Disability Access and Inclusion Framework and ... - City of Monash

Community
Planning and
Development
Inclusion
Equal
Opportunity
Equity
Ability
Human
Rights
C I T Y O F
M O N A S H
Disability Access and Inclusion Framework
and Action Plan 2009 – 2013

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Foreward by the Mayor
I am pleased to present the Monash Disability Access
and Inclusion Framework and Action Plan 2009-2013.
The Framework is in line with Council’s commitment
to an inclusive and connected community and will
guide Council in addressing physical, communication
and attitudinal barriers that prevent people with a
disability, their families and carers in experiencing a
rich and rewarding quality of life.
I look forward
to the successful
implementation of
the Framework
and Action Plan
and to report to
Council and to the
Monash community
on outcomes
achieved.
The Monash Disability Access and Inclusion
Framework and Action Plan 2009-2013 was developed
in consultation with Council staff and with people
with a disability, their families and carers and will be
implemented over the next four years.
Council is committed to and is uniquely placed to have
a positive impact on the quality of life for people with
a disability in our community. The Disability Access
and Inclusion Framework provides the framework to
enable Council to fulfil its commitment to Access and
Equity and meet its responsibilities to people with a
disability.
Cr Paul Klisaris
Mayor
T Y O F
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C I T Y O F
M O N A S H
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Contents
Foreward by the Mayor................................................................................... 2
Contents......................................................................................................... 3
Summary in Languages other than English.................................................. 4
Introduction.................................................................................................... 8
1. Disability Policy.......................................................................................... 9
1.1 Background............................................................................................ 9
1.2 Achievements of Access and Inclusion................................................... 9
1.3 Links to other Council reports................................................................10
1.4 Aim of the Disability Access and Inclusion Framework........................... 11
1.5 Objectives of the Disability Access and Inclusion Framework................. 11
1.6 Key Principles....................................................................................... 11
1.7 Requirements for Success and Budget Implications...............................12
2. Demographic Data.....................................................................................13
3. Policy Context...........................................................................................14
3.1 Local Government ................................................................................14
3.2 State ....................................................................................................15
3.3 Commonwealth......................................................................................17
3.4 International..........................................................................................18
3.5 Definition of Disability............................................................................19
3.6 Definition of Discrimination....................................................................19
4. Methodology .............................................................................................20
Disability Access and Inclusion Framework and Action Plan 2009-2013....23
1. Communication and Information ...........................................................24
2. Service Delivery and Community Strengthening.....................................30
3. Physical and Natural Environment..........................................................33
4. Employment and Workforce Development............................................. 34
5. Leadership and Advocacy.....................................................................35
6. Accountability .......................................................................................36
References.....................................................................................................38
Definition of Terms........................................................................................39
Useful Resources......................................................................................... 43
Disability Access and Inclusion Framework and Action Plan 2009 – 2013

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Summary in Languages other than English
Monash Disability Access and Inclusion Framework 2009-2013
The Monash Disability Access and Inclusion Framework and Action Plan 2009-2013
is a strategic framework that outlines how Council will address access and inclusion
issues to ensure that people with a disability are provided with opportunities to fully
participate in all aspects of life in Monash.
The framework outlines Council’s priorities for the next four years and identifies specific
actions to be implemented in a whole of Council approach within this time frame.
For more information about the Monash Disability Access and Inclusion Framework and
Action Plan in another format please contact the Community Planning and Development
Unit on 9518 3625.
Cantonese
ARABIC:
عربي
The Monash Disability Access and Inclusion Framework and Action Plan
2009-2013 is a strategic framework that outlines how Council will address
access and inclusion issues to ensure that people with a disability are
provided with opportunities to fully participate in all aspects of life in Monash.
إن خطة العمل وإطارعمل الدمج والوصول للمعاقين التابعة لموناش 2013-2009 هي إطار استراتيجي یحدد
آيفية قيام المجلس بمعالجة قضایا الوصول والدمج للتأآد من أن الأشخاص ذوي الاعاقة تتوفر لهم فرص
المشارآة الكاملة في جميع جوانب الحياة في موناش.‏
The framework outlines Council’s priorities for the next four years and
identifies specific actions to be implemented in a whole of Council approach
within this timeframe.
یبين إطار العمل الخطوط العریضة لأولویات المجلس خلال السنوات الأربع القادمة،‏ ویشرح الإجراءات المحددة
التي یتعين تنفيذها في النهج المتكامل للمجلس ضمن هذا الإطار الزمني.‏
لمزید من المعلومات حول خطة العمل وإطار عمل الدمج والوصول للمعاقين التابعة لموناش باللغة العربية أو في
أو وحدة التخطيط وتنمية المجتمع المحلي
تصميم آخر،‏ یرجى الاتصال على رقم المساعدة
For more information about the Monash Disability Access and Inclusion
اللغویة 9321 5480
Framework and Action Plan in Cantonese or in another format please contact
على الرقم 9518. 3625
the Language Assist number 9321 5481 or the Community Planning and
Development Unit on 9518 3625.
CANTONESE:
『2009-2013 年 Monash 殘 障 服 務 獲 取 和 包 容 框 架 及 行 動 計 劃 』 是 一 個 戰 略 性
框 架 , 載 明 市 議 會 將 如 何 解 決 服 務 獲 取 和 包 容 事 宜 , 以 確 保 殘 障 人 士 能 有 機 會
全 面 參 與 Monash 生 活 的 所 有 方 面 。
該 框 架 載 明 市 議 會 在 今 後 四 年 內 的 工 作 優 先 重 點 , 並 確 定 在 此 時 間 範 圍 內 將 在
市 議 會 整 體 工 作 中 實 施 的 具 體 行 動 。
如 需 以 廣 東 話 或 以 其 他 形 式 提 供 的 關 於 『Monash 殘 障 服 務 獲 取 和 包 容 框 架 及
行 動 計 劃 』 的 更 多 資 訊 , 請 聯 絡 語 言 協 助 專 線 (9321 5481) 或 社 區 規 劃 和 發
展 處 (9518 3625)。
T Y O F
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Greek
GREEK:
Η Πρόσβαση Αναπηρίας και Πλαίσιο Ενσωµάτωσης και Σχέδιο ∆ράσης 2009-
2013 του ∆ήµου Monash είναι ένα στρατηγικό πλαίσιο που περιγράφει τον
τρόπο µε τον οποίο ο ∆ήµος θα αντιµετωπίσει τα θέµατα πρόσβασης και
ενσωµάτωσης για να διασφαλίσει ότι δίνονται ευκαιρίες στα άτοµα µε
αναπηρία να συµµετέχουν πλήρως σε όλους τους τοµείς της ζωής στο
Monash.
