Inclusive SA

Inclusive SA (State Disability Inclusion Plan) Annual Report 2023

About the report

This Annual Report provides an overview of Inclusive SA activities and outcomes between 1 January 2023 and 31 December 2023.

All 99 State authorities legislated under the Disability Inclusion Act 2018 (SA) (the Act) are required to provide annual updates on activities and initiatives that respond to the 34 actions identified within Inclusive SA. These actions are categorised under the following Outcome Areas, which align to Australia’s Disability Strategy 2021–2031:

  • Outcome Area 1: Employment and Financial Security
  • Outcome Area 2: Inclusive Homes and Communities
  • Outcome Area 3: Safety, Rights and Justice
  • Outcome Area 4: Personal and Community Supports
  • Outcome Area 5: Education and Learning
  • Outcome Area 6: Health and Wellbeing
  • Outcome Area 7: Community Attitudes.

Each action has a lead authority (or more than one) who are responsible for the overall delivery of the action and provide regular reports to the Department of Human Services who administer the Act on behalf of the Minister for Human Services.

Reporting on Disability Access and Inclusion Plans and priority groups

In addition, each State authority is required to provide an overview of the activities relating to their individual Disability Access and Inclusion Plans (DAIPs) and report on how they are considering the additional needs of the four priority groups:

  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with disability
  • People with disability from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse backgrounds
  • Women with disability
  • Children with disability.

Recording the status of each action

For this Annual Report, we have recorded the status of each action using the following reporting method:

  • Complete and ongoing — This action has been finalised and is now being implemented on an ongoing basis.
  • In progress — Activities to respond to this action have commenced but have not yet been finalised.
  • Not yet started — Activities to respond to this action have not yet commenced.

Acknowledgement of Country and use of language

Acknowledgement of Country and use of language

Acknowledgement of Country

The Government of South Australia acknowledges and respects Aboriginal people as the State’s first people and recognises their traditional relationship with Country.

We acknowledge that the spiritual, social, cultural, and economic practices of Aboriginal people come from their traditional lands and waters, and that the cultural and heritage beliefs, languages, and laws are still of importance today.

Language

We acknowledge that language is a personal preference, and that different language and terminology preferences exist within the disability community. For the purposes of this Annual Report, we use both identity-first and person-first language.

The term ‘Aboriginal’ has been used throughout this Annual Report to reference all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. We acknowledge and respect the preference of the South Australian Aboriginal community to use ‘Aboriginal’ in both written and spoken word.

Minister's message

Minister's message

I am pleased to share the final Inclusive SA: State Disability Inclusion Plan 2019–2023 (Inclusive SA) Annual Report, which highlights the achievements made by State Government agencies and local councils (State authorities) in improving access and inclusion for people with disability across South Australia between 1 January 2023 and 31 December 2023.

Inclusive SA has been our vehicle for driving a whole-of-government approach to access and inclusion and over the past four years we have seen good improvements across many areas of our community. In particular, in the past 12 months we have:

  • Seen more children and young people with disability enjoy the benefits of recreation through the distribution of Sports Vouchers and access to the VACSWIM program.
  • Introduced fee-free TAFE courses, including 1,014 new enrolments of students with disability.
  • Ensured all new Adelaide Metro buses are built with accessible features, such as ‘next stop’ information systems, which notify people of the next stop to alight.
  • Conducted targeted and inclusive volunteering recruitment campaigns, actively encouraging people with disability to join the  State Emergency Service in a range of roles specifically created for varying abilities.
  • Enhanced access to important accessibility information through the Pavely smartphone app to ensure people with disability can find accessible and inclusive locations, public toilets and the State’s Changing Places facilities in real time.

My sincere thanks to all those involved for their continued efforts to improving access and inclusion for people with disability. Although there is still plenty of work to be done, the past four years provide a strong foundation to build into the next chapter of the State Disability Inclusion Plan.

My department has now commenced the process to review and redevelop a new State Disability Inclusion Plan for the next four years and identify our priority areas for focus and action. With the launch of the SA Autism Strategy 2024–2029 we also have an opportunity to ensure disability-related reform works in strong alignment of one another to maximise progress and ensure meaningful outcomes are achieved. All State authorities under the Disability Inclusion Act 2018 (SA), along with the broader disability community, will work together throughout the development process to ensure the needs and aspirations of all people with disability and/or neurodivergence are considered and responded to.

I am proud of what we have achieved so far and look forward to what is still to come. We remain steadfast in our commitment to achieving our vision for an accessible and inclusive South Australia based on fairness and respect.

Hon Nat Cook MP
Minister for Human Services

Data summary

Data summary

State Authorities

  • Total authorities: 99
  • Reported total number: 97 (previous report: 93)
  • Reported State Government agencies: 31 of 31 (previous report: 30)
  • Reported local councils: 66 of 68 (previous report: 63)
  • Authorities that did not report: 2 (previous report: 6)

State Plan Actions

The following data are representative from the 97 State authorities that reported.

  • Total actions: 34
  • Total actions completed and ongoing: 32% (11)
  • Total actions commenced and in progress: 68% (23)

Disability Action and Inclusion Plan (DAIP) actions

  • Total actions: 3,096 (previous report: 2,988)
  • Total actions completed and ongoing: 58% (previous report: 37%)
  • Total actions in progress: 42% (previous report: 63%)

This is an increase of 19% of completed DAIP actions from the 2021–2022 Annual Report, noting many of the DAIP actions are currently in progress.

Priority Groups

Percentage of State authorities whose DAIP actions supported the priority groups:

  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples: 42%  (41 State authorities had actions)
  • Culturally and linguistically diverse communities: 36% (35 State authorities had actions)
  • Women: 36% (35 State authorities had actions)
  • Children: 47% (46 State authorities had actions).

Priority groups

Priority groups

Certain groups have been identified within the Disability Inclusion Act 2018 (SA) as requiring additional acknowledgement and recognition. This is due to the overlapping disadvantage and vulnerability they can experience and the need to address such disadvantage and vulnerability through our State Plan and the Disability Action and Inclusion Plans (DAIPs).

Providing mainstream supports and services to people from priority groups can enhance their participation and contribution to social and economic life.

Aboriginal people with disability

The SA Housing Authority continues to work with Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations in regional and remote locations to inform and deliver localised and customised service models and to co-design specialist support services and sector development activity; to support Aboriginal people’s rights and circumstances and enable them to remain in their community. All new builds in remote Aboriginal communities are access compliant.

Of all public housing allocations in the 2023 calendar year:

  • 5.9% were Aboriginal head tenants who identified as living with disability
  • 4.3% of all registrations for social housing were Aboriginal applicants who identified as living with disability
  • 1.6% of all applicants assisted with private rental services were Aboriginal people who self-identified as living with disability.

