Disability Access
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), 18.3% of the Australian population has some form of permanent disability. It is therefore estimated that over 6,000 Warrnambool residents will have a disability.
Moreover, as a regional centre and a tourist destination, Warrnambool receives significant numbers of visitors each year, a proportion of whom will also have a disability.
Numbers of people affected by disability will continue to increase in the future as a result of population growth and ageing. Improved community access and inclusion are not disability-specific, and through the provision of universal access to information, the physical environment, and greater opportunities for community participation, everyone will benefit.
Rural Access
Rural Access is a Council-based program funded by the Department of Health and Human Services that works in partnership with local organisations, businesses and the broader community to develop new ways of including people with disability in the life of their communities. For further information about Rural Access, or about any of the services or programs below, please ring Warrnambool City Council on (03) 5559 4800.
Information and Services available
Communication Access
To assist people with communication and /or cognitive disabilities.
Accessible Accommodation Guide
Warrnambool Area
Accessible Meeting/Conference Rooms
Suitable locations around Warrnambool
Assistance Animals
Warrnambool City Council respects the rights of owners with Sight or Hearing Dogs to full access to the community
Beach Wheelchairs
Beach wheelchairs are available for free hire on the Lady Bay Foreshore
Mobility Map
Access and facilities for people with limited mobility. Includes Accessible Public Toilets, Scooter Recharge Points and Disabled Parking Bays in Warrnambool City Centre
Portable Accessible Toilet
Available for hire for community events
Scooter Recharge Scheme
Locations of recharge points in the South West Region
One and All Inclusive Events
Endorsing local community festivals and events which enable equity of access
Welcoming Business Program
Endorsing local businesses with key features which enable access to their business for people with disability
Companion Card
Cards are available for people with disability who require a companion to enable them to access community activities. For more information visit www.companioncard.org.au
National Relay Service
If you are deaf or have a hearing or speech impairment you can call through the National Relay Service (NRS). For more information visit www.relayservice.gov.au
Disabled Parking
Available for residents who require access to park in disabled parking bays or require extended time in ordinary bays. Disabled Parking Permits enable the holder of the permit to park in any designated disabled parking area, Australia wide.
Concession Cards
Further information is available about a range of concession cards available to the community including the Carers Card, Companion Card, Seniors Card and Can’t Wait Card.
Assistive Equipment
Available for hire from Council for community events. Equipment includes portable access ramps, assistive hearing equipment and signage. Contact Rural Access for more information.
What is Inclusion
An Inclusive Community is where all people feel safe, respected, and comfortable in being themselves and expressing all aspects of their identities. It is a place where each person shares a sense of belonging.
Works for me
A conversation with local women with disability about their experiences and expectations for inclusion in their community.