Το πλαίσιο περιγράφει τις προτεραιότητες του ∆ήµου για τα επόµενα τέσσερα
χρόνια και καθορίζει τις συγκεκριµένες ενέργειες που θα εφαρµοστούν από
όλο τον µηχανισµό του ∆ήµου εντός αυτού του χρονοδιαγράµµατος.
Για περισσότερες πληροφορίες για την Πρόσβαση Αναπηρίας και Πλαίσιο
Ενσωµάτωσης και Σχέδιο ∆ράσης του ∆ήµου Monash στα ελληνικά ή άλλη
µορφή κειµένου µπορείτε να επικοινωνήσετε µε την υπηρεσία Γλωσσικής
Βοήθειας στον αριθµό 9321 5482 ή µε τη Μονάδα Κοινοτικού Σχεδιασµού και
Ανάπτυξης στο 9518 3625.
Italiano
ITALIAN:
Il Piano d’azione e Cornice di Monash 2009-2013 per l’accesso e l’inclusione
sulla disabilità è una cornice strategica che delinea il modo in cui il Comune
affronterà le questioni relative all’accesso e all’inclusione per fare in modo che
alle persone disabili sia data l’opportunità di partecipare appieno in ogni
aspetto della vita di Monash.
La cornice delinea le priorità del Comune per i prossimi quattro anni e
identifica le azioni specifiche che saranno messe in atto con un approccio
complessivo del Comune nel corso di questo periodo di tempo.
Per maggiori informazioni sul Piano d’azione e Cornice di Monash 2009-2013
per l’accesso e l’inclusione sulla disabilità in italiano o in un altro formato si
può contattare Language Assist al numero telefonico di 9321 5483 oppure la
Squadra per lo sviluppo e la pianificazione comunitaria (Community Planning
and Development Unit) al numero 9518 3625.
Disability Access and Inclusion Framework and Action Plan 2009 – 2013

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Korean
KOREAN:
모나시 장애인 서비스 이용과 참여 제도 및 액션 플랜 2009-2013 은 전략적인
제도로서, 시의회가 서비스 이용 및 참여 문제를 다루는 방법을 약술하여
장애인들이 모나시에서의 생활 전반에 전적으로 참여할 기회를 제공하도록
하는 것이 목적입니다.
이 제도는 차후 4 년간에 걸친 시의회의 우선순위를 약술하고 이 기간 동안에
시의회의 전반적인 방침으로 시행될 특정한 조치 사항들을 파악합니다.
모나시 장애인 서비스 이용과 참여 제도 및 액션 플랜을 한국어로 혹은 다른
포맷으로 더 자세히 알기를 원하시면 전화 9321 5484 로 혹은 지역사회 기획 및
발전 부서 (Community Planning and Development Unit)에 9518
3625 연락하십시오.
MANDARIN:
Mandarin
Monash 残 障 入 口 及 包 容 框 架 和 2009 年 至 2013 年 行 动 计 划 是 指 导 市 政 府 解 决
入 口 及 包 容 问 题 的 一 个 战 略 框 架 , 确 保 残 障 人 士 有 机 会 充 分 参 与 Monash 各 方
面 的 生 活 。
该 框 架 介 绍 了 市 政 府 未 来 四 年 里 的 工 作 重 点 、 指 明 了 在 此 期 间 市 政 府 全 面 贯 彻
实 施 的 具 体 行 动 纲 领 。
欲 了 解 更 多 有 关 Monash 残 障 入 口 及 包 容 框 架 和 行 动 计 划 的 中 文 资 料 或 其 它 形
式 的 资 料 , 请 拨 打 语 言 协 助 号 码 9321 5485 或 打 电 话 到 9518 3625 和 社 区 计 划
发 展 处 联 系 。
T Y O F
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Russian (русский)
RUSSIAN:
Система доступа для инвалидов, Структура вовлечения и Программа
действий района Монаш 2009-2013 – это перспективная структура,
описывающая то, как местный Совет будет решать проблемы, связанные
с предоставлением полного доступа для людей с инвалидностью и их
вовлечения во все аспекты общественной жизни в районе Монаш.
Данная структура указывает первоочередные задачи местного Совета на
последующие четыре года и устанавливает конкретные действия для
выполнения, которые будут предприниматься в целом местным Советом
в данный период времени.
Для получения более подробной информации о Системе доступа для
инвалидов, Структуре вовлечения и Программе действий района Монаш
на русском языке или в другом формате, пожалуйста, свяжитесь со
службой Языковая помощь (Language Assist) по телефону 9321 5486 или
с Отделом Социального планирования и развития по телефону 9518
3625.
Vietnamese
VIETNAMESE:
Khung mẫu Tiếp cận và Hội nhập cho Người Khuyết tật và Kế hoạch Hành
động 2009-2013 của Thành phố Monash là một khung mẫu có tính chất sách
lược trong đó đề ra những phương cách mà Hội đồng Thành phố sẽ đề xuất
các vấn đề về tiếp cận và hội nhập nhằm bảo đảm những người bị khuyết tật
phải được cung ứng cơ hội để họ có thể tham gia toàn diện vào mọi khía
cạnh của đời sống tại thành phố Monash.
Khung mẫu này cũng trình bày sơ lược những ưu tiên của Hội đồng Thành
phố trong bốn năm sắp tới và xác định những hành động đặc biệt sẽ được
thực hiện cho toàn thể phương thức của Hội đồng Thành phố trong thời hạn
đã được qui định này.
Muốn biết thêm thông tin về Khung mẫu Tiếp cận và Hội nhập cho Người
Khuyết tật và Kế hoạch Hành động bằng Việt ngữ hoặc dưới một hình thức
khác, xin liên lạc ban Trợ giúp Ngôn ngữ số 9321 5487 hoặc Phòng Phát triển
và Kế hoạch Cộng đồng số 9518 3625.
Disability Access and Inclusion Framework and Action Plan 2009 – 2013

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Introduction
The Monash Disability Access and Inclusion Framework and Action Plan 2009–2013
is a strategic framework that builds on Council’s current achievements and further
strengthens Council’s capacity to continue to address access and inclusion issues for
people with a disability, their families and carers.
The Framework demonstrates Council’s commitment to improve its responsiveness
and quality of its services, programs, facilities and systems in addressing the needs
and aspirations of people with a disability.
The Framework outlines how Council will address access and inclusion issues to
ensure that people with a disability are provided with opportunities to fully participate
in all aspects of life in Monash.
The Monash Disability Access and Inclusion Framework outlines Council’s priorities
for the next four years and identifies specific actions to be implemented in a whole of
Council approach within this time frame.
