DISCUSSION DRAFT
NSW Disability Inclusion Plan
Discussion paper and draft outline
October 2014
FACS | NSW Disability Inclusion Plan – Discussion Paper
1
DISCUSSION DRAFT
Contents
1.
Introduction to discussion paper ........................................................................................ 4
2.
Disability inclusion policy in NSW ...................................................................................... 7
3.
Leading the way ................................................................................................................ 9
4.
Focus for action ............................................................................................................... 10
A Liveable communities ..................................................................................................... 10
B Employment .................................................................................................................... 12
C Attitudes and behaviour ................................................................................................... 14
D Systems and processes .................................................................................................. 16
5.
Priority populations .......................................................................................................... 17
5.1 Children with disability .................................................................................................. 17
5.2 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with disability ............................................ 18
5.3 People with disability from diverse cultural backgrounds ............................................... 19
5.4 Women with disability ................................................................................................... 20
6.
APPENDIX A - Activities to support the NSW Disability Inclusion Plan ............................ 21
6.1 Disability Inclusion Action Planning ............................................................................... 21
6.2 Learning and development............................................................................................ 22
6.3 Local government engagement ..................................................................................... 22
6.4 Strengthening the voice of people with disability in the community ............................... 22
7.
APPENDIX B - Definitions and principles......................................................................... 24
7.1 A definition of disability.................................................................................................. 24
7.2 Principles of Disability Inclusion in the Act .................................................................... 24
7.3 Principles of inclusion ................................................................................................... 24
8.
APPENDIX C - Context for the NSW DIP 2014–18 .......................................................... 26
8.1 Transition to a National Disability Insurance Scheme .................................................... 26
8.2 Accessing disability services – Ability Links .................................................................. 26
9.
APPENDIX D - Disability data snapshot NSW ............................................................... 27
10.
APPENDIX E - Evaluation, reporting, governance and accountability ............................ 27
11.
APPENDIX F - Feedback and involvement .................................................................... 28
FACS | NSW Disability Inclusion Plan – Discussion Paper
2
DISCUSSION DRAFT
Acronyms used in this paper
DIA
NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014
DIAP
Disability Inclusion Action Plans
FACS
Department of Family and Community Services
NDIS
National Disability Insurance Scheme
NDS
National Disability Strategy
NSW DIP
NSW Disability Inclusion Plan
Discussion paper status
This paper has been drafted as a discussion paper to support the development of strategies
and actions that may be included in the NSW Disability Inclusion Plan (NSW DIP).
The NSW Government values the input of people with disability and the general community in
finalising the NSW DIP.
The strategies and actions within this paper are draft initiatives and not endorsed or
agreed to by any NSW Government department at this time. They reflect the input and
discussion undertaken across the disability sector and the wider community to date.
The structure, content and presentation of the plan will be finalised following consultation.
FACS | NSW Disability Inclusion Plan – Discussion Paper
3
DISCUSSION DRAFT
1. Introduction to discussion paper
The discussion paper has been developed to provide people with disability and the community
with an outline of the proposed structure, content and priorities for the NSW Disability Inclusion
Plan 2014–2018 (NSW DIP). Elements of the NSW DIP have been the subject of previous
discussions and consultation. This paper has been developed to guide the finalisation of
important fundamentals of the NSW DIP.
The NSW DIP is a requirement of the NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014 (DIA) passed by the
NSW Parliament in August 2014 and will formally commence in December 2014. The NSW DIP
will address the requirements of the DIA as well as the NSW responsibilities under the National
Disability Strategy.
The NSW DIP and the DIA together provide the direction for the most significant disability
reforms for NSW. They provide the basis for disability inclusion planning across all government
departments, and support the transition to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) in
conjunction with other policies, agreements and transition plans.
The ultimate goal is to build a more inclusive NSW for all people with disability. The actions in
the plan target the broader community, to break down barriers created by the community which
prevent full access and inclusion for people with disability.
In developing the NSW DIP to this point, we have listened to people with disability, their carers,
family and the community, who overwhelmingly support the areas that will be the focus of
action. The NSW DIP will replace the current National Disability Strategy (NDS) NSW
Implementation Plan 2012–2014.
It is especially important to recognise this plan is not just about people with disability. Many of
the barriers that prevent people with disability enjoying all the opportunities available to them in
the community are often the result of a lack of planning, understanding or consideration. The
whole community needs to be involved if we are to address these “big” barriers and tackle the
difficult issues.
The NSW DIP contains actions the NSW Government can lead on to influence the wider
community and business sectors to build a more inclusive NSW.
Disability reform in NSW and beyond
The NSW Government has made a significant commitment to supporting disability inclusion
over the last eight years. The government has invested more than $2 billion dollars in additional
funding for disability services through Stronger Together and more recently Ready Together. It
has also committed to the implementation of the National Disability Strategy and was the first
state to sign on to the NDIS.
These policies have a strong focus on the development of the rights of people with disability –the right to equality, respect, dignity and control of their own lives. This is in line with the United
Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities which is also supported in the DIA
and the NSW DIP.
The NSW DIP will support the new requirement for all NSW Government departments and local
government to develop and report on Disability Inclusion Action Plans (DIAP). DIAPs will enable
departments to implement the NSW DIP that supports greater inclusion and makes real
FACS | NSW Disability Inclusion Plan – Discussion Paper
4
DISCUSSION DRAFT
changes to delivering services to people with disability. The vast majority of actions that were
outlined in the NDS NSW implementation Plan will be incorporated into relevant departmental
DIAPs.
The NSW DIP will outline the broad principles and focus for inclusion activities and highlighting
populations for specific consideration. The actions in the NSW DIP will require the attention of
all levels of government and the community to be successful. The actions outlined in the NSW
DIP are long-term goals and most actions will continue beyond the life of the current plan.
DIAPs by each NSW Government department will include the detail of how these areas of focus
will be made to happen in practice.
In early discussions with NSW Government departments and disability stakeholders, it was
recommended the NSW DIP should focus on big issues that require a concerted whole-ofgovernment response and sustained effort over time.
Four areas of focus were identified through research, consultation and analysis:




