Access and Inclusion

Access and inclusion, in the context of disability, means ensuring that people with disabilities have the same opportunities to participate in society as everyone else, by removing barriers and providing necessary support. Accessibility focuses on creating environments and systems that are usable by everyone, including those with disabilities, while inclusion emphasizes creating a welcoming and supportive environment where everyone feels valued and can participate fully.   

Access Strategy 2025-2030

The Access Strategy 2025-2030 was shaped through extensive community consultation (September–November 2024), engaging 195 participants including people with disability, key stakeholders, Council members, City of Darwin staff, and the broader community. The Access and Inclusion Advisory Committee provided guidance throughout the process. 

To read or download a copy click here. To read or download the Easy Read version click here. 

Our Vision 

We want a capital city where people with disability can access, participate, and connect across all aspects of community life and where their skills, lived experience and achievements are acknowledged. 

This is a five-year place-based strategy structured around four focus areas. 

It outlines our commitment to short, medium and long-term outcomes. 

Focus Areas: 

1.PARTICIPATE 

People with disability participate fully in Darwin’s lifestyle, events and economic opportunities. 

2.NAVIGATE 

People with disability can move more easily and safely around Darwin. 

3.COMMUNICATE 

Increase accessibility of information to people with disability. 

4.RECOGNISE 

Recognise and promote the strengths, expertise and achievements of people with disability. 

The strategy was guided by Council’s Access and Inclusion Advisory Committee (AIAC) and developed in collaboration with Matrix on Board Consulting.  

The Access Strategy draws from the Darwin community’s participation and wisdom, the current local and national policy environment, and City of Darwin’s Strategic Plan to support, enable and advocate for people with disability to live, work, play and study across the municipality.    

To contact the Access and Inclusion team, please email accessibility@darwin.nt.gov.au