The implementation of the actions outlined in the Framework is the responsibility of
units across Council, as specified in the Action Plan, however responsibility for the
overall management, implementation and evaluation of the Framework and Action
Plan and reporting to Council and other entities lies with the Community Planning and
Development Unit.
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1. Disability Policy
1.1 Background
Council has reviewed its Disability Access and Inclusion Framework and Action Plan
2006-2008 to ensure that it remains relevant and addresses the current needs and
aspirations of people with a disability, their families and carers.
The review and development of the new policy and action plan is in line with the
legislative requirements of the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) 1992.
1.2 Achievements of Access and Inclusion
Monash City Council has worked in partnership with Units across the Organisation
and the community to ensure that meaningful outcomes are achieved for people with a
disability, their families and carers. The following represent key achievements over the
life of the 2006-2008 Framework, but are by no means an exhaustive list:
• Monash City Council has had a Disability Access and Inclusion Framework and
Action Plan since 2000
• Monash City Council lodged the Disability Access and Inclusion Framework and
Action Plan 2006-2008 with the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission
• Council employs a full-time Metro Access Project Officer through funding provided
by the Department of Human Services
• Council funds a full-time Community Development Officer position who has
responsibility for the Diversity portfolio including Disability
• Council established the Disability Consultative Committee, which has been operating
since 2000
• Council has produced the Monash City Council Mobility Map
• Council is an affiliate of the Companion Card
• Council has supported the Attendant Support Initiative pilot program undertaken by
the Monash Aquatic and Recreation Centre
• Council has strengthened partnerships for people with a disability, their carers and
organisations through the annual allocation of cash and in-kind funding from the
Community Support Program
• Council has developed a preliminary draft Building and facilities Access checklist
• Council has introduced the Monash Disability Awards
• Council holds an annual Disability Forum
• Council organised Disability Awareness Training for staff of the Neighbourhood
Houses in Monash
• Council has supported the installation of accessible technology at the Monash Libraries
• Implementation of capital improvements program for Council facilities and playgrounds
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1.3 Links to other Council reports
The Disability Access and Inclusion Framework and Action Plan 2009-2013
is in line with Council’s vision for the City of Monash as expressed in the Council Plan
2009-2013:
“ Our City will promote a sustainable, quality
environment where the community is actively
encouraged to participate in community and civic life to
enrich the cultural, social, environmental and economic
viability of our City”
The Policy and Action Plan is also guided by the strategic objectives of the Monash
Council Plan 2009-2013 including the strategic objective of ‘Our Community’ which
stipulates that:
“ A Monash community, where people of all ages, backgrounds
and abilities, are embraced and supported and can access
Council services they need. A Monash community that is
connected and involved in shaping decisions that affect them”
The Disability Access and Inclusion Framework and Action Plan 2009-2013 also links
with a number of other Council policies strategies and initiatives as follows:
• Metro Access Program (State Government funded Initiative)
• The Municipal Public Health Plan 2009-2013
• The Recreation Services Strategic Plan 2006-2010
• Municipal Early Year Plan
• Multicultural Framework and Action Plan 2009-2013
• Monash Arts and Community Development Strategy 2007-2010
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1.4 Aim of the Disability Access and Inclusion Framework
and Action Plan 2009-2013
The Disability Access and Inclusion Framework and Action Plan 2009-2013 provides an
over arching framework for Council to address the needs and aspirations of members
of the diverse Monash community from a whole of Council perspective and to eliminate
practices, which are discriminatory towards people with a disability.
1.5 Objectives of the Disability Access and Inclusion
Framework and Action Plan 2009-2013
• To ensure people with a disability are provided with opportunities to access and
participate in all facets of community life
• To ensure people with a disability have equitable and safe access to Council
premises
• To promote positive attitudes towards people with a disability
• To provide opportunities for Council staff to build competencies on disability issues
1.6 Key Principles
The Disability Access and Inclusion Framework and Action Plan 2009-2013 is guided
by the principles articulated in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons
with Disabilities. These include:
• Respect
• Non-discrimination
• Full and effective participation and inclusion
• Respect for difference
• Equality of opportunity
• Accessibility
• Equality between men and women
• Respect for the rights of children
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1.7 Requirements for Success and Budget Implications
The implementation of the actions in the Disability Access and Inclusion Framework
and Action Plan 2009-2013 will have budget and resource implications for Council.
Council will ensure that each budget cycle will give consideration to the allocation of
resources to support the implementation of the actions.
In addition Council will achieve successful implementation of the Disability Access and
Inclusion Framework and Action Plan by working in conjunction with Council staff, key
community organisations and agencies and through:
• coordination of a whole of Council approach
• support and empowerment of staff
• monitoring, evaluation and reporting to Council and the community
• building of participatory relationships with internal and external stakeholders
• inclusive consultation and engagement processes and structures
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2. Demographic Data
According to the ABS 2006 Census there were a total of 6,245 persons (2,535 males
and 3,710 females) who require daily assistance for core activities. This represents
3.8% of the total population of the City of Monash.
People who need assistance is a new variable for the 2006 Census and has been
developed to measure the number of people with a profound or severe disability, that
is people 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, or old age. It also includes people living in a high care setting such as a
nursing home, and those living with a carer at a private dwelling.
Areas of highest concentration for people who need assistance in Monash are
Ashwood; Chadstone; Mulgrave; and Glen Waverley.
There were a total of 2,149 persons aged 0-64 (1,132 males and 1,017 females) in
2006 who required daily assistance for core activities. This represents 1.6% of this
age group.
Of the 135,977 persons aged 15 years or over in 2006, some 13,609 persons (10%
of this age group) indicated that they provided unpaid assistance to a person with a
disability. Most carers were aged between 35-64 years, with more than 13% of this
age group providing unpaid assistance on a daily basis. There were also more than
1,000 people aged 15-24 years who provided care, which suggests a high degree of
responsibility for this age group.
Areas of highest concentration for carers in Monash are Chadstone; Clayton; Glen
Waverley; Mulgrave; and Wheelers Hill.
A further measure to assess the incidence of disability and the number of carers in the
community is to examine selected categories of Centrelink payments.
There were a total of 689 Carer Payments for Monash for the March quarter 2007. More
than 250 Carer Payments (35% of all payments) fall in Glen Waverley, Wheelers Hill
and Mulgrave.
There were a total of 4,500 Disability Support Pension Payments in Monash for the
March quarter 2007. It is estimated that 3.5% of the population aged 20-64 years is in
receipt of a Disability Support Pension payment. Disability is not confined or heavily
concentrated in a few small areas but is spread across the City of Monash.