creating liveable communities
supporting access to employment
developing positive community attitudes and behaviours
accessible systems and processes.
In addition, the NSW DIP will also focus on the groups identified in the DIA who are particularly
vulnerable or warrant specific attention. These groups are:



women and children with disability
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with disability
people with disability from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
The principles in the DIA and the NSW DIP support the current state and national developments
in disability policy. The NSW DIP seeks to create a society in which people with disability have
more choice and control over their lives and the services they access are provided in a way that
acknowledges their rights and treats them as individuals.
Keeping the NSW DIP relevant in an evolving disability landscape
The NSW DIP will need to adapt and change as the disability sector changes as a result of the
introduction of the NDIS and other reforms. Many of the actions in the NSW DIP will take time to
implement and change over time.
The NSW DIP will be an adaptable, evolving plan that develops with ongoing involvement and
consultation from people with disability and the broader community as it is implemented. It will
take advantage of available technology and communication channels, including web-based
consultation to provide an additional avenue for people with disability to have their voices heard.
The NSW DIP will be an innovative plan that will continually inform people on how to become
and remain involved.
As shown in Figure 1, the NSW DIP will be introduced at a time when there are several other
plans and policies in place. The NSW DIP has a clear focus on increasing the accessibility and
inclusion of all people with disability across the community. The initiatives of the plan will focus
on how the government will engage other partners to support the focus areas and strategies of
the NSW DIP.
FACS | NSW Disability Inclusion Plan – Discussion Paper
5
DISCUSSION DRAFT
Figure 1: Relationship of major policy initiatives to the NSW Disability Inclusion Plan
FACS | NSW Disability Inclusion Plan – Discussion Paper
6
DISCUSSION DRAFT
2. Disability inclusion policy in NSW
This section summarises the important laws and policies which are guiding the
development of the NSW DIP.
NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014
The passing of the DIA in August 2014 leads NSW into a new era of access and inclusion for
people with disability in this state. The DIA has considered the major national and International
reforms in its development.
The principles in the DIA provide a benchmark for business and community sectors, reinforcing
the commitment to changing attitudes and supporting mainstream inclusion of people with
disability across all aspects of community life.
The DIA will protect the rights of people with disability and promote community inclusion now
and into the future.
United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with
Disabilities
As a member of the Council of Australian Governments (COAG), the NSW Government (is
committed to supporting the practical implementation of the United Nations Convention on the
Rights of Persons with Disabilities in 2008.
The convention emphasises that people with disability have the same human rights as all other
people. It commits participating governments to take the necessary steps to ensure these rights
can be effectively exercised and that as far as possible barriers to their exercise are removed.
Implementing rights under the convention is not limited to providing specialist disability services.
It requires a commitment to ensure mainstream services are provided in a way that does not
directly or indirectly discriminate against people with disability fully participating, along with other
people. This focus on mainstream access means all levels of government, as well as the
community, have a role to play in delivering the convention’s aims.
National Disability Strategy 2010-2020 and NDS NSW
Implementation Plan 2012-2014
The National Disability Strategy (NDS) is the 10-year COAG commitment to improve the lives of
people with disability across Australia. It was developed following ratification of the United
Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
In NSW the NDS NSW Implementation Plan was developed as the initial response to the
national strategy. The NDS NSW Implementation Plan outlined 136 actions undertaken by
government departments to support the directions of the NDS. Many of the initiatives were part
of the NSW Government’s existing agenda to build a strong disability sector that could provide
person-centred approaches and enhance their rights and opportunities to engage in the
community.
FACS | NSW Disability Inclusion Plan – Discussion Paper
7
DISCUSSION DRAFT
Since the launch of the NDS and NSW Implementation Plan, the disability landscape has
changed dramatically. The NSW DIP and disability inclusion action planning will build on the
work commenced under the NDS NSW Implementation Plan. Many of the ongoing actions from
the NDS NSW Plan will be incorporated into departmental DIAPs.
Q1. Is it clear how the NSW Disability Inclusion Plan fits with the other policies supporting
the rights of people with disability?
FACS | NSW Disability Inclusion Plan – Discussion Paper
8
DISCUSSION DRAFT
3. Leading the way
This section outlines the leadership role and potential actions that the NSW
Government may take to support disability access and inclusion – actions are yet
to be finalised.
The NSW Government has made a commitment to inclusion for people with disability. A fully
inclusive society requires actions beyond the influence or control of the NSW Government.
The government will use the tools and levers available – such as procurement to encourage
those outside the public sector to adopt practices and systems to ensure participation of people
with disability in the community is maximised. These experiences could range from supporting
diversity plans as part of contract management to identifying the benefits. To this end the
government will:
POTENTIAL ACTIONS

Support the community to recognise the needs, benefits and responsibility of addressing
issues of access inequality and human rights through public information and education.

Establish the social and economic business case for disability inclusion by supporting
research and economic analysis on the costs and benefits of greater inclusion for people
with disability in NSW.

Use the available levers and influence of government to encourage organisations dealing
with the NSW Government to adopt inclusive principles and practices such as those
outlined in the NSW Disability Inclusion Act.

Reiterate the NSW Government’s commitment to preferentially consider the purchasing of
goods and services from Australian Disability Employment organisations where reasonable
and appropriate

Work with local government to support development of effective inclusive community
planning and development.

Commit all NSW Government departments and local government to include development of
DIAPs as a part of their strategic business planning processes and to allocate the
responsibility for this at executive level.

Ensure appropriate checks and measures are in place to report on the progress of
implementation and respond to these reviews in a timely manner.
FACS | NSW Disability Inclusion Plan – Discussion Paper
9
DISCUSSION DRAFT
Q2. What other actions could government take to influence the adoption of inclusive
practices across the general community?
Are there case studies or other examples are available to illustrate how this may occur?
What case studies or examples What case studies o
4. Focus for action
This section outlines the four areas of focus for the NSW DIP and potential
actions suggested to date in each of these areas. These areas of focus will be
further discussed and refined as part of the ongoing consultation process.
The NSW DIP 2014–2018 will focus on whole-of-government actions to address barriers to
inclusion. Actions in the plan may be progressively implemented over the next four years, but
may have longer timeframes.
Four areas of focus were identified by people with disability and determined through a
collaborative approach supported by research, consultation and analysis. These are:
A.
B.
C.
D.
Creating liveable communities
Supporting access to employment
Developing positive community attitudes and behaviours
Accessible systems and processes
A Liveable communities
Liveable communities are about more than just an accessible built environment. Creating
liveable communities will focus attention and resources on the elements of community life that
most people desire. This includes things such as accessible housing, access to transport,
community recreation, social engagement and universal design.
The liveable communities focus will bring together the common needs of a number of groups
within the community including older people, people with disability and their carers. Work has
commenced with the endorsement of the Ministerial Advisory Committee on Ageing, the Carers
Advisory Council and the Disability Council NSW to explore opportunities to promote liveable
communities across these groups. The commonality of need is far greater than the differences
between these groups, and as such it could be to the disability sector’s advantage to partner
with larger groups and stakeholders to achieve common goals.
There is also the opportunity to partner with local governments as they have the responsibility
for implementing many of the initiatives that lead to more liveable communities. Local
governments are already very active in this space. The following steps have been undertaken to
underpin the development of the NSW DIP 2014-2018.
FACS | NSW Disability Inclusion Plan – Discussion Paper
10
DISCUSSION DRAFT
What has informed us to date?

Research on the disability access planning of local councils across NSW which has
highlighted areas for development and provided examples of locally developed best
practice.

Development of a policy paper on World Health Organisation (WHO) Age Friendly
Communities and other initiatives.

Roundtable discussions with disability sector representatives and local government to
identify priority actions and potential interventions.

Presentation to the Ministerial Advisory Committees on Ageing, Carers and Disability to
determine priorities and potential actions.

A forum for local government – focusing on disability reforms and the development of
liveable communities in September 2014. The forum was conducted to provide
information on and gain feedback on supporting the development of liveable communities
and Disability Inclusion Action Planning.

Development of a FACS-wide local government engagement framework to support the
roll-out of FACS locals and local services planning.

Engagement with the design and planning areas to discuss opportunities for furthering
principles of universal design and inclusive planning.

Build stronger connections between state and local government to better identify issues
and share existing resources to promote ways of working together such as local
government forums.
The following actions are proposed to support the development of liveable communities.
Additional actions would be included over the course of the four year plan.
POTENTIAL ACTIONS

The NSW Government will provide funding to support the development of sustainable
projects and focused pilots supporting “Liveable Communities NSW”.

FACS will facilitate local district planning groups involving participation from all relevant
departments and local government, to identify local strategies and coordinate projects.

Local businesses and chambers of commerce will be encouraged to join the liveable
communities forums.

Over the first 12 months of the NSW DIP, the NSW Government will identify appropriate
mechanisms for supporting the development of grass roots community projects under the
Liveable Communities NSW banner.
FACS | NSW Disability Inclusion Plan – Discussion Paper
11
DISCUSSION DRAFT
DIAP guidelines will direct departments to include strategies that support, coordinated planning,
adoption of principles of universal design principles and supporting the development of inclusive
communities including the following:
Links to DIAP guidelines:

All NSW Government departments and local governments will establish or build on existing
community engagement mechanisms that involve people with disability who are employees,
customers or service users, and members of the local community throughout the planning
and decision making processes

NSW Government departments and local governments will identify strategies that support
inclusive practice in the broader community such as purchasing, recruitment, sponsorship
or service delivery targeting inclusive businesses, organisations and community groups.

All NSW Government department DIAPs will include specific actions that improve
accessibility of the built environment and accessibility within workspaces, service areas and
public spaces including such things as signage and information, accessible toilets and other
facilities.

Specific issues will require targeted action and may be the subject of a Liveable
Communities forum include:


transport

sport and recreation

arts and cultural events including multicultural and religious celebrations

community events and events management and coordination

public facilities such as toilets and seating.
NSW Government departments and local government will publicly advertise the methods by
which consultation and input will be sought and how the community can become involved.
B Employment
Employment and economic security for most people are closely related. Employment
contributes to feelings of self-worth, social interaction and mental health, and increases
opportunities to support individual choice and control. Employment rates for people with
disability are significantly lower than those without disability across all sectors.
People with disability also say they experience barriers obtaining reasonable adjustments in the
workplace to support and enable them in undertaking the inherent requirements of their job. An
additional barrier is inequitable career development opportunities once in a job.
There has been a decline in representation of people with disability in the NSW public sector
workforce over the last few years. The Public Service Commission has undertaken research to
identify causes for the decline in employment, and to identify both the barriers and issues facing
people with disability in the workforce as well as the potential strategies to increase recruitment
FACS | NSW Disability Inclusion Plan – Discussion Paper
12
DISCUSSION DRAFT
and retention rates. Their report will be published in late 2014. The initiatives adopted by the
public sector can influence broader employment practices.
What has informed us to date?

The Public Service Commission and FACS have undertaken research on employment of
people with disability in the NSW public sector. Report recommendations are expected to
be released later in 2014 and will provide a focus for action in public sector employment.

Liaison with peak employment organisations such as Australian Network on Disability and
review of access practices in the broader business community.

Research on Disability Inclusion Action Planning has identified specific best practices for
supporting employment.

Engagement with Commonwealth Government and Australian Human Rights Commission.
A range of actions and recommendations will be identified in the Public Service Commission
research report on employment of people with disability. These recommendations will cover
issues such as how to increase recruitment, support retention, and support suitable and
reasonable adjustment and flexible work practices.
To extend the influence of the NSW DIP beyond government, other potential actions include
those that support the development of partnerships across the community, establish the
business case for inclusion and highlight the social outcomes for increasing employment for
people with disability.
POTENTIAL ACTIONS

Targeted work in collaboration with the Public Service Commission to support
implementation of the research report’s recommendations to increase participation and
opportunity for employment for people with disability in the public sector.

Examination of the potential to modify government prequalified panel conditions to require
applicants to demonstrate their commitment to workforce diversity, particularly in regards to
people with disability.

Identification of strategies available to government to support recruitment and retention of
people with disability in the private sector, including exploration of a disability employment
summit.

Commonwealth/NDIS liaison to identify employment strategies through the NDIS and to
gather information on employment preferences and options.

NSW Government departments will reaffirm their commitment to purchase services and
equipment from Australian Disability Enterprises where suitable.
FACS | NSW Disability Inclusion Plan – Discussion Paper
13
DISCUSSION DRAFT

Examine the feasibility of developing a state-wide disability employee network which would
bring together Disability Employee Network representatives twice yearly to identify issues
and solutions.
Links to DIAP guidelines:

All NSW Government departments will commit to the development of inclusive recruitment
practices and adoption of the Public Service Commission recommendations.

NSW Government departments will develop a disability employee group or network to
provide advice to the department and support the development of the DIAP.

NSW Government departments will include strategies that identify how recruitment
practices, workplace adjustment and flexible practices will be implemented to support
people with disability to gain and retain positions.

Prepare department DIAP by December 2015 and submit to the Disability Council NSW.
C Attitudes and behaviour
The attitudes and behaviours of the general community towards people with disability have
been described as the single greatest barrier to full access and inclusion. Attitudes and
behaviour permeate all aspects of life.
Consultation to date has identified that attitudes towards people with disability are often
determined by ignorance, fear or lack of opportunity to interact.
Developing positive attitudes involves increasing awareness and changing these negative
perceptions over time. This is a long term goal that may need to be dealt with in bite-sized
pieces, and effective mechanisms to change public attitudes need further exploration. The NSW
DIP will identify strategies to support the development of positive attitudes and behaviours
which may be stand alone or embedded in other focus areas.
What has informed us to date?

Public consultation on the development of the NSW Disability Inclusion Bill and review of
the Living Life My Way consultation transcripts to identify systemic issues.

Focus group testing and Don’t DIS my ABILITY campaign feedback.

Consultative workshops and discussion with disability policy leaders.

Funded specific projects such as the partnership with Arts NSW to raise the public profile
and provide additional opportunities for artists with disability.

Input from local governments, advisory groups and peak agencies.
FACS | NSW Disability Inclusion Plan – Discussion Paper
14
DISCUSSION DRAFT

Academic research and practice in other jurisdictions within Australia and overseas.

Overarching legislation (including Commonwealth legislation such as the Disability
Discrimination Act 1992), agreements and conventions.

Review of media stories relating to disability attitudes over 12 months.

Discussion with people with disability in multiple settings.

Building positive attitudes and behaviours towards people with disability is best achieved
where people with disability are involved and take an active part in the community. No
amount of education or campaigning can replace personal experience.
POTENTIAL ACTIONS

Additional consultation with people with disability and stakeholders involved in large scale
public attitude leadership – health promotion, behavioural insights and social policy.

Supporting the development of a human rights learning and development resource in
consultation with FACS Law and Justice and the Australian Human Rights Commission

Linking the attitudes and behaviours work across the other focus areas, particularly
employment and liveable communities

Determining suitable actions to support inclusion such as:
o
children in the school system influencing parents and the broader community
o
access to information on disability and normalising disability inclusion

A public awareness campaign on disability inclusion – and refocusing of the Don’t DIS my
ABILITY campaign to target public awareness and attitudinal change.

Exploration of potential interventions using behavioural insights expertise to guide
changes in attitudes across the community.

Exploring mechanisms to work with the non-government organisation sector, schools and
groups working with people with disability to identify how disability can be better portrayed
in public.
Links to DIAP guidelines:

DIAPs will outline the training and development provided to staff to raise awareness and
understanding of disability

All NSW government departments will be provided access to a training module on disability
related human rights and Inclusion to support their inclusion planning.
FACS | NSW Disability Inclusion Plan – Discussion Paper
15
DISCUSSION DRAFT
D Systems and processes
A common issue for people with disability is the difficulty in navigating systems and processes
to access the services and supports they need in the community. Some of these difficulties stem
from the quality of service and training of front line personnel, the systems and processes
required to access services, and the lack of accessible options for communicating, accessing
information or providing input or feedback.
There is often confusion about what services are provided across the three levels of
government, and there is frequent repetition of information to be provided to agencies and
services.
Activity to date

Research into barriers and development of a systematic framework for analysis of systemic
barriers

Consultation with advocacy and peak organisations

Development of a draft survey to identify systemic issues
POTENTIAL ACTIONS

Development of effective feedback mechanisms across government to identify the systemic
barriers experienced by people with disability

Work with the Customer Services Commission,Service NSW and other government
departments to identify mechanisms for supporting quality service delivery and disability
inclusion across government.
Links to DIAP guidelines:

NSW Government departments will identify the mechanisms by which systems and
processes will be improved to enhance the experience for people with disability who access
services.

NSW Government departments will commit to ensuring department websites and software
systems meet compliance standards and/or have suitable procedures in place to support
access by all.

NSW Government departments will provide key policy documents and publications of public
interest or importance in accessible formats.
FACS | NSW Disability Inclusion Plan – Discussion Paper
16
DISCUSSION DRAFT
Q3. What other actions should be included under each of the areas of focus for the
NSW Disability Inclusion Plan?
Do you have examples of personal experience or stories to illustrate how addressing
these areas effects individuals’ lives?
5. Priority populations
This section outlines some of the actions that might be directed towards
supporting the inclusion of population groups with disability identified as
particularly vulnerable warranting specific focus.
The DIA identifies four groups of people living with disability who are potentially vulnerable or
warrant particular attention:




children with disability
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with disability
people with disability from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds
women with disability.
Activity to date

Focused consultation with peak groups representing people with disability from Aboriginal
and Torres Strait Islander communities, and from culturally and linguistically diverse
backgrounds has commenced. More extensive consultation needs to be undertaken as part
of the development process for this plan.
The critical element repeatedly identified by these vulnerable groups is the establishment of
effective communication both at an individual level and as a group.
Representation from the identified groups will be sought in all consultation on developing the
NSW DIP. Additional targeted consultation will be undertaken in sessions that are culturally
sensitive and comfortable for people to participate in, and will be conducted both in the
development phase and throughout the implementation of the NSW DIP.
The priority population groups will also warrant specific attention in departmental DIAP
development.
5.1 Children with disability
Children with disability warrant special attention, early intervention and a concerted focus to
provide the best chance of achieving their potential later life. The NSW DIP will focus on
FACS | NSW Disability Inclusion Plan – Discussion Paper
17
DISCUSSION DRAFT
supporting early inclusion and the establishment of expectations for lifelong patterns of social
and economic participation.
POTENTIAL ACTIONS

NSW Government departments will continue delivering the Safe Home for Life reform and
Keep Them Safe program to ensure appropriate focus on children with disability.

NSW Government departments will work in partnership with the government’s Child
Wellbeing Units, funded Family Referral Services and other cross-government and
community agencies to build frontline capacity and knowledge of issues specific to disability
and inclusion.

The NSW Government will conduct an annual forum focusing on children with disability and
involving those working across the children and young people area including Children’s
Guardian, NSW Kids and Families (NSW Health), Commission for Children and Young
People Children’s Advocate, Office of Communities – Youth Participation and Strategy,
Department of Education and Communities and non-government school sectors.
5.2 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with
disability
NSW has the largest Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population of all states. In 2011 over
172,000 people in NSW identified as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander. The population is
younger than the national average and approximately two-thirds live in non-metropolitan areas
of NSW.
As outlined in the National Disability Strategy in 2010:
“By any measure, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with disability are among
the most disadvantaged members of the Australian community. They often face multiple
barriers to meaningful participation in their own communities as well as the wider
community, facing double disadvantage because of discrimination on the basis of their
Aboriginality as well as their disability.”
The prevalence of disability among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people is significantly
higher than in the general population. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are more
likely to have a disability, a mental health issue, and other complex needs compared to nonAboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. The barriers they face relate to access to services
and supports, and negative community attitudes and behaviours that lead to isolation and
exclusion.
Increasing access and inclusion for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with disability
will be a combination of building the capacity within their community, providing specific supports
and resources in culturally sensitive ways and building bridges between communities.
FACS | NSW Disability Inclusion Plan – Discussion Paper
18
DISCUSSION DRAFT
POTENTIAL ACTIONS

Over the first 12 months of the NSW DIP, the NSW Government will undertake structured
consultation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to identify what needs
to happen to support better inclusion for people with disability.

Consultation will seek to identify the current strengths within the Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander communities’ approach to inclusion and how these can be applied across the state
– building on the strength of existing culture and support, networks, fostering the
importance of family and elders and supporting the emergence of leaders and mentors.

Working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander support organisations, such as SBS
NITV and broader social change organisations.
5.3 People with disability from diverse cultural backgrounds
People from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds can face multiple barriers that
prevent them from accessing services and participating in the community. These barriers can be
even more pronounced when the challenges of disability are overlaid on the barriers and
prejudices of cultural difference and communication limitations.
The focus of NSW DIP action is to support inclusion of people with disability within their
community, and to build the capacity and understanding of those within the broader community
who provide services and supports.
Responding to the diverse needs of culturally and linguistically diverse communities requires an
adaptable approach that allows for local solutions to be developed to address local needs.
POTENTIAL ACTIONS

Ensuring learning and development resources identified or developed to support the roll-out
of the National Disability Strategy and NSW DIP are produced in community languages

Developing leadership and expertise within the community that can act as resources, points
of referral or a community voice

Working to ensure cultural events, cultural sporting events, celebrations and religious
occasions are fully accessible to people with disability including things such as physical
access, accessible amenities, interpreters and signage

Improving communication through use of universal signs and symbols and utilising
technology to access translation and language services
FACS | NSW Disability Inclusion Plan – Discussion Paper
19
DISCUSSION DRAFT

Working with multicultural disability support organisations, such as SBS, multicultural
health information service and multicultural disability support organisations.
5.4 Women with disability
The NSW DIA recognises that women with disability may face multiple disadvantages and are
potentially more vulnerable to risk of abuse or exploitation.
In 2012, of the estimated 268,100 women living in NSW, 7.2 per cent had a severe or profound
disability. Only 30 per cent of women with a profound or severe core activity limitation
participated in the labour force compared to 74 per cent of NSW women aged 15 to 64 years
without any disability. Of the women in NSW who were estimated to have experienced personal
violence in the 12 months prior to the Australian Bureau of Statistics Survey, 43 per cent were
estimated to have a disability or a long-term health condition. This is seven percentage points
higher than the national figure of 36 per cent.*
* Content above taken from the Women in NSW 2014 report.
POTENTIAL ACTIONS

Actions will be developed in consultation with Women NSW, FACS, peak service
agencies and women with disability

A focus for action will be identification of transferable strategies from current initiatives
in domestic violence, elder abuse, child protection, employment and other areas

Actions targeted towards gender-based violence, in recognition of the United Nations
Committee recommendation 17 and various requirements under the United Nations
Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
Q4. What actions should be considered for inclusion in the NSW Disability Inclusion Plan
to support the inclusion of the particular groups identified?
Can you describe examples of personal experience or stories which illustrate how the
barriers facing these groups can be broken down?
FACS | NSW Disability Inclusion Plan – Discussion Paper
20
DISCUSSION DRAFT
6. APPENDIX A - Activities to support the NSW Disability
Inclusion Plan
This section identifies the supports that will be put in place to support the
effective implementation of actions in the NSW DIP.
6.1 Disability Inclusion Action Planning
All NSW Government departments and local government will be required to produce a DIAP
that outlines the specific actions they will undertake to increase inclusion, access to services
and support the employment of people with disability. Development of a DIAP is not an onerous
additional planning burden, but should be considered a core business planning activity.
The DIAP will support development of inclusive practise in the workforce, address issues of
reasonable adjustment, flexible and innovative work practice, and other initiatives to recruit,
support and retain workers with disability. DIAPs will also focus on the service provision of
departments, and how they provide an excellent experience for all customers or clients.
Consultation with people with disability at all stages of planning implementation and monitoring
of the DIAP process will be a key feature. DIAPs will also integrate with the business planning
and diversity frameworks of organisations. It is anticipated many of the ongoing actions from the
NDS NSW Plan will be incorporated into department DIAPs.
FACS will develop new guidelines to provide standard approach to the developing DIAPs and
resources to support the process.
It is expected that DIAP guidelines may be available at the time of commencement of the NSW
DIP, to allow NSW Government departments to incorporate DIAPs into their high level corporate
and strategic business planning process to be ready by mid-2015. Operational aspects of the
plan may extend beyond the middle of 2015 in some departments, as the DIAP requirements
cascade through to front line service delivery.
POTENTIAL ACTIONS

Disability Inclusion Action Planning guidelines will be produced to support NSW
Government departments and local government to develop effective DIAPs

Training and development material will be developed to assist with the roll-out of the
DIAP process and the engagement and involvement of people with disability

The Disability Council NSW secretariat will be supported to provide the expertise and
capacity to monitor the implementation of DIAPs and report on the issues emerging from
the process.
FACS | NSW Disability Inclusion Plan – Discussion Paper
21
DISCUSSION DRAFT
6.2 Learning and development
An audit of learning and development resources relating to disability access and inclusion has
been undertaken and will provide a resource for organisations seeking support for the
implementation of their DIAPs.
It is hoped this resource can be expanded to support the learning and development needs of
the new DIA, Disability Action Planning process and relevant elements of the NDIS and other
disability reforms.
POTENTIAL ACTIONS

FACS will support the development of a clearing house of learning and development
resources – available to all NSW Government departments, local government and
the broader community. These resources may be freely available or commercially
sourced

FACS will provide access to human rights training resources to all NSW Government
departments and local government.
6.3 Local government engagement
FACS is working with Local Government NSW and the Department of Planning and
Environment – Division of Local Government to identify supports to assist them in meeting both
their obligations to develop DIAPs and to support councils’ involvement in many of the local
initiatives that will drive access and inclusion.
POTENTIAL ACTIONS

Continue to work with the Department of Planning and Environment – Division of Local
Government and Local Government NSW to identify strategies to support disability
access and inclusion

Engage with local government on the development of additional material to support
their DIAP planning processes and align them with the community planning process by
2017.
6.4 Strengthening the voice of people with disability in the
community
People with disability need to be heard, to have a voice and to be able to provide the feedback
on their experience and outcomes of the policy that is impacting their lives. The diversity of
FACS | NSW Disability Inclusion Plan – Discussion Paper
22
DISCUSSION DRAFT
disability means a identifying the clear priorities amongst the many voices can be difficult for
policy makers.
In a world where there is increasing individual control of funding and decision making there is
also the potential for people to be unsure of the contact point through which to voice their
concerns for express their ideas.
The requirement for ongoing consultation embedded in the NSW DIP means mechanisms need
to be in place to engage with people with disability over time.
The Disability Council NSW has a role in monitoring the impact of the NSW DIP and DIAPs. To
do this it will also need to have the capacity to tap into the feedback from those impacted by the
strategies, and be able to provide timely and direct advice to the Minister for Disability Services
and the department to ensure actions within the plan are kept on task.
What have people said?
“if we could do one thing in this plan - to establish a better way to consult with and engage
people with disability”
POTENTIAL ACTIONS

Support the development of capacity within the Disability Council NSW and Secretariat
to capture public feedback on the NSW DIP and DIAP, and to have the ability to report
on and make recommendations to the Minister on emerging issues, opportunities or
areas of concern.

Explore opportunities to use social media and other strategies to broaden the reach of
engagement with people with disability

Support the capacity of the Disability Council NSW to access and synthesise the latest
research findings and best practice models for disability inclusion

Support the development of local disability engagement capacity through supporting
formal and informal networks, information on collaboration and participation etc. This
could include practical applications such as disability awareness training and resources
to strengthen access committees.
Q5. Are there other general supports that the NSW Government should consider to ensure
the NSW Disability Inclusion Plan achieves its goals?
FACS | NSW Disability Inclusion Plan – Discussion Paper
23
DISCUSSION DRAFT
7. APPENDIX B - Definitions and principles
This section of the NSW DIP highlights the section of the Disability Inclusion Act
2014 that outline the definition of disability and the principles that the Plan will
follow.
7.1 A definition of disability
There are a number of definitions of disability. For the purposes of the NSW DIP, disability is
defined in the DIA as:
“Disability - in relation to a person, includes a long-term physical, psychiatric, intellectual or
sensory impairment that, in interaction with various barriers, may hinder the person’s full and
effective participation in the community on an equal basis with others.”
By this definition, the focus of inclusive action is the removal of barriers that hinder participation.
7.2 Principles of Disability Inclusion in the Act
The NSW Government has made a commitment in the NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014 to:






acknowledge people with disability have the same human rights as other members of
the community and that the State and the community have a responsibility to facilitate
the exercise of those rights
promote the independence and social and economic inclusion of people with disability
enable people with disability to exercise choice and control in the pursuit of their goals,
and the planning and delivery of their supports and services
provide safeguards in relation to the delivery of supports and services for people with
disability
support, to the extent reasonably practicable, the purposes and principles of the United
Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities
provide for the State’s responsibilities during and following the transition to the National
Disability Insurance Scheme.
7.3 Principles of inclusion
The DIA outlines the general principles by which the NSW Government, and those providing
services and supports to individuals with disability should conduct themselves. The needs of
rural and remote areas in NSW will be actively addressed to ensure the principles of inclusion
are continually promoted throughout implementation of the NSW DIP.
People with disability have the right to:



receive respect for their worth and dignity as individuals
participate in and contribute to social and economic life, and should be supported to
develop and enhance their skills and experience
realise their physical, social, sexual, reproductive, emotional and intellectual capacities
FACS | NSW Disability Inclusion Plan – Discussion Paper
24
DISCUSSION DRAFT





make decisions that affect their lives (including decisions involving risk) to the full extent
of their capacity to do so, and to be supported in making those decisions if they want or
require support
receive respect for their cultural or linguistic diversity, age, gender, sexual orientation
and religious beliefs
privacy and confidentiality live free from neglect, abuse and exploitation
access information in a way that is appropriate for their disability and cultural
background, and enables them to make informed choices
pursue complaints..
The DIA also recognises:



the crucial role of families, carers and other significant persons in the lives of people with
disability, and the importance of preserving relationships with families, carers and other
significant persons, is to be acknowledged and respected
the needs of children with disability as they mature, and their rights as equal members of
the community are to be respected
the changing abilities, strengths, goals and needs of people with disability as they age
are to be respected.
The NSW DIP is not targeting disability by “type” or “diagnosis”. It is recognised however, that
the incidence of mental health issues is frequently higher in people with disability, and that they
may occur unevenly across population sub-groups. The actions being undertaken in the NSW
DIP and the principles underpinning them will be as applicable to people with chronic mental
illness as others with long term disability. The NSW DIP will acknowledge the work that is
underway within the Mental Health Commission in NSW and actively establish links to this work.
Q6. Are there any additional principles that should be included in the NSW Disability
Inclusion Plan?
FACS | NSW Disability Inclusion Plan – Discussion Paper
25
DISCUSSION DRAFT
8. APPENDIX C - Context for the NSW DIP 2014–18
This section provides a brief explanation on the National Disability Insurance
Scheme (NDIS). The NDIS will impact the way people with disability seek
information, specialist supports and access individualised funding to exercise
greater choice and control. The NSW DIP needs to operate within this context.
Note this content is published on the ADHC website.
8.1 Transition to a National Disability Insurance Scheme
The NDIS will deliver a national system of disability support focused on the individual needs and
choices of eligible people with disability. When fully implemented in 2018, the NDIS will provide
an estimated 140,000 people with disability the reasonable and necessary supports to live life
their way, achieve their goals and participate in social and economic life.
Transition to the NDIS in NSW builds on the disability reforms already underway. Ready
Together was launched in December 2013 and implements the Living Life My Way framework
to expand support and provide people with more flexibility and control. These reforms expand
our investments in individualised supports that give people with disability more choice and
flexibility about how they live their lives.
Under the NDIS, people with disability will make the decisions about their supports, including
who will provide them. For most people, the timeframe for moving to the NDIS is a number of
years away. The NDIA, together with FACS will work with people with disability and their
providers to ensure they continue to get their current supports during the transition.
The NSW Government will continue to implement its commitments that were made under
Stronger Together 2, to expand individualised support and funding arrangements for people
with disability in NSW, and moving to more person-centred supports across NSW. To support
this, over the next five years, the NSW Government will progressively transition funding and the
delivery of specialist services to the new disability system. By July 2018, the NSW Government
will no longer provide specialist disability services.
8.2 Accessing disability services – Ability Links
Ability Links NSW supports people with disability, their families and carers as part of the
ongoing reforms of the disability service system in NSW. A total of 248 Ability Links NSW
coordinators, called Linkers, will be in place across the State.
Ability Links is the NSW approach to local area coordination and is an important part of
reshaping and improving the way people with disability, their families and carers in NSW are
supported, placing them at the centre of decision-making.
Linkers provide a first point of contact and information for many people with disability, and they
will be able to provide information about the NDIS, as well as assisting people transitioning to
the new scheme.
Linkers will assist people with disability to build social, recreational and other connections in
their local communities, while also working with the wider community to promote a range of
FACS | NSW Disability Inclusion Plan – Discussion Paper
26
DISCUSSION DRAFT
opportunities for people with disability to participate in everyday community life. Linkers will help
people access formal and informal supports and services such as health and education.
Q7. Is there additional information about the NDIS or Ability Links that should be included
in the NSW Disability Inclusion Plan?
9. APPENDIX D - Disability data snapshot NSW
This section identifies some of the data that will be included in the NSW DIP to
provide context and a rationale for action.
The NSW DIP 2014-2018 will be more informative and meaningful if it contains available data to
inform and justify the actions being undertaken. A disability snapshot will include currently
available data from reliable data sets that describe disability related issues. This would include
items such as:




extent and type of disability across NSW
employment of people with disability
education, health and access to other mainstream services
care needs of people with disability
Data would also be included on the focus areas and priority populations.
To date, we have conducted analysis of key data sets and identification of data elements and
potential questions and met with the Australian Bureau of Statistics to identify data sources and
capacity to contribute. FACS will coordinate the sourcing of data for this report, including input
from the draft baseline indicators where practical that were an action of the National Disability
Strategy NSW Implementation Plan.
Q8. What data (current and publicly available) would inform the direction and strategies
of the NSW Disability Inclusion Plan?
10. APPENDIX E - Evaluation, reporting, governance and
accountability
This section will highlight the way the NSW DIP will be reported on and how the
outcomes of the actions will be evaluated.
The final content of the NSW DIP 2014-2018 will be approved and endorsed by relevant
departments prior to release.
Each action within the NSW DIP will have a reporting requirement and outcome indicator.
An annual report with a summary of progress of actions will be provided to the Minister for
Disability and made publicly available. The report will include progress on:

implementation of the National Disability Strategy in NSW
FACS | NSW Disability Inclusion Plan – Discussion Paper
27
DISCUSSION DRAFT


implementation of Disability Inclusion Action Planning
oversight activity undertaken by the Disability Council NSW as part of its increased
responsibility for reporting and monitoring
Q9. What outcome measures or performance criteria should be included in the
evaluation and reporting of the NSW Disability Inclusion Plan?
11. APPENDIX F - Feedback and involvement
This section will let people know how they can maintain involvement with the
NSW DIP.
The NSW Disability Inclusion Plan (NSW DIP) is a dynamic document which includes strategies
that will be undertaken across the course of the four-year life of the plan.
The public is encouraged to provide feedback and comment at any time.
The mechanisms for feedback will be developed through the consultation and development
phase of the NSW DIP.
It is envisaged the NSW DIP will primarily be provided in electronic format and include links to
documents and other websites that provide information on emerging issues.
Q10. What strategies, tools and methods should be employed to encourage and support
feedback from people with disability on the NSW Disability Inclusion Plan?
END NOTE
Thank you for reviewing the discussion paper in the NSW Disability Inclusion Plan (NSW DIP).
Your comments and feedback are welcome and valued.
Comments can be provided formally or informally, addressing the questions throughout the
paper or other areas.
Input needs to be received 5 January 2015.. Comments and feedback received after this date
will be retained and used to inform the plan as it is updated. Please send comments and
feedback to:
Please send comments and feedback to:
EMAIL:
NSWDIP@facs.nsw.gov.au
POST:
Disability Access & Inclusion
Locked bag 3002
Australia Square
Sydney NSW 1005
A summary paper in accessible formats and frequently asked questions are available at:
www.FACS.nsw.gov.au/NSWDIP/
FACS | NSW Disability Inclusion Plan – Discussion Paper
28