City of Newcastle has commenced a community engagement process to shape its Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) for 2027–2031, following the installation of new assisted listening technology at the Civic Theatre and Playhouse. The upgrade, which allows performance audio to be transmitted directly to hearing aids via Bluetooth, is one of several capital works completed under the current four-year strategy.
The council is now seeking feedback from residents with lived experience of disability to identify remaining barriers to access across public spaces, facilities and services. The consultation period will include online and in-person workshops, as well as pop-up events across the city to capture data from carers and stakeholders.
Co-chair of the Access Inclusion Standing Committee, Elizabeth Adamczyk said community input is essential for understanding how the city can improve accessibility.
“The new assisted listening technology is a practical example of progress towards a more inclusive environment,” Elizabeth said.
“Other actions currently being delivered include low-sensory days at Newcastle Museum and Auslan storytime sessions at local libraries. It is important we receive feedback to ensure future outcomes are tangible and effective.”
The engagement process was co-designed with the Community Disability Alliance Hunter (CDAH) to ensure a broad range of perspectives are represented. Amanda Robertson, a community representative on the Access Inclusion Standing Committee, said the current plan has already resulted in infrastructure improvements such as the Foreshore Park playground and updated pedestrian mobility paths.
“For families with mobility disabilities, these projects make a measurable difference to daily life,” Amanda said.
“These outcomes are direct results of feedback from people in the community with lived experience.”
Minister for Families and Communities and Member for Port Stephens, Kate Washington said local councils play a significant role in reflecting the state government’s ambition for a more accessible New South Wales.
“I congratulate City of Newcastle on the work completed to date and encourage residents to have their say on the next steps for the city,” Kate said.
Submissions for the 2027–2031 DIAP are open via the City of Newcastle website until Monday, 15 June 2026. The final plan will serve as the primary guiding document for inclusive programming and infrastructure investment over the next four years.
IMAGE | City of Newcastle launches consultation for future disability inclusion plan