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3. Policy Context
The Monash Disability Access and Inclusion Framework and Action Plan 2009‐2013
is guided by the following policies and legislation:
3.1 Local Government
Local Government Act 1989
Local Government in Victoria is administered under the Local Government Act 1989.
Local Government is responsible for providing a range of environmental, economic
and social services and ensuring resources are used efficiently and effectively to meet
the needs of the local community.
Specifically the role of Council includes:
• Acting as a representative government by taking into account the diverse needs of
the local community in decision-making
• Providing leadership by establishing strategic objectives and monitoring their
achievement
• Maintaining the viability of the Council by ensuring that resources are managed in a
responsible and accountable manner
• Advocating the interests of the local community to other communities and governments
• Acting as a responsible partner in government by taking into account the needs of
other communities
• Fostering community cohesion and encouraging active participation in civic life
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3.2 State
The Disability Act 2006
The Disability Act 2006 is the new legislation for people with a disability in Victoria
and provides for:
• A stronger whole-of-government, whole-of-community response to the rights and
needs of people with a disability, and
• A framework for the provision of high quality services and supports for people with
a disability
The objectives of the Disability Act 2006 are to:
• Advance the inclusion and participation in the community of people with a disability
• Promote a strategic whole of government approach in supporting the needs and
aspirations of people with a disability
• Facilitate the planning, funding and provision of services, programs and initiatives
for people with a disability
• Promote and protect the rights of people accessing disability services
• Support the provision of high quality disability services
• Make disability service providers accountable to people accessing those disability
services
• Ensure the efficient and effective use of public funds in providing disability services
The Victorian State Disability Plan 2002 – 2012
The Plan outlines the State Government’s vision for the future and reflects the
important issues that people with a disability, their parents, families and carers
have identified as their priorities. The key guiding principles that underpin the Plan
include:
• The Principle of Equality
• The Principle of Dignity and Self-Determination (Choice)
• The Principle of Diversity
• The Principle of non-discrimination
The key priority strategies include:
• Reorient disability supports
• Develop strong foundations for disability supports
• Promote and protect people’s rights
• Strengthen local communities
• Make public services accessible
Disability Access and Inclusion Framework and Action Plan 2009 – 2013

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Victorian Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities
The Victorian Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities is to protect and
promote human rights through:
• Setting out the human rights that Parliament specifically seeks to protect and promote
• Ensuring that all statutory provisions, whenever enacted, are interpreted so far as is
possible in a way that is compatible with human rights
• Imposing an obligation on all public authorities to act in a way that is compatible with
human rights
• Requiring statements of compatibility with human rights to be prepared in respect of
all Bills introduced into Parliament and enabling the Scrutiny of Acts and Regulations
Committee to report on such compatibility
• Conferring jurisdiction on the Supreme Court to declare that a statutory provision
cannot be interpreted consistently with a human right and requiring the relevant
Minister to respond to that declaration
Equal Opportunity Act 1995
The objectives of the Equal Opportunity Act 1995 are:
a) To promote recognition and acceptance of everyone’s right to equality of opportunity
b) To eliminate, as far as possible, discrimination against people
c) To eliminate, as far as possible, sexual harassment
d) To provide redress for people who have been discriminated against or sexually harassed
A Fairer Victoria
A Fairer Victoria is the State Government’s key social policy statement. A Fairer Victoria
focuses on supporting people with a disability, their families and carers through
initiatives designed to increase access to universal services, reduce barriers to
opportunity, and provide additional support.
A Fairer Victoria outlines the following priority actions:
• Increasing support for children with a disability and their families
• Providing new skills for young people with a disability
• Providing opportunities for respite
• Refurbishing and renewing residential facilities
• Establishing the Disability Housing Trust making Victoria a more accessible place for
people with a disability
• Promoting employment opportunities for people with a disability
• Providing additional resources for the Public Advocate
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3.3 Commonwealth
Disability Discrimination Act 1992
The Disability Discrimination Act 1992 covers all levels of Government in Australia and
makes it unlawful to discriminate against people with a disability. The Act also makes
it unlawful to discriminate against people who are an associate of a person with a
disability such as a friend, partner, carer or family member of the person.
The objectives of the Act are to eliminate, as far as possible, discrimination against
persons on the ground of disability in the areas of:
• Work, accommodation, education, access to premises, clubs and sport
• The provision of goods, facilities, services and land
• Existing laws
• The administration of Commonwealth laws and programs and
• To ensure, as far as practicable, that persons with disabilities have the same rights
to equality before the law as the rest of the community
• To promote recognition and acceptance within the community of the principle
that persons with disabilities have the same fundamental rights as the rest of the
community
Australian Standards
The Australian Standards is the nation’s peak non-government Standards organisation.
It is charged by the Commonwealth Government to meet Australia’s need for
contemporary, internationally aligned Standards and related services.
Building Code of Australia
The Building Code of Australia (BCA) is produced and maintained by the Australian
Building Codes Board on behalf of the Australian Government and State and Territory
Governments.
The BCA regulates access to and within buildings and it is uniform throughout Australia.
The BCA regulations are a minimum requirement only and are not sufficient to ensure
that premises are accessible to everyone. The BCA states broad requirements for
access and refers to Australian Standards for detail of the technical specifications.
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3.4 International
The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities
Protects the rights of all people with a disability around the world. The Convention is
guided by the following principles:
• Respect of the inherent dignity, autonomy, including the freedom to make one’s own
decisions, and independence of persons
• Non-discrimination
• Full and effective participation and inclusion in society
• Respect for difference and acceptance of persons with disabilities as part of human
diversity and humanity
• Equality of opportunity
• Accessibility
• Equality between men and women
• Respect for the evolving capacities of children with disabilities and for the right of
children with disabilities to preserve their identities
The explicit rights set out in the Convention are:
• Equality before the law without discrimination
• Right to life, liberty and security of the person
• Equal recognition before the law and legal capacity
• Freedom from torture
• Freedom from exploitation, violence and abuse
• Right to respect physical and mental integrity
• Freedom of movement and nationality
• Right to live in the community
• Freedom of expression and opinion
• Respect for privacy
• Respect for home and the family
• Right to education
• Right to health
• Right to work
• Right to an adequate standard of living
• Right to participate in political and public life
• Right to participate in cultural life
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3.5 Definition of Disability
The Federal Disability Discrimination Act (DDA 1992) defines disability to include
physical, intellectual, sensory, neurological and psychiatric disabilities. Specifically it
defines disability in relation to a person as follows:
• A total or partial loss of the person’s bodily or mental functions; or
• Total or partial loss of a part of the body; or
• The presence in the body of organisms causing disease or illness; or
• The presence in the body of organisms capable of causing disease or illness;
or
• The malfunction, malformation or disfigurement of a part of the person’s body;
or
• A disorder or malfunction that results in the person learning differently from a person
without the disorder or malfunction; or
• 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: presently exists; or previously existed but no longer
exists; or may exist in the future; or is imputed to a person.
