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Grants of up to $2000 to improve accessibility and inclusion for disabled people open to Bass Coast businesses and local groups

Bass Coast Shire Council offers $2,000 grants for businesses and community groups to boost accessibility and inclusion. Projects range from physical improvements to alternative formats, promoting diversity and equity.

By news@gippsland - 20th October 2023 - Back to News

Bass Coast Shire Council is offering grants of up to $2000 for businesses and community groups to improve accessibility and inclusion. Applications are now open under the Accessible Bass Coast grants program for initiatives and projects that aim to increase the number of people with disabilities accessing businesses or community organisations as customers, visitors, members or employees.

NRS, an Australian Government service, facilitates phone communication with hearing individuals through Relay Officers. Info on NRS and alternative communication methods

Inclusive grants program

Bass Coast Mayor Michael Whelan said projects could include physical improvements like ramps and accessible toilets, alternative information formats such as large print menus for people with vision impairment, or hosting disability awareness training for members or staff.

"Equity, diversity and inclusion are key priorities in Bass Coast. We hope this grants program will continue to progress improvements in access and inclusion in our community, by creating welcoming environments so people with disabilities feel greater connection to local businesses and organisations," Cr Whelan said.

Program application eligibility

To be eligible for funding, a business or community organisation must:

• Be located in Bass Coast Shire
• Develop a plan outlining the intended actions
• Have discussed the application with council's Access and Healthy Ageing Officer Teresa Davison
• Provide written quotes to support the amount requested in the application

Only one application per business or community organisation is permitted, and funding is limited. Priority will be given to applications that demonstrate a genuine and ongoing commitment to improving access and inclusion for people with disabilities. Applications must be submitted through the SmartyGrants portal, accessible via the Access for All webpage, and close at 5pm on Monday, December 4. Successful applicants will be notified on December 14.

For more information, contact Teresa Davison on 0436 281 878 (Tuesday to Thursday), email teresa.davison@basscoast.vic.gov.au or via the National Relay Service 13 35 77 or Australian Government Access Hub website for people with communication difficulties.

Pictures from Bass Coast Shire Council website.

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: news@gippsland.com