Darwin City Council

DISABILITY ACTION PLAN

(Darwin City Council first adopted its Disability Action Plan in May 2001 for the period 2001 to 2005)

(Council Decision 18\1739)

Introduction The Federal Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (DDA) makes it unlawful to discriminate in the provision of goods services or facilities, against people on the basis that they or one of their associates, have or may have, a disability.

The Act provides for any service provider, including local governments to have an Action Plan as a process through which services and practices, which may result in discrimination against people with disabilities, .are identified and eliminated.

In consideration of the implications of the Disability Discrimination Act, Darwin City Council in consultation with its Disability Advisory Committee and other members of the community has redeveloped a 5 year Disability Action Plan (DAP) as outlined in this document.

Council believes the advantages of establishing and implementing a Disability Action Plan include;

Establishing a plan to act on which ensures holistic and functional access to the community Projecting a positive image of Council in the community Improving the quality of Council's customer services to all constituents Minimising opportunities for complaints under the DDA and, Alerting Council to its responsibilities under the DDA

Council's decision to adopt and implement this 2001-2005 Action Plan is an initiative through which it aims to improve upon its responsibilities as a community leader, employer and service provider.

Policy In developing the 1995 Action Plan, Council adopted a Disability Anti-Discrimination Policy which acts as a key policy statement in formulating this new Action Plan.

Key Policy Statement Council will continually strive for efficient and non-discriminatory practices and equity in the provision of goods and services within the Darwin community. (Decision 16\5842 (25/07/95) The principles underlying the policy are;

People with disabilities have the same fundamental rights as all members of the community. People with a disability have the right to services within the community which provide them with opportunities to fulfil their individual potential. A person with a disability is an individual first and foremost and is not to be defined by their disability. That policies and actions undertaken promote positive outcomes for people with a disability. That people with a disability are consulted and invited to participate in the decisions of Council. Changes to the physical and social environment which create access and equity are the key to integration of people with disability in the community.

Definition of Disability For the purposes of this Plan, disability is defined as it is in the Federal Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (D.D.A.). The Act provides protection for everyone in Australia against discrimination based on disability and defines disability as:

a. total or partial loss of the person's bodily or mental functions; or b. total or partial loss of a part of the body; or c. the presence in the body of organisms causing disease or illness; or d. the presence in the body of organisms capable of causing disease or illness; or e. the malfunction, malformation or disfigurement of a part of the person's body; or f. a disorder or malfunction that results in the person learning differently from a

person without the disorder or malfunction; or g. a disorder, illness or disease that affects a person's thought processes,

perception of reality, emotions or judgment or that results in disturbed behaviour; and includes a disability that:

h. presently exists; or i. previously existed but no longer exists; or j. may exist in the future; or k. is imputed to a person.

International Context Attempts to redefine disability to consider social factors and the barriers to participation led the World Health Organisation to refine its International Classification of Impairment, Disability and Handicap (ICIDH) which was clearly premised on a medicalldeficit model. IClDH provides the following definition of disability:

Disability means any restriction or lack (resulting from an impairment) of ability to perform an activity in the manner or within the range considered normal for human beings.

IClDH (2001) defines disability at three levels: functional (e.g. memory, vision or hearing); structural (e.g. heart or spinal cord); personal (in which routine activities such as reading, walking and communicating are limited); and societal (in which a person's participation in education, work, recreation or leisure is restricted).

A person may experience a disablement that is: physical; intellectual; sensory; neurological; psychiatric; an acquired brain injury; a learning disability; a physical disfigurement; the presence in the body of a disease carrying organism; age related

A disability may be caused by genetic factors, an illness or accident, a traumatic personal experience andlor substance abuse, including alcohol and prescribed or illicit drugs.

A person with a disability may be male or female (sexual identity), any age, from any socio-economic cohort, from a cultural and linguistically diverse background, or of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders descent.

It is an umbrella term for impairments, activity limitations and participation restrictions. Disability (as collected) is the presence of a limitation, restriction or impairment due to a physical, emotional or nervous condition which had lasted or was likely to last six months or more.

Reference: lnternational Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health 2001, World Health Organisation and Disability, Ageing and Carers, Australia: Summary of Findings (ABS cat. no. 4430.0).

International, National and Northern Territory legislative and policy contexts All people, irrespective of ability, must have the same rights and opportunities in all aspects of life. Founded on human rights principles and anti-discrimination laws, this view illustrates the shift from focusing on an individual's (dis)abilities to acknowledgment of the resultant exclusion people experience due to barriers and discrimination within society.

This critical component of policy direction is based on the principles of respect for individual differences and diversity within society. All people, irrespective of individual abilities, should have the right to choose and pursue an independent lifestyle, with equal opportunity for community connections.

Strategies that address and eliminate barriers of access, equity, resource, perceptions and lack of awareness will ensure active and full participation opportunities for all people, irrespective of their individual abilities.

The following is a summary of key legislative and policy statements.

International: United Nations Decade of the Disabled (1982-1993) World Programme of Action (1 983-1 992) - UN Standard Rules on the Equalisation of Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities - UN Commission for Social Development Adoption of resolution 561168 for establishment of an Ad Hoc Committee to consider proposal for an international convention International Charter of Rights of Disabled Peoples

Commonwealth: Disability Discrimination Act 1992 Commonwealth and State Disability Agreements (first commenced 1991) Commonwealth Disability Strategy 2000 Building Code of Australia Australian Standards 1428

Northern Territory: The Northern Territory Anti-Discrimination Act 2002 (amended 2007) Disability Services Act 1993 (amended 2004) Building Act 1993 (amended 2007)

Demographic Data Anecdotal evidence indicates disability data figures are under representative. This is based on the fact that many people do not register their disability and may not utilise disability related services.