3.6 Definition of Discrimination
The DDA (1992) provides protection against direct and indirect discrimination based
on disability. This includes direct or indirect discrimination in relation to employment,
education, accommodation or receiving services. It also includes situations where an
individual is being harassed because of their disability.
Direct discrimination occurs when a person or a group of people are treated less
favourably than another person or group of people in the same circumstances. Indirect
discrimination can be described when a policy or practice is applied equally but has
the result of unfairly excluding or disadvantaging an individual or a group of people.
Under the DDA (1992) it is also discrimination to treat a person with a disability less
favourably because they use an assistive device, are accompanied by an interpreter,
reader, assistant or carer or by a guide dog.
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4. Methodology
How the Disability Access and Inclusion Framework
and Action Plan 2009-2013 was developed
The Disability Access and Inclusion Framework
and Action Plan was developed in consultation
with the Monash community, Council staff,
the Monash Disability Consultative Committee
and the Access and Equity Cross Organisational Group.
The review process entailed the following phases:
Phase One:
Research and Audit Project
A Research and Audit project was undertaken to ascertain Council’s effectiveness in
communication with people with a disability and recommend strategies to strengthen
and further improve the effectiveness of the communication strategies to people with a
disability. The research project comprised of the following major tasks:
• An overview and analysis of current methods and programs
• A literature review
• A consultation process
• An analysis of findings
• Preparation of Report with Recommendations
Phase Two:
Consultation process
The consultation process entailed:
• A public consultation
• Focus group discussions with:
• Council staff
• The Monash Disability Consultative Committee
• The Monash Access and Inclusion Network
• The Access and Equity Cross Organisational Group
• People with a disability
• Carers
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Phase Three: Analysis
An analysis of the findings of the research has informed the development of the
Framework and Action Plan.
The development of the Framework has also been undertaken in consultation with
the Access and Equity Cross Organisational Group, which has been established to
oversee the development of the Framework and comprises of key staff from across the
organisation.
The information gathered from the public consultations and focus group discussions
with the community and staff has identified a number of key themes, which form the
priority areas for implementation by Council in the next four years. The actions in the
2009-2013 Action Plan aim to strengthen current Council practices and systems.
The key themes, which have emerged, include:
1. Communication and Information
People with a disability are provided with opportunities to be informed about the
workings of Council and of participating in the decision-making processes of
Council.
2. Service Delivery and Community Strengthening
Council services and programs are accessible to people with a disability and meet
their needs.
3. Physical and Natural Environment
Council facilities and open spaces are accessible and inclusive of the needs of
people with a disability.
4. Employment and Workforce Development
Council is committed to and promotes a culture that facilitates equal opportunity
and anti-discrimination in the workplace.
5. Leadership and Advocacy
Council demonstrates leadership on disability issues through strong advocacy and
lobbying.
6. Accountability
Council is accountable to the Monash community through transparent, open,
accessible, inclusive and consultative processes.
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Disability Access and Inclusion
Framework and Action Plan
2009-2013
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1. Communication and Information
Objective:
People with a disability are provided with opportunities to be informed
about the workings of Council and of participating in the decisionmaking
processes of Council.
Action Timelines Responsibility Outcome
1.1 Develop an Accessible
Communications Policy
and Guidelines for
Council.
1.2 Develop a current listing
of alternative format
information providers
and translation services
for use across Council
services and provide
resources to undertake
this.
2009 -2010 Community
Planning and
Development
Public Relations
City
Development
Public Relations
2010-2011 Community
Planning and
Development
Accessible
signage guidelines
developed.
Style manual
for accessible
publications
developed.
Guidelines for use
of Tactile Ground
Surface Indicators
(TGSIs) in the
City of Monash
developed.
Accessible
communications
checklists
developed.
Listing of
alternative
format providers
and translation
services has been
developed.
Council staff have
been trained
in the process
for translating
communications
and information
into accessible
formats.
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1. Communication and Information (continued)
Action Timelines Responsibility Outcome
1.3 Provide text alternatives
to PDF documents on
the Council website.
1.4 Make available large
print publications to high
need target groups.
1.5 Update Council’s
mobility map and make
it available in accessible
formats.
1.6 Prioritise ‘high use’
Council buildings to
be retrofitted with both
audible and visible
emergency alarms.
1.7 Advocate to VicRoads
for installation of audio
tactile signal devices at
all signalled pedestrian
crossings within the
municipality.
1.8 Braille and tactile
signage to be utilised on
all Council owned public
toilets as well as on key
information signage
across the municipality.
2010-2011 Community
Planning and
Development
Public Relations
Text alternatives
to PDF documents
are provided on
website.
2009-2010 Public Relations Large print
publications
are available to
high need target
groups.
2009-2010 Community
Planning and
Development
Public Relations
Mobility map has
been updated
and is available
accessible formats.
2010-2011 Urban Design Buildings have
been prioritised
and timelines
have been set for
retrofitting.
2009-2010 City
Development
Community
Planning and
Development
Letter has been
written to VicRoads
advocating for
installation of
audio tactile
signal devices
at all signalled
pedestrian
crossing in
Monash.
2010-2011 Urban Design Tactile and Braille
signage to be
installed.
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1. Communication and Information (continued)
Action Timelines Responsibility Outcome
1.9 Incorporate the
installation of hearing
augmentation in all new
Council buildings that
have meeting spaces.
1.10 Purchase a portable
phonic ear hearing
augmentation system
for use in meetings,
presentations and
training sessions.
1.11 Include the TTY number
in all generic Council
publicity and advertising
materials and information
provided to the public.
Inform staff of function of
National Relay Service
including Speech-to-
Speech Relay Service.
1.12 Investigate the provision
of an SMS contact
number for contact with
Council services.
1.13 Upgrade Council
website to WC3 AAA
level compliance.
2010-2011 Urban Design Hearing
augmentation has
been installed in
all new Council
buildings, which
have meeting
spaces.
2010-2011 Corporate
Administration
2010-2011 Public Relations
Other
departments
issuing
information
Portable phonic
ear hearing
augmentation
system has been
purchased.
The TTY number
has been included
in all Council
publicity and
advertising.
Council staff have
been trained on
functions National
Relay Service.
2010-2011 Public Relations Information has
been gathered as
to the feasibility of
an SMS contact
number for contact
with Council
services.
2010-2011 Public Relations Council website
has been
upgraded to
WC3 AAA level
compliance.
