs of older people to age in
we are more resilient when we are inclusive.
Section A:
place, as well as other groups who benefit from
There are strong economic reasons for increasing the well designed and intuitive spaces and services.
inclusiveness of society. There are significant financial This is important given the city’s ageing population
gains for both individuals and for the economy when which will lead to an increase in the number of
Setting the scene people are engaged in meaningful, productive and
fulfilling employment.
people with disability in the community.
Sydney2030/Green/Global/Connected Sydney2030/Green/Global/Connected
City of Sydney A City for All: Inclusion (Disability) Action Plan 2017-2021
Policy and
legislative context
In 2008, the Australian Government committed to
UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) 2008 Related legislation, standards implementing the United Nations Convention on
and strategies the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, including
the obligation:
National Disability Strategy (NDS) 2010-2020 International
“to promote, protect and ensure
–– United Nations Convention on the Rights of
Persons with Disabilities 2008
the full and equal enjoyment of
National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) all human rights and fundamental
Commonwealth freedoms by all persons with
–– Disability Discrimination Act 1992 disabilities, and to promote respect
(NSW) Disability Inclusion Act 2014 (DIA) –– Disability (Access to Premises Standards – for their inherent dignity.”3
Buildings) Standards 2010
This signalled a commitment by all levels of
–– Disability Standards for Accessible Public government to eradicate barriers faced by
Community Strategic Plan – Transport 2002 people with disability.
Sustainable Sydney 2030 –– National Disability Strategy 2010 – 2020 This was followed in 2010 by the Australian
NSW Disability Inclusion Plan –– National Disability Insurance Scheme National Disability Strategy 4 which sets out a 10-year
national plan for improving life for Australians with
1. Attitudes and behaviours A City for All: Social Sustainability Policy New South Wales disability, their families and carers. The plan aims to
2. Liveable communities and forthcoming Action Plan ensure that the principles underpinning the United
–– Disability Inclusion Act 2014
Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with
3. Meaning Employment –– Carers (Recognition) Act 2010 Disabilities are incorporated into Australian policies
4. Systems and processes A City for All: Inclusion (Disability) Action Plan –– Anti-discrimination Act 1997 and programs affecting people with disability, their
families and carers.
–– Mental Health Act 2007
These commitments have driven a reform agenda
Delivery Program –– NSW Disability Inclusion Plan designed to create a shift in attitudes across
governments and communities to move beyond
International and National Context charity and take a rights-based response to the
Operational Plan
diverse needs of people with disability, to enable
Since 1992, the (Cth) Disability Discrimination Act their participation in all aspects of society.
1992 has made discrimination on the basis of
An inclusive City disability unlawful. More recently there has been a
shift towards inclusion of people with disability and
greater recognition of their human rights.
Sydney2030/Green/Global/Connected Sydney2030/Green/Global/Connected
City of Sydney A City for All: Inclusion (Disability) Action Plan 2017-2021
A City for All and NSW Disability Inclusion Plan directions
An engaged city:
A connected city: A liveable city: An inclusive city:
good governance
diverse cohesive quality places affordability and
and active
communities and spaces opportunity
participation
Positive Equitable
community Liveable Meaningful access to
attitudes and communities employment mainstream
behaviours services
Sustainable Development Goals NSW context –– the achievement of a higher rate of meaningful –– Connected physically by walking, cycling
employment participation by people with disability and high-quality public transport, connected
In September 2015, Australia was one of Following the Commonwealth Strategy, the NSW
through inclusive employment practices ‘virtually’ by world-class telecommunications
193 countries to commit to the Sustainable Government released the National Disability Strategy
–– more equitable access to mainstream services and as members of online networks, connected
Development Goals. NSW Implementation Plan 2012–2014 in December
for people with disability through better systems as communities through culture and a sense of
2012. This was further strengthened by the Disability
The 17 goals provide a global roadmap for all and processes. belonging and social wellbeing, and connected
Inclusion Act 2014 which has the following objectives:
countries to work toward a better world for current to other spheres of government and to those
and future generations. The goals tackle not only –– people with disability should have the same City of Sydney context with an interest in the city.
