Disability inclusion isn't the responsibility of one person or one team—it's how local government does business. The recently released Local Government Disability Inclusion Guide is designed to support councils to embed inclusive thinking into everyday decisions, helping create communities where everyone can participate, contribute and belong. Purpose The first webinar in the Local Government Disability Inclusion Guide series introduces councils to the Guide and demonstrates how it can be used as a practical resource to support disability inclusion across all areas of local government. This session focuses on helping participants understand the Guide, why it was developed, and how it can support better planning, decision-making and service delivery. The webinar will reinforce that disability inclusion is not the responsibility of one individual or one team. It is a whole-of-council responsibility, requiring leadership, collaboration and practical action across every council function. Participants will leave with the confidence to begin using the Guide immediately within their own roles and organisations. Learning outcomes By the end of this webinar, participants will: understand the purpose and structure of the Local Government Disability Inclusion Guide recognise why disability inclusion is a whole-of-council responsibility understand how the Guide supports implementation of disability inclusion across planning, infrastructure, services and community engagement learn practical ways to use the Guide within their own role and organisation hear how local government can translate strategic intent into practical action understand opportunities to contribute feedback and support the Guide's ongoing improvement. Who is this webinar for? This webinar is designed for everyone involved in planning, delivering and supporting local government services, including: Mayors and Councillors Chief Executive Officers and Executive Leadership Teams Directors and Managers Disability Inclusion Officers Community Development staff Strategic and Land Use Planners Infrastructure, Engineering and Asset Management teams Parks, Recreation and Open Space staff Customer Service and Communications teams Human Resources and Organisational Development Emergency Management and Community Safety staff Procurement and Project Managers Libraries, Arts and Cultural Services State and Territory Local Government Associations Government agencies and partner organisations Community organisations and disability advocates with an interest in inclusive local government You!

The National General Assembly of Local Government (NGA) is the largest annual gathering of local government leaders in Australia. Since 1994, council leaders have converged in Canberra for the NGA to advocate for better federal funding, policy reforms and effective partnerships. The national event regularly attracts more than 1000 delegates from around Australia and overseas, and provides an exciting opportunity for mayors, shire presidents and councillors to come together, network and consider the big issues for communities. Motions are now closed.  

Local governments are often the most visible point of contact for people experiencing housing stress, homelessness and social isolation. While councils do not control these systems, they play a critical role in shaping local responses and supporting inclusive communities. This practical webinar will explore three key challenges facing councils today: Accessible and affordable housing for people with disability Clarifying roles in responding to and preventing homelessness Strengthening inclusive community supports and “third places” that enable connection, participation and wellbeing Across all three challenges, the session will focus on practical actions councils can take to clarify their role, strengthen partnerships and move from response to prevention within existing constraints, with a strong focus on inclusion and intersectionality. Join us to explore how local government can support dignity, inclusion and community wellbeing, while creating more resilient and connected communities for all.