Shire eases way for people with disabilities

NEW strategies to make life easier for disabled residents have put Cardinia Shire at the forefront of local government action around the state.
Councillors at their December meeting put on public display an updated set of policies and guidelines to improve disability access.
The new policies are expected to raise the standard of building construction and accessibility and will apply for all new council buildings.
General manager of community wellbeing Fiona Hodges said Cardinia was the first Victorian council to adopt such a progressive policy.
“Council’s expectations of the design and construction of all new council owned and operated buildings will change, and council will offer training to staff, developers and builders in the new standards, ensuring their compliance,” Ms Hodges said.
Council staff will also be given disability awareness training. “Other councils have not yet achieved these enhanced standards and it is good for Cardinia to be a vanguard for disability access and inclusion.”
The new move follows upgrades last year to the Cardinia Cultural Centre which had its ‘disabilityfriendly’ doors replaced with an automatic door because people in wheelchairs could not open them.
Central Ward councillor Brett Owen said Cardinia Shire was leading the way.
“Council is aiming to improve access for all people,” he said.
“We have seen improved access at the cultural centre, which is great. Services Central will also have improved access.”
Ranges Ward councillor Graeme Legge said council aimed to set a new standard for disability access.
“Council has a legal and moral responsibility to ensure all people are able to play a role in the community,” he said.