The 2003 Survey of Disability, Ageing and Carers found that nationally, 20% of Australians had a disability and 6.3% had a profound or severe level of care activity limitation needing help with one or more of self-care, mobility, or communication activities.

Figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics Australian 2006 Census show that 13.5% of the Municipality of Darwin's population have a profound or severe disability as compared to the national figure of 10.5% of the population with a profound or severe disability. People with a profound or severe disability are defined as needing help or assistance in one or more of the three core activity areas of self-care, mobility and communication because of a disability, long term health condition (lasting six months or more), or old age.

Darwin City Council - Context, Role and Responsibility Local Government roles and responsibilities, in respect to ensuring equality of rights and access for people of all abilities, are identified in the following Acts:

Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (Cth) Anti-Discrimination Act 2002 (amended 2007) Building Act, 1993 (amended 2007) NT Local Government Act 1993 (amended 2007)

Roles Darwin City Council undertakes various roles and functions that promote the rights and enhances access for people of all abilities. These roles can be summarised as follows:

Planner - built, urban environments and community services; Advocate - promoting rights of people of all abilities; Facilitator of servicels - contract manager of specified services; Governance - leadership and support of participatory citizenship.

Strategic Context The Disability Discrimination Act 1992 provides for the preparation of Disability Action Plans. These plans are an important public symbol of commitment to improving accessibility for people with disabilities. The purpose of these plans is to express the goals and targets that have been developed by each organisation in response to the Strategy. The Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission provides guidance on preparing and implementing the plans. Under the original strategy, all Australian Government organisations were expected to implement Disability Action Plans and lodge them with the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission. Since Australian Government organisations now prepare strategic plans and business plans they are encouraged to use these existing planning processes to effectively plan and account for how they will address the needs of people with disabilities.

Action Plan of the Darwin City Council 2004 - 2008: This strategic planning document is cognisant of the importance of ensuring equity of access and participation opportunities for people of all abilities. Its key guiding principles are:

Service: Council will strive to achieve excellence, quality and pride of service to the community using commonsense compassion and courtesy.

Responsiveness: Council will be responsive to the needs of the community. Involvement: Council will provide avenues of participation for and be accessible to

the community. Responsibility: Council will act responsibly and with integrity in the interests of the

community. Equity: Council will treat the community in an equitable manner.

Review of Darwin City Council's Disability Action Plan 2001-2005 The Commonwealth Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (DDA) makes it unlawful to discriminate against people on the basis that they have, or may have a disability and obliges all public premises and services to have arrangements in place which ensure accessibility for people of all abilities.

Developing a Disability Action Plan ensures that Council is: Establishing a plan to act on, which ensures holistic and functional access to the community; Projecting a positive image of Council in the community; Improving the quality of Council's customer services to all constituents; Minimising opportunities for complaints under the DDA; and Alerting Council to its responsibilities under the DDA.

In addition, the NT Government Anti Discrimination Act extends the law relating to equal opportunity and discrimination. The objectives of this Act are to:

promote recognition and acceptance of everyone's right to equality of opportunity; eliminate, as far as possible, discrimination against people by prohibiting discrimination on the basis of various attributes; eliminate, as far as possible, sexual harassment; provide redress for people who have been discriminated against or sexually harassed.

Darwin City Council first developed its Disability Action Plan in 2001 to address community needs and aspirations, and to realise and address its legislative obligations. This policy was developed following the undertaking of research and community consultation.

The review of Council's Disability Action Plan 2001-2005 meets obligations under Part 3, Section 61 of the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 which states "The action plan of a service provider must include provisions relating to the review of practices within the service provider with a view to the identification of any discriminatory practices". The review process has formed a part of the evidence base for development of the next (second) Disability Action Plan 2006-201 0.

Responsibility for Implementation The Community Development Team of Council (Community Services Section) has responsibility for reporting on the implementation and achievements of the Disability Action Plan 2006-201 0.

A proactive approach has been taken by various areas of Council in addressing specific strategies within this Plan. These actions include the undertaking of access audits, development of guidelines, processes or systems that promote access, staff training and the systemic removal of barriers preventing equitable participation opportunities for people with disabilities.

Summary of Key Achievements Can be found in Attachment 2

Recommendations of the Review The undertaking of this Review has highlighted:

The benefit of specific strategies and actions that address and advocate to ensure equitable access in all areas of life (personal, community and civic) for people with disabilities; Council's significant role in pursuing address of access issues in its own area of responsibility; The benefits of education, advocacy and partnerships with community and business stakeholders; The importance of Council's role in advocating for community members; The importance of the next Disability Action Plan acknowledging the strategic achievements and areas requiring further (ongoing) work to ensure equitable access for people of all abilities.

To assist understanding and 'ownership' of objectives within the next Disability Action Plan it is proposed that specific strategies and objectives clearly articulate the role of Council and denote responsibility to the applicable area of Council. Allocation of responsibility to specific areas will benefit and assist business planning, reporting and future review processes.

