By Staff Writer

Local government and community organisations in WA have teamed up to improve access to buildings for disabled people under a State Government-funded initiative.

The State Government today launched a new website to provide information on access to buildings and amenities for disabled people.

Disability Services Minister Simon O’Brien formally launched the You’re Welcome WA website which provides information on more than 2,300 accessible venues and facilities for people with disabilities living in Western Australia.

“Everyday, people with disabilities and their families face challenges to do things others take for granted - going to the shops, having a meal at a café, picnicking in a park or going on a holiday,” Mr O’Brien said.
 
“Now with You’re Welcome WA, a lot of the information people with a disability need when choosing venues with appropriate access is just a few clicks away.”

Mr O’Brien said to date, 36 local governments and more than 1,000 businesses, community organisations and government agencies have joined as You’re Welcome WA partners.
 
The Minister said that in addition to the website, the You’re Welcome WA Initiative would provide its partners with training and support to ensure their facilities are accessible.
 
“The benefits flow both ways as organisations and businesses are educated on the needs of customers with disabilities,” he said.
 
The initiative has received funding of $950,000 from the State Government.  The funds have been distributed to local governments in a partnership between the Disability Services Commission and the Western Australian Local Government Association.
 
“The project is another step forward in creating a more welcoming, accessible and inclusive WA,” he said.