poverty in developing countries, but also set out human rights as other members of the community
Adopted in 2008 following extensive community The City of Sydney’s Social Sustainability Policy -
an agenda to tackle climate change, inequality, and that governments and communities have
consultation, Sustainable Sydney 2030 expressed A City for All recognises human rights at its core.
sustainable business and innovation. Three core a responsibility to facilitate the exercise of
the community’s vision and the City’s commitment The City has identified four strategic directions for a
elements are considered a priority: economic growth, those rights
to the sustainable development of our city to 2030 socially just and resilient Sydney, which will form the
social inclusion and environmental protection.
–– to promote the independence and social and and beyond. basis of the forthcoming action plan:
A City for All: Inclusion (Disability) action plan economic inclusion of people with disability within
Sustainable development is not just about –– an inclusive city: affordability and opportunity
2017-2021 is aligned with Goal 10 that seeks to the community
reduce inequality within and among countries and the physical environment. It is also about the –– a connected city: diverse, cohesive communities
–– to enable people with disability to exercise economy, society and culture. Addressing each of
build social inclusion. –– a liveable city: quality places and spaces
choice and control in the pursuit of their goals these areas, with bold ideas and good governance,
National Disability Insurance Scheme and the planning and delivery of their supports will result in better outcomes for our current and –– an engaged city: good governance and
and services. future communities. active participation.
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)
is a major reform that will deliver a national system The NSW Disability Inclusion Plan 5 provides a Sustainable Sydney 2030 is a plan for a green, The Inclusion (Disability) Action Plan articulates
of disability support focused on the individual framework for the development and implementation global and connected city: the outcomes for people with disability in line with
needs and choices of people with disability, including of disability action plans in NSW to drive disability the Social Sustainability Policy, Sustainable Sydney
access and inclusion in continued consultation and –– Green with a modest environmental impact, green
people with psycho-social disability. The NDIS gives 2030 and the key directions of the NSW Disability
partnership with people with disability, key agencies with trees, parks, gardens and linked open spaces,
participants more choice and control over how, when Inclusion Plan.
and members of the community. green by example and green by reputation
and where support is provided. Funding is allocated The City of Sydney will play a strong role in
to each eligible individual, rather than block funding The NSW Disability Inclusion Plan sets out four key –– Global in economic orientation, global in links,
implementing the principles of the plan at the
being allocated to service providers. The NDIS government objectives to work towards: partnerships and knowledge exchange, global and
local level. Our plan also complements the
commences in the our local area on 1 July 2017. open-minded in outlook and attitude
–– the development of positive community National Disability Insurance Scheme and provides
The NDIS presents a new method of funding the attitudes and behaviours towards people the framework for how we intend to address local
specialist services used by people with disability. with disability barriers to full participation by people with disability
–– the creation of more liveable communities for in the community.
people with disability
Sydney2030/Green/Global/Connected Sydney2030/Green/Global/Connected
City of Sydney A City for All: Inclusion (Disability) Action Plan 2017-2021
Community
profile
Hack Sounds Event produced by 107 Projects Inclusive Qi Gong at Redfern Community Centre
The City of Sydney is a vibrant Local Government In Australia, approximately 18.3 per cent of the While most people with a lived experience of a Carers
Area, made up of diverse community groups spread population, or more than 4.3 million people, have mental health issue or mental illness will not identify
Carers play a vital role in the wider community.
across 26.15 km. As one of Australia’s leading global one or more disabilities.8 In NSW there are 1.3 million as a person with disability, to have a truly inclusive
A carer is a person of any age “who provides ongoing
cities, the City is unique and demands consideration people with disability, of which 380,000 have a severe community, the needs of people with a lived
personal care, support and assistance to any other
of how we treat residents, workers and visitors. Over or profound disability that affects their ability to experience of a mental health issue should also
individual who needs it because that other individual:
437,000 people work in the City and 10.5 million communicate, get around and care for themselves.9 be considered.