Case study - First Nations artists with disability

Jackie, a Ngarrindjeri and Wirangu woman, has been a visual artist for almost two decades at Tutti Arts and was one of at least six First Nations artists with disability to have participated in the Art Gallery of South Australia’s Tarnanthi exhibition in 2023.

Jackie’s solo exhibition 'Land, Light and Water' was on display at the Royal Adelaide Hospital’s Community Gallery. Her work reflected her connections to both the human and natural world and drew on her strong sense of family and culture.

Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) communities with disability

The Department of Treasury and Finance collaborated with the Department of Human Services’ translation services to ensure that their communications were accessible to CALD communities. This service is pivotal in providing equal access to information and resources, allowing for broader community participation and support.

TAFE SA delivered career and job outcomes services for the CALD community with disability by partnering with community organisations including Supporting Survivors of Torture & Trauma and Australian Migrant Resource Centre.

Women with disability

The Housing Security for Older Women Taskforce, through the SA Housing Authority, convened lived experience workshops, as well as ensuring Lived Experience Advocates within its membership. The Taskforce has provided rich insights into the issues, barriers and challenges for women with disability in relation to housing security.

Of all public housing allocations in the 2023 calendar year:

  • 17% were women head tenants who identified as living with disability
  • 14.2% of all registrations for social housing were applicants who were women who identified as living with disability
  • 7.3% of all applicants assisted with private rental services were women who identified as living with disability.

Children (and young people) with disability

A young vision-impaired resident proposed a community awareness program to the City of Salisbury about vision-impaired pedestrians. Council staff connected this resident with two others who are vision-impaired or blind and together they collaborated with the Council and See Differently (formerly Royal Society for the Blind) to create videos teaching sighted people how to be mindful around vision-impaired people. The Council’s media team funded and supported the video development.

The Art Gallery of South Australia (AGSA) delivers the Neo Teen program where young people can be creative and offers a sensory-friendly space as part of its bi-monthly events, which attracts over 500 young people. AGSA offers a specialised Sensory Tour at the Art Gallery that incorporates sensory objects to support learning and sensory needs of young people with disability.

Back to top

Outcome Area 1 - Employment and Financial Security

Outcome Area 1 - Employment and Financial Security

People with disability have economic security, enabling them to plan for the future, and exercise choice and control over their lives.

Action 1

Increase employment opportunities across all levels in the South Australian public sector through the targeting of job opportunities for people with disability under Section 65 of the Public Sector Act 2009 (SA) which provides for employment opportunity programs.

The Office of the Commissioner for Public Sector Employment leads this action.

This action is considered completed and ongoing.

Progress throughout 2023

The Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Strategy 2023–2026 (the Strategy) was launched with 8 deliverables specifically focussed on improving disability employment outcomes, including the introduction of a minimum disability employment target of 3% across the public sector by December 2026. The Strategy seeks to engage with disability employment service providers to build partnerships that attract and retain employees with a disability; and create employment pathways to increase engagement and participation of neurodivergent employees.

In addition, a review of the Guideline of the Commissioner for Public Sector Employment: Recruitment (PDF 1MB) began in 2023 to identify opportunities for increasing public sector employment of people with disability. A final report with associated recommendations will be available in 2024.

Case study – Enhancing culture and recruitment practices in local council

From July to October 2023 the City of Charles Sturt, in partnership with Multicultural Communities Council of SA, welcomed a young person with a disability from a Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) background to join a 12-week Accessible Tourism project internship. This project was co-designed by people with a disability and employer representatives and aimed at enhancing the culture and recruitment practices of employers to create positive and inclusive workplaces for CALD people with a disability.

Case study – Expansion of the Work Ready Release Ready program

The Department for Correctional Services is expanding the Work Ready, Release Ready program, a rehabilitation program that supports people in prison to transition to community with a focus on vocational and training needs. The program assists people with complex and/or disability needs and will have greater culturally appropriate support for Aboriginal people.

Back to top

Action 2

Implement the South Australian Public Sector Disability Strategy 2019-2023 and develop new strategies to create a more inclusive, accessible, safe, and informed public sector.

All State Government agencies lead this action.

This action is in progress.

  • 35% completed and ongoing
  • 55% in progress
  • 10% not yet started.

Progress throughout 2023

The Department of the Premier and Cabinet (DPC) continues to maintain an alumni partnership with JobAccess to access all DPC vacancies and broadcast them to South Australian Disability Employment Service Providers. In addition, DPC’s online recruitment module — DPC Connect — enables the department to report on candidate attraction and monitor applicants with disability.

The Department for Education introduced the SBS Disability Inclusion online learning modules in the department’s Learning Management System and the induction program which replaces outdated training. An independent review of the department’s recruitment processes and templates by JobAccess, from the advertising stage through to induction, was undertaken and a disability demographic question was included into the MyWellbeing survey to inform monitoring and reporting capability within the department, and to assess the employee experience for people with disability.

As part of the SA Housing Authority's Employment Pathways Program commitment outlined in 'Our Housing Future 2020–2030', the South Australian Housing Authority is delivering up to 1,000 employment and training outcomes for social housing tenants, including those on the housing register and recipients of Housing SA private rental assistance.

Back to top

Action 3

Encourage an increase in the number of people living with disability on South Australian Government boards and committees through the implementation of the BoardingCall Communication Strategy.

The Department of the Premier and Cabinet leads this action.

This action is considered completed and ongoing.

Progress throughout 2023

The Department of the Premier and Cabinet has continued to promote BoardingCall across the Government of South Australia and the South Australian community, including people with disability to encourage increased registrations on boards and committees coordinated by State Government agencies.

Back to top

Action 4

Continue to work collaboratively with the Commonwealth Government and the National Disability Insurance Agency to develop strategies to support a diverse disability workforce, including within regional South Australia.

The Department of Human Services leads this action.

This action is in progress.

Progress throughout 2023

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has continued to represent South Australia at the National Disability Reform Minister’s Council meetings and work directly with the National Disability Insurance Agency Executive Steering Committee to focus on market and workforce initiatives, including initiatives that improve outcomes for Aboriginal people with disability living in rural and remote areas.

DHS continued to engage with disability providers to understand workforce needs and challenges and where appropriate, has escalated matters to the Executive Steering Committee and national forums. DHS also continues to work with the Commonwealth and state and territory governments to consider recommendations arising from the NDIS Review that focus on attracting, retaining and training the disability workforce.

Back to top

Action 5

Develop data measures to track the percentage of people living with disability who are employed in South Australian Government and local councils.

The Office of the Commissioner for Public Sector Employment and local councils lead this action.

This action is in progress.

  • 22% completed and ongoing
  • 48% in progress
  • 30% not yet started

Progress throughout 2023

The Office of the Commissioner for Public Sector Employment is looking at opportunities to enhance data collection on disability across the public sector workforce. Consultation continues with the disability community and sector to support the development of disability-related questions in the 2024 People Matter Employee Survey.

