The ACT Legislative Assembly passed the Disability Inclusion Bill on 29 August 2024, making it a legal requirement for all public sector entities to develop a Disability Action and Inclusion Plan (DAIP). These five-year plans ensure businesses and organisations actively remove barriers and enhance accessibility for people with disability (PWD).
Additionally, the Bill mandates the creation of 10-year disability inclusion strategies that involve both government and non-government stakeholders. These strategies will focus on key inclusion areas aligned with Australia’s Disability Strategy, providing guidance for private businesses on fostering accessibility and inclusion.
What is a DAIP?
A Disability Action and Inclusion Plan (DAIP) is a strategic roadmap that helps businesses and organisations identify and address barriers preventing PWD from fully participating as customers, visitors, and employees. It goes beyond compliance, ensuring businesses create welcoming environments that cater to all individuals, regardless of their abilities.
Why is a DAIP Critical for the Tourism Industry?
The tourism industry thrives on offering exceptional experiences to all travellers, yet many destinations and businesses still fall short in accommodating PWD. By developing a DAIP, tourism operators can:
● Enhance Visitor Experiences – Accessible accommodations, attractions, and services lead to increased customer satisfaction and positive reviews.
● Expand Market Reach – The accessible tourism market is valued at billions of dollars worldwide, with travellers with disabilities and their families seeking destinations that cater to their needs.
● Meet Legal and Social Responsibilities – Proactively ensuring accessibility helps businesses comply with evolving legislation while fostering a more inclusive society.
● Increase Revenue Opportunities – Tourists with disabilities often travel with companions, meaning accessible tourism benefits not only individuals with disabilities but also their friends and families.
How GetAboutAble Can Help
GetAboutAble Consulting specialises in guiding tourism businesses through the DAIP development process. Our expert team provides tailored consulting, training, and workshops to help you understand what a DAIP entails and how to implement one effectively. We equip businesses with practical tools to improve accessibility and inclusivity, giving them a competitive edge in the tourism market.
Make your tourism business a leader in accessibility and inclusion. Contact GetAboutAble at consulting@getaboutable.com today to start your journey towards an inclusive and profitable future.