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Attachment 1

MONASH CITY COUNCIL

DRAFT

Access and Equity Framework 2013 - 2017

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Contents

Foreword by the Mayor

Overview Introduction Purpose Background Principles

The Legislative and Policy Context

International Context Commonwealth Context State Government Context Local Government Context

Action Plans 1. Monash Multicultural Action Plan 2013-2017 2. Monash Disability Action Plan 2013-2017 3. Monash Early Years Plan 2013-2017 4. Reconciliation Action Plan (2014) 5. Positive Ageing Strategy June (2014) 6. Health and Wellbeing Plan (October 2013) 7. Youth Plan May – Year Two Action Plan (2014 - 2016) 8. The Women’s Leadership and Participation Strategy (2014) 9. Monash Engagement Framework and Guidelines

Summary in Languages other than English

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FOREWORD BY THE MAYOR To insert

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Overview Introduction The Access and Equity Framework 2013 - 2017 (the Framework) provides Council with a strong basis to plan, develop, implement and monitor policies, programs and actions across the whole organisation. The Framework provides a context to all Council planning activities including the development of plans which are specific to the needs and interests of particular target groups.

Purpose Monash City Council will continue to provide excellent service to the diverse Monash community through strengthening community capacity building, community engagement, consultation and organisational development within the context of access and equity, social justice and human rights principles.

Background Council endorsed the integration of Council’s key social policies into the Access and Equity Policy Framework in March 2013. The development of an integrated framework that incorporates a range of key Council social policies and strategies is a logical step in responding to the diverse needs of the Monash community. The Framework encourages Council to transform itself by making these principles central to its every day work through developing synergies, better coordination, communication and planning across the organisation. Council is proud of its achievements and of the work undertaken in the past to build a strong, healthy and harmonious community. Council aspires to strengthen its commitment to excellence and to the challenge of serving an increasingly diverse population.

Context The development of the Access and Equity Framework 2013-2017 has been guided by the broad principles of International Human Rights and Social Justice.

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Council has a role to play in the development of a socially just, healthy, inclusive and sustainable community where all members irrespective of their ability, social, ethnic, or economic background can fully and fairly participate in community life. This framework will ensure that all Council policies and strategies consider and integrate these rights-based principles.

Principle 1: Human Rights Human rights are the universal rights of all people to be treated with respect, equality and dignity. The Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities 2006 (The Charter) protects and promotes human rights by recognising that all people are born free and equal in dignity and rights. Monash City Council observes the rights incorporated in the Charter when making decisions, creating local laws, developing policies and strategies and providing services. Principle 2: Social Justice

Social Justice embraces the rights of all communities to fair and equitable access to services and resources, equal rights and opportunities to participate in all aspects of community life and decision making. Monash City Council embraces and applies to all facets of Council business the Social Justice principles of:

A fair distribution of Council resources;

Equal access to essential services provided by Council;

Equal rights and opportunities for participation in community life and decision-making

Principle 3: Access and Equity Monash City Council embraces the key principles of Access and Equity and applies these in all decision making processes. The key principles include:

Responsiveness – government programs and services that are accessible, fair and responsive to the needs of residents

Communication – communication which is honest, open and effective

Accountability – reporting and review mechanisms which are accessible, transparent and effective

Leadership – providing a healthy democracy through participation of all residents in reaching and enacting decisions

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Legislative and Policy Context

The Access and Equity Framework 2013-2017 is guided by the following International, Commonwealth and State Government Policies and Legislation:

International

The Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities 2006 Universal Declaration on Cultural Diversity The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities

Commonwealth Government

The People of Australia The Charter of Public Service in a Culturally Diverse Society Disability Discrimination Act 1992 Racial Discrimination Act 1975 The Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Act 1986

State Government

The Local Government Act 1989 Victorian Multicultural Act 2004 The Victorian Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities Act 2006 Racial and Religious Tolerance Act 2002 A Fairer Victoria: Strong People, Strong Communities 2009 Local Government Response to Cultural Diversity in Victoria The Victorian Disability Act 2006 The Victorian State Disability Plan 2013-2016 The Victorian Equal Opportunity Act 2010