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1. Communication and Information (continued)
Action Timelines Responsibility Outcome
1.14 Investigate the use of
3 RPH (Radio station
run by Vision Australia
for Australians with
a print disability)
for dissemination of
information.
1.15 Undertake an
investigation into the
acquisition and upgrade
of technology that assists
people with a disability
to access Council
information.
1.16 Include in all Council
publications a clause
requesting participants
to ‘let Council know if
they have any particular
requirements’ in relation
to communication.
1.17 Utilise advocacy
agencies for information
dissemination.
2010-2011 Public Relations Information is
disseminated on
3 RPH
2010-2011 IT
Corporate
Administration
2010-2011 Public Relations
2009-2010
and then
ongoing
All Divisions
Community
Planning and
Development
All areas of
Council
Information has
been gathered
for the acquisition
and upgrade of
technology to
assist people
with a disability to
access Council
information.
This will enable
Council to
determine further
action regarding
upgrade of Council
technology.
Clause has
been included
in all Council
publications.
Council units
use advocacy
agencies for
information
dissemination.
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1. Communication and Information (continued)
Action Timelines Responsibility Outcome
1.18 Utilise key support
agencies for people with
a variety of disabilities to
seek feedback in relation
to communicating with
people with a disability in
specific client groups.
1.19 Utilise Council service
staff i.e. Home Care
staff, Childcare staff
in disseminating
information.
1.20 Undertake an Access
Appraisal of the Monash
Library service to
identify opportunities
for the library to act
as a key accessible
communications service
provider.
1.21 Develop an appropriate
Footpath Trading Policy
informed by HREOC
requirements and
Traders are educated in
relation to this.
2009-2010 Community
Planning and
Development
Annual forum
is held with key
support agencies
to seek feedback
in relation to
communicating
with people with a
disability.
2009-2010 All Council units Council service
staff are utilised for
dissemination of
information by all
Council units.
2010-2011 Arts and Culture
Community
Planning and
Development
2009-2010 Economic
Development
The Access
Appraisal of the
Monash Library
service has
been undertaken
and Council
has prepared
a report with
recommendations
for further action.
Footpath Trading
Policy has been
developed.
Information
sessions have
been provided to
Traders.
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1. Communication and Information (continued)
Action Timelines Responsibility Outcome
1.22 Provide staff training
across all areas
of Council to raise
awareness of the
communication
challenges and needs of
people with a disability.
1.23 Undertake an annual
community consultation
to obtain feedback in
relation to the progress
of improvements for
communicating with
people with a disability.
1.24 Incorporate a ‘Disability
Access’ specific award
into Council’s Business
Awards.
2010-2011 Human
Resources
2009-2010
and then
annually
Community
Planning and
Development
Community
Planning and
Development
2009-2010 Economic
Development
Training has been
incorporated into
Council’s corporate
training program
and is held
bi-annually.
Training on
communication
challenges is
additional training
to the Disability
Awareness
Training.
Community
consultation is held
annually.
A ‘Disability’
specific award has
been incorporated
into Council’s
Annual Business
Awards.
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2. Service Delivery and Community Strengthening
Objective:
Council services and programs are accessible to people with a
disability and meet their needs
Action Timelines Responsibility Outcomes
2.1 Continue to promote
Council’s Community
Grants program
to people with
a disability and
through networks,
organisations and
agencies supporting
people with a
disability.
2.2 Provide information
on HACC program
to people with a
disability, their carers
and families
Ensure HACC
program is inclusive of
and meets the needs
of people with a
disability, their carers
and families.
On-going
2009-2010
and then
ongoing
Community
Planning and
Development
Family and
Community
Care
Council’s Community
Grants Program is
promoted widely within
the disability sector.
Information disseminated
to people with a
disability, their carers
and families.
HACC staff to conduct
information sessions with
people with a disability,
carers and community
agencies supporting
people with a disability.
Review HACC programs
and services provided
by Monash to ensure
they meet the needs of
people with a disability
and are relevant to these.
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2. Service Delivery and Community Strengthening
(continued)
Action Timelines Responsibility Outcomes
2.3 Develop a Disability
Social Profile through
analysis of available
data from the 2006
Census and other
relevant sources
to assist Council in
planning for services
and programs
for people with a
disability, their families
and carers.
2.4 Develop a ‘At Risk
Register’ for people
in the Monash
community who
are living alone,
are elderly, have a
disability or are caring
for a person with a
disability.
2.5 Audit footpaths to
ensure that access
from disabled parking
bays to footpath is
uninterrupted.
2.6 Undertake a project
engaging with local
businesses to create a
greater awareness of
the benefits of having
an accessible and
inclusive business.
2010-2011 Community
Planning and
Development
Corporate
Planning
2010-2011 Family and
Community
Care
2010-2011 Economic
Development
Local Laws
2011-2012 Economic
Development
Metro Access
Officer
Disability Social
Profile developed and
publicised across
relevant Council units
and the community
and service sector in
Monash. Also to be
posted on Council’s
website.
‘At Risk Register’
developed.
Audit has been
completed and problem
spots have been
identified and prioritised
for correction.
Project has been
implemented and
evaluated.
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2. Service Delivery and Community Strengthening
(continued)
Action Timelines Responsibility Outcomes
2.7 Liaise with sporting
clubs in Monash and
encourage these to
incorporate recreation
programs for people
with a disability
into their existing
recreation initiatives.
2.8 Investigate
opportunities for
recreation activities
other than sport
for people with a
disability.
2.9 Develop a greater
awareness and
understanding of the
needs of people with
a disability and carers
from a Culturally and
Linguistically Diverse
backgrounds (CALD).
2.10 Develop a
consultation policy
that incorporates
a wide range of
consultation methods
and approaches that
are inclusive and
considerate of the
needs of people with
a disability including
Indigenous people
and those from CALD
backgrounds, their
carers and families.
2009-2010 Recreation
Services
Access for All
Abilities
2010-2011 Community
Planning and
Development
Information
and Arts
Other key
community
organisations
and agencies
2011-2012 Community
Planning and
Development
Family and
Community
Care
Recreation
Services
2012-2013 Community
Planning and
Development
Corporate
Administration
Public
Relations
Increased participation
of people with a disability
in sporting club activities
Identify opportunities
and publicise to key
stakeholders
Advocate for recreation
opportunities other than
sport to be provided by
relevant agencies and/or
organisations
Programs and
services become more
responsive and inclusive
of the needs of people
with a disability and
carers from CALD
backgrounds
Inclusive Consultation
Policy has been
developed and
publicised within Council
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3. Physical and Natural Environment
Objective:
Council facilities and open spaces are accessible and inclusive of the
needs of people with a disability
Action Timelines Responsibility Outcomes
3.1 Ensure that
consultation
processes about
Council projects are
inclusive of people
with a disability.
