Council sets course for a more inclusive Maitland with new Disability Inclusion Action Plan

Maitland City Council has adopted a new Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) 2026–2030, setting out practical actions to improve accessibility and inclusion across the city over the next four years. 

Shaped by more than 500 pieces of feedback, the Disability Inclusion Action Plan aims to remove barriers and create more opportunities for people with disability, their families and carers. 

The four-year roadmap responds to growing demand for more accessible and inclusive communities, with the proportion of people living with disability in Maitland higher than the NSW local government area average. 

Coordinator Community and Recreation Planning Whitney Williams said the plan was shaped by extensive community consultation and the lived experiences of local people. 

“Through our consultation, people told us that barriers still exist when accessing public spaces, finding employment, navigating information and using everyday services. 

“This plan outlines practical actions that will help people with disability participate more fully in community life, whether that's attending an event, accessing a Council service, finding employment or moving around our city with confidence and independence,” Ms Williams said.  

Community feedback highlighted a need for more accessible public spaces, better-connected pathways, more inclusive employment opportunities and easier access to information. In response, the plan outlines actions to improve accessibility across community facilities and public spaces, support inclusive employment opportunities and ensure accessibility is considered in the design of future infrastructure, services and programs. 

“Accessibility should be considered from the beginning, not as an afterthought. It needs to be embedded in how we design public spaces, deliver services, plan events and communicate with our community,” Ms Williams said. 

“Creating a genuinely inclusive Maitland is a shared responsibility and requires collaboration between Council, businesses, community organisations, government agencies and residents.” 

The Disability Inclusion Action Plan 2026–2030 will guide Council's access and inclusion priorities over the next four years, helping create a city where people of all abilities can access services, participate in community life and feel a sense of belonging. 

The plan will also help inform the development of Maitland's first Social Strategy and contribute to Council's broader work to improve social wellbeing outcomes across the city. 

To read the Disability Inclusion Action Plan 2026–2030, visit mait.city/DisabilityInclusionActionPlan