visitors stay overnight in metropolitan Sydney annually. (a) is a person with disability… or
Currently, there are more than 205,000 people Mental health People with disability from (b) has a medical condition (including a terminal or
diverse backgrounds chronic illness), or
living within the City’s boundaries, with the population Mental health issues refers to many different
predicted to increase by 1.5 per cent per annum to disorders and illnesses; such as mood or anxiety (c) has a mental illness, or
The City has a large culturally and linguistically
reach 270,000 people by 2030. disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and diverse population. Indigenous Australians are (d) is frail and aged.” 16
personality disorders. Peoples experiences differ. more likely to experience disability than other This assistance has to be ongoing, or likely to be
People with disability Some people experience a mental health issue once Australians, with rates of disability 2.4 times that ongoing, for at least six months.
in their lifetime, others have episodic or recurrent of non-Indigenous people.13 Almost 28 per cent of
In 2011, more than 4000 residents of the city of In New South Wales, there are 857,000 carers,
experiences of mental health issues. all people in NSW with disability are from culturally
Sydney reported needing help with day-to-day representing 11.7 per cent of the population,17 and
activities including self-care, body movement and Psychosocial disability relates to the effects on and linguistically diverse backgrounds.14 Access
in the City of Sydney 4.2 per cent of residents - the
communication due to disability.6 In 2015, 6.3% of someone’s ability to participate fully in life as result to culturally appropriate services, programs and
equivalent of 8,610 people - identified as a carer.18
residents of the City of Sydney surveyed identified as of mental ill-health. Those affected are prevented information that reflect and support the needs of
Inclusive communities and workplaces are supportive
a person with disability. However, we know there are from engaging in opportunities such as education, different cultural identities enables connection
of carers and value their vital contribution to
many more residents who identify as a person with training, cultural activities, and achieving their goals to place and therefore increased participation
the community.
disability, and many people with disability who visit and aspirations.10 within city life.
and work in the City of Sydney. The City also wants to What these statistics reveal is that disability is part
One in five people aged 16-85 in Australia is directly
create an inclusive and accessible city for everyone. The Deaf community of the human experience; that if a person does
affected by mental ill-health. At any one point in time not have disability now, chances are that at some
Disability may be acquired at birth or early in life, around 12 per cent of the population will be affected The Deaf community has a shared language and
point in their lives they will experience some form of
or may be the result of accident, illness or injury by moderate to severe mental illness.11 In 2015, City culture and a long tradition of common experience.
disability, a lived experience of a mental health issue
throughout life. Disability rates increase substantially of Sydney residents who identified as a person with Members of this community are mostly those people
or be a carer.
as people age, with more than 50 per cent of people disability were three times (43%) more likely to report who were born deaf or became deaf early in life.
having some form of disability by the age of 65.7 ‘poor’ or ‘fair’ mental health outcomes compared to Members may also include hearing friends, family
all City of Sydney residents (14%).12 members and those who work with Deaf people,
such as interpreters and community workers. What
particularly links individuals and groups and makes
them a distinct community is their shared use of
Auslan (Australian Sign Language).15
Sydney2030/Green/Global/Connected Sydney2030/Green/Global/Connected
City of Sydney A City for All: Inclusion (Disability) Action Plan 2017-2021
Disability
in Australia
The labour force participation
4.3 million
rate for people with disability
remains considerably lower
than people without disability
(18%) of all Australians
are people with disability
90% OF 53% compared to
People with disability DISABILITIES
are more likely to be ARE ‘INVISIBLE’
DISABILITIES
underemployed, with SUCH AS
nearly one third (32.4%) CHRONIC PAIN
DISORDERS,
of people with disability DIABETES AND
working part-time wanting DEPRESSION 83%
65
to work more hours
1 out of 2 1/3 OF ALL AUSTRALIANS with little progress
Australians WITH DISABILITY being made in
Disability +
(51%) (1.43 MILLION) HAVE A 35%
aged addressing this
of women
PROFOUND OR SEVERE gap in the and 28%
DISABILITY WHICH IMPACTS
& Carers
past 20 of men aged
THEIR MOBILITY, 15 years and over
years with disability have
ABILITY TO
in NSW
avoided situations
COMMUNICATE & because of their
live with disability SELF CARE disability.
