Access and Inclusion
| quick links | |
|---|---|
| DAIP 5 year plan | |
| DAIP Annual Action Plan | |
The Challenge
People with disabilities often experience difficulty accessing information, facilities and services. Research has shown that people also face access and inclusion barriers due to factors such as:
-
English as a second language;
-
low literacy levels;
-
an ageing population;
-
low socio-economic status;
-
living in rural or remote areas; and
-
discrimination in relation to gender, race and culture.
Our challenge is to make sure our business is accessible and inclusive to all members of the community.
Background of disability planning
As members of the community, people with disabilities, their families and carers have the same rights as other people to access our services. These rights are enshrined in both State and Commonwealth legislation, which make it unlawful to discriminate against a person with a disability.
In 1996, we developed and implemented a Disability Service Plan in which we documented the strategies developed to improve access to our services and facilities, for people with disabilities.
Following amendments to the Disability Services Act in 2004, a Disability Access and Inclusion Plan is now required to further the principles and meet the objectives of the Disability Services Act 1993.
The specific aim is to ensure that our services, facilities and information are accessible with the objectives of increased independence, opportunities and inclusion for people with disabilities within the community.
Disability Access and Inclusion Plan
Our Disability Access and Inclusion Plan 2006-10 has been developed to take a proactive approach towards meeting the needs of all of our customers. This five-year plan is part of our customer service commitment and was developed with extensive research and consultation with staff, customers, stakeholders and disability service providers.
Our plan provides the framework to identify access and inclusion barriers and to implement strategies to overcome these barriers.
We have adopted six desired outcomes.
- Our services and events are accessible to the whole community.
- Access to buildings and facilities owned by the Water Corporation is improved, with the aim of providing universal access.
- Our information is accessible to all of our customers.
- A high standard of service is provided to all of our customers.
- Complaints from any person are fully investigated and the outcomes is conveyed in an accessible format.
- All people have the opportunity and are encouraged to participate in public consultations.
To view a copy of our Disability Access and Inclusion Plan click here
This document is available in alternative formats on request
Our plan of action
Each year, we will develop and maintain an internal plan of action that details how we aim to improve access to our services, facilities and events.
This plan will be reviewed annually and progress will be measured by the mitigation or elimination of the access barriers that were identified through the consultation process.
We take pride in our social responsibility and see the service levels required by legislation as the minimum standards to which we will aspire.
To see what actions we have planned for this year click here
This document is available in alternative formats on request
Looking Ahead
It is our intention to deliver facilities, services and events that are available and accessible to the whole community, regardless of ability, ethnicity, gender, age or any other perceived difference. This approach is consistent with our commitment to being socially responsible.
It is essential for us to work in close partnership with the community and other organisations and to advocate where necessary for access and inclusion outcomes.
We look forward to working with the community to improve access and foster inclusiveness, enabling us to strengthen customer relationships and operate successfully in our diverse community.
Contact us
If you would like to comment on our Disability Access and Inclusion Plan, make suggestions to improve access or provide feedback on an initiative please contact us by email: daip@watercorporation.com.au