The South Australian Government has launched a landmark Disability Inclusion Plan 2025–2029, setting a four-year vision to make the state a national leader in accessibility, fairness, and opportunity for people with disability.
Led by the Department of Human Services, the plan mandates that over 100 state agencies and local councils set ambitious targets and embed disability access and inclusion into every aspect of their operations. Each agency will reflect the State Plan’s priorities within their own tailored Disability Access and Inclusion Plans.
Minister for Human Services, Nat Cook said the plan recognises that disability is not caused by an individual’s condition, but by the barriers society puts in their way. This social model of disability underpins the State’s approach removing systemic, environmental, and attitudinal barriers to unlock participation and inclusion for all, she said.
“This plan builds on our ongoing commitment to ensure South Australians with disability feel safe, included and able to participate equally in our community,” said Minister Cook.
“It’s a powerful opportunity to reset how we think about, design and drive inclusion across all aspects of society.
“We thank everyone, especially those with lived experience for their invaluable contributions in shaping this plan. I especially thank members of the Disability Minister’s Advisory Council, who were so actively engaged throughout the consultation process.”
With 5.5 million Australians around 21% of the population reporting a disability, and disability discrimination remaining the most common complaint to the Australian Human Rights Commission, this new plan comes at a critical time, she said.
The Plan outlines action across five key domains:
- Inclusive environments and communities;
- Education and employment;
- Personal and community support;
- Health and wellbeing;
- Safety, rights, and justice.
Learn more and access the full plan at inclusive.sa.gov.au/SDIP.