Local Government

Local Government Act 1989 Australian Local Government Association Statement of Cultural Inclusiveness Municipal Association of Victoria Statement of Commitment to Cultural Diversity Victorian Local Government Association Municipal Association of Victoria Strategic Framework : Creating a more inclusive

community for people with a disability

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Action Plans

The Access and Equity Framework 2013-2017 is implemented across Council through the consideration of the principles of access and equity, social justice and human rights as part of the development of all activities, including new policies, strategies and services. Implementation also occurs through individual action plans targeting specific policy areas and groups. Currently the Access and Equity Framework incorporates action plans that address the policy areas of Multiculturalism, Disability and Early Years. It is the intention of Council to incorporate incrementally into this framework the following policies and strategies as these come up for review:

The Health and Wellbeing Partnership Plan (October 2013) The Monash Women’s Leadership and Participation Strategy (2014) The Positive Ageing Plan (2014) The Reconciliation Action Plan (2014) The Youth Plan (2014 - 2016) The Monash Community Engagement Framework and Guidelines

Current Multicultural, Disability and Monash Early Years Action Plans take account of the Access and Equity Framework: Monash Multicultural Action Plan 2013-2017 The Multicultural Action Plan 2013-2017 outlines Council’s response to cultural diversity and in particular how it will address issues important to people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. The actions outlined in the plan fall under the following priority areas:

Access, Communication and Engagement Partnerships and Community Capacity Building Leadership and Advocacy Recognition and Celebration Organisational Development Monitoring and Evaluation

Disability Action Plan 2013-2017

The Disability Action Plan 2013-2017 supports Council to 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 specific actions are grouped under the following priority areas:

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Access, Services and Participation Employment Leadership, Advocacy and Communication The Built Environment Organisational Development Monitoring and Evaluation

Monash Early Years Plan 2013-2017 The Monash Early Years Plan (MEYP) sets out how Council will support service providers, families and the Monash community to work together to create services and environments that enable children to grow and develop to their full potential.

Multicultural Action Plan

2013-2017

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Introduction The Monash Multicultural Action Plan 2013-2017 is one of three plans that Monash City Council has currently developed under the overarching framework of the Access and Equity Framework 2013-2017.

Aim of the Multicultural Action Plan 2013-2017 Council has developed the Access and Equity Framework 2013-2017 by adopting the key principles of Access and Equity, Social Justice and Human Rights as its central focus. This integrated approach enables Council to address issues important to culturally and linguistically diverse communities in a holistic way and through collaboration and engagement with key stakeholders across the organisation and the community. The Action Plan will guide Council over the next four years in the planning, provision of services, community development, engagement with and advocacy for Monash’s Culturally and Linguistically Diverse community. The Multicultural Action Plan 2013-2017 outlines key actions to be implemented over the next four years under the key priority areas of:

Access, Communication and Engagement

Partnerships and Community Capacity Building

Leadership and Advocacy

Recognition and Celebration

Organisational Development

Monitoring and Evaluation

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Development of the Multicultural Action Plan 2013-2017 The Multicultural Action Plan 2013-2017 has been developed in consultation with the Monash community, Council staff and the Multicultural Advisory Committee. In addition the plan has been informed by the Monash in Four Community Survey 2012, the Research on the Needs of Small and Emerging Communities and the Community Survey with people from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse communities on Communication, Access and Engagement 2013.

Requirements for Success and Budget Implications The implementation of the actions in the Multicultural Action Plan 2013-2017 will have budget and resource implications for Council. Actions requiring additional resources will be considered through Councils annual budgetary processes.

Monitoring and Implementation

The Action Plan will be reviewed annually and a progress report will be presented to Council. A major review and development of a new action plan will be undertaken every four years. The Access and Equity Cross Organisational Group, consisting of key Council Officers from all directorates, will meet quarterly and will oversee the monitoring and implementation of the actions.

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Monash Multicultural Action Plan 2013 - 2017

Priority 1: Access, Communication and Engagement Objective: Council services and programs are relevant and responsive to the needs of the culturally

diverse community of Monash

Action Timeframe Measurable Outcome

Stakeholders

Resourcing

1.1 Council to develop a program of information sessions about Council services and programs targeting small and new Communities settling in Monash.

Year Two Program has been developed and implemented.

Program aimed at Afghan, Pacific Islands, African, Indian, Sri Lankan and Bangladesh communities.

LEAD: Community Planning and Development Council

Within existing resources

1.2 Determine the need for and feasibility of establishing Multicultural Playgroups.

Year Two Needs and required resources identified and recommendations developed.

