2014-15
2015-16
1.4 A connected and inclusive community
98%
98%
1.4.1 Build social capital through provision of accessible community infrastructure
and programs.
100%
100%
1.4.2 Provide equitable access to and advocate for a range of services, programs
and facilities to address disadvantage and foster inclusion.
97%
97%
During the rebranding of our region, survey
respondents identified diversity as a key pillar of
our community; and each person gave a different
representation of what diversity meant to them.
There is our diversity in economy, businesses, job
opportunities and infrastructure, but also in our
people, their stories and how they contribute to our
rich, regional tapestry. From our vibrant events that
celebrate our diversity and multiculturalism, to our
inclusivity of our ageing population, our young people
and access for people with a disability, we are always
surprised by the generosity of spirit of our residents
and visitors.
Our challenges
• Ensuring updated, responsive disability resources
to support our community
• Encompassing accessibility and inclusivity in the
early planning of infrastructure and programs
STATUS
Community outcomes
Access and Equity Plan
To create accessibility and inclusion that meets the
needs of our community, this year saw the adoption
of the Access and Equity Plan 2016-2021. With a focus
on practical and achievable actions, the Plan will
enable our community to have the same opportunities
and access to services and events as can reasonably
be achieved. The Plan focuses on parking, transport,
facilities, open space, planning and services, training
and employment, communication and community
engagement, programs and events, as well as a
review process for implementation. The Access and
Equity Plan will put the foundations in place to provide
people equal opportunity to make economic and
social contributions to our community.
• Resourcing support to deliver a diverse offering
of programs and services for our Indigenous and
Torres Strait Islander communities.
The Access and Equity Plan is also available as a
braille copy in the Toowoomba City Library and will
align with the CBD accessibility map to assist people
with a disability, access the Toowoomba Region safely
and equitably.
Our achievements
Free CBD Shuttle Bus
• Free CBD shuttle service to seven key stops
across the Toowoomba CBD including the
temporary Toowoomba City Library facility
• Adoption of the Access and Equity Plan 2016-2021
• Launch of the braille version of the Access and
Equity Plan at the Toowoomba City Library
• Commencement of a subsidised Council
Cabs program.
A free community shuttle bus service operated this
financial year to and from the Toowoomba City Library
with seven designated stops around the Toowoomba
CBD. The service provided free transport to people
with limited mobility to access popular Toowoomba
CBD locations door to door. The free CBD Shuttle Bus
was available to all members of the public and more
than 3,200 trips were taken this year.
Council Cabs program
TOOWOOMBA REGIONAL COUNCIL Annual Report 2015 - 2016
Our goals CHAPTER 4
83