The Town of Gawler is a current member of Diversity Council Australia (DCA) and participated in the DCA Inclusive Employer Index. Survey results show 7% of the workforce has a disability, compared to the Australian Workforce benchmark of 9.4% and the DCA member average of 6.7%.  The Town of Gawler was granted Inclusive Employer Status for demonstrating an active commitment to inclusion, and its ongoing membership in DCA assists in achieving its diversity and inclusion goals.

The City of Onkaparinga updated its Diversity Policy and disability recruitment targets to reflect local representative population statistics and explored ways to identify existing workforce with disability and determine reasonable workforce representation for this cohort based on the population.

The City of Playford completed a Diversity survey to collect workforce diversity data on employees including those who identify as a person with disability. With a 48% completion rate, the survey indicated that 6% of the workforce identified as a person with disability.

Back to top

Outcome Area 2 - Inclusive Homes and Communities

Outcome Area 2 - Inclusive Homes and Communities

People with disability live in inclusive, accessible, and well-designed homes and communities.

Action 6

Explore opportunities to increase the involvement of children with disability in sports and cultural activities, including:

  • expanding the Sports Voucher program
  • providing extra support for children to participate in VACSWIM
  • promoting the availability of arts programs.

The Office for Recreation, Sport and Racing and Department of the Premier and Cabinet lead this action.

This action is in progress.

Progress throughout 2023

The Office for Recreation, Sport and Racing issued 667 vouchers totalling $363,000 to children with disability as part of the Sports Voucher program and had 680 registrations from children with disability in the VACSWIM program across South Australia.

The Art Gallery of South Australia (AGSA) delivers the Tarnanthi exhibition annually and features Aboriginal artists with disability. In October 2023, AGSA introduced a pilot program of quiet sessions throughout the exhibition to provide a low sensory experience option for people who identify as neurodivergent.

The South Australian Museum expanded its offering of accessible programs and initiatives by providing loan sensory packs at no cost for Autistic children and young people and developed a sensory-friendly stream within its quarterly school holiday program. In addition, Lego therapy sessions in collaboration with Believe and Achieve Psychology were offered.

The Department of the Premier and Cabinet provided a sensory space, staffed by the Office for Autism, for the Autistic and autism communities attending the 2023 Multicultural Festival.

Back to top

Action 7

Commence an assessment into the establishment of minimum standards for priority parks and reserves that will improve access and inclusion for people with disability and consider the feasibility of implementing any recommendations.

The Department for Environment and Water leads this action.

This action is considered completed and ongoing.

Progress throughout 2023

In 2022, the Department for Environment and Water developed an Accessibility Guideline using a tiered system. As of 2023, this guideline now provides a set of minimum standards for all parks, including priority parks, to ensure improved access and inclusion for people with disability.

Back to top

Action 8

Consider Universal Design principles across State Government residential and commercial infrastructure, including:

  • sport and recreation infrastructure projects to support family-friendly and accessible features
  • infrastructure upgrades and redevelopment of significant public access buildings
  • infrastructure maintenance across Department for Environment and Water managed land and parks
  • residential construction and maintenance specifications of South Australian Housing Authority houses (and adopting the Liveable Housing Australia design guideline for all new build social housing stock).

The Department for Infrastructure and Transport, Department for Environment and Water, South Australian Housing Authority and the Office for Recreation, Sport and Racing lead this action.

This action is in progress.

Progress throughout 2023

The Department for Infrastructure and Transport ensures all new and upgraded stations, interchanges and car parks adopt Universal Design principles and comply with relevant Australian Standards.

Silver Level of the Livable Housing Australia Design Guidelines (design guidelines) are being used for the South Australian Housing Authority's new builds, including the 437 new builds to be delivered through the Public Housing Improvement Program.

In 2023, 57 homes were constructed to Silver Level standard and 11 homes to Gold Level standard of the design guidelines. Plans were assessed by certifiers and the Authority's Asset Design and Planning Group, with checklists introduced for architects.

Universal Design principles are considered in the program guidelines and assessment criteria for the Community Recreation and Sport Facilities Program. Universal Design was applied for construction work, including:

  • The Australian Centre for Sports Aerodynamics, Mile End (scheduled to open in 2024)
  • The SASI HQ, Mile End (scheduled to open in 2024)
  • The new Adelaide Aquatic Centre, North Adelaide (due for completion in 2025), with principles being used in the relocation of current stakeholders, to maximise access to other facilities.

The Department for Environment and Water is developing a Universal Design policy to further ensure that Universal Design continues to be used in the design process for both new builds and maintenance of old infrastructure within parks. Universal Design has been included in a maintenance checklist as well as the forward planning for infrastructure and maintenance schedule.

Back to top

Action 9

Local council access and inclusion planning to consider consultation outcomes including:

  • Incorporating Universal Design principles in criteria for all new building and public projects and planning for programs, services and events
  • Developing Universal Design training plans for staff and contractors
  • Reviewing availability for accessible car parks in identified areas.

The local councils lead this action.

This action is in progress.

  • 30% completed and ongoing
  • 67% in progress
  • 3% not yet started.

Progress throughout 2023

The Campbelltown City Council has developed Accessibility Guidelines and an Accessibility Checklist for Council Parks and Reserves to embed accessibility and Universal Design principles within Council. The Council uses the Inclusive SA Accessible Events Toolkit and Checklist and the JFA Purple Orange Accessible Events Checklist.

Universal Design training was provided to 40 employees at the City of Charles Sturt. This training included site visits of recently completed and proposed projects to review and apply learnings. New accessible parking spaces were installed at Henley Beach and West Lakes Shore.

City of Tea Tree Gully, Universal Design principles are incorporated for new builds, project planning and events, including the all-inclusive playground at Edinburgh Reserve.

Back to top

Action 10

Consider the installation of multi-media devices and inclusive signage at service outlets and at the front of public buildings to accommodate people with disability.

All State Government agencies and local councils lead this action.

This action is in progress.

  • 15% completed and ongoing
  • 55% in progress
  • 30% not yet started.

Progress throughout 2023

The Department for Infrastructure and Transport Customer Information Standards guide has been developed reflecting standardised signage in places across transport modes to promote consistency.

The Yorke Peninsula Council ensures that new tourism signage contains QR codes allowing people to bring up information on their personal devices and then use software to read/interpret the information.

Back to top

Action 11

Contribute to the Australian Building Code Board’s Accessible Housing Project for potential minimum accessibility standards for housing.

The Department for Trade and Investment leads this action.

This action is in progress.

Progress throughout 2023

The National Construction Code came into effect nationally in May 2023 and included provisions requiring all new housing to comply with the Silver Level standard of the Livable Housing Australia Design Guidelines.