1.3 million
Sources: Australian Bureau of Statistics (2015a). 4430.0.10.001 - Disability, Ageing and Carers, Australia: First Results, 2015 Leedon, C. (n.d.).
Tackling the Invisible: the hidden world of ‘invisible illness’. Australian Bureau of Statistics. (2015b). Disability and Labour Force Participation. 4433.0.55.006.
29
with disability
Disability & Carers in the City of Sydney
% The City of Sydney’s
2015 Wellbeing Survey
Employment Housing
of residents showed that:
OF WHICH HAVE A SEVERE
OR PROFOUND DISABILITY
6.3% identified as a person
with disability
Residents living
with disability are
RESIDENTS WITH
DISABILITY ARE SIX
THAT AFFECTS THEIR more than five times TIMES MORE LIKELY ‘The Lanterns of the Terracotta Warriors’ by Chinese artist Xia Nan. 2015 City of Sydney Chinese New Year celebrations
identified as caring (33%) TO LIVE IN
ABILITY TO GET AROUND, 4.2% for someone with
more likely (54%)
SOCIAL HOUSING,
COMMUNICATE AND to be unemployed
Section B:
THAN ALL RESIDENTS
CARE FOR THEMSELVES
disability, medical compared with (5%).
condition, mental other residents
illness or someone
857,000 who is frail and aged
(9%). RESIDENTS WITH A
CARING RESPONSIBILITY
carers, of which
Approach and directions
20% of residents ARE 3 TIMES MORE LIKELY
1.0% identified both
251,800 as a person with with disability (14%) TO LIVE IN SOCIAL
HOUSING, THAN ALL
(29%) are disability and caring in the City also RESIDENTS (5%).
primary carers
for someone report being
underemployed.
Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics. (2012). 4430.0. -
Disability, Ageing and Carers, Australia: 2012 Source: City of Sydney Wellbeing Survey 2015
Sydney2030/Green/Global/Connected Sydney2030/Green/Global/ConnectedCity of Sydney A City for All: Inclusion (Disability) Action Plan 2017-2021
In June 2008, the City of
Sydney adopted Sustainable
Direction 1
Sydney 2030, a vision for a
Statement of green, global and connected
Sydney. Sydney 2030 is about Positive community
commitment changing the way we live, work
and enjoy our entertainment attitudes and behaviours
in the city, for current and
future generations.
The City of Sydney is committed to being The first plan was the 2002–2005 Action Plan Context What we have done so far
an inclusive and accessible city for everyone, for People with Disabilities. It focused primarily
The City’s ongoing engagement with people with Developed a program of disability awareness and
now and in the future. on physical disability and outcomes relating to
disability has revealed that attitudes towards them confidence training for City of Sydney Staff. Key
physical access.
The City seeks to meet its legislative obligations are often determined by ignorance, fear or lack of components include:
under the NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014, The second plan, the Inclusion (Disability) Action opportunities for interaction.
–– disability awareness training available for staff -
(Cth) Disability Discrimination Act 1992 and the Plan 2007–2011 extended its scope to include other
Negative attitudes towards people with disability focusing on understanding disability and human
NSW Carers (Recognition) Act 2010, and create important areas of inclusion and to encourage
have significant impacts on people’s life areas, such rights, appropriate language and communication
a truly inclusive city. participation and access to services and amenities
as education, employment, health, and community etiquette
for all City of Sydney residents, workers and visitors.
The City of Sydney will do this by providing participation.19
Implementation of the plan resulted in substantial –– a program of specialist training that builds
equitable opportunities for participation for people
and ongoing improvements in the City’s accessibility Community attitudes may also be influenced capacity and skill within our workforce to meet our
who live, work and visit the city. This will be
and its awareness of the need to use inclusive and by particular characteristics of the person with obligations to provide accessible and inclusive
achieved through:
accessible practices. disability, such as gender, ethnicity, age, sexual services and built environment.