LEAD: Children Services

Community Planning and Development


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1.3 Determine the needs of parents from small and new CALD communities as they experience parenting within the Australian culture and identify resources and strategies that will support and assist the parenting of their young children.

Year Three Needs identified Strategies and resources identified that will address the needs of CALD parents. Recommendations developed.

LEAD: Children Services



1.4 Determine the development of appropriate training programs for CALD young parents on parenting in a new culture.

Year Three Training programs and resources have been identified and recommendations developed.

LEAD: Early Years (Children Services & Maternal and Child Health)



1.5

Strengthen programs, such as Let’s All Play, for young people from small and new communities that promote access and participation to local sporting clubs.

(The Let’s All Play program offers a range of opportunities for multicultural youth to participate in sport and recreation. The program is

Year Two

Annual programs developed and 25 young people from small and small communities have participated.

Sporting Clubs implement ‘Active Citizenship Through Sports Framework’.

LEAD: Youth and Recreation


Existing commitment from Community Grants $16K per year On-going applications for external funding to boost the program.

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structured around the understanding that sport can act as a vehicle for supporting settlement and interaction between and within communities.

Information has been provided by engaging with local schools.

1.6 Collaborate with local schools and sporting clubs to facilitate membership take up of local sporting clubs by young people of small and new communities.

Year Two Increase in participation of young people from new and small communities in local sporting organisations.

Membership take up has increased.



1.7 Home & Community Care (HACC) services to strengthen Partnerships and referral pathways with CALD partners and clients through development of networks and programs.

Year Two Participate in Network meetings Number of events attended Number of referrals from networking activities Links strengthened with ethno-specific organisations

Participate at local annual multicultural festivals

LEAD: Home & Community Care CALD Network Agencies MIC/MRC SEAAC CALD community groups Community Planning and Development

Within HACC funding agreement

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1.8 Establish a series of local area ‘Neighbourhood Roundtables’ across the municipality enabling local CALD communities to engage with Council and provide feedback and advice about their service needs.

Year Four Local Neighbourhood Roundtables form part of a mechanism of communication between Council and the community.

LEAD: Community Planning and Development

Council


1.9 Develop a pool of CALD youth leaders representing the diverse range of small and new communities to mentor and inspire young people in their own communities and encourage their participation in programs and other Council activities. Develop a training program to support the identified youth leaders and their needs.

Year Three A pool of youth leaders has been developed.

Training program has been developed and implemented.

Youth Leaders to be represented on relevant Council Advisory Structures.



Youth and Recreation

Centre of Multicultural Youth

Council Officer Support

1.10 Develop a range of learning programs for Council staff to strengthen their planning and engagement skills with

Year Two Learning programs have been developed and implemented.



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CALD communities.

Learning programs become on-going and are delivered at appropriate intervals.

Human Resources

1.11 Develop brief information sheets and in culturally appropriate presentation in LOTE about Council programs, services and events to facilitate greater participation by CALD communities.

Year Four Information sheets prepared and distributed to CALD relevant groups and agencies.

Information sheets to be posted on Council’s website and updated as required.


Council


1.12 Explore the feasibility of a space that is accessible to CALD communities to be used as office space to store their files and for their administration needs within the proposed Glen Waverley Library and Community Hub.

Year One The need for a space that is accessible to CALD communities has been considered and recommendation provided to Council.

LEAD: Community Planning and Development Economic Development

Within existing DPCD grant

1.13 Ensure that sporting facility upgrades consider the needs of CALD young people including CALD young women from small and new communities to encourage

Year Two The needs of CALD young people have been considered at local sporting facilities through consultation with CALD small and




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access and participation in organised sport.

new communities and recommendations developed.

Sporting Clubs

1.14 Explore opportunities to increase the participation of young girls from CALD backgrounds including African young girls in recreation programs and activities and in organised sport.

Raise awareness about the benefits of recreation and sport among CALD parents.

Year Two Increased participation by young girls from CALD backgrounds including African young girls in recreation programs and activities and organised sport.

CALD parents are better informed of benefits of sport and recreation.


Sporting Clubs

SEEAC

Lets All Play & External Funding

1.15 Strengthen the engagement with new and small communities and facilitate access to Council services, program and local activities.

Year One

Increased level of participation of members of new and small communities in Council events and activities and representation on Council Advisory Committees and other relevant structures.



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1.16 Provide information and raise awareness about the benefits of sport and recreation amongst CALD parents including those from African backgrounds.

