International Day of People with Disability

Maroondah City Council is committed to supporting the wellbeing and inclusion of people with disabilities.

International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD) is celebrated on 3 December each year, and is a time to come together and encourage others to ‘see the ability in disability’.

There are just over 5400 residents living with a profound or severe disability in Maroondah who require assistance with daily activities (Latest Census of Population and Housing data).

Councillor Tony Dib, a representative on Council’s Maroondah Disability Advisory Committee, said Council was committed to reducing key issues faced by people with disabilities in Maroondah, so they may enjoy all the opportunities the municipality afforded, as well as be able to participate in community life.

“Council has a role to play in advocating for and implementing change for people with disabilities, including addressing negative attitudes, providing social inclusion opportunities and ensuring accessibility of local infrastructure, as well as sharing information and services,” Cr Dib said.

IDPwD is a United Nations observed day held annually with its aim of increasing public awareness, understanding and acceptance of people with disability.

Council has developed an online disability resources guide to services for people with disabilities.

The guide features 300-plus resources and services that are available to people with disabilities, carers and mental health workers in Maroondah.

Council has also produced a range of publications to support people with disabilities and their carers, including information on seniors transport and mobility aids, communicating with people with disabilities and Social Scripts. Council’s Disability Policy and Action Plan incorporates a range of initiatives designed to remove barriers to discrimination and which support a more inclusive community.

Council also offers support to Maroondah residents through a dedicated NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) Coordinator who works within Council’s Aged and Disability Services team, providing general and individualised information and support in understanding and navigating the NDIS. Advocacy support is also available.

The National Disability Gateway is a federally-funded service also dedicated to helping the approximate 4.4 million Australians living with a disability, their families and carers, to access support, information, tools and services in areas such as employment, education, aids and equipment, housing, education, income and finance.

To contact Council’s NDIS Coordinator, call 9298 4625 or email [email protected]. Further information on the NDIS can be found on the NDIS website.

The Disability Gateway offers information on disability support and can help find services local to you. Visit www.diabilitygateway.gov.au or phone 1800 643 787.

For more help or information regarding disability resources and support services in Maroondah, please phone Council on 1300 88 22 33.

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