Definitions
Council
means Casey City Council, being a body corporate constituted as a Municipal Council under the Local Government Act 1989.
Councillors
means the individuals holding the office of a member of Casey City Council.
Council Officer
means the Chief Executive Officer and staff of Council appointed by the Chief Executive Officer.
Diversity
A definition of diversity encompasses acceptance and respect and means more than just acknowledging and/or tolerating difference. It means understanding that each individual is unique and understanding the importance of respect and recognition of differences and similarities in our community. Consideration of diversity in race, ethnicity, physical ability, socio-economic status, age, religious/faith beliefs, political beliefs, gender identity, sexual orientation is vital in Council’s decision making and advocacy, service provision, built environments, workforce and community development.
Access
A definition of diversity encompasses acceptance and respect and means more than just acknowledging and/or tolerating difference. It means understanding that each individual is unique and understanding the importance of respect and recognition of differences and similarities in our community. Consideration of diversity in race, ethnicity, physical ability, socio-economic status, age, religious/faith beliefs, political beliefs, gender identity, sexual orientation is vital in Council’s decision making and advocacy, service provision, built environments, workforce and community development.
Inclusion
The process of equitable and fair treatment and systems in Council’s decision making, service delivery, programs, workforce practice, built environments and community. Council will aim to create the necessary conditions and environments that enable people to have their aspirations met, feel valued and secure and have a sense of belonging and connectedness and will be encouraged to participate in citizen engagement opportunities and will be encouraged to actively participate in the planning and provision of Council services and activities.
Equity
An equitable and fair approach in the distribution and provision of Council services and resources according to residents and service client’s needs, rights and eligibility.
In line with the Council Plan and the Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan, this policy provides for a whole of Council approach. Council’s approach to planning and providing for diversity is to ensure that the principles of access, equity and inclusion are incorporated into all areas of Council’s decision making; communications and advocacy; service design; provision and delivery; employment practices; physical and built environments; workforce and community development.
Scope
This focus is consistