Inclusive Wangaratta Working Group
Published on 27 April 2023
What Is Inclusive Wangaratta?
Inclusive Wangaratta is a way of looking at the the community that acknowledges our differences, challenges and strengths, and celebrates everything that makes us unique.
Rural City of Wangaratta is looking for applications for the Inclusive Wangaratta Working Group. The Inclusive Wangaratta Working Group will provide direct advice to Council on the development of Inclusive Wangaratta Framework, policy that will guide Council work within the community.
“Everyone experiences the Rural City of Wangaratta differently,” said Councillor Ashlee Fitzpatrick.
“And it is critical that all voices and experiences of our community are meaningfully captured to reflect the diversity in our growing community,” said Cr Fitzpatrick.
Did you know:
• one in seven residents need help with their everyday activities
• 35% of the population report chronic health conditions
• 31% of our population is over 60
• 15.3% of people aged over 15 years provide unpaid caring work to a person who is elderly, has a disability, or has a long-term illness.
• Unpaid childcare is provided by 26.3% of our population, and over 7% provide care for children who are not their own.
• Family violence is the top criminal offence committed in our municipality.
• Rural City of Wangaratta is part of the most disadvantaged 39% of municipalities in Victoria.
• Disengagement with work grew from 2016 to 2021 as did the number of people employed part-time.
• Between 2016 and 2021, the population born overseas has increased to 9.1% of our population.
• Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Residents make up 1.8% of our municipality's population, in line with the regional Victorian average.
“These numbers help us paint a picture of our community. Not everyone is the same, with the same needs, access or abilities. Council recognises that the needs of individuals and particular communities are often different. The issues affecting one community may not be relevant to another. Whilst some Council actions, projects and services target specific parts of our community, we are dedicated to creating a safe, supportive and inclusive community for everyone,” said Cr Fitzpatrick.
“Council has a strategic responsibility to plan, lead, advocate for and work with the local community, both as the level of government closest to the community and due to legislated requirements.”
“The unique role Council has in the community as a connector, service provider, leader and as a workplace provides many opportunities to impact and improve equity throughout the Rural City of Wangaratta,” said Cr Fitzpatrick.
Inclusive Wangaratta Framework will incorporate Council’s Access and Inclusion Plan, Age Friendly Strategy, and other communities of priority such as LGBTQIA+, Women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, and Culturally and Linguistically Diverse communities.
If you have direct experience with diversity and are interested in representation and inclusion your experience and knowledge would be welcome.