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East Gippsland's new disability network brings diverse community voices together to help shape council decisions and services

East Gippsland’s new Disability Network has attracted 33 expressions of interest, bringing together people with disability, carers, families and sector representatives to help shape Council decisions and improve accessibility.

By news@gippsland - 18th September 2026 - Back to News

The East Gippsland disability community has responded positively to the new East Gippsland Disability Network, with expressions of interest to join the network reflecting a diverse range of lived experiences and perspectives from across the community. The network will provide an opportunity for people with disability, carers, family members, supporters and disability organisations to share their experiences, identify barriers and help shape Council decisions, including policies, projects, services and infrastructure.

EOI's for the newly established East Gippsland Disability Network has been positive with thirty-three people already registered

Community disability network

Thirty-three people have already registered their interest in the network, including people with lived experience of disability, parents, carers and representatives from the disability sector. This diverse group will bring a broad range of perspectives and experiences to help inform Council's work.

East Gippsland Shire Council is establishing the network so it can hear directly from people with lived experience to help better understand what is working well and where there is room to improve, supporting a more accessible, inclusive and welcoming East Gippsland. The network will operate primarily through a secure online engagement platform, making it easier for people to participate when and where it suits them, including those living in smaller and more remote communities.

Council previously had a Disability Advisory Committee consisting of about 10 members to inform Council initiatives; however, it has been paused for some time. The new network increases the opportunity for more people to be involved in a more flexible and inclusive way. Expressions of interest to join remain open on an ongoing basis for anyone who would like to be involved.

Disability network grows

Mayor Cr Jodie Ashworth said the response demonstrated a strong desire from the community to have a greater voice in Council decisions. "The strong response to this network shows how much our community wants a greater voice in shaping Council decisions."

"We’re committed to listening, learning and acting on what people with lived experience tell us because that helps us make better decisions and build a more accessible and inclusive East Gippsland for everyone," Cr Ashworth said. If you'd like to be part of the East Gippsland Disability Network, you can register your interest via Your Say East Gippsland website.

Pictures from East Gippsland Shire Council Facebook page.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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  Preparation works have begun for Morwell’s new double-storey CBD car park, expected to start construction in October, adding more than 120 free spaces and completing Latrobe City’s Regional Car Parks Fund projects.
• Cycling Without Age Gippsland returns with free trishaw rides around Sale’s Lake Guthridge for community passengers and visitors
  Cycling Without Age Gippsland has resumed free trishaw rides at Lake Guthridge, Sale, welcoming Central Gippsland Health passengers and 16 floral art convention visitors, while inviting bookings and new volunteers.
• Gippsland commuters stranded after V/Line services end early, prompting calls for reliable regional rail services
  Melina Bath criticised Gippsland rail disruptions after AFL fans were stranded following an early service cutoff, calling for reliable regional transport and promising 1,110 additional seats on Traralgon and Bairnsdale services.
• West Gippsland Landcare celebrates 40 Years of environmental action and community connection
  More than 150 Landcare supporters celebrated 40 years of West Gippsland Landcare, reflecting on achievements, community connections and future opportunities for resilient landscapes and sustainable farming.
• Gippsland small business triumphs with award-winning High Country Hooch Distilling Enterprise at Glenaladale near Bairnsdale
  High Country Hooch Distilling owners Paul and Leanne Poulter won Best New Business at the Gippsland Business Awards, growing their Glenaladale venture into a handcrafted spirits and tasting-room destination.