3.2 Explore opportunities
for improved access
to Council’s reception
counters to ensure
they are accessible
especially for people
who are using a
wheelchair.
3.3 Undertake an audit of
signage within Council
buildings and open
spaces to ensure
Council meets DDA
requirements.
3.4 Ensure that Council
parks and gardens
provide equitable
access and user
friendly facilities
2009-2010
and then
ongoing
All Units
2010-2011 Corporate
Administration
Community
Services
People with a disability,
their families and
carers are included in
consultation processes.
Council’s reception
counters have been
made accessible.
2010-2011 Urban Design Council has completed
audit and has prioritised
and costed the
installation of appropriate
signage.
2010-2012 Urban Design Complete an audit
of Council parks
and gardens and
recommend to Council
improvements where
required
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4. Employment and Workforce Development
Objective:
Council is committed to and promotes a culture that facilitates equal
opportunity and anti-discrimination in the workplace
Action Timelines Responsibility Outcomes
4.1 Review current recruitment
and employment policies to
ensure they comply with the
Equal Opportunity Act and
the Disability Discrimination
Act.
4.2 Review position descriptions
and job advertisements to
ensure they comply with the
Equal Opportunity Act and
the Disability Discrimination
Act upon advertisement as
positions become vacant.
4.3 Provide training to Managers
including selection panels to
ensure they have the skills
to support people with a
disability as this relates to
recruitment and employment.
Incorporate disability issues
about inclusion and support
in Council’s Corporate
Training Program.
4.4 Undertake an audit of
evacuation and emergency
plans to ensure they meet
the needs of people with a
disability.
2010-2011 Human
Resources
2010-2011 Human
Resources
2010-2011
and then
bi-annually
Human
Resources
2010-2011 Corporate
Administration
Review
conducted
to ensure
compliance.
Review
conducted
to ensure
compliance.
Training
incorporated
into Council’s
corporate
training calendar.
Training included
in Corporate
Training
Program.
Audit has been
completed and
amendments
have been made
to emergency
and evacuation
plans.
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5. Leadership and Advocacy
Objective:
Council demonstrates leadership on disability issues through strong
advocacy and lobbying
Action Timelines Responsibility Outcomes
5.1 Council continues to advocate
to other levels of Government
on issues of importance to
people with a disability, their
carers and families.
5.2 Council continues to support
the Monash Disability
Consultative Committee and
the Monash Access and
Inclusion Network.
5.3 Council continues to actively
participate at Regional
and State wide Networks
(such as the Victorian Local
Government Planner Network)
that support and promote
issues impacting on people
with a disability, their carers
and families.
5.4 Council continues to meet with
peak bodies and other key
stakeholders to seek feedback
on issues important to people
with a disability. This will assist
Council to effectively advocate
for issues to be addressed
by Council where appropriate
and/or other entities.
5.5 Hold an annual forum with
people with a disability and
other key stakeholders to seek
feedback on issues important
to people with a disability,
their families and carers.
On-going
On-going
On-going
On-going
2009-2010
and then
on-going
Community
Planning and
Development
Community
Planning and
Development
Community
Planning and
Development
Community
Planning and
Development
Community
Planning and
Development
Issues are
raised and
action is taken.
Membership of
DCC and MAIN
is reviewed
and updated
according to
their Terms of
Reference.
Monash is
an active
participant.
Meetings are
held on a
regular basis.
Annual forum
held.
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6. Accountability
Objective:
Council is accountable to the Monash community through transparent,
open, accessible, inclusive and consultative processes
Actions Timelines Responsibility Outcomes
6.1 Implement actions within
specified timelines.
6.2 Undertake audit of the
Disability Action Plan
annually and report to
Council, the Disability
Consultative Committee
and the community on
progress.
2009-2013 Community
Planning and
Development
to oversee and
drive whole
of Council
implementation
2009-2013 Community
Planning and
Development
Actions are
implemented within
timelines.
Annual progress
reports presented
to Council on the
implementation of
actions.
Progress reports
to be posted on
Council’s website.
6.3 Undertake major review
and update of the
Disability Policy and
Action Plan every four
years.
2012-2013 Community
Planning and
Development
Annual progress
report is publicised
within Council
(CMT, Managers
and Coordinators
Group, Access
and Equity Cross
Organisational
Group).
Disability Policy
and Action Plan
reviewed and
updated.
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6. Accountability (continued)
Actions Timelines Responsibility Outcomes
6.4 Meet with the Access
and Equity Cross
Organisational Group
(internal) quarterly
to monitor the
implementation of the
Disability Action Plan.
6.5 Integrate major
actions into Council’s
business planning
process and allocate
resources to ensure their
implementation.
6.6 Develop accountability
of implementation
of actions via key
performance indicators
for all managers.
Quarterly
Community
Planning and
Development
2009-2010 Community
Planning and
Development
2010-2011 Community
Planning and
Development
All Divisions
The Access and
Equity Cross
Organisational
Group has met
quarterly and has
contributed to
the audit of the
Disability Action
Plan.
Major actions are
integrated into
Council’s business
planning and
resources have
been committed.
Performance
indicators have
been developed
and included in
managers’ business
plans.
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References
United Nations,
The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities
Victorian Government,
Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities Act 2006, 2006
Commonwealth Government,
Disability Discrimination Act 1992
Victorian Government Department of Human Services,
Victorian State Disability Plan 2002-2012, 2002
Victorian Government Department of Human Services,
The Disability Act 2006, 2007
Department of Planning and Community Development,
A Fairer Victoria, 2008
Victorian Government,
Equal Opportunity Act 1995
Victorian State Government,
Local Government Act 1989
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Definition of Terms
Access and Equity Cross Organisational Group (A&E COG)
The A&E COG is an internal committee formed in 2008 to link areas across Council
to monitor the development and implementation of the Disability Access and Inclusion
Framework and Action Plan and the Multicultural Framework and Action Plan across
the organisation.
Disability Consultative Committee (DCC)
The DCC provides advice to Council on issues relating to the needs of people with a
disability, their carers and families and on the implementation of Council’s Disability
Access and Inclusion Framework. The DCC comprises people with a disability, carers
of people with a disability and disability service providers. A Councillor chairs the DCC.
Accessible
Able to be utilised by all people with a disability.
Access Audits
A formal checklist and report about accessibility that includes considerations in regard
to people with a disability including people with a physical disability, vision or hearing
impairments.
Alternative formats
Alternative formats include audiocassette, captioning, large print, plain English version,
video, and languages other than English.
Alternative Communication
Alternative communication includes Auslan interpreters, TTY (Telephone Typewriter)
phones, National Relay Service for telephonic communication with people who are
deaf or have speech communication difficulties.
