Access and inclusion for our community a top priority for Council

Acting Mayor Nigel Hutton said this consultation was conducted across Livingstone and showed overwhelming results that residents are enthusiastic to be involved or to have community experts (those with lived experience) involved in the early stages of planning for projects, activities and programmes.

“The report contains recommendations for improving access and inclusion across the Livingstone Shire and details actions Council, local businesses and the community can take to support an equitable community now and into the future,” Cr Hutton said.

“The report will also inform the whole of community plan, Livingstone 2050: Shaping Our Tomorrow.

“In terms of physical accessibility, suitable footpaths were the priority for residents particularly in high density suburbs close to the Yeppoon CBD. It was also clear that residents would like to see businesses, particularly on James Street and the shopping centres, improve their physical accessibility.”

Community Development Councillor Jan Kelly said Council is committed to act in ways that ensures present and future generations have equality of opportunity and are able to contribute to the social, political, economic and cultural life of the region.

“Livingstone Shire Council recognises that our diversity is one of our greatest assets. It sparks innovation, creativity and vitality. We welcome a broad range of backgrounds, interests, abilities and beliefs and recognise that our differences are our strengths,” Cr Kelly said.

“Council supports the principle of valuing all people in order to progress an integrated, accessible and equitable community.

“If any members of our community have expertise or interest in the areas of access and inclusion, I would encourage them to join the Capricorn Coast Community Access and Equity Committee (CCCAEC) where they can share their concerns and ideas regarding access and inclusion in Livingstone. The CCCAEC meeting details can be found on Facebook.”

“Council is now focussing on the implementation of recommendations that can be achieved within Local Government scope and partnerships that will assist to develop and achieve broader goals across the community.”

To learn about Livingstone’s diversity and read the consultation report, please visit http://www.livingstone.qld.gov.au/1436/Respect-Diversity-and-Inclusion