ATTACHMENTS

Attachment 1 The Feedback, Views and Aspirations of the Community

Attachment 2 Summary of Key Achievements

ATTACHMENT 1

THE FEEDBACK, VIEWS AND ASPIRATIONS OF THE COMMUNITY Consultation with the community (Phase I ) for the original Disability Action Plan 2000 - 2005 was undertaken at a disability forum organised by Council's Disability Advisory Committee in March 2001.

Subsequently, several other community/disability forums, consultation meetings with internal and external stakeholders and individual meetings with community members resulted in the identification of the following issues.

Summary of Issues Personal life

Ease of access to built infrastructure and community participation opportunities. Advocacy and leadership in relation to the importance of accessible housing, and equality of access to all aspects of the built infrastructure and community participation opportunities. Provision of information that enhances access to Darwin City Council (Disability Services Directory). Strong advocacy to Australian and Territory government and relevant stakeholders to ensure an increase in accessibility and the provision of this information to the relevant stakeholders. This results in enhancing participation and inclusion opportunities for people with disabilities - "inclusion means not excluding". Response to meet needs of people with 'silent' disabilities including hearing, intellectual, cognitive and acquired brain injury issues and viruses.

Community life Consistent address by Council in the areas where it has direct responsibility for infrastructure issues (Council buildings, facilities and other infrastructure) to ensure ease of access for people with disabilities. Ongoing advocacy to educate the community on legislative responsibility and benefits of addressing and ensuring inclusive access (access for all; this includes ensuring access to all businesses, cultural, recreational, leisure and community events). Identification of services available within our community that respond to specific needs of people with disabilities. Strong advocacy to transport providers and regulators to ensure equality of access on public transport. Continued provision of information that enables independent access Partnerships with community, business and other levels of government to ensure 'whole of community' response to access issues.

Civic life Continuation and consolidation of Council's Disability Advisory Committee as an instrumental advisory body to all areas of Council on matters that relate to disability and access issues. Continued work to ensure Council services and facilities comply with access requirements and where possible demonstrate best practice in ensuring access for all.

The release of this draft, Disability Action Plan 2006-2010, formed part of Phase 2 of the consultation and invited further comment by all stakeholders which has now been

ATTACHMENT 2

SUMMARY OF KEY ACHIEVEMENTS

Personal life Council's Disability Advisory Committee (DAC) is made up of community representatives who provide Council with advice on its responsibilities to ensure equity of access to people with disabilities in the application of Council procedures and Council's provision of services and facilities.

DAC's advice guided the establishment of the Disability Anti-Discrimination Action Plan in 1996 and re-development of the Civic Centre in 1997 and the Mall in 1998. DAC also provided input into Council's CBD Car Parking Strategy and Subdivision & Development Guidelines and recommended 2000-2005 Disability Action Plan to Council.

The DAC convenes biannual public forums providing education, feedback and information to the community to facilitate awareness of the needs and rights of people with disabilities. From such forums, issues such as the operation of the Darwin City Council Disabled Persons Parking Scheme resulted in 12 recommendations for overhauling the Scheme being reported to Council based on extensive research and consultation.

Through the range of activities undertaken by the Disability Advisory Committee and the subsequent adoption by Council of its recommendations the people of Darwin have benefited and people with a disability have benefited substantially.

Through Forums, DAC gives and receives feedback from the community. People with disabilities, their carers and representatives of community organisations have the opportunity to raise matters of concern, to receive information on latest issues and to actively participate in Council's decision making processes, particularly as it impacts on people with disabilities.

The promotion of the Council's Hotline encourages all members of the community to report access or service difficulties. Reported problems are recorded, actioned, and reported to DAC.

DAC's input into Council policy has resulted in: Council's annual budget allocation for access works ensures Hotline reports are actioned immediately. A commitment by Council to continually strive for efficient and non- discriminatory work practices and equity in the provision of goods and services. This translates to a practical commitment by Council Officers to undertake works which ensures equitable access to all services and facilities. Policy statements by Council that it will apply better than Australian Standards wherever possible as its best practice benchmark. Council's comments on Development Applications and in its Subdivision and Development Guidelines for example require developers, architects and builders to be constantly aware of the need to ensure best practice in the provision of access for people with disabilities.

ATTACHMENT 2

The review of Council's Disabled Persons Parking Scheme for the benefit of people with severe mobility limitations resulted in Council adopting 11 of DAC's 12 recommendations and positive community feedback once implemented. The recommendations included advocating to the NT Government for increased penalties for illegal parking in designated parking bays and the production and screening of a television commercial/education campaign stressing the need that people with severe mobility limitations have priority access to parking facilities. Council's pro-active approach through allocating funding for the Disability Awareness Week activities on an annual basis. Consistent address by Council in the areas where it has direct responsibility for built environment issues (Council buildings, facilities and other infrastructure) to ensure ease of access for people with disabilities. Ongoing advocacy to educate the community on the benefits of addressing and ensuring universal access (access for all). Strong advocacy to relevant stakeholders highlighting legislative responsibilities and offering advice and support that increase accessibility of the built and informational environment. This results in enhancing participation and inclusion opportunities for people with disabilities. Consolidation of Council's Disability Advisory Committee as an instrumental advisory body to all areas of Council on matters that relate to disability and access issues. Annual celebration of 3 December - International Day of People with a DisAbility.

Summary o f Areas Requiring Ongoing Work Inclusive and positive promotion of people with disabilities, as active participants engaged in all facets of life. Focus on local communities and support of people with disabilities within this context. Service mapping to identify location and gaps of support services across the municipality. Consistent address and update of information and resources that support participation opportunities for people with disabilities.