Year One and then on-going

Information sessions provided

Increased numbers of young people from CALD backgrounds including African backgrounds participating in sport and recreation activities in Monash


Monash Youth and Family Services



1.17 Explore the feasibility of creating a ‘safe’ space for young adolescents from small and new communities for socialisation and learning activities.

Year Two Options have been considered and recommendation provided to Council.

LEAD: Youth and Recreation (Monash Youth and Family Services)



1.18 Develop activities and learning opportunities for CALD young people from new and small communities in consultation with young

Year Three Appropriate activities have been developed.

At least one support group of CALD young people from new and

LEAD: Youth and Recreation (Monash Youth and Family Services)

SEEAC


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people themselves and their parents.

small communities has been set up.

1.19 Explore the needs of teenage parents from Pacific Island communities and develop appropriate strategies in response to the needs identified.

Year Three Needs identified and strategies developed.

LEAD: Youth and Recreation (Monash Youth and Family Services) SEEAC Community Planning and Development


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Priority 2: Partnerships and Community Capacity Building

Objective: Council promotes and seeks partnerships to build strong and empowered communities


Stakeholders

Resourcing

2.1 Council undertake a mapping exercise to document all the agencies in Monash that are supporting and servicing small and emerging communities.

Year One Mapping has been completed.

Information shared with relevant departments across Council.



2.2 Council to facilitate the establishment of a ‘Monash Community Services Network’, bringing together service providers within the municipality that service and support people from CALD backgrounds. The purpose of the Network would be to support communication amongst services providers and better coordination of services to CALD communities.

Year One The Network has been established and meets on a bimonthly or quarterly basis.

The Network and its purpose are promoted across Council and in the community.



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2.3 Council to facilitate a learning program that will build the capacity of local community organisations and agencies to better support the needs of CALD communities.

Year Two A learning program has been developed and implemented.



2.4

Council establish a program to support the skills acquisition of leaders and representative groups in the municipality.

Year Two

Program has been established and implemented.


Migrant Resource Centres

Neighbourhood Houses


2.5 Empower CALD groups through an education program that focuses on supporting groups to understand how to manage their committees, network, apply for funding, engage with government and other authorities, communicate their needs and achieve results.

Year Four

Education program developed

Training schedule prepared

Community Groups have undertaken training


Migrant Resource Centres


Within existing resources and through external funding applications

2.6

Council to facilitate the establishment of an inter-municipal Network with

Year Two Inter-Municipal Network has been established.



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neighbouring municipalities to provide a coordinated service response to small and emerging communities.

Inter-Municipal Networks meets at least bi-monthly

2.7

Council to work closely with community leaders and organisations that support new and emerging communities to promote water safety and awareness.

Year Two Educational sessions have been developed and promoted to small and new communities.

LEAD: Youth and Recreation (Aquatics and Leisure)



2.8 Council to work with leaders within small, new and established communities to inform and educate these on how to get the best out of Council’s Library services.

Year One and then on- going

Information sessions have been delivered to new, small and established communities and other options considered encouraging access to libraries.

LEAD: Information and Arts (Libraries)


2.9 Council to conduct orientation visits to libraries for new and small communities.

Year Two and then on-going

Orientation visits have been conducted for members of small and new communities.



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2.10 Council to continue to strengthen its community outreach program of information sessions targeting small and emerging communities in relevant venues.


A program has been developed and implemented with the collaboration of a range of units across Council.

LEAD: Community Planning and Development All Departments


2.11 Council to facilitate greater access to its community grants program through training workshops for nominated community representatives from small and emerging communities.

Year Two Training workshops conducted



2.12 Council to develop a register of trained individuals able to train others within their communities on how to apply for the Community Grants program.

Year Three A register of trained individuals developed.



2.13 Explore opportunities to increase the participation of new and small communities from CALD backgrounds in voluntary work in Monash and raise awareness about

Year Four Opportunities and resources have been identified and recommendations developed.



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the benefits of voluntary work among new and small communities.

Information has been provided through Council’s outreach program to new and small communities about the benefits of voluntary work.

2.14 Council to facilitate the establishment of more English learning classes in Monash for new migrants and those from refugee backgrounds by collaborating with relevant community agencies and organisations.

Year Three Increase in the number of English Language classes available in Monash in community settings.



Libraries


2.15 Monash Libraries to strengthen their community engagement activities with CALD communities through provision of English language classes, conversation circles and other activities that encourage intercultural communication and engagement.

