The Hills Shire Council has adopted its Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) 2026-2030, reaffirming a commitment to creating a more inclusive and accessible community for people with disabilities.
Mayor, Michelle Byrne said the Plan builds on the achievements of previous disability inclusion initiatives and reflects the priorities of the community.
“Council is committed to creating a community where everyone has the opportunity to participate and feel included,” Mayor Byrne said.
“The DIAP 2026-2030 will help make life easier for people with disability in The Hills Shire, from better pedestrian connections, more accessible events and better buildings.”
The DIAP 2026-2030 aims to improve inclusion and accessibility across Council’s services, programs, spaces and workplaces so that people with disability can live, work, visit and participate in The Hills.
Some actions include:
- 8km of new footpath/shared paths constructed per year;
- More disabled parking spots;
- Greater accessibility for people with disability at Council buildings;
- Council events to be increasingly held at fully accessible venues;
- Support employment opportunities for people with disability within Council;
- 100% of significant infrastructure and master planning projects will need to be reviewed by a DIAP Reference Group made up of those with lived experiences;
- Deliver disability awareness training for staff, contractors and volunteers, including the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower education program.
Council endorsed the draft Plan for public exhibition in July, with community feedback invited from 17 July to 14 August. Following exhibition, the Plan has been adopted and submitted to the NSW Disability Council.
For more information on the Disability Inclusion Action Plan 2026-2030, visit https://www.thehills.nsw.gov.au/Community/Support-Services/Disability-Support-and-Inclusion/The-Hills-Shire-Council-Disability-Inclusion-Action-Plan-DIAP.
