Greens Candidate for Ward 2 Kit Docker will work to establish a Disability Inclusion Advisory reference group on Wollongong City Council if elected in the September elections.

Kit said: “People in Wollongong who are living with disability continue to encounter significant barriers on a daily basis. From neighbourhoods devoid of footpaths, to public transport systems which fail miserably when it comes to accessibility, the experiences of people with disability demands greater attention from our council. 

“Unfortunately the attempts by the previous council to address these barriers like the public access reference group and the disability inclusion action plan are still falling short.

"Council must establish a Disability Inclusion Advisory Committee, and include people with lived experiences, to ensure our communities are able to work towards true accessibility in all areas. Authentic inclusion starts with voices that understand the challenges firsthand. And by prioritising these perspectives, we can build a more inclusive and equitable community for everyone."

Local disability activist Kyle Montgomery said: “Rights for people with disability are necessary to all societies as these rights are intersectional. They intersect within all human issues such as age, class, ethnicity, sexuality, gender, politics, religion and built environments. Disability has always existed and will affect all humans eventually. Having an advisory committee for Disability Rights and inclusion is only a step in the right direction towards a greater framework of genuine social inclusion to fix the ongoing dehumanisation and segregation of people with disability.”

Greens candidate for Lord Mayor and Ward 1 Jess Whittaker said: “We want a city where everyone can get about and enjoy our lifestyle, our beaches, our transport, our shared pathways, our reserves and our parks. These experiences shouldn’t just be for able bodied people, but for all.

“It’s time we stood up for all people including those who live with disability and work towards a city where everyone is included in all areas of public life. This committee would provide strategic, expert and impartial advice to Council on the development, implementation and review of the Council’s policies, strategies and plans to help include those living with disability.”