South Australia is adopting these provisions of the code on 1 October 2024, with exemptions offered in some circumstances to allow the building industry to transition to the new standard.

Action 12

Undertake a supported decision-making project to document the wishes of Office of the Public Advocate clients who have impaired decision-making capacity.

The Attorney-General’s Department leads this action.

This action is in progress.

Progress throughout 2023

Led by the Office of the Public Advocate (OPA), My Life My Wishes is a supported decision-making pilot project for people who have a guardian to help them write down their wishes and other decision-making needs, to be in charge of their own decision making as much as possible.

Since the launch of the project in 2022, 35 OPA staff have undertaken training in the use of the My Life My Wishes document, 350 Public Advocate clients have completed a My Life My Wishes document and five Supported Decision-Making video resources were launched on the OPA website. The videos have been viewed 930 times since their launch.

Back to top

Action 13

Improve the accessibility of public transport services and infrastructure, including:

  • passenger notifications and ‘next stop’ information for bus services
  • provisioning of accessible parking spaces at public transport locations.

The Department for Infrastructure and Transport leads this action.

This action is considered completed and ongoing.

Progress throughout 2023

All new Adelaide Metro buses are built with accessible features, such as ‘next stop’ information systems, which notify people of the next stop to alight.

In addition, all new and significantly upgraded public transport premises meet or exceed accessible car parking requirements under the Premises Standards.

Back to top

Action 14

Contribute to the National Accessible Transport Taskforce and Steering Committee to reform the Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport 2002.

The Department for Infrastructure and Transport leads this action.

This action is in progress.

Progress throughout 2023

The Department for Infrastructure and Transport (DIT) has continued its representation on the National Accessible Transport Taskforce Working Groups and Steering Committee.

DIT is working with the Taskforce to develop a prioritisation tool to address upgrades associated with achieving compliance with the modernised Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport.

Back to top

Action 15

Safeguard the rights of people with disability through the provision of consistent, accurate and relevant information pertaining to the Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability through the Royal Commission Response Unit.

The Attorney-General’s Department leads this action.

This action is considered completed and ongoing.

Progress throughout 2023

The Royal Commission Response Unit (the Response Unit) was appointed within the Attorney-General’s Department (AGD) to provide quality and timely information to the Royal Commission, and to facilitate legal representation for State Government witnesses providing evidence.

Throughout the duration of the Royal Commission, the Response Unit worked with relevant State Government agencies to respond to a total of 22 Summonses to Provide, 12 Notices to Give Information, two Notices to Produce, 11 Summonses to Appear and five Issues Papers.

The Response Unit also assisted in responding to Counsel Assisting the Royal Commission’s submissions to Public Hearings 8, 14 and 21.

The AGD also established the South Australian Government Disability Royal Commission Working Group to ensure relevant agencies were informed of the Royal Commission’s work and provided accurate and timely responses to the Royal Commission.

When the Final Report of the Royal Commission was released in September 2023, the Royal Commission Response Unit within the Attorney-General’s Department was transferred to the Department of Human Services where a team has been established to lead the response. A formal response will be released mid-2024.

Back to top

Outcome Area 3 - Safety, Rights and Justice

Outcome Area 3 - Safety, Rights and Justice

The rights of people with disability are promoted, upheld and protected, and people with disability feel safe and enjoy equality before the law.

Action 16

Progress the Canine Court Companion pilot project to provide increased practical support and assistance to vulnerable victims of crime and prosecution witnesses involved with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.

The Attorney-General’s Department leads this action.

This action is considered completed and ongoing.

Progress throughout 2023

The Canine Court Companion pilot project transitioned to an ongoing function within the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions in 2023. The project is a joint initiative between the Director of Public Prosecutions and Guide Dogs SA/NT.

Zeb, a four-year-old Labrador, is the current Companion. Zeb assists vulnerable victims and witnesses at appointments and in court. To date, Zeb has attended 97 appointments and supported 67 victims and witnesses.

Back to top

Action 17

Develop new community engagement programs, and enhance existing programs delivered by South Australia Police to ensure they safely and effectively engage people with disability, including those at risk of harm.

The South Australia Police leads this action.

This action is  in progress.

Progress throughout 2023

South Australia Police (SAPOL) launched the Road Safety Action Plan which includes a focus on the provision of relevant road safety information regarding the use of motorised wheelchairs, power assisted bicycles, wheeled recreational devices and electric personal transporters.

The Road Safety Section continues to offer road safety education sessions for people with disability. In addition, SAPOL also offers vehicle security advice on Mobility Scooter Theft Prevention (PDF 445 KB).

Back to top

Action 18

Improve accessibility for people living with disability to connect with existing safeguarding agencies in South Australia.

The Department of Human Services leads this action.

This action is  in progress.

Progress throughout 2023

The Department of Human Services (DHS) continues to progress the expansion of the Community Visitor Scheme and to work with the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) Quality and Safeguards Commission to ensure all people with disability, including those under the NDIS have access to visitation and outreach.

DHS is also leading work to review safeguarding measures and structures across government for the purpose of improving the current system. This work is looking to increase the effectiveness and efficiency of safeguarding services in the state with opportunities under consideration to join up information and training, co-location, and consolidation, where appropriate.

Case study – New fully accessible Women’s Safety Hub and resources

In late 2023, the Office for Women launched its Southern Safety Hub, coordinated by Southern Community Justice Services SA. The building is fully accessible and co-located with Can:Do.

Additionally, following consultation with women with disability, the Office for Women published a consultation paper on coercive control, along with an Easy Read version of coercive control information (PDF 2.3 MB) on its website.

Back to top

Outcome Area 4 - Personal and Community Supports

Outcome Area 4 - Personal and Community Supports

People with disability have access to a range of supports to assist them to live independently and engage in their communities.

Action 19

Support the enhancement of Pavely, the smartphone app that displays existing and future services and facilities that are considered inclusive and accessible around South Australia.

The Department of Human Services leads this action.

This action is considered completed and ongoing.

Progress throughout 2023

The Department of Human Services has continued its support of the Pavely smartphone app in collaboration with The Moonshine Lab.

Upgrades to Pavely in 2023 include the addition of 21 Changing Places facilities and the location and accessibility details of over 1,900 public toilet facilities across South Australia.

Pavely now has over 400 active pins that display locations with accessibility ratings, with additional growth and enhancements expected throughout 2024.

Back to top

Action 20

Increase access to assistance technology, including the implementation of the State Government Online Accessibility Policy and related guidelines, to address barriers to appropriate support.

All State Government agencies lead this action.

This action is in progress.

  • 42% completed and ongoing
  • 52% in progress
  • 6% not yet started.

