The City of Casey has voted unanimously to implement its proposed Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) designed to foster an inclusive community.
Serving as a four-year roadmap to embed accessibility, inclusion and equity in everyday council services, policy and infrastructure, the DIAP is emphasising the ease of access.
More specifically, the DIAP aims to make buildings, information and other services accessible; support community participation and wellness; stand up for equity and improve quality of life; and foster a safe, respectful and empowering environment.
Examples included a move to advocate for affordable housing and accessible transport, accessible communications and customer service training.
Also included was a support network for staff with disability, events designed to promote accessibility and addressing ableism and unconscious bias in the community, among many others.
Casey, which is the third-fastest growing council in Australia (behind the Gold Coast and Brisbane City councils) is home to 81,000 people who are living with disability, with 19,000 people needing assistance.
Cr Kim Ross said the social inclusion model discussed in the DIAP “places the responsibility of identifying and removing environmental, attitudinal and institutional barriers on the community”.
“It is the shift towards recognising the day-to-day difficulties of living with a disability, a shift towards helping alleviate some of the frustration, shame and mental anguish that comes from consistently battling barriers,” she said.
Melba CEO Hayley Dean welcomed the move.
“As an organisation providing homes and support for people with disability right here in Casey, we see every day how vital it is for communities to be accessible, inclusive and empowering,” she said.
“This plan is a significant step forward – not just in policy, but in real action to break down barriers and build a community where everyone belongs and thrives.
“We are particularly encouraged by the DIAP’s strong focus on accessibility, equity and lived experience. Importantly, the plan’s social inclusion model recognises that creating an inclusive community is a shared responsibility. By working together to identify and remove barriers – whether they are environmental, attitudinal, or institutional – we can make a lasting difference.
“At Melba, we look forward to partnering with Council, community members and fellow organisations to bring the vision of the DIAP to life.”
The City of Casey includes the suburbs of Berwick, Cranbourne, Endeavour Hills, Narre Warren, Pearcedale, Tooradin and Warneet. The DIAP has a timeline of 2025-2029.
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