Year Two and then on-going

Hold at least one activity per month that engages CALD communities and the community at large.



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2.16 Advocate to local businesses for the employment of individuals from CALD communities and promote the benefits of a culturally diverse workforce.

Year Two Year Three

Year Three

The Economic Development Newsletter to feature examples of the benefits of a culturally diverse workforce.

One presentation held at a Business Forum on the benefits of a diverse workforce.

A fact sheet has been prepared in English and in key community languages represented by the local Traders on the benefits of a diverse workforce.

Fact sheet has been distributed to local traders by Economic Development.

LEAD: Economic Development Local Traders Associations Local Employment Networks



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2.17 Advocate to local Employment Networks to actively engage with new and emerging communities and provide information about how to access pathways to training and employment.

Year Three Local Employment Networks to hold at least two information sessions with new and emerging communities annually.


Local Employment Networks

Migrant Information Centre Migrant Resource Centre Economic Development


2.18 Seek opportunities to undertake research to identify emerging CALD community needs to inform Council’s priorities and service responses.

Annually Partner with Universities or other relevant authorities and identify research projects.

LEAD: Community Planning and Development Other Council Departments

Within existing resources External funding applications

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Priority 3: Leadership and Advocacy

Objective: Council meets the communities’ needs and aspirations through strong and influential leadership and advocacy


Stakeholders

Resourcing

3.1 Continue to participate on relevant Regional and State wide Networks and advocate on identified cultural diversity issues.

Continue to support key Council Advisory Committees relevant to cultural diversity.

Annually Attendance at monthly/bimonthly meetings.

Provide reports to Council on emerging or other issues as required.

Regular attendance, participation and executive support.

LEAD: Council Community Planning and Development


3.2 Develop a strategy to address racism in Monash in line with Council’s commitment to the National ‘Racism-it stops with me’ campaign in partnership with key stakeholders.

Year One Information program developed and actions for implementation identified for consideration by Council.


Public Relations Multicultural Advisory Committee Vic Health Interfaith Gathering

Within existing resources and through external funding applications

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3.3 Provide leadership to local community groups, agencies and organisations on how to best service CALD communities.

Year Four and then on-going

A meeting is held at least annually with key community groups and organisations and support provided.



3.4 Council to encourage diversity on Council’s Advisory Committees. Review Council Advisory Committees to ensure representation is reflective of the culturally diverse community of Monash.

Annually

Review completed and recommendations submitted to relevant departments for consideration and action.



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Priority 4: Recognition and Celebration Objective: Council actively supports and promotes the cultural diversity of Monash and the benefits to

the community


Stakeholders

Resourcing

4.1 Continue to celebrate and recognise the benefits of cultural diversity in Monash through the: Promotion and support of public events such as festivals, forums, seminars, Cultural Diversity Week, A Taste of Harmony and Refugee Week Interfaith projects

Annually Annual Interfaith and Multicultural Forums A Taste of Harmony, Refugee and Cultural Diversity Week events Council Festivals

Mayor’s and Councillors’ speeches incorporate messages of Council’s commitment to cultural diversity Promotion of Racism: It Stops with Me campaign Images on Council’s publications reflective of the diverse Monash community

LEAD: Community Planning and Development Council


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Priority 5: Organisational Development

Objective: Council has a highly responsive and culturally competent workforce


Stakeholders

Resourcing

5.1 Continue to strengthen Council’s organisational capabilities through:

the promotion of the Language Services Program

cross cultural competency and community profile training of staff and on how to work with interpreters

the translation of key Council information in key community languages

Annually Promotion of Language Services through Council’s Induction program and by posting on Intranet.

Conduct at least two training sessions per year on working with interpreters.

Annual reports provided on utilisation of Language Assist program and the usage of Interpreting and Translating Services across Council

At least two cross cultural competency and community profile training sessions are

LEAD: Human Resources Community Planning and Development Public Relations Council


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the monitoring of utilisation of Council’s Language Assist program and interpreting and translating services

held per year.

Other training held to support specific needs of different council work areas as required.

Annual reports on Council staff participation in cultural diversity training

New staff provided with information about the Multicultural Action Plan through the Induction Program

5.2 Continue to strengthen Council’s recruitment policies and processes to ensure workforce reflects the local community.


Position descriptions to articulate Council’s commitment to cultural diversity.