Progress throughout 2023

The Department for Infrastructure and Transport Adelaide Metro website has been updated and was audited by Vision Australia to Level A and AA WCAG 2.1 specification. Websites comply with the Online Accessibility Policy.

The Electoral Commission of South Australia prepared promotional materials within its accessibility policy. The Electoral Commission website is WCAG 2.1 AA compliant and includes several accessibility features, such as the 'ReadSpeaker text to speech service', audio files, and videos with captions.

Back to top

Action 21

Consider opportunities for further developing Auslan interpreter capacity within South Australia.

The Department for Education leads this action.

This action is considered completed and ongoing.

Progress throughout 2023

Additional training through Skills SA is now available to support Auslan capability and capacity in South Australia including:

  • two Registered Training Organisations delivering Auslan courses in South Australia (TAFE SA and one non-government Registered Training Organisation)
  • fee-free training in Auslan is available for the next three years under a National Skills Agreement supporting Fee-Free TAFE.

Delivery of publicly subsidised courses in Certificate II, III, IV, and Diploma in Auslan has grown throughout 2023, against previous years:

  • 164 students in 2021–22
  • 209 students in 2022–23
  • 178 students are training in Auslan in the year to date 2023–24, with the expected total to be similar or higher than 2022–23 given the expansion of Fee-Free training opportunities from January 2024 enrolments.

Certificate I in Deaf Gain Education (11077NAT) was designed exclusively for deaf and hard-of-hearing sign language users. It provides students with foundational knowledge, and skills required to undertake future pathways as an interpreter, particularly in various settings (digital, medical, and so on). The Certificate I is supported in South Australia under Fee-Free conditions.

Back to top

Action 22

Work with relevant State authorities to improve community understanding and awareness that complements and leverages the national effort under Australia’s Disability Strategy 2021–2031.

The Department of Human Services leads this action.

This action is considered completed and ongoing.

Progress throughout 2023

The Department of Human Services continues to coordinate the South Australian Disability Reform Interdepartmental Committee and the Inclusive SA Community of Practice network.

These networks support improved information sharing across local and state government and leverage efforts to address state and national disability-related reform that relate to Australia’s Disability Strategy 2021–2031 and the South Australian Targeted Action Plans.

Back to top

Outcome Area 5 - Education and Learning

Outcome Area 5 - Education and Learning

People with disability achieve their full potential through education and learning.

Action 23

State education and training sectors to support inclusive education culture and practice.

The Department for Education and TAFE SA lead this action.

This action is  in progress.

Progress throughout 2023

Throughout 2023, the Department for Education developed several professional learning and training programs, including those specific to improving the experiences of Autistic children in preschools and schools. These programs have been specifically developed to complement the Autism Inclusion Teacher initiative and include training specific to managing environmental factors to decrease students’ anxiety, understanding professional reports (from Allied Health professionals) and ways to support recommendations.

Two other programs of work under the Capability Building in Schools project are also being delivered. One has a focus on supporting educational leaders to maximise the effectiveness of support staff in working as classroom support for children and students with disability, and the other has a focus on building the expertise of educators working in settings that are dedicated to children and students with intellectual disability.

The Children and Students with Disability policy (PDF 195 KB) aims to ensure that department preschools, children's centres, schools, programs and services are inclusive of children and students with disability.

TAFE SA’s educator support programs, learning platforms, and accessibility tools promote inclusive education. Student support services provide reasonable adjustments and assistance for students with disability. The Lumitt training platform hosts an Accessibility, Usability, and Inclusive Design Information Hub and LEARN-ED Ally Resources quality validation processes includes accessibility checks for all learning materials.

Back to top

Action 24

State education and training sectors to work in partnership with children, students, parents/carers, industries and the community, to provide curriculum and learning opportunities that are personalised and tailored to the individual and prepare students for life beyond school.

The Department for Education and TAFE SA lead this action.

This action is  in progress.

Progress throughout 2023

A Disability Pathways team within the Department for Education was established to support the identification and strengthening of student pathways and post-school transitions. This included the piloting of a Transition Program for students with disability. The Transition Program connects students, parents/carers, industry stakeholders and the community through a career education program with activities providing personalised and tailored support to transition students from school to employment, further education, or training.

The Career Education and Pathways Strategy, released in June 2023, includes an initiative to expand the established Transition Program for students with disability from 2024 so that more students with disability can access the services and receive the support they need.

This has included working with the training sector, students, parents/carers, community, and industry to commence the planning to pilot six pathway programs that include curriculum and learning opportunities that are personalised and tailored to the individual, and prepare students for life beyond school. The Department for Education identified locations for the pilot programs in Adelaide City, Charles Campbell College, Clare, Adelaide Hills, Whyalla, and the Riverland.

TAFE SA offers targeted pre-enrolment support planning for secondary students with identified support needs through the VET Readiness Orientation (VETRO) initiative. This includes student centred planning and decision making and raising awareness of supports and services available. TAFE SA student services team has engaged with 887 individual secondary school students, their parents/caregivers and schools since VETRO was implemented.

Back to top

Action 25

Improve access to pathway options and transition support from school to tertiary education and/or employment for people with disability.

The Department for Education and TAFE SA lead this action.

This action is  in progress.

Progress throughout 2023

The Department for Education’s Career Education and Pathways Strategy includes an initiative on Schools Support Service which expanded the number of Disability Transition Advisors available to schools with secondary enrolments. In 2023, an initiative to expand the Transition Programs for students with disability commenced.

Disability Transition Advisors developed industry and employer immersion activities with industry and employer partners and career education activities to support the transition from school to employment, further education, or training.

A Transition Program was implemented in metropolitan Adelaide, Noarlunga, and Elizabeth.  A total of 78 students enrolled in the Transition Program in 2023. Work has continued across metropolitan Adelaide to improve access to and promotion of the Transition Program with the addition of more program days.

TAFE SA is collaborating with Australian Apprenticeship Support Network providers, and industry groups to support apprentices and trainees with disability to connect to services, careers, jobs and employers. This includes delivery of events with industry and delivery of the TAFE SA Jobs Board.

TAFE SA continues to share information and best practice in Universal Design for Learning in the Tertiary Education Community of Practice, to improve transition support and employment outcomes for students with disability.

Back to top

Action 26

Determine data required to measure and track the percentage of people living with disability participating and achieving in education and training.

The Department of Human Services, Department for Education and TAFE SA lead this action.

This action is  in progress.

Progress throughout 2023

The Department of Human Services led the National Disability Data Asset South Australian pilot test case - Education to Employment in 2021, capturing and analysing data related to the pathways from education into employment for students with disability. The pilot produced important information about pathways into further education and employment for young people with disability and identified supports required to improve outcomes of people with disability in educational settings.

Work to support improved data capturing will be considered further when the new State Disability Inclusion Plan is developed, along with other disability-related policies and initiatives.

