Residents, businesses and community organisations are being invited to comment on a new plan aimed at improving accessibility and participation for people with disability across Parramatta.
The City of Parramatta has placed its Draft Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) 2026–2030 on public exhibition, outlining measures intended to reduce barriers and strengthen inclusion for people with both visible and invisible disabilities.
City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Martin Zaiter said the draft plan reflects the city’s growth and diversity while setting out practical steps to ensure residents of all abilities can take part in community life.
“Parramatta is one of Australia’s fastest-growing and most diverse cities and as we grow, we must ensure accessibility and inclusion are embedded in everything we do,” Cr Zaiter said.
He said the document draws on previous community consultation and continues work started under earlier plans.
“From our public spaces and infrastructure to our events, services and employment practices, this plan reflects extensive feedback from earlier community consultation,” he said.
“It also builds on the strong foundations established under our previous Disability Inclusion Action Plans.”
The four-year plan proposes embedding Universal Design principles across council operations, supported by a permanent Universal Design and Access Officer who will provide advice, training and guidance to ensure accessibility is considered early in projects and services.
Council says earlier Disability Inclusion Action Plans have already led to changes across several areas. Facilities have been registered as Sunflower Friendly sites and staff have received training to support people with hidden disabilities. Facility audits have also been conducted by Autism Spectrum Australia.
Workplace measures have included adopting a Workplace Adjustment Policy and redesigning the council website to meet accessibility standards.
Infrastructure upgrades have also been incorporated into major projects such as the redevelopment of Riverside Theatres, where design features include step-free movement, accessible seating, tactile wayfinding, lifts, adult-change facilities and assistive listening systems. The venue is expected to offer relaxed performances along with Auslan interpretation, captioning and audio description in future programming.
The draft plan outlines several proposals currently open for public feedback.
Among them is identifying a suitable location to pilot a designated relief area for service dogs in the Parramatta CBD. Other proposals include increasing the availability of accessible parking, updating the city’s wayfinding strategy using Universal Design principles, and expanding accessible playgrounds under a framework aligned with the NSW Government’s “Everyone Can Play” guidelines.
The Draft Disability Inclusion Action Plan 2026–2030 will remain on public exhibition until 5pm on Wednesday 15 April 2026. Residents, particularly people with disability, carers, advocacy organisations and service providers, are encouraged to review the document and provide feedback online through Participate Parramatta or in person at the PHIVE Customer Service Centre at 5 Parramatta Square.
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