LEAD: Human Resources All Departments


5.3 Continue to promote to staff across the Organisation Census data on cultural diversity to inform decisions on service and program planning and resource

After each Census and then as required

Census data have been distributed to staff and promoted across the Organisation.

LEAD: Organisational Development and Planning Community Planning and Development


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distribution and develop and keep up-to-date Community Profiles based on 2011 Census data.

Census data are posted on Council’s Intranet and Website.

5.4 Home and Community Care services to increase staff/volunteer and student knowledge and understanding of the needs of people from CALD backgrounds.

Year One Number of volunteers and staff trained

LEAD: Home and Community Care (HACC)

Key stakeholders


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Priority 6: Monitoring and Evaluation

Objective: Council is committed to achieving the best outcomes for its community


Stakeholders

Resourcing

6.1 Evaluate the Multicultural Action Plan annually and report to Council and the Multicultural Advisory Committee on progress of the implementation of the Action Plan.

June 2014 June 2015 June 2016 June 2017

Annual evaluation conducted Progress report submitted to Council and to the Multicultural Advisory Committee



6.2 Review the Access and Equity Cross Organisational Group and continue to meet quarterly to monitor the implementation of the Multicultural Action Plan.

Annually Review completed and the Group is representative of all directorates Group meets quarterly



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Disability Action Plan

2013 – 2017

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Introduction The Monash Disability Action Plan 2013-2017 is one of three plans that Monash City Council has currently developed under the overarching framework of the Access and Equity Framework 2013-2017. Council has developed the Access and Equity Framework 2013-2017 by adopting the key principles of Access and Equity, Social Justice and Human Rights as its central focus. This integrated approach enables Council to address issues important to people with a disability, their families and carers in a holistic way and through collaboration and engagement with key stakeholders across the organisation and the community.

Aim of the Monash Disability Action Plan 2013-2017 The Monash Disability Action Plan 2013-2017 will guide Council over the next four years in service provision, planning, engagement and advocacy on issues important to people with a disability. The Action Plan 2013-2017 outlines key actions to be implemented over the next four years under the key priorities of:

1. Access, Services and Participation 2. Employment 3. Leadership, Advocacy and Communication 4. The Built Environment 5. Organisational Development 6. Monitoring and Implementation

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Development of the Monash Disability Action Plan 2013-2017 The Monash Disability Action Plan 2013-2017 has been developed in consultation with the Monash community, Council staff, the Monash Disability Consultative Committee and the Monash Access and Inclusion Network. In addition the plan has been informed by the Monash in Four Community Survey 2012.

Requirements for Success and Budget Implications The implementation of the actions in the Disability Action Plan 2013-2017 will have budget and resource implications for Council. Actions requiring additional resources will be considered through Councils annual budgetary processes.

Monitoring and Implementation The Action Plan will be reviewed annually and a progress report will be presented to Council and the Monash Disability Consultative Committee. The progress report will also be made available on Council’s website. The Access and Equity Cross Organisational Group, consisting of key Council Officers from across all directorates, will meet quarterly and will oversee the monitoring and implementations of actions.

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Priority 1: Access, Services and Participation

Objective: Council services and local support services are accessible and responsive to the needs of people with a disability their families and carers


Stakeholders

Resourcing

1.1 Facilitate an annual workshop with local service providers supporting people with a disability to identify needs and challenges and develop priorities for action. Ensure role of the Metro Access Community Development Officer is promoted within the service and community sector.

Annually Workshop has been held and a plan of action developed. Stronger links have been established with Metro Access CD Officer local service and community organisations including CALD communities

LEAD: Metro Access Community Development Officer Multicultural Community Development Officer Home and Community Care Services Children Services


1.2 Advocate for funding to be directed towards the establishment of more flexible respite and support programs for people with a disability and their families.

On-going Letters written to the relevant Ministers and issues raised with local members of parliament

LEAD: Disability Consultative Committee Community Planning and Development Home and Community Care Services


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1.3 Ensure people with a disability from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse backgrounds and their carers are informed about Council and other local services and they have access to these.

Annually At least once a year a series of information sessions held with the Ethnic Seniors groups and other CALD community organisations and agencies.

LEAD: Home and Community Care Services Metro Access Community Development Officer

MonashLink

Other local service providers


1.4 Improve referral pathways for CALD people with disabilities in Monash through the development of relationships with CALD community leaders and organisations.