TAFE SA utilises the National Centre for Vocational Education Research data reporting to monitor participation, satisfaction, completion and employment outcomes and trends for students with disability.

In 2023, TAFE SA:

  • introduced fee-free TAFE courses, including 1,014 new enrolments of students with disability.
  • updated reporting dashboards for fee-free TAFE and enrolment to include participation of people with disability.
  • collected data in Staff Exit Surveys, the People at Work Survey, and the ongoing People Matters Survey to understand staff experiences with disability.

Education census data on school students is an existing data source.  A relevant preschool data set is still to be explored by the Department for Education.

Back to top

Action 27

State authorities to facilitate meaningful volunteering opportunities for people living with disability and to identify clear pathways to transition from volunteering to work placement.

All State Government agencies and local councils lead this action.

This action is  in progress.

  • 23% completed and ongoing
  • 47% in progress
  • 30% not yet started.

Progress throughout 2023

The Department for Education staff have supported people with disability to apply for volunteer roles in schools, preschools and children's centres.

In addition, the department continues to chair the Public Sector Volunteer Policy Network and has provided members with information to support their volunteer programs to be more inclusive of people with disability.

The Department for Environment and Water has identified broader opportunities for volunteering across parks, promoted suitable volunteering opportunities across supported volunteering groups, and met with organisations, such as Autism SA, to identify suitable volunteer options.

South Australian Fire and Emergency Services Commission continues to facilitate meaningful volunteering opportunities for people with disability.

State Emergency Service (SES) conducted targeted and inclusive volunteer recruitment campaigns actively encouraging people with disability to join the SES. A range of volunteer roles were created, and adaptive training programs have been developed to accommodate varying abilities, ensuring volunteers with disability receive necessary skills and training, including accessible materials, specialised equipment, and tailored instructions.

Country Fire Service (CFS) implemented a Volunteer to Career initiative which includes training and assistance for volunteers seeking to obtain work placements with the agency and SA Public Sector. The CFS held workshops for volunteers to provide information and support on how to apply for jobs in the public sector/CFS. Additionally, the CFS created a casual administration and operational officer pool as a stepping-stone to public sector careers for volunteers.

Back to top

Outcome Area 6 - Health and Wellbeing

Outcome Area 6 - Health and Wellbeing

People with disability attain the highest possible health and wellbeing outcomes throughout their lives.

Action 28

Promote liaison and communication links between health services and disability support services and improve the continuity of supports, including psychosocial supports, during hospitalisation.

The Department for Health and Wellbeing leads this action.

This action is  in progress.

Progress throughout 2023

The Department for Health and Wellbeing is continuing to promote links between health services and disability support services to improve the continuity of supports, including psychosocial supports during hospitalisation to Local Health Networks.

The department has also re-contracted non-government organisation psychosocial services to include incentives to support clients to access the National Disability Insurance Scheme and re-contracted services to broaden the referral pathways in Local Health Networks to make accessing services easier.

Back to top

Action 29

Engage and consult with people with disability, their families and carers to identify their safety needs in the event of a disaster or emergency.

The South Australia Police leads this action.

This action is  in progress.

Progress throughout 2023

South Australia Police (SAPOL) is continuing to participate in the People at Risk in Emergencies project on behalf of the Government of South Australia, which is led by the South Australian Council of Social Service.

SAPOL uses the Advanced Mobile Location Service and the National Relay Service to provide location accuracy for mobile callers contacting Triple Zero during an emergency call. Text to Triple Zero work remains ongoing.

Back to top

Action 30

Increase health and wellbeing early intervention services and supports for people with disability, including:

  • determining improvements to the planning and accessibility of drug and alcohol services to support those at risk
  • update (where required) the model of care to ensure effective access to treatment services.

The Department for Health and Wellbeing leads this action.

This action is considered completed and ongoing.

Progress throughout 2023

Drug and Alcohol Services SA (DASSA) sites are accessible in relation to mobility considerations and site compliance is audited annually. All DASSA sites have access to the range of interpreter services and online resources.

DASSA staff with mobility or sensory limitations have personalised evacuation plans in place, which are reviewed annually.

In February 2024, DASSA became a clinician division in the Southern Adelaide Local Health Network and now operates under the Southern Adelaide Local Health Network Disability Access and Inclusion Plan. This action has been closed.

Back to top

Outcome Area 7 - Community Attitudes

Outcome Area 7 - Community Attitudes

Community attitudes support equality, inclusion and participation in society for people with disability.

Action 31

Provide updates and advice on the content of disability awareness and inclusion training packages available to State Government agencies to maintain best practice approaches and support inclusive workplaces and communities.

The Office of the Commissioner for Public Sector Employment leads this action.

This action is considered completed and ongoing.

Progress throughout 2023

The Office of the Commissioner for Public Sector Employment, in partnership with the Department of Human Services and the Disability, Diversity and Inclusion Community of Practice, has committed to implementing contemporary best practice in disability awareness and inclusion training.

For example, the South Australian Leadership Academy provides senior level staff with information on disability inclusion and disability employment in the SA Public Sector through its course offering, including the Disability Employment Toolkit. The Executive Induction Program includes a session on public sector diversity, featuring representatives with disability.

Additionally, Office of the Commissioner for Public Sector Employment shares information on training via the Disability, Diversity and Inclusion Community of Practice, which includes over 120 public sector employees.

Back to top

Action 32

Provide opportunities to arts organisations, cultural institutions, sporting organisations and community clubs to run disability training to promote active participation and inclusion of people with disability.

The Office for Recreation, Sport and Racing and Department of the Premier and Cabinet lead this action.

This action is  in progress.

Progress throughout 2023

The Office for Recreation, Sport and Racing has increased funding towards inclusion to deliver initiatives such as Activating Inclusion for Sporting Clubs training, which is a free workshop designed as a starting point to changing mindsets and building an inclusive culture within sporting clubs/organisations.

Additionally, Office for Recreation, Sport and Racing offers the Active Inclusion Mentoring Program to support staff from state sport and recreation organisations to build their knowledge of best practice and help shape their inclusion and diversity programs and policies.

The South Australian Sports Institute ran a practical workshop for 16 sports science and sports health practitioners from 6 states and territories to foster excellence in the delivery of support for para-athletes.

The Art Gallery of South Australia partnered with Access2Arts artists to present a free activity studio called The Exquisite Familiar that used stylistic-art to promote access and inclusion for people with disability. The Studio was very well received by people with disability, as well as more broadly within schools and the community.

Case study: The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower

The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is a simple way for individuals to voluntarily share that they have a disability or condition that may not be immediately apparent — and that they may need a helping hand, understanding, or more time in shops, at work, on transport, or in public spaces.

