Attend the Inclusive Tourism and Community Planning Forum and learn how to become an accessible destination

Council invites businesses interested in developing the Sunshine Coast as a universally accessible destination for tourists and locals to attend the free Inclusive Tourism and Community Planning Forum on Wednesday, June 7 at USC’s Innovation Centre.

With one in five Queenslanders having a disability, and an ageing population using more mobility aids, everyday access to facilities on the Coast is becoming increasingly difficult.

The free Forum will highlight how small changes in design can improve accessibility for Sunshine Coast residents and visitors.

Community Programs Portfolio Councillor Jenny McKay said the Inclusive Tourism and Community Planning Forum was in line with council’s commitment outlined in the Sunshine Coast Social Strategy ensuring our people and places are connected.

“We invite businesses to attend the industry breakfast and learn about an emerging tourism demographic and how we can capture their business on the Sunshine Coast,” Cr McKay said

“Businesses will participate in exciting discussions about the economic and social benefits inclusive tourism can bring to our region.

“We are very fortunate to have secured Phil Smith, Associate Director, Urban Design at Diecke Richards as the MC to lead the Universal Design and Planning Public Spaces Forum.

“Forum guest speakers include Daniel Gschwind, Queensland Tourism Industry Council CEO; Kevin Cocks AM, Commissioner of the Anti-Discrimination Commission Queensland; Dr Claudia Baldwin, Associate Professor with Regional and Urban Planning at USC and Dr Lisa Stafford from the Centre for Universal Design Australia and QUT.

“The use of universal design concepts in planning and design of public spaces allows for essential accessibility for the community.

“The forum will take a closer look at how universal design concepts can be applied during the planning phase to go beyond ensuring Disability Discrimination Act compliance, to examining a way of life.

“Sometimes the smallest changes at the design stage can make monumental differences for a person living with a disability.”

Inclusive Tourism and Community Planning Forum Fast Facts

When: June 7, 2017

Where: The Innovation Centre, USC, 90 Sippy Downs Drive, Sippy Downs

Time: 7 – 9am: Session 1 - Inclusive Tourism Breakfast

9.30am – 12.30pm: Session Universal Design and Planning Workshop

Details: Free event, bookings essential by visiting the what’s on calendar via council’s website or by calling 5475 7272 and asking to speak with a Community Development Officer.