Year Two A number of relationships with CALD community leaders developed.

LEAD: Home and Community Care Services

CALD Community Leaders



1.5 Improve responsiveness to CALD needs through review of existing programs and development of new programs including CALD specific PAG groups.

Year Two Number of new CALD PAG groups

Number of CALD participants in programs

Number of new programs

LEAD: Home and Community Care Services

Key community stakeholders

Key Service Providers



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1.6 Continue to support local sports clubs to create opportunities for great participation of people with a disability in recreation programs.

On-going An increase in the range of integrated recreation programs available for people with a disability.

LEAD: Youth and Recreation Metro Access Community Development Officer


1.7 Ensure that Council’s community consultations and other engagement activities are held in venues that are inclusive and accessible for all.

On-going Council’s Accessibility Guidelines are reviewed and updated regularly and promoted to staff.



1.8 Ensure Council’s community planning and consultation processes include people with a disability.

On-going Inclusion of people with a disability in consultations.

LEAD: Organisational Development and Planning

Requires additional resourcing

1.9 Council promotes to staff and the community Council’s accessible features such as the Hearing Loop, information provision in alternative formats, accessible toilets, accessible playgrounds, availability of interpreters, accessible parking bays, and libraries’ adaptive technology.


Brochure developed and distributed to staff and the community. Information posted on Council’s website. Signage is displayed in Council buildings.

LEAD: Community Planning and Development Corporate Administration Information and Arts Public Relations


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1.10 Council to link to National Relay Service for residents with hearing difficulties and provide appropriate training for staff on how it operates.

Year One National Relay Service has been made available.

National Relay Service signage is posted on Council’s website and in signature blocks with Council’s address and telephone numbers.

Training provided.

LEAD: Community Planning and Development Public Relations


1.11 Explore the implementation of the Good Access is Good Business project in all business precincts in Monash.

Year Two – Oakleigh

Year Three – Glen Waverley

Year Four – Mt Waverley

The Good Access is Good Business has been implemented in all major business precincts in Monash.

LEAD: Metro Access Community Development Officer Economic Development


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Priority 2: Employment Objective: People with a disability have greater employment opportunities within Council


Stakeholders

Resourcing

2.1 Ensure job advertisements express commitment to EEO and are placed with employment agencies that support people with a disability.

Year One and then ongoing

Job advertisements are reviewed and updated. Vacancies are placed with disability employment support agencies.

LEAD: Human Resources

All Departments


2.2 Provide information to Directors, Managers and Coordinators about the Australian Employment Assistance Fund.


Information has been provided.



2.3 Encourage training placements and work experience for people with a disability and ensure appropriate supervision is available.

Year Two and then ongoing

Increase number of people with disabilities offered training placements and utilise the Australian Employment Assistance Fund to support these.



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Priority 3: Leadership, Advocacy and Communication

Objective: Council plays a strong leadership role in advocating about issues important to people with a disability


Stakeholders

Resourcing

3.1

Continue to influence policy development and service provision through:

submissions to State and Commonwealth Government inquiries relating to people with a disability

participation on regional and state-wide networks that advocate on issues important to people with disabilities

supporting the Monash Disability Consultative Committee

hosting an annual Disability Forum

On-going Issues of the local community have been represented Number of submissions prepared Attend meetings, events and activities

Provide feedback to Council and inform policy and service development

Hold at least six DCC meetings per year Disability Forum held annually

LEAD: Community Planning and Development All other relevant Departments as required Community Stakeholders


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hosting an annually event on International Day of people with a Disability in partnership with key stakeholders

Supporting and publicly recognising individuals, organisations, agencies and businesses for demonstrating leadership in access and inclusion and showcasing good practice examples undertaken by Council and other stakeholders

Annual event held on International Day of people with a Disability Increase in number of entities being publicly acknowledged

3.2 Facilitate information provision to Council and the community about the National Disability Insurance Scheme and its implementation.

Year One and then as required

Up to date information is available Monitor implementation



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3.3 Council to keep abreast of new technology, review and adapt its communication and engagements tools accordingly, and inform and train its staff.

On-going Reviews and adaptation to occur as required.

LEAD: Corporate Administration and Customer Service

IT Public Relations Community Planning and Development


3.4 Include in all new plans and strategies developed across the organisation the principle of access for all.


All future plans and strategies include access for all principle

LEAD: All Departments


3.5 Provide ‘real time information’ to the community in public places and other environments about issues important to people with a disability including celebration of achievements, council’s decisions and other important matters.


