The Outer East Citizen’s Advocacy Inc. is a not for profit organisation that aims to defend, promote and protect the rights of people with disabilities and to empower people to access the resources within their local community.

This evening I was invited to speak to the Outer Eastern Citizen’s Advocacy in regard my background in public transport advocacy and my role as a councillor for the City of Maroondah. One of the most important responsibilities of being an elected councillor is to provide advocacy on behalf of the local community whether internally in council or in regard to state or federal issues.

Maroondah has one of the highest proportions of people with a disability (14% of approximately 100,000 residents) and as such it is imperative that infrastructure such as Ringwood Station is upgraded to ensure compliance with accessibility standards. It is only through accessible infrastructure that people will be able to fully participate within society.

Furthermore there is a need for footpaths to be constructed along well-used pedestrian links to ensure an ease of mobility for people in travelling to shops, schools and public transport. Fortunately in this regard Maroondah City Council is currently finalising a Footpath and Pedestrian Strategy. This strategy will provide a framework that will rectify the shortfall of footpaths within Maroondah.

Maroondah City Council provides a number of avenues for people with disabilities to be heard including the Maroondah Disability Forums held quarterly and the Scoot Wheel N Move workshops.

Outer East Citizen’s Advocacy continues to provide a valued service for the community by removing the barriers that prevent people from participating within society.