People with a disability

Expression of Interest Open - Disability Inclusion and Access Advisory Group Members

Are you a person with disability or a disability ally who is passionate about creating a more inclusive and accessible Port Stephens?

Port Stephens Council is looking for people living with disability, or strong allies of the disability community, to join the newly formed Disability Inclusion and Access Advisory Group (DIAAG).

The DIAAG will provide valuable insight into the access and inclusion needs of people living with disability in the Port Stephens area. The DIAAG will actively contribute to council plans and strategies, including the Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) and act as a link between Council and the community.

Why should you join?

  • Be an active member of the community, influence local government decisions and policy
  • Build strong relationships in your community
  • Be a voice for change - drive diversity, equity and inclusion in Port Stephens

Your disability lived experience is your expertise - we welcome all people with disability to apply to be part of this newly formed Group.

We’re looking for Group Members who:

  • Have lived experience of disability or are a family member or key ally of the disability community.
  • Live or work in the Port Stephens local government area.
  • Can attend meetings (3 per year) and occasionally relevant community events.
  • Can complete tasks including reviewing agendas and reading minutes
  • Work respectfully and collaboratively in a team environment, including respecting the diversity of thought and experience of the group
  • Are committed to social justice and upholding the rights of people with disability
  • Align with the values of Port Stephens Council, diversity, inclusion, and community-led decision-making.
  • Want to contribute to real, meaningful change in the Port Stephens area.

We have created a Member Role Description to help you understand responsibilities.

How to apply?

There are a number of different ways you can apply.

  1. Apply through our online form.
  2. Call us direct to talk through our application form on 4988 0433.
  3. Apply via email amber.herrmann@portstephens.nsw.gov.au

There are 8 community representative positions available on the group. There is also an opportunity to apply for a Co-chair position.

The role of the Co-Chair is to lead and support the effective functioning of the DIAG=AG, ensuring collaborative, inclusive, and informed input.

For more information about this role, see the Role Description.

Applications close on Monday, 9 June 2025.

Applicants may be invited to attend an informal interview / meeting, prior to determination of final members of the DIAAG. All applicants will be notified of the outcome of their application.

For further information please contact Amber on 4988 0433 or by email at amber.herrmann@portstephens.nsw.gov.au

We aim to make Port Stephens inclusive and accessible for everyone

Community Wellbeing Strategy

This strategy is our commitment to making Port Stephens a place where wellbeing is prioritised, and people can lead happy, healthy and connected lives no matter their age, background or ability.

Learn more

Our Social Planning team provides information and advice to Council on supporting an equitable and inclusive community for everyone — including people who experience disability, their carers and family members. This includes:

  • improving footpath access and connectivity, such as kerb ramps
  • providing accessible parking in the right locations
  • access to buildings, amenities and services
  • inclusion in decision-making processes.

Beach access

Council offers a disability access ramp at Little Beach, Nelson Bay which provides access to the water via a water wheelchair. The beach boasts lovely golden sand and disability play equipment, making this a perfect spot for families to enjoy the Bay.

MLAK key for public disabled toilets

male, female and accessible toilets icon

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To obtain a MLAK Key for access to public disability toilets and facilities, please contact us.

Hearing service support

If you are deaf, or have a hearing or speech impairment, contact us through the National Relay Service.

  • TTY users phone 133 677 then ask for 02 9265 9333
  • Speak and Listen users phone 1300 555 727 then ask for 02 9265 9333
  • Internet relay users connect to the NRS then ask for 02 9265 9333
  • Video relay users choose the available NRS video relay on Skype and ask for 02 9265 9333
  • SMS relay users phone 0423 677 767 and ask for 02 9265 9333.

Disability services in Port Stephens

For a list of local disability services, please view the Port Stephens Community Directory.

Disability parking

A number of Disability Parking spaces are available in the Port Stephens town centres for your convenience.