Daily updates to website and social media

LEAD: Public Relations All other relevant Departments


3.6 Develop Communication Boards and have them available at customer service centre.

Year One Communication Boards have been developed and are available at customer service centre.

LEAD: Corporate Administration and Customer Service

Requires additional resources

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Customer Service staff have been provided with training on usage of the Communication Boards


3.7 Advocate for more resources to be injected into the Monash community to support people with dementia and other mental health issues.

Year One and as required

Mental Health issues to be on the agenda of meetings with local members of parliaments, relevant bureaucrats and other advocacy bodies.

LEAD: Community Planning and Development Home and Community Care Services


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Priority 4: The Built Environment Objective: All members of the community have access to the built environment including Council facilities, footpaths, parks and

gardens


Stakeholders

Resourcing

4.1 Continue to:

promote the Footpath Trading and Access Policy and ensure compliance by the Traders

consult with the Disability Consultative Committee on plans for major public projects or projects with access implications

identify Council buildings and facilities that require access upgrades

On-going Reduction in complaints and fines issued to Traders.

Plans are presented to the DCC and feedback received.

Council buildings and facilities are identified and prioritised to be upgraded

LEAD: Economic Development

LEAD: Infrastructure Services


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review accessibility of footpaths and ensure they are prioritised to be repaired and/or constructed to standards.

Review of footpaths in line with Road Management Plan

4.2 Lower the control panel on the outside of the lift in the Civic Centre to an appropriate height to ensure it is accessible to people using a wheelchair.

Year One Control panel has been lowered to standards.

LEAD: Infrastructure Services


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Priority 5: Organisational Development

Objective: Council staff have awareness and understanding of access and inclusion issues


Stakeholders

Resourcing

5.1

Continue to strengthen Council’s organisational capabilities through:

The provision of general Disability Awareness Training or other more specific relevant training

Incorporating information about the Disability Action Plan in the induction program

The provision of other training options as required such as how to support

Annually and as required

Training provided at least two times a year.

New staff have been provided with information about the Disability Action Plan.

Relevant staff have been identified to do training.

LEAD: Human Resources Community Planning and Development

Within existing Resources

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people in relation to mental health and how to communicate with people who have a hearing or speech impairment

The provision of

training for Council staff on preparing and producing accessible documents

The provision of

information to staff about Council’s communication tools such as the hearing loop, TTY, Relay Service and their purpose

Annually

Training offered annually and as required

All staff have received information about Council’s communication tools and acquired knowledge on how to use these.

LEAD: Public Relations

LEAD: Community Planning and Development Corporate Administration and Customer Services

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Priority 6: Monitoring and Implementation

Objective: Council has in place appropriate review and reporting mechanisms


Stakeholders

Resourcing

6.1 Council will:

Evaluate the Disability Action Plan annually and a progress report presented to Council

Provide quarterly reports to the Disability Consultative Committee on progress of implementation of actions and seek feedback and advice

Annually

Quarterly

Progress Report presented to Council.

Quarterly progress reports presented to the Disability Consultative Committee



6.2 Council will strengthen the membership of the Access and Equity Cross Organisational Group (A&E COG) and re-convene

Quarterly A & E COG meets quarterly. A & E COG consists of staff from across all directorates.



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meetings with the purpose of monitoring the implementation of the Action Plan.

6.3 Council to submit the new Disability Action Plan to the Australian Human Rights Commission (AHRC).

Year One The Disability Action Plan has been submitted to AHRC.



Summary in Languages other than English

English

The Access and Equity Framework 2013 - 2017 (the Framework) provides Council with a strong basis to plan, develop, implement and monitor policies, programs and actions across the whole organisation. The Framework currently incorporates the Multicultural and Disability Action Plans 2013-2017 and provides a context for all Council planning activities including the development of key plans across the organisation which are specific to the needs and interests of particular target groups. The Access and Equity Framework 2013-2017 is based on the broad principles of International Human Rights and Social Justice and supports Council to respond to the needs and aspirations of its diverse community. English Greek Italian Mandarin Cantonese Arabic Korean Russian Vietnamese

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The Access and Equity Framework 2013-2017 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 please call:

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: [email protected]

http://www.monash.vic.gov.au/

mailto:[email protected]

moreland city council - city of monash | monash council

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