Community life Education and advocacy to support business to address access issues. Education and advocacy to increase accessibility in all areas of the built and urban environments. Advocacy and partnerships to increase accessible public transport. Support to enhance access and participation opportunities to recreation, sports, leisure, arts and cultural events (Tourism issues). Provision of accessible toilets and parking bays across the municipality. Provision of appropriate signage and directional information.

Civic life Provision of information in accessible / alternative formats. Education to increase awareness on disability and access issues Periodic review of Council's Disability Advisory Committee.

KEY RESULT AREA: PHYSICAL ACCESS

GOAL: To ensure existing Council buildings footpaths, parks and other Council assets, as well as communication methods used in the provision of services, are made accessible to people with disabilities to the level set out in the relevant standards, codes and guidelines

P Capital works programmed in accordance with annual budgets to provide better than minimum access standards wherever possible.

P Council will ensure accessible design and construction is incorporated into Council's Capital Works program in accordance with the spirit of the Disability Discrimination Act and relevant building standards.

P Council will continue to remove, where possible, physical barriers encountered by people with a disability and to improve access to facilities throughout the community. This work will be undertaken in consultation with the Disability Advisory Committee on a priority basis and within Council's annual budget allocation for Disabled Access Works.

P Council will maintain an electronic register of reported access problems and the works carried out. These will be recorded by any Council officer through the Customer Action Requests System database, reported to the Disability Advisory Committee on a regular basis, reported within annual Action Plan reviews, and presented to Council annually.

FOOTPATHS AND KERBS

Assess footpath construction on an access needs basis and maintain a priority list of streets without foot paving for inclusion in future works program.

ISSUES

New footpaths to be accessible

Existing footpaths to be made accessible

STRATEGIESIACTIONS

All new footpath constructions must be accessible in terms of gradients and intersection ramps.

Requests for footpath access improvements to be referred to Disability Advisory Committee for consideration for completion through the annual Footpath Construction and Reconstruction Program.

Investigate and maintain a priority list of possible works in streets with foot paving for completion through the annual Footpath Construction and Reconstruction Program. List requests beyond the scope of the Access budget as a priority for inclusion in Footpath Construction and Reconstruction Program.

Actions to be taken to have temporary obstructions that restrict access removed from footpaths (e.g. advertising boards and vehicles).

RESPON~~~CE OFFICERS ',:r FRAME COMMENTS Operations Manager 2006 - Maint & Access

Disability Advisory Committee

Operations Manager

Operations Manager

Footpaths to be kept free of obstructions

FOOTPATHS AND KERBS

accessibility

ISSUES

Existing footpaths to be made accessible contd.

Effective pedestrian barriers and signs must be provided during construction works on footpaths, and accessible alternative pedestrian access provided when it is necessary to close footpaths.

Regular maintenance of trees near footpaths to provide a safe clear pedestrian pathway under and adjacent to the foliage.

STRATEGlESlACTlONS

Footpaths must be maintained in a safe and accessible condition by builders undertaking works on adjacent properties.

All new/reconstructed ramps provided minimum gradients with no obstructing lip and installed as per Australian Standard 1428 or better by program and on request through access budget.

Operations Manager

-

Parks Manager

RESPONSIBLE OFFICERS Operations Manager

Operations Manager

TIME FRAME On-going

REVIEW COMMENTS

TRAFFIC FACILITIES AND STREET LIGHTS

ISSUES

Liaise with Department of Planning and Infrastructure on requests to improve accessibility of existing traffic control lights in respect to pedestrian phasing and audio tactile facilities etc.

STRATEGlESlACTlONS I Traffic facilities to be designed and constructed to be accessible.

Ensure that traffic facilities are accessible in terms of kerb ramps, gaps or ramps in median islands, line marking and signage.

RESPONSIBLE

Improve street lighting where required

OFFICER Roads Engineer

Assess requests on an access basis for improved street lighting. Prepare estimates to upgrade lighting where necessary for Council's consideration.

Roads Engineer

TIME FRAME 2006- 201 1

2006- 201 1

REVIEW COMMENTS

PUBLIC TOILETS

ISSUES

Ensure there are sufficient accessible toilets in Council's parks, shopping precincts and community buildings.

STRATEGIES1 ACTIONS I Assess toilet construction or alterations on an access needs basis and maintain a priority list of facilities for inclusion in future Access Works Budget or Works Program.

RESPONSIBLE m i E

PARKING

I S S U E S ~

Adequate accessible parking spaces to be available in carparks, shopping centres, streets and adjacent to community buildings.

DAC to review the location of accessible parking spaces and consider if additional spaces are required. Prepare estimates for future action works.

Maintain and update list of accessible parking spaces in Council's jurisdiction.

Requests for provision of accessible parking spaces be referred - DAC input into CBD car parking strategy to ensure access for people with a disability

Provide disabled car bays in Council facilities in accordance with BCA ratios (Decision 18\752)

Signage at disabled parking bays will be in accordance with Australian Standards

RESPONSIBLE OFFICER Operations Manager DAC PlanningIParking Sub Committee

Community Services Project Officer

Community Services Project Officer

Design & Development Manager

Design & Development Manager

Ongoing

All designated disabled car parking bays to be painted a white international access symbol on a blue background

Ongoing Design & Development Manager

REVIEW COMMENTS

VL FACILITIES I BUILDINGS I

ISSUES

Enable people with disabilities to access Darwin's built environment as do other members of the community.