As a member of the program, the Metropolitan Fire Service wrapped one of its fire trucks with the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower to show support and bring awareness to disabilities that are not immediately obvious to others and to promote diversity, inclusion and belonging in communities.

The Sunflower Fire Truck led the 2023 Christmas Pageant through the streets of Adelaide and attended the VAILO Adelaide 500 for the community to enjoy.

Back to top

Action 33

Provide opportunities for active participation in decision-making for people living with disability, with particular focus on the identified priority groups:

  • Aboriginal people
  • culturally and linguistically diverse communities
  • women
  • children (and young people).

The State Government agencies and local councils lead this action.

This action is  in progress.

  • 37% completed and ongoing
  • 53% in progress
  • 10% not yet started.

Progress throughout 2023

The Office of the Public Advocate was awarded a grant through the Australian Department of Social Services to pilot a project titled Culturally Safe Supported Decision-Making. The project commenced on 1 April 2023 and will run until 30 June 2024.

The Lifetime Support Authority Participant Reference Group provides feedback on key operational and strategic work for the organisation. All participants are people with disability and the principles of supported decision making are embedded in the service planning, to ensure that all people with disability are involved with decision making as much as possible.

The Government of South Australia established South Australia's first ever Office for Autism within the Department of the Premier and Cabinet. Led by an Autistic Director and employing Autistic employees, the Office for Autism will promote positive change that is informed by lived experience and reflects community needs.

Back to top

Action 34

Work with the Commonwealth Government to develop data indicators that measure changes in community attitudes about the rights and needs of people living with disability.

The Department of Human Services leads this action.

This action is  in progress.

Progress throughout 2023

The Department of Human Services is continuing to represent South Australia to support the National Disability Data Asset (NDDA) becoming fully operational in 2026.

When the NDDA is fully operational, it will be able to provide data collected nation-wide relating to Australia’s Disability Strategy outcomes, including data relating to community attitude.

Back to top

Recommendation 46 - Review of the Disability Inclusion Act 2018 (SA)

Recommendation 46 - Review of the Disability Inclusion Act 2018 (SA)

The Final Report on the Review of the Disability Inclusion Act 2018 (SA) provided to the Government of South Australia requested the Department for Education include specific information in the 2023 Inclusive SA Annual Report.

This information pertains to the extent to which children living with disability are able to participate in mainstream learning and social experiences at school. With information to include:

  1. an outline about how the success of initiatives, procedures and programs designed to assist children living with disability is measured, especially in relation to learning outcomes and wellbeing; and
  2. recent results against those measures.

Response from the Department for Education

All children in South Australia have the right to high-quality school and preschool programs that support their learning and development, and that children have a place in their local government school or preschool.

The Department for Education is responsive to the diversity of South Australian children and young people, their needs and their families’ preferences for the support and adjustments that may be required. For eligible children, the Department provides choice to parents through offering special classes, disability units and special schools.

The Department is working to improve the participation, engagement and learning achievement for children and students with disability in mainstream schools. This includes:

  • the introduction of an Autism Inclusion Teacher in every public primary school, including reception to year 12 schools
  • providing more autonomy and flexibility through easier access to funding via the Inclusive Education Support Program
  • introducing a new Suspension, Exclusion and Expulsion procedure in 2023
  • release of practice guides designed for educators, that clearly articulate the evidence-based strategies and advice to improve learning and wellbeing outcomes.

As part of the Strategy for Public Education, the Department will use success measures to guide understanding of how the education system is working and how to adapt the strategy.

The Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability heard the experiences of children with disability and their parents of challenges in receiving an inclusive education across Australia.

Summary of lead authorities

Summary of lead authorities

Each action within Inclusive SA has been assigned a lead authority, either a State Government agency or local council (or a combination thereof). State authorities are required to monitor, implement and report on their assigned actions annually and must have them included in their individual DAIPs.

The following provides a summary of each agency’s assigned actions and completion status.

Attorney-General’s Department

In progress

Action 12

Completed and ongoing

Actions 15, 16

Department for Trade and Investment

In progress

Action 11

Completed and ongoing

No actions

Department for Education

In progress

Actions 24, 26

Completed and ongoing

Actions 21, 23, 25

TAFE SA

In progress

Actions 23, 24, 25, 26

Completed and ongoing

No actions

Back to top

Department for Environment and Water

In progress

No actions

Completed and ongoing

Actions 7, 8

Department for Infrastructure and Transport

In progress

Action 14

Completed and ongoing

Actions 8, 13

Department of Human Services

In progress

Actions 4, 18, 34

Completed and ongoing

Actions 19, 22, 26

Back to top

Department of the Premier and Cabinet

In progress

Action 6, 32

Completed and ongoing

Action 3

Office for Recreation, Sport and Racing

In progress

Actions 6, 8, 32

Completed and ongoing

No actions

Office of the Commissioner for Public Sector Employment

In progress

Action 5

Completed and ongoing

Actions 1, 31

Back to top

Department for Health and Wellbeing

In progress

Actions  28, 30

Completed and ongoing

No actions

South Australia Police

In progress

Actions 17, 29

Completed and ongoing

No actions

South Australian Housing Authority

In progress

No actions

Completed and ongoing

Action 8

Back to top

Local councils

In progress

Actions  5, 9, 10, 27, 33

Completed and ongoing

No actions

State Government agencies

In progress

Actions 2, 10, 20, 27, 33

Completed and ongoing

No actions

Back to top

Disability access and inclusion in 2024 and beyond

Disability access and inclusion in 2024 and beyond

Review of the State Disability Inclusion Plan

In 2023, the Department of Human Services commenced an extensive consultation process involving over 730 participants to consider the priorities and future focus of the new State Disability Inclusion Plan (the State Plan).

A consultation report was released in July 2024 which consolidated the feedback received and has set the basis upon which the new State Plan will be developed.

DHS will continue to collaborate with people with disability and/or neurodivergence, their parents and carers, non-government organisations and all State authorities.

This work will also trigger the development of new Disability Access and Inclusion Plans (DAIPs) across all State Government departments and local councils.

Further information about the consultation.

Implementing the new SA Autism Strategy 2024–2029

In June 2024, the South Australian Government launched the State’s first Autism Strategy 2024–2029 (the Strategy), which sets out a 5-year roadmap for the government to help improve the lives of Autistic people of all ages and their families.

The Strategy will work alongside, and interact with, the many inclusion-related initiatives underway, including the new State Disability Inclusion Plan.

Find out more about the SA Autism Strategy 2024–2029.

Stay updated on what is happening in 2024 and beyond — join our growing Disability Talk database.

Back to top

The new Disability Inclusion (Review Recommendations) Amendment Act 2024

Legislative recommendations arising from the Final Report on the Review of the Disability Inclusion Act 2018 (SA) have been enacted through the new Amendment Act 2024, which passed both Houses of Parliament in June 2024.