–– Ongoing dialogue and genuine consultation orientation or gender identity, or the type of disability
The City’s third Plan, the Inclusion (Disability) Action
with people with disability and carers both as a itself.20 This can lead to greater discrimination and What we will do next
Plan 2014–2017 was developed in consultation with
community in its own right and as members of disadvantage for people who experience multiple
the City’s Inclusion (Disability) Advisory Panel. It 1. Continue to implement a program of disability
the public with broad issues and interests; forms of discrimination.
aimed to build on the successes of previous plans awareness and confidence training for City of
–– Improved inclusion and access to the City’s by continuing to embed inclusion and access as As a result of this ignorance, people with disability Sydney staff.
services and facilities; and core considerations across all council services and may be perceived as less capable of participating
2. Use the City’s mainstream media channels,
–– Increased awareness and understanding of access processes and to deliver meaningful outcomes for fully in society. But with a community that is well
publications, events and sponsorship
and inclusion issues in the City’s internal workforce people with disability and their families and carers. informed and values people with disability and a
opportunities to promote inclusion of people
as well as in the wider community. Implementation of the plan resulted in substantial lived experience of a mental health issue for their
with disability.
and ongoing improvements in the accessibility of the contributions, talents and opinions, these social
The Inclusion (Disability) Action Plan 2017 - 2021 city’s public spaces and the development of inclusive barriers can be reduced. 3. Develop community programming aimed at
sets the framework and priorities to move beyond programming and accessible information across the fostering positive community attitudes towards
compliance with legislation towards a truly inclusive city. Developing positive community attitudes involves
City of Sydney services. people with disability and people with a lived
increasing public awareness and creating
experience of a mental health issue.
Continuing our commitment The 2017-2021 plan continues to strengthen the opportunities for interaction.
City’s ongoing commitment to inclusion and access.
to inclusion In consultation with people with disability and the
While it is important to identify specific actions to
assist in the development of positive attitudes and
The Inclusion (Disability) Action Plan 2017-2021 is Inclusion (Disability) Advisory Panel, the plan details
behaviours, it should be noted that actions under the
the City of Sydney’s fourth Disability Action Plan. real and practical steps to embed inclusion across
other three strategic directions will also contribute to
the fabric of city life.
developing inclusive attitudes.
Sydney2030/Green/Global/Connected Sydney2030/Green/Global/ConnectedCity of Sydney A City for All: Inclusion (Disability) Action Plan 2017-2021
Direction 2
Liveable
communities
Come and try wheelchair table tennis at Ultimo Community Centre
Liveable communities are places in which people (Access to Premises - Buildings) Standards 2010,
‘Come and try’ wheelchair
have the opportunity to live, learn, work and play, to but may be required to adhere to the Standards if
feel safe, to belong, to raise a family and to grow old. upgrades or renovations are made to public areas
such as foyers. Individual residences are able to
Creating liveable communities is about more than
table tennis
be modified to support people to remain living in
just increasing physical accessibility. It includes
their homes. State government apartment design
creating opportunities for social connection and
guidelines encourage new apartments to meet the
engagement and improving the quality of personal,
silver standard of the Livable Housing Guidelines,
March 1 is International Wheelchair Day; a global One of the regular centre-users said that in the social and business interaction, that enhance
which ensures entrances are accessible.
celebration of the positive impact wheelchairs has on 20 years that they had been playing table tennis, peoples social and emotional wellbeing.
the lives of people around the world. As part of the they had not seen anyone who is a wheelchair-user There is a need for more housing that is universally
festivities, the City of Sydney partnered with Ability join in. They said activities that raise awareness Context designed and is accessible to enable people with
Links NSW and Wheelchair Sports NSW to put on a are important for the community to learn how to be disability to live with independence and dignity, and
The City of Sydney is a city that connects residents,
‘come and try’ wheelchair table tennis event, to raise inclusive of people with disability. to support older people to age in place. Encouraging
workers visitors and tourists with a rich and vibrant
awareness of people with disability, and to promote new housing meets the gold standard of the Livable
Ability Links NSW works with local organisations, city life. The City is at the forefront of the world’s
the importance of social inclusion. Housing Guidelines will increase the supply of
community groups and businesses to help shape cultural stage with a rich program of community
accessible housing.21
Held at the City of Sydney’s Ultimo Community communities where people with disability are events and activities. Every year it produces a range
Centre, a social hub for a large Chinese Australian welcome and included. Ability Links NSW also of large and small events, from Sydney New Year’s Tourism
community and where table tennis is a popular works with people with disability aged from 0 to 64, Eve, Chinese New Year and Art & About Sydney, to
The City boasts world-class tourist events and
activity, community members were encouraged to their families and carers to support them to connect small-scale local community activities, and supports
activities that attract visitors across the world. In
try their hand at playing table tennis using a sports with their community. other events in the area.