STRATEGIES 1 ACTIONS Review all existing Darwin City Council planning policies and include appropriate clauses addressing issues for people with disabilities as part of the public who will use

Develop guidelines on the use of tactile tile markers for paths at public centres, shopping centres and for intersections on signalised main roads.

Assess all proposed developments, especially shopping centres, for access for people with disabilities as part of the public who will use

RESPONSIBLE OFFICER Operations Manager Disability Advisory Committee

Operations Manager

Design & Development Manager

REVIEW COMMENTS

OVALS PARKS & PLAYGROUNDS

ISSUES I STRATEGIES I I RESPONSIBLE I TIME 1 REVIEW

To provide parks that meets the needs of children with all kinds of disabilities.

Access to park facilities to be improved

ACTIONS Review existing playground equipment and ensure plans for new playgrounds maximise accessibility, including consideration of:

-A Accessible equipment 4 Locat~on 4 Under-surfacing 4 Pathways to the

playground 1 & Fencing

Investigate installation of accessible playground equipment at selected parks. Apply for funding grants or investigate other funding options.

Investigate and undertake access audits of major parks and sports grounds. Identify works to improve access and prepare estimates for inclusion in future Parks Improvement Works Discretionary Budgets.

OFFICER Parks Manager Community Recreation Coordinator

Parks Manager

Parks Manager

COMMENTS Dependent on annual play equipment and under surfacing budgets

1 OVALS PARKS 8 PLAYGROUNDS

Access to park facilities to be improved contd.

Improve access to swimming pools and other Council owned and managed recreation facilities.

RESPONSIBLE OFFICER

ISSUES

Construction of pathways to accessible grades and improvement of principal paths to incorporate passing provision for wheelchairs in accordance with AS1428.2

STRATEGIES 1 ACTIONS

Park furniture to be designed or upgraded to ensure more tables, seats, barbeques and litterbins are accessible. Estimates to be prepared for inclusion in future Parks Improvement Programs.

Regular maintenance of trees in parks to provide safe clearance for pedestrians using pathways and park facilities.

Continue assessing access issues and suggest alterations as necessary.

Parks Manager

Parks Manager

Parks Manager

Community Recreation Coordinator

TIME FRAME

.

REVIEW COMMENTS

KEY RESULT AREA: CONSULTATION & PARTICIPATION

Goal: To develop communication and participation systems and procedures that encourages and promotes consultation with and participation by people with disabilities and to ensure outcomes which are accessible and responsive to the needs of disabled residents, employees and visitors to the city.

Provide advice in Subdivision & Development Guidelines on developer's responsibilities under the DDA.

PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT

Ensure staff involved in project development and service delivery are aware of requirements under the BCA and DDA.

ISSUES

Ensure community continues to derive maximum benefits on a variety of access issues.

Council advise Building Branch of Department of Planning & Infrastructure in writing of Council's Policy on requirements for disabled parking. Ensure facilities for people with a disability are signed in accordance with Australian Standards.

STRATEGIES 1 ACTIONS Council's Consultation Policy incorporate input in the consultation process from people with a disability.

RESPONSIBLE OFFICER Design & Manager Operations Manager

Design & Development Manager

HR Manager (Training & Development)

Design & Development Manager

Building Services Manager

FRAME 2006 - 201 1

REVIEW 4

ADVOCACY OF ACCESS ISSUES

ISSUES

Produce a range of information documents assisting the education and awareness of community

Raise awareness of issues relating to people with disabilities through participation in relevant activities in the community

Increased community publicity of achievements by and information relating to people with disabilities.

STRATEGIES 1 ACTIONS Ensure Council's Disability Action Plan is responsive to public input and review.

Report on Action Plan annually.

The Disability Advisory Committee is resourced to ensure it meets its terms of reference and Council's Responsibilities under the DDA are met.

Refer all recommendations of DAC to Council. Promote functions and projects of the Disability Advisory Committee including regular disability forums.

Council will provide leadership in the city to promote good access, customer service and participation for people with a disability.

RESPONSIBLE OFFICER Community Services Project Officer

Community Services Project Officer

Community Services Project Officer

Community Services Project Officer Community Services Project Officer

TIME FRAME 2006 - 201 1

1 Ongoing

REVIEW 4

KEY RESULT AREA: SERVICES

Goal: To provide quality Council services in an inclusive, equitable and non-discriminatory manner. Where specialist services are provided ensure these are effectively targeted to accommodate the particular needs of people with disabilities.

REGULATORY SERVICES

/ ISSUES I STRATEGIES I I ACTIONS

Ensure that Council's I Where possible increase

Increase penalties for illegal use of bays through representations to NT Government.

services for people with disabilities are not misused by the public.

inspect/ons for illegal parking in designated bays particularly in Northern Suburbs.

-

RESPONSIBLE OFFICER Regulatory Services Manager

TIME FRAME 2006 - 201 1

REVIEW COMMENTS

DISABLED PERSONS PARKING SCHEME

GARBAGE COLLECTION

hssu ES / STRATEGIES I 1 RESPONSIBLE / TIME

ISSUES

Ensure that Council's services are provided in an equitable manner.

/ ACTIONS Ensure that Council's 1 I Provide people with

STRATEGIES ACTIONS

On request, Council's garbage contractor will provide small sized wheelie bins to people with a disability.

