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Consultation closed

Thanks for giving us your feedback on the draft Universal Design and Disability Inclusion Policy. We're currently reviewing what you told us.

  • We are writing a Universal Design and Disability Inclusion Policy.

    We also sometimes just call this 'the draft Policy' or 'the Policy'.

  • This Policy will support people with a disability by helping to make Yarra *accessible* and *inclusive*.

    • Accessible means easy to find and use.
    • Inclusive means everyone is welcome, including people with disability.
  • People with a disability and carers helped to make the policy.

    We listened to community members with disability including our *Disability Advisory Committee*.

    Our Disability Advisory Committee is a group of disabled people that:

    • helps us plan our work
    • shares feedback and ideas.
  • We want to know how we can make Yarra more inclusive and accessible.

  • We will use your ideas to help us finalise the Universal Design and Disability Inclusion Policy.

  • We will present the final Policy to Councillors to adopt later this year.

What is Universal Design?

Universal design makes spaces, products and services usable by as many people as possible. It includes:
  • Physical access for everyone

    Provide ramps, wide paths, accessible toilets, and seating.

  • Sensory supportive environments

    Create quiet areas, low-glare lighting, and less background noise.

  • Easy to see information

    Use high-contrast signage, large fonts, braille, and tactile maps.

  • Easy to hear information

    Include hearing loops, clear announcements, and visual alerts.

  • Easy to understand information

    Use plain language, simple guides, and easy layouts and formats.

  • Multiple communication methods

    Offer information in print, digital, pictograms, captions, and alternative formats.

  • Comfort and rest opportunities

    Provide seating, rest areas, and non-slip surfaces.

  • Easy to use layouts of spaces

    Design clear routes, level entrances, and accessible paths.

  • Flexible spaces and delivery

    Ensure space and facilities, programs and services are easy for everyone to use.

  • Inclusive and responsive services

    Provide customer service support for people of all-abilities.

Our priority areas

The Universal Design and Disability Inclusion Policy outlines 6 key priority areas that Council will focus on to help make Yarra more accessible and inclusive.
  • Priority 1: Accessible places and transport

    We will use Universal Design when we:

    • make things
    • fix things.

    This includes parks, streets, transport, Council buildings and public spaces.

  • Priority 2: Inclusive services and information

    Our services, programs and information will be accessible to more people.


  • Priority 3: Inclusive participation and employment

    We will work to improve disability inclusion.


  • Priority 4: Fairness and safety

    We want Yarra to feel safe for people with disability.

    We will stand up for fairness and disability rights.


  • Priority 5: Belonging and celebration

    We will celebrate people with disability and carers in our community.


  • Priority 6: Effective data and reporting outcomes

    We will collect better disability data. For example, through surveys and other feedback options.