The Amendment Act 2024 will see new legislative requirements come into force, including:

  • Stronger provisions for measurable and meaningful outcomes in the State Disability Inclusion Plan and a target for public sector employment of people with disability
  • Greater recognition of the additional barriers experienced by LGBTIQA+ people with disability, people with disability living in regional areas and those who have significant intellectual disability or vulnerability due to disability
  • The establishment of a dedicated lived experience committee to support the preparation and review of the State Disability Inclusion Plan
  • Ensuring DAIPs developed by State authorities remain consistent with the State Disability Inclusion Plan and that the needs of priority groups are properly addressed.

Language used throughout the Act has also been enhanced to make it explicit that people with disability, regardless of age, have a right to be safe and to feel safe. The Act has also been strengthened to ensure programs and policies are developed, as appropriate, through co-design, consultation or other processes with people with disability.

Changing Places

The Government of South Australia and Local Government Associations have joined the Commonwealth Government in a tripartite funding model to share the costs associated with building new Changing Places facilities across South Australia.

Changing Places provides suitable facilities for people who cannot use standard accessible toilets, supporting people with disability to have more equitable access to essential facilities in their community.

This funding has resulted in two new Changing Places facilities recently constructed at:

  • George Bolton Swimming Centre, City of Burnside
  • Fabrik Arts and Heritage Centre, Adelaide Hills Council.

Another two Changing Places will be constructed at the Pasadena Community Centre and Glenthorne National Park.

Back to top

Glossary

Glossary

Auslan

Australian Sign Language is the sign language of people in the Australian Deaf community.

Australia’s Disability Strategy (ADS)

The ADS is a National Plan that aims to improve the life experiences of Australians living with disability, their families and carers.

Best practice

A method or technique that has been generally accepted as superior to any alternatives because it produces results that are better to those achieved by other means or because it has become a standard way of doing things.

Changing Places

Changing Places provide suitable facilities for people who cannot use standard accessible toilets. Changing Places toilets are larger than standard accessible toilets which provide people with disability and high support needs access to suitable, safe, and private bathroom facilities.

Children

Children includes young people of different ages. Children and young people have needs and wants that are separate to and different from adults.

Commonwealth

The Government of the Commonwealth of Australia – commonly referred to as the Australian Government or the Federal Government.

Disability Access and Inclusion Plans (DAIPs)

Disability Access and Inclusion Plans are prepared by State authorities for their own agency, department, or local council area. DAIPs align to the State Plan and include actions specific to the State Plan and local environment.

Disability Engagement Group (DEG)

The DEG is a 12-member disability engagement group whose members have lived experience of disability and represent diverse cultural backgrounds, gender identities and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. They also represent the interests of people living in metropolitan and regional locations. The DEG provides advice on future directions of the State Plan to contribute to improving access and inclusion for people with disability.

Disability Minister’s Advisory Council (DMAC)

A group of people with specific lived experience who provide advice to the Minister for Human Services on relevant issues. Members of the MACs provide advice to inform government strategies, policies, and legislative reform. There are three MACs: Disability, LGBTIQA+ and Youth.

Back to top

Government agencies

A government agency is responsible for the oversight and administration of specific functions across the state and is established by legislation. Government agencies can also be referred to as government departments.

Local councils

A system of government in South Australia under which elected local government bodies (councils) are constituted under the Local Government Act 1999 (SA).

Mainstream

Products and services that are readily available to the public, as opposed to being applicable only to a very specific subset of the general population.

Priority Groups

The Disability Inclusion Act 2018 (SA) sets out principles to ensure the specific needs of people with disability who are Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse backgrounds, women and children are considered when designing and delivering services and plans.

QR codes

Quick response codes - black and white markers typically used for storing  web addresses.

State authorities

As defined in the Disability Inclusion Act 2018 (SA): an administrative unit (within the meaning of the Public Sector Act 2009 (SA), or a local council established under the Local Government Act 1999 (SA).

Targeted Action Plans (TAPs)

TAPs are a key part of the ADS and help apply an intensive focus to achieve specific deliverables for people with disability. There are five TAPS.

Toolkit

A suite of information documents that may include guidelines, templates and procedures to assist in the completion of a task.

Universal Design

Universal Design involves creating facilities, built environs, products and services that can be used by people of all abilities to the greatest extent possible without adaptations.

Back to top

Acronyms

Acronyms

AGSA

Art Gallery of South Australia

AGD

Attorney-General’s Department

ADS

Australia’s Disability Strategy

CFS

Country Fire Service

CALD

Culturally and Linguistically Diverse

DIT

Department for Infrastructure and Transport

DHS

Department of Human Services

DPC

Department of the Premier and Cabinet

Back to top

DAIPs

Disability Access and Inclusion Plans

DEG

Disability Engagement Group

DCA

Diversity Council Australia

DASSA

Drug and Alcohol Services SA

LGBTIQA+

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, queer, asexual and other identities

LHNs

Local Health Networks

NDDA

National Disability Data Asset

NDIS

National Disability Insurance Scheme

Back to top

OCPSE

Office of the Commissioner for Public Sector Employment

OPA

Office of the Public Advocate

QR codes

Quick response codes - Quick response codes - black and white markers typically used for storing  web addresses

SAPOL

South Australia Police

SES

State Emergency Service

TAFE SA

Technical and Further Education South Australia

TAPs

Targeted Action Plans

VETRO

VET Readiness Orientation

Back to top

Performance of the Inclusive SA website

Performance of the Inclusive SA website

In 2023, the Inclusive SA website attracted more than 43 thousand page views from over 23 thousand users.

  • Resources were downloaded from the website more than 2 thousand times, including Easy Read documents. The most downloads were 622 downloads for the State Plan and 378 downloads for the State Plan Easy Read.
  • The aim is to grow traffic to the website over time and increase disability awareness and activities across the state.
  • Social media posts about Inclusive SA or disability inclusion and accessibility more broadly were a regular feature on social media activity including posts across Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter) and LinkedIn.

View the State Disability Inclusion Plan

Find out what your community is doing to support access and inclusion for people with disability by reading State authorities’ DAIPs.


This Annual Report fulfils the following sections of the Disability Inclusion Act 2018 (SA):

  • Section 14 – Annual report on operation of the State Disability Inclusion Plan
  • Section 17 – Annual report on operation of disability access and inclusion plan.

Contact us

dhsdisabilityinclusion@sa.gov.au

Back to top

This site is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 Licence. © DHS .

Provided by:
Department of Human Services
URL:
https://inclusive.sa.gov.au/our-work/inclusive-sa-annual-report
Last Updated:
26 Oct 2023
Printed on:
15 Nov 2024
The Inclusive SA website is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Australia Licence. © Copyright 2016