the year ending in September 2016, Sydney hosted
wheelchair. For those less sports-inclined, there were Inclusion and access in all areas of city life gives 12.7 million overnight visitors and 20.7 million people
For more information please visit
opportunities to experience what it is like to sit in and everyone, including people with disability, the who made day trips into Sydney.22
abilitylinksnsw.org.au
manoeuvre a wheelchair. opportunity to engage in social, recreational and
Research suggests that no less than 6.8 per cent
Around 50 community members were involved on cultural activities.
of international visitors have disability.23 Older people
the day, including a group of international students make up a significant proportion of NSW’s visitors.
Housing
who valued engaging in awareness activities and In the year ending September 2014, 90 per cent
developing empathy and understanding of people An increasing number of local residents live in of international and 29 per cent of local people
with disability. apartments. Approximately 75 per cent of residences aged over 55 visited Sydney.24 The City of Sydney
within the City of Sydney local government area are recognises that people with disability, in particular
apartments. older people, of which one in two aged over 65
Some existing residential buildings are exempt are likely to have disability, make up a significant
from accessibility requirements under the Disability proportion of visitors.
Sydney2030/Green/Global/Connected Sydney2030/Green/Global/ConnectedCity of Sydney A City for All: Inclusion (Disability) Action Plan 2017-2021
Widened Market Street footpath makes the city more accessible for everyone Nicole Holmes from Guide Dogs NSW ACT uses Tactile and Braille Street Signage at Hyde Park
People with disability report a lack of accessible Digital Strategy An innovative new accessibility map The City of Sydney has developed an on-line
accommodation opportunities and information about disability inclusive sports and recreation directory.
The City of Sydney Digital Strategy 28 will change the Understanding where potential barriers such as stairs
accessible tourist attractions and services as an The directory provides a central information point
way the City of Sydney works and how we engage or steep hills are, or knowing the locations of access
ongoing barrier to inclusive travel.25 that allows people with disability to choose activities
with our residents, visitors and business. The strategy features such as the nearest accessible toilet or taxi
and programs that best suit them. Inclusive and
Retail and hospitality recognises that digital technologies are a great rank, allows people with disability to make informed
accessible sports and recreation programs and
enabler for all members of the community and have decisions about their journey.
Sydney is Australia’s premier retail destination, and activities are listed on What’s On – the City’s free
particular benefits for people with disability.
Sydney’s retail experience in the city centre is a key To help people navigate, the City has developed an on line events listing website, by a range of service
attribute of our global city status. The retail sector is As well as revolutionising access to information, on-line accessibility map. The map allows people providers including the City of Sydney.
also the foundation of our village main streets that digital technologies have the potential to overcome to plan their journey in the CBD based on their own
attracts many visitors to the City of Sydney. barriers in the built environment and support people needs, enabling people with disability to visit the City What we will do next
with disability to have greater independence. with greater confidence, independence and dignity,
The retail sector represents more than 7,800 by knowing where access supports and barriers exist. 4. Continue to improve the accessibility of the
businesses within the City. In 2012, retail-related Advances in Geographical Information Systems (GIS) public domain for people of all ages and
businesses made up 36 per cent of all businesses and technologies can be harnessed to provide quality Gig buddies abilities, through renewal programs, upgrades
in the local area.26 information about the built environment. GPS and and new capital projects, including identifying
Bluetooth technologies show promise in supporting The Gig Buddies program aims to increase access
opportunities to provide designated quiet spaces
People with disability report that lack of access to people who are blind or have low vision to access to live music and performances for people with
for people with sensory processing disorders.
retail, hospitality and leisure services remains one real time information that enables them to navigate disability. Assisted Community Living, a not-for-profit
of the largest barriers to inclusive participation in public spaces with greater dignity and independence. organisation providing living needs support to people 5. Explore the provision of charging points for
community life and access to services. Twenty nine These technologies present opportunities to creative with learning disability developed a pilot program with personal devices such as phones, electric bikes
per cent of customer’s disability report ceasing more liveable communities for people with disability. $20,000 in sponsorship from the City. and mobility scooters in the public domain and
a transaction because they had not been treated community facilities where appropriate.
The program pairs people with a learning disability
fairly or with respect.27 What we have done so far 6. Deliver a new City centre all-inclusive play space.
(aged 18 and over) with a volunteer to be friends and
Small improvements to shop fit out and layout to go to events together. 7. Review the current provision of mobility parking
and disability awareness training can make a Tactile and Braille Street signs
spaces in the City of Sydney, and develop
significant impact of how accessible and inclusive More than 2,100 tactile and braille street signs have Inclusive sports and recreation opportunities
strategies to maximise the access and inclusion
a business and its services are is to people with been installed at all signalised pedestrian crossings Sport and recreation activities promote improved outcomes associated with mobility parking.
disability. However, small retail and hospitality in the City of Sydney local government area, making physical wellbeing and improved mental health
businesses need support, knowledge and resources it safer and easier to navigate for everyone, including 8. Continue to provide information about the
outcomes and offer a valuable means to social
to make these kinds of changes. The City can play people who are blind or have low vision. locations of mobility parking spaces in the City,
inclusion for people with disability.
a role in supporting small business to become more and include additional information about their
accessible and inclusive, and highlighting those features.
that are leading the way.
Sydney2030/Green/Global/Connected Sydney2030/Green/Global/ConnectedCity of Sydney A City for All: Inclusion (Disability) Action Plan 2017-2021
Direction 3
Meaningful
employment
Auslan Yoga at Redfern Community Centre
9. Advocate to commercial parking operators to 16. Collaborate with Local Health Districts and other Context People with disability
develop strategies to improve the information organisations to deliver community wellbeing
People with disability and carers have valuable In Australia, employment rates for people with
provided about accessible parking spaces, and health equity initiatives through City libraries,
contributions to make to the community and disability are significantly lower than those without
booking systems and the accessibility of key community centres, aquatic centres and public
workforce. disability across all sectors. The Australian Human
infrastructure in parking stations. spaces, including programming that enhances
Rights Commission reports that:33
peoples social and emotional wellbeing. The City is committed to providing everyone
10. Develop a plan to provide hearing augmentation
equitable opportunities for employment and career –– 53.4% of people with disability were participating in
systems in the City’s community facilities and 17. Deliver the City’s first fully accessible
progression, and to proactively addressing barriers the labour force in 2015, compared with 83.2% of
venues where appropriate and as recommended Changing Places toilet™ at the Gunyama
to meaningful employment for people with disability people without disability.34 This figure has changed
by Australian Standards. Park Aquatic Centre, and explore mechanisms
and carers. very little over the past 20 years
and opportunities to facilitate the delivery of
11. Maintain the online accessibility map and
additional Lift & Change Facilities 30 in the City Within the City of Sydney’s workforce, 1.4% of non- –– People with disability are half as likely to be
explore the use of emerging technologies to
of Sydney local government area. casual staff identified as a person with disability 31 and employed full-time (27%) than people without
empower all people, including people with
3.5% of non-casual staff identified as being a carer.32 disability (53.8%) 35
disability, to independently navigate and 18. Continue to demonstrate leadership in the
access public spaces. delivery of inclusive City of Sydney events, City of Sydney Workforce Strategy –– People with disability are more likely to be
and implement strategies to ensure continuous unemployed (10% compared with 5.3% for those
12. Provide access to grants and guidelines to The City values diversity and inclusion in the
improvement in this area for all events in the without disability).36
encourage local businesses in the City of workplace. Diversity is central to innovation. It brings
City of Sydney. The Australian Human Rights Commission reports
Sydney to develop their business to be more forth new and better ways of doing things, helps us
inclusive and accessible to people with disability 19. Continue to promote participation of people harness the benefits of technology and improve the that people with disability have said that they
and explore recognising inclusive businesses with disability as artists and audience members efficiency and quality of our services. Inclusion is the experience barriers in accessing information about
through awards. in arts programs through implementation of the key to unlocking this potential. job opportunities and in the recruitment processes,
Creative City Strategy. reasonable adjustments to support them to meet
13. Encourage delivery of housing in the local When we value workplace diversity and inclusion we their job requirements and in career development
area that is universally accessible and meets see benefits such as higher employee engagement, opportunities once in a job.37
the gold standard of the Livable Housing improved performance, greater innovation, retention
Design Guidelines.29 of talent, improved employee wellbeing and lower
14. Continue to provide a range of inclusive learning levels of unlawful behaviour such as harassment
and participation opportunities at the City’s and discrimination.
community and creative facilities.
15. Continue to deliver inclusive sport and recreation
activities through the City’s recreation facilities
and open spaces, and promote on the Disability
Inclusive Sports and Recreation Directory.
Sydney2030/Green/Global/Connected Sydney2030/Green/Global/ConnectedCity of Sydney A City for All: Inclusion (Disability) Action Plan 2017-2021
Carers The City also progressed several strategies to What we will do next 23. Continue to develop the capability of the City’s
develop the capacity of managers and team leaders managers/supervisors to support staff with
Carers are an important part of any workforce. 20. Develop inclusive employment opportunities by
as supervisors and employers of staff with disability disability and caring responsibilities, including
Understanding the needs and experiences of carers removing (as appropriate) barriers identified in
and caring responsibilities. These included: through workplace flexibility.
assists in providing flexible workplace arrangements, the City’s recruitment and selection processes,
raising awareness of carer needs and recognising –– Providing disability awareness training program and work with leading Disability Employment 24. Support staff with a lived experience of mental
their contribution to the working environment. sessions for managers. The training provided Services to recruit and retain people with health issues to stay at work or return to work, by
critical knowledge about being an employer of disability, injury or health condition. providing reasonable adjustments.
The NSW Carers (Recognition) Act 2010 recognises
people with disability
carers’ roles in and contribution to NSW communities, 21. Promote entry level employment initiatives that 25. Finalise the Sustainable Procurement
and provides guidance on issues of significance to –– Hosting a managers’ workshop involving provide opportunities for people with disability Guidelines and further explore and develop
carers, including employment and social inclusion. nearly 300 people managers, which focused who may face barriers to employment. implementation strategies in accordance with
The Act establishes the NSW Carers Charter 38 and on building capabilities to lead a diverse and the procurement requirements under the Local
22. Implement strategies to continue to improve
sets out responsibilities for local government to inclusive workplace Government Act 1993.
the support and understanding of the experience
develop employment policies and practices in line –– Establishing memberships with the Diversity of staff with disability and carer responsibilities
with the Charter. Council of Australia, Pride in Diversity and at the City.
Australian Network on Disability to gain access
What we have done so far to research and resources to support the
–– Commenced a review with Australian Network development of a diverse and inclusive workforce.
on Disability to assess our recruitment systems The City also aims to build inclusive workplace
and processes cultures and effective systems for promoting a
–– Engaged with staff with disability and caring mentally healthy workplace. The City is taking action
responsibilities, to gain greater insights of the to raise awareness of mental health, reduce stigma
diverse needs and experiences of staff with around mental health issues and provide training
disability and caring responsibilities. This assists and support to employees with lived experience of
the City to proactively develop an inclusive mental health issues and their managers.
workplace and harness the potential of everyone. The City also provides parking permits for accredited
Activities included a staff survey in December 2015 care workers who provide in-home care services to
to better understand the needs and experiences local residents. These permits assist care workers
of this group and Staff training and information in their duties by allowing care worker vehicles to be
sessions raising awareness about caring and exempt from certain parking restrictions while the
disability in the workforce. care worker is doing home visits.
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