International Day of People with Disability 2022

This Saturday, on International Day of People with Disability, people across the world will be raising public awareness, understanding and acceptance of people with disability, and celebrating achievements and contributions in this space.

In Cardinia Shire, around 5,700 people identified in the 2021 Census as having a disability – representing around 5% of the local population. The prevalence of people who identify as having a disability is increasing along with population growth.

Cardinia Shire Mayor Councillor Tammy Radford explained that people with disabilities are an important part of every sector of our community: women, men, children, LGBTIQ+, employers and employees; students and teachers, indigenous and non-indigenous; refugees and others.

“No two people with the same disability experience their disability in the same manner. The only thing that distinguishes a person with a disability is that they may require some form of adaptation and adjustment to enable them to lead rich lives regardless of the nature of their disability. This is equity.

“Council is committed to access for all and has a range of programs in place to support such equity within a diverse and ever-evolving community,” the Mayor said.

The Cardinia Shire Access and Inclusion Disability Strategy and Action Plan 2021 – 2026 outlines Council’s commitment and actions for creating a welcoming, inclusive, and accessible community.

Over the course of 2022, we have celebrated many achievements outlined in this plan including:

delivering six capital upgrades through the Access Upgrade Program producing and promoting the Cardinia Shire Emergency Grab bags and easy-read materials implementing social media accessibility guidelines hosting a Cardinia Carer Catch-up event and carer walks contributing to the Victorian Government’s Level Crossing Road Project (LXRP) and transport advocacy facilitating and guiding the work of the Cardinia Access and Inclusion Advocacy Committee.

The Cardinia Access and Inclusion Advocacy Committee (CAIAC) is dedicated to making Cardinia Shire welcoming, accessible and inclusive to all. The role they play is vital throughout the Shire within our ever-growing community with its expanding needs.

“I wish to thank the CAIAC for their commitment to the role they play and the leadership they show in delivering very positive outcomes for people within the Cardinia Shire,” the Mayor said.

Residents can find out more information about International Day of People with Disability, online at www.idpwd.com.au

For more information about access and inclusion in Cardinia Shire, visit Council’s website at www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/accessandinclusion