In Western Australia, one in five people has a disability and this figure will rise over the next 20 years as the population ages. There is an increasing need to ensure that the environment in which we live and work is accessible to all people in all stages of life.
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 1993 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.