Alpine Shire Council is inviting the community to help shape a more inclusive future, with the draft Access and Inclusion Plan 2026–2029 now open for public feedback.
The draft Plan outlines Council’s proposed approach to improving accessibility and strengthening inclusion within its own services, facilities, systems and workplace practices.
It has been shaped through earlier engagement with residents, community organisations, service providers and Council staff, and Council is now seeking final feedback before the Plan is adopted.
Alpine Shire Mayor, Cr Sarah Nicholas, said community voices are essential to ensuring the Plan reflects real needs and priorities.
“This is the community’s Plan, and we want to hear from as many people as possible,” she said.
“Whether you’re a person with disability, a carer, a parent with a pram, an older resident or simply someone who cares about an inclusive Alpine Shire, we want your ideas and your feedback.”
The draft Plan aims to ensure everyone can participate fully in community life and directly supports Council’s responsibilities under the Victorian Disability Act 2006, the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 and the Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities Act 2006.
Importantly, it also benefits the broader community - parents with prams, people recovering from injuries, older residents and visitors.
Cr Nicholas said the draft 2026–2029 Plan is designed to be realistic, staged and achievable.
“Our last Plan was ambitious, but we know that to deliver real change we need clear priorities and achievable timeframes,” she said.
“This draft sets out practical steps, backed by quarterly reporting and stronger oversight, to ensure that progress is steady and meaningful."
What’s in the draft Plan
The draft Plan focuses on five priority areas:
1. Systems, Attitudes and Behaviours – Inclusive policies, staff training, support for community accessibility grants
2. Inclusive, Accessible and Safe Communities – Building assessments, planned upgrades, involvement of people with disability in design
3. Employment and Financial Security – Accessible hiring and recruitment, workplace adjustments
4. Inclusive Communication and Digital Services – Improved website accessibility, clear emergency information
5. Connection and Advocacy – Partnerships with advocacy groups and Alpine Health, transport and housing advocacy
Earlier engagement highlighted key community priorities including safer footpaths, accessible playgrounds, improved public transport and more accessible public buildings.
Have your say
Cr Nicholas encouraged all residents to review the draft Plan and share their feedback.
“We’ve listened carefully to the community so far, as community voice is essential to getting this right,” she said.
"I encourage everyone to take a look at the draft Plan and tell us what we’ve got right and what else we need to consider."
Community members can review the draft Access and Inclusion Plan 2026–2029 and provide feedback online by visiting: Access and Inclusion Plan | Engage Alpine
Printed copies of both the draft Plan and the feedback forms can be found at our Customer Service Centre in Bright, and our local Alpine Libraries in Bright, Mount Beauty and Myrtleford.
If you'd like further assistance providing feedback, please contact Council's Coordinator Community Development by calling (03) 5755 0555, or by emailing communities@alpineshire.vic.gov.au.