Assistive Devices
Compensatory equipment used to overcome a physical or sensory disability including
hand held, electronic and prosthetic aids.
Assistive Listening Devices (Hearing Augmentation)
Compensatory equipment used for people who are hard-of-hearing to augment sound
in room, auditorium or similar space.
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Audio Loop
Audio loops consist of an amplifier and long cable, which transmits sound from a
public address system directly to the hearing aids of people who are positioned within
the loop cable. Audio loops are portable and are available for hire or purchase to
assist people with hearing impairment at public events or meetings. They can also be
permanently built into buildings at the time of construction.
Audible Emergency Alarms
Are alarms that can be heard by a person.
Auslan Interpreting Service (Australian Sign Language)
Auslan is the standard Australian sign language and is recognised by the Australian
Government as a legitimate language with its own linguistic rules, syntax and grammar
and is considered to have equal status to other languages. Auslan interpreters are
available through VIC Deaf.
Audio Book
An audio taped recording of a person reading a book.
Telephone Typewriter (TTY)
A device attached to a telephone line that allows callers to communicate by typing
messages that are seen by the person at the other end of the line in real time.
Braille
Is the translation of text into raised dots on a page for people who have a vision
impairment.
Braille Signage
Signage incorporating a Braille component, which will assist interpretation by a person
with vision impairment, who can read Braille.
Barriers
Any law, system, building, attitude, program or policy that prevents a person’s full
participation in the community.
CALD
Cultural and Linguistic Diversity refers to the wide range of cultural groups that make
up the Australian population and Australian communities. It includes groups and
individuals who differ according to religion, race, language or ethnicity. CALD is
considered a more inclusive term than NESB (non-English speaking backgrounds)
as it also includes people whose first language is English and/or are of Anglo-Celtic
tradition. Be aware that CALD and NESB are both appropriate terms to use and that
where these terms are used it should fit the context.
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Companion Card
The purpose of the Companion Card Scheme is to assist people who have a severe or
profound disability to access leisure and recreational opportunities without the financial
burden associated with the admission costs to sport, entertainment and recreation
venues/events for an accompanying carer.
International Symbol of Access
An international recognised symbol consisting of a stylised figure in a wheelchair on
a plain square background. The colour of the figure is white on a blued background,
with the figure facing right.
International Deafness Symbol
Should incorporate a stylised ear and diagonal flash on a plain square background.
The symbol is white on a blue background.
Sign Language Interpretation Symbol
The symbol indicates that Sign Language Interpretation is provided for a lecture, tour,
meeting, forum, conference or other event.
Large Print
Large print is useful for people who have some vision but cannot read standard size
print. Large print is useful for many people and requires minimal equipment to prepare.
Large print is generally a print size of 18 points or greater (if possible, items produced
specifically for an individual should be in a font appropriate for that person).
Metro Access
Metro Access is a joint initiative with the Department of Human Services and Local
Government. The goal of Metro Access is to enhance the capacity of local communities
and disability supports across metropolitan Victoria to plan and support people with
a disability to maximise opportunities for community membership and participation.
Monash City Council has in place a full-time Metro Access position.
Monash Access & Inclusion Network (MAIN)
MAIN was established in 2005 and aims to actively increase the opportunities for people
with a disability, carers, families, workers and interested others to share information,
improve & promote community inclusive opportunities, identify gaps, advocate for
change and work in partnership to overcome current issues affecting people living
with a disability and their carers in Monash.
Mobility Map
A map that provides a guide to the location of accessible facilities and services e.g.
designated accessible parking bays, unisex accessible toilets, accessible pathways,
accessible telephones etc.
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National Relay Service (NRS)
The NRS is an Australia-wide telephone access service provided for people who are
deaf or have a hearing or speech impairment. It is also available to anyone who wants
to call a person with a hearing or speech impairment.
Speech-to-Speech Relay Service (STS)
Speech-to-Speech (STS) is one form of Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS). TRS
is a service that allows a person with hearing and speech disabilities to access the
telephone system to place and receive telephone calls. STS enables persons with
a speech disability to make telephone calls using their own voice (or an assistive
voice device). Like all forms of TRS, STS uses specially trained operators – called
Communications Assistants – to relay the conversation back and forth between the
person with the speech disability and the other party to the call.
Tactile Ground Surface Indicators (TGIs)
A tile with raised projections to indicate either danger or a change in level, or to act as
a directional guide to people with vision impairments.
Tactile Signage
Consists of raised letters on signs to enable touch interpretation by a person with vision
impairment. Signs should be located at an appropriate height to enable ease of reach
by a person using a wheelchair.
Universal Access
A modern term that indicates an “Access for All” philosophy that promotes inclusive
practices across all walks of life and all disabilities.
Visual Emergency Alarms
Must be able to be seen by a person with hearing impairment. Personal vibrating
alarms can also be considered.
W3C Compliance
Compliance with a series of guidelines accepted worldwide that specify the appropriate
standards to ensure that a website is usable by people with a disability.
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Useful Resources
Monash City Council
(03) 9518 3555
www.monash.vic.gov.au
Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission
www.hreoc.gov.au
(02) 9284 9600
Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission
www.humanrightscommission.vic.gov.au
(03) 9281 7111
Victorian Department of Human Services
www.dhs.vic.gov.au
1300 650 172
Municipal Association of Victoria
www.mav.asn.au
(03) 9667 5555
Diversity @ Work Australia
www.diversityatwork.com.au
(03) 9608 0900
Vision Australia
www.visionaustralia.org.au
1300 847 466
Australian Bureau of Statistics
www.abs.org.au
1300 135 070
Action on Disability within Ethnic Communities
www.adec.org.au
(03) 9480 1666
Australian Building Codes Board
www.abcb.gov.au
1300 134 631
Disability Online
www.disability.vic.gov.au
Office for Disability
www.officefordisability.vic.gov.au
(03) 9208 3015
Vic Deaf – Victorian Deaf Society
www.vicdeaf.com.au
(03) 9473 1111
Disability Access and Inclusion Framework and Action Plan 2009 – 2013

Community
Planning and
Development
The Monash Disability Access and Inclusion Framework 2009-2013 is available in
a range of formats accessible to people with different types of disabilities.
These formats include Braille, large print, audiotape and CD-Rom.
For information in languages other than English call Monash Language Assist:
Council contact details
Monash City Council
293 Springvale Road
Glen Waverley
VIC 3150
Telephone: (03) 9518 3555
Facsimile: (03) 9518 3444
TTY: 9518 3655
Website: www.monash.vic.gov.au
Email: mail@monash.vic.gov.au
C I T Y O F
M O N A S H
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