Promote the Disabled Persons Parking Scheme for people with mobility limitations. Monitor numbers involved in the scheme and report reviews1 complaints of the scheme through the Advisory Committee to Council.

services are promoted and conducted equitably through the entire community.

OFFICER FRAME Community Services 2006 - 201 1 Project Officer

OFFICER

Operations Engineer

-

Disabilities fair and equitable access to parking through the permit scheme.

REVIEW COMMENTS Existing salary budget 1

TIME FRAME 2006 - 201 1

REVIEW COMMENTS .

Within existing budget

-

CUSTOMER SERVICE

1 ISSUES I STRATEGIES~

Publicise the availability of m e TTY and website the TTY facility (for those with aspeech orhearing impairment) in all of Council's public documents and include in the style manual.

address on Council publications

Council's publications denote accessible facilities

As publications are produced

On request provide Council information in alternative formats to the written word

Requests to be directed through Community Services Project Ofticer

Provide a range of feedback mechanisms for service users to enable ongoing community input.

RESPONSIBLE I

DAC to advise on mechanisms and continue public forums on issues of interest.

Promote the Disability Hotline Service and record action requests through CARS

Community Services Project Officer I Public Affairs Unit

Management of all access and maintenance requests is through CARS

Community Services Project Officer

ALL I

TIME r

Enable people with disabilities to access Council's sewices and building as do the other members of the community.

Ensure that Council's sewices for people with disabilities are tailored to their needs.

STRATEGIES 1 ACTIONS Incorporate the requirements to upgrade the physical accessibility of the libraries into Council's Facility Management Plan. Specifically:

Access to an after hours chute at all libraries Unisex wheelchair accessible toilet facilities Access to self-opening doors at entrance and exit points Width of entrances and exits.

Provide House Bound sewices.

RESPONSIBLE OFFICER Library Sewices Manager

Library Sewices Manager

TIME 1 FRAME 2006 - 201 1

4. KEY RESULT AREA: INTERNAL OPERATIONS Goal: Foster human resource management practices which facilitate equal opportunity and anti-discrimination in the work place

OFFICER COMMENTS

discrimination awareness, feature appropriate cross cultural awareness and awareness and skill communication skills development

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYMENT

ISSUES I STRATEGIES I ( ACTIONS

Recruitment ~rocedures to / Ensure ~rovisions of Disability ~ ~- -~ - . ~ ~ ~ - ,~ convev EEO commitment. I ~iscrimination Act are

detailed in Council's Recruitment, Selection and Induction Policy, and that this policy be distributed to all staff.

OFFICER I TIME / REVIEW

Existing budgets Human Resources Manager

FRAME On-going

Equipment and facilities to be accessible for employees.

ISSUES

Recruitment procedures to convey EEO commitment contd.

Increase Council's preparedness and ability to employ people with intellectual disabilities.

When work areas and equipment need to be replaced, upgraded or purchased, consideration is to be given to making them suitable for use by people with disabilities.

STRATEGIES 1 ACTIONS Ensure provisions of Disability Discrimination Act are included in training module addressing Equal Employment Opportunity for staff on interview panels, and that this training is provided to all relevant staff.

lnvestigate options for employment of people with intellectual disabilities in various roles in the organisation as deemed appropriate.

OFFICER

Human Resources Manager

All

Human Resources Manager

COMMENTS

lnvestigate options for forming partnerships or participating in government initiatives relating to the employment of people with intellectual disabilities.

Human Resources Manager

RESPONSIBLE OFFICER Contracts Manager

ISSUES

Council's documentation and processes to reflect commitment to disability access issues.

TIME STRATEGIES 1 ACTIONS Council's contracts will refer to the DDA and Council's Action Plan to ensure that the needs of people with disabilities are considered in the provision of services and facilities on Council's behalf

FRAME All new contracts from 2001

REVIEW COMMENTS

APPENDIX 1

Existing Relevant Council Decisions

CUSTOMER SERVICE POLICY

Decision No 17\1228 (25/02/97)

Policy To service our customers promptly, courteously, efficiently and effectively at all times in accordance with the principles of the Council's Corporate Plan. Objectives:

To resolve all customer issues with the least number of contacts To provide a full range of information on Council services to our customers. To provide a convenient prompt and responsive counter and telephone service with appropriate feedback To maintain a sufficient number of well trained staff committed to customer service. To work together in serving our customers with pride, using common sense compassion and courtesy To ask our community on a regular basis how our customer service measures up and if it meets their needs

Council has adopted Australian Standard AS 4269- for Complaint Handling

DISABILITY ANTI-DISCRIMINATION ACTION PLAN (Decision No. 17\1228 (25102197)

Policy Council will continually strive for efficient and non-discriminatory work practices and equity in the provision of goods and services.

Council has adopted the Disability Anti-Discrimination Action Plan attached to Report number 96lC1012 and agreed that its actions be implemented from July 1996.

CAR PARKS AND COMMUNITY FACILITIES - UPGRADING

Decision No. 17\1228 (25/02/97)

Policy Council facilities will be constructed and maintained to optimise their use by disabled persons.

