Have your say on access and inclusion in the Hawkesbury

29 August 2023

Hawkesbury City Council wants to hear from the Hawkesbury community about local challenges and opportunities for improving access and inclusion for people with disabilities. Community members can now access an online survey that will help to develop Council’s 2023-2026 Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) at www.yourhawkesbury-yoursay.com.au until Friday, 29 September 2023.

The survey will take approximately five to ten minutes and respondents will go in the draw to win a $100 gift card. Community members can also provide feedback at one of Council’s community consultation pop-ups – see dates below.

Council is currently developing the DIAP to provide a clear framework and pathway towards building a safe, accessible, and inclusive Hawkesbury for all residents and visitors.

The DIAP will be informed and guided by the local community with lived experiences of disability and is being developed in accordance with the NSW Government strategy to improve the lives of people with disabilities.

Council will continue to undertake community and stakeholder consultation over the coming weeks to inform the development of the DIAP. The consultation process will aim to identify the strengths of the region, whilst developing a clear strategy and action plan to improve access and inclusion measures for people with disabilities.

The plan will aim to capture a holistic view of the barriers to inclusion in the Hawkesbury, and will focus on several key areas including:

• improving community attitudes and behaviour toward those with disability
• improving systems and processes to be more accessible and inclusive
• increasing employment opportunities and improving support for those with disability seeking employment and engaging in employment
• building more liveable communities.

Comments, submissions or feedback for consideration in the plan may also be submitted by phone on 4560 4444 or email council@hawkesbury.nsw.gov.au or by post to the General Manager, Hawkesbury City Council, PO Box 146, WINDSOR NSW 2756 until Friday, 29 September 2023.

Members of the community are encouraged to track the progress of the plan on the Council’s community engagement page at www.yourhawkesbury-yoursay.com.au

Community Consultation Pop-up dates

Thursday, 7 September 10am to midday

Colo Heights Community Pop up

Colo Heights Hall, 2996 Putty Road, Colo Heights

Friday, 8 September 1pm to 5pm

Hawkesbury Wellness and Suicide Prevention Day Event

Richmond Park, Richmond

Sunday, 10 September 10am to 2pm

St Albans Market

Wharf Street, St Albans

The Draft Disability Inclusion Action Plan will go on public exhibition later in the year.

For more information, contact Council’s Youth and Inclusion Officer on 4560 4444 or email council@hawkesbury.nsw.gov.au