State disability plan launched at blind cricket match

 

 

The work and leadership of Cricket Australia and Cricket Victoria to ensure people with a disability have a pathway to fully participate in their programs is an example of an organisation working hard towards creating an inclusive Victoria.

The plan that comes in to effect from 1 January 2017 showcases a whole of government approach to support and include people with a disability.

Former Strathbogie Shire Mayor Colleen Furlanetto has been appointed as the chair of the Victorian Disability Advisory Council – the body that gives people with a disability a voice in public policy, provides a key role in planning and in monitoring implementation of the plan.

Key actions to occur over the next three years include:

• Funding to encourage public and private workplaces to employ people with a disability
• Leadership scholarships to see more people with a disability involved in decision making
• Ensuring as our suburbs grow we embrace universal design to see accessible community hubs
• Improve access to public transport options especially in rural and regional Victoria

The Labor Government has led the way in promoting Changing Places facilities – fully accessible public toilets with hoists across 15 new sites, including Healesville Sanctuary and Werribee Open Range Zoo. More will be announced at key transport interchanges and community facilities.

The plan is informed by the ideas of people with a disability and their supporters who contributed to consultation discussions and submissions.

It can be accessed at www.statedisablityplan.vic.gov.au, via email at ofd@dhhs.vic.gov.au or by phone on 1300 880 043 or TTY 133 677.