Procedure:

Facilities All new facilities will be designed to follow the guidelines set out in the following documents -

Building Code of Australia Northern Territory Building Act Australian Standards AS1428.1

Disabled car bays Disabled car bays for community facilities are to be provided as follows -

r o t a 1 Supply On-Site I Minimum Number of Bays 50 - 100 1 1 bay 100 or more 1 1 + 1/100 bay Existing car parking facilities to be upgraded as funds permit. priorities forupgrading to be considered by Council following feedback from the Disabled Access Committee. Council's Director Technical Services to review annually the funding requirements for disabled car parking bays. Council's Disabled Access Committee to provide priorities for works on an annual basis. In some instances special functions attract car parking to additional areas beyond the normal formalised on-site provisions. In these instances organisers of events will designate additional handicap bays at the rate of 1 per 100 spaces. On Council controlled areas this will be a condition of the organiser/promoter and will be defined in any permits to be issued.

DISABLED PERSONS PARKING SCHEME

Decision No. 7 7\5044 (30/77/99)

THAT Council adopt a 3 tiered permit system for the Disabled Persons Parking Permit Scheme;

for people with permanent mobility limitations; for people with temporary mobility limitations or visitors with disabled persons parking permits from interstate or overseas; and and for community service agencies.

THAT the application form entitled 'Application for a Parking Permit for Disabled Persons with a Mobility Limitation', as attached to Report Number 991C0945 TVB:mrg, which strengthens the eligibility criteria for a permit be adopted and that the new criteria, be promoted with Medical Practitioners and allied agencies.

THAT the application form entitled 'Application for a Parking Permit For Community Service Organisations' as attached to Report Number 99/C0945 TVB:mrg, be adopted.

THAT only one Disabled Parking Permit be issued per approved applicant.

THAT all current Disabled Parking Permit holders be required to re-apply using the new form signed by their medical practitioner.

THAT Council pursue with the Northern Territory Minister for Transport & Works, as the Minister responsible for the Northern Territory Traffic Act and Regulations, an increase in the penalty for illegal parking in disabled bays a penalty commensurate with the highest fines imposed by other States / Territories which is $135 in NSW and ACT.

THAT a further report be prepared on the possibility of Council appointing, on a 6 month trial basis, an additional Regulatory Services Officer dedicated to patrolling and monitoring illegal use of designated parking bays for people with disabilities, following consideration of an increased fine by the NT Minister for Transport & Works.

THAT the Council adopt a policy for painting designated parking bays a bright blue colour and applying the international access symbol so that motorists are made more aware when parking in a disabled parking bay, and it be referred to the next Budget Review.

THAT the signage on parking bays designated for people with disabilities to incorporate the penalty for illegal parking, be referred to the next Budget Review.

THAT Council assist with an educational Television Campaign on the issue of parking for people with disabilities from the current Community Services Department Promotions budget and that a further report be provided once the Campaign has been developed.

THAT the Disability Advisory Committee advocate to shopping centres on the problems associated with people illegally using designated parking facilities with a view to having signage installed.

Decision No. 18\2790 (1 70/02)

(B) THAT after the commencement of on-street charging in the Central Business District the following condition shall apply.

i. Disabled persons displaying an appropriate permit shall be permitted to park at no cost, and for a time period that is equivalent to double the designated time limit and that appropriate solutions for controlling disabled parking be identified.

DISABLED PARKING

(Decision No. 18\752 (31 11 0100)

(B) THAT Council adopt as its policy for disabled parking, the Disabled Parking criteria within the Building Code of Australia as amended Part D3 1996 which states: 03.5 Car parking "Car parking spaces for people with disabilities-

Subject to (b), must be provided in accordance with Table 03.5 in - (i) a carpark required to be accessible; and (ii) a carparking area on the same allotment as a building required to be accessible; and; (b) need not be provided in a carpark area where a parking service is provided and direct access to any of the carparking spaces is not available to the general public or occupants; and

(c) subject to (d), must comply with AS2890. I; and (d) are not required to be signed where there is a total of not more than 5 car parking spaces, so as to restrict the use of the car parking space only for people with disabilities. "

and apply this policy to all future Council facilities and include reference to it when commenting on applications before the Development Consent Authority.

(C) THAT provision of disabled parking bays at Council facilities were these do not meet the BCA ratios are to be considered within a new 5 year Disability Discrimination Action Plan to be presented to Council for adoption in 2001.

RECOMMENDKI'IONS FOR CONSIDERATION BY THE OFFICERS COMPILING SUBDIVISION AND DEVELOPMENT GUIDELINES & CBD CAR PARKING STRATEGY

Decision No. 181646 (1 7/10/00)

(B) THAT the comments and recommendations identified in Report Number 00C0360 be referred to the Director Technical Services for consideration in compiling Council's Sub Division Guidelines and CBD Car Parking Strategy.

These include;

CBD PARKING STRATEGY On-Street Parking

The Disability Advisory Committee believes Council should provide on-street designated parking bays for disabled persons parking. Also, that Council should meet BCA parking ratios in the provision of such parking, 1+1 bay per 100.

The DAC has identified the need for such bays in Darwin to be located close to professional and community services although it recognises that services move from time to time and that there may be a need to relocate designated bays at times.

Time Restrictions For on-street parking in designated bays the Committee recommends a maximum time limit of 2 hours and for areas within half hour zones, an allowance of 1 hour.

Cost With regard to payment for on-street designated parking the Committee recommends that this be at no cost in recognition of the added costs people with disabilities need to endure as daily living costs.

Set Down Areas The Committee also strongly recommends that Council consider the provision of set down areas with strict conditions requiring that a driver must not leave the vehicle. Also that Council provide some seating at each these areas.

SUBDIVISION AND DEVELOPMENT GUIDELINES - General comments

Parking If there is to be any indented parking, it is recommended that the planning and design should provide for disabled parking in parking areas; within private property in compliance with BCA, outside the property boundary parking needs to comply with Council policy.

Driveways Driveways must be in accordance with the minimum Disability Access Standards having a maximum slope of 1:14 with no lip.

Lighting Must be in accordance with Australian Standards however when designers assess risks in particular areas, there is a need to take into account that people with a disability have a higher risk when using facilities at night.

Pathways Guidelines provide for a footpath on one side of road only. If people with a disability are to cross the road, vehicle crossovers and driveways need to ensure there is a smooth transition from the road i.e.; no lip and no bitumen lumps and are seamless with the hard works inside the property boundary.

Traffic lights It is recommended that; There should be a pedestrian crossing phase at every set of lights Signals have audible component as standard The height and location of buttons to trigger pedestrian phases be placed to ensure the person is not on a slope when triggering the mechanism and at a height which meets access standards.

Pits Power and telecom shared trenches seem to be within footpaths. DAC recommends these be located outside the line of the footpath.

WITH REFERENCE TO THE DRAFT SUBDIVISION AND DEVELOPMENT GUIDELINES DOCUMENT:-

PART 1 The Planning & Development Process 1.1.11 Information to accompany an Application

DAC recommends that the paragraph beginning "Depending on the nature of the application, the applicant can seek professional assistance ...." that along with architects and other consultants that Occupational Therapists be included.

PART 2 General Requirements Schedule o f Contents

DAC recommends that the Building Code of Australia parking provisions be listed within the schedule of contents, and that the Disability Discrimination Act be correctly worded.

2.1.3 Interpretation DAC supports the statement that the guidelines prescribe current best practice rather than minimum standards for Council owned public spaces,

2.2.4 The Disabilities Anti- Discrimination Act DAC recommends that the Disability Discrimination Act be correctly worded in the title.

Also that as the 'Disabilities Act' does not exist and the Disability Discrimination Act is not prescriptive, it is recommended that the wording read 'comply with the objectives and intent of the Disability Discrimination Act".

2.2.5 Standards and Procedures Adopted by Council DAC recommends that Council's policy to provide better than the minimum Australian Standards for disabled access be stated in this section.

Section 2.3 Definitions DAC recommends that Australian Standards for Disabled Access and the DDA be included in the definitions.

PART 4 Construction Requirements 4.2.1 Works on Council property and reinstatement works

DAC recommends a statement advising that works that go on Council land should be seamless with works on privately developed land and must comply with relevant standards and the Building Code of Australia.

4.10 Hot Sprayed Bitumen Seal DAC recommends that the spraying of bitumen or laying of asphalt is not to create any lumps between it and the adjoining paved areas especially in relation to access ramps.

PART 6 Landscape Streetscape & Irrigation works 6.1 Schedule of Contents

DAC recommends that the Disability Discrimination Act be correctly worded at 6.1 7 and 6.51

6.1.7 The Disabilities Anti- Discrimination Act DAC recommends that the Disability Discrimination Act be correctly worded in the title.

Also that as the 'Disabilities Anti Discrimination Act' does not exist and the Disability Discrimination Act is not prescriptive, it is recommended that the wording read 'comply with the objectives and intent of the Disability Discrimination Act".

6.2.3 Location of Tree Planting DAC recommends with regard to roundabouts medians and verges, that sight distances should be designed to provide adequate sight lines with regard to plantings to allow for safe crossing by people with a disability.

6.5.1 The Disability Discrimination Act DAC recommends that the Disability Discrimination Act be correctly worded in the title.

6.5.2 Standards and Procedures Adopted By Council DAC recommends that Council's policy to provide better than the minimum Australian Standards for disabled access be stated in this section.

PART 7 Standard Drawings (See attached - Drawing 101 and Drawing 102) Drawing 101 Standard road reserve and service locations

DAC recommends the standard footpath should have a longitudinal gradient of a maximum of 1:20 with slopes and landing requirements as per Australian Standard 1428.1. DAC also recommends the maximum crossfall should be 1.5% not 2.4%. Pits in footpaths are not recommended. DAC recommends that service locations be altered to allow footpaths to provide clear access. This also saves on future maintenance costs.

Drawing 2 Vehicle crossovers and access strips (See attached - Drawing 101) General Note No 3 is incomplete.

In General Notes it is recommended that the statement from Notes on Drawing 16 Cycleways be included ie "If height difference between kerb invert and level of path exceeds 150 mm, or length of crossover exceeds 1200 mm, then grade of crossover to be 1 in 14- or better (refer AS 1428.1)". DAC recommends that if Access Strips are required for disabled access these must conform to AS 1428. Footpaths - DAC recommends 1:20 gradient and 1.5% crossfall.

Drawing 4 Standard Kerbing Detail (See attached - Drawing 102) Mountable kerb and gutter is unsatisfactory and the lip on lay back kerb is not acceptable for disabled access. DAC recommends these drawings be redesigned according to required standards.

Drawing 16 Standard Cycle Path details (See attached - Drawing 101) DAC recommends that the words 'or better' be added to Note No 9 ie "If height difference between kerb invert and level of path exceeds 150 mm, or length of crossover exceeds 1200 mm, then grade of crossover to be 1 in 14 'or better' (refer AS 1428.1).

As previously recommended typical cross section crossfall of 2% should be a maximum of 1.5%. Crossing and rest rail- Ramp is drawn at 1 % with note referring to AS 1428.1. DAC recommends this ramp be 1 :I 0.