Published on Friday, 27 February 2026 at 12:34:58 PM
The Shire of Esperance has approved a new Disability Access and Inclusion Plan (DAIP) to show its ongoing commitment to making the community more accessible and inclusive.
Under the Western Australian Disability Services Act 1993 (amended 2004), all State and Local Governments must have a Disability Access and Inclusion Plan. The plan sets out how services, buildings and information will be made more accessible for people living with disabilities.
The Shire’s previous DAIP ended in September 2025. The Department of Communities gave a six-month extension so there would be enough time for thorough consultation and community feedback.
To develop the new plan, the Shire undertook research and consultation to better understand:
- Our organisational responsibilities
- Community expectations
- What other similar local governments are doing
Feedback was gathered from disability support agencies, carers, people living with disability, Shire staff and community members. Their input helped shape a practical and locally relevant plan.
On 3 February 2026, Councillors participated in a workshop to discuss the DAIP’s purpose, review lessons learned from the community, and clarify everyone’s roles. Councillors lead, oversee, and advocate, while the organisation carries out the Plan’s actions.
The DAIP will help guide how the Shire plans and delivers future projects, services, and information, both in physical spaces and in daily operations.
The Plan is not just a one-time document. The Shire will keep consulting with the community through a formal reference group, so people with lived experience can stay involved in setting priorities and finding ways to improve. If you are interested in joining the Disability Access and Inclusion Working Group or would like to share your feedback, please contact the Shire's by phone, email, or by visiting the Shire’s website for more details. Everyone is encouraged to take part and help guide our ongoing work towards accessibility and inclusion for all.
The DAIP also supports the Shire’s Council Plan 2022–2032, especially in these areas:
- People – Outcome 3: A welcoming, inclusive and connected community
- Objective 3.3: Support vulnerable groups, including older people and those living with disabilities.
The Council looks forward to working with the community to remove barriers and make Esperance more accessible for everyone. Updates on the progress of the Disability Access and Inclusion Plan will be shared on the Shire’s website. This will ensure everyone stays informed about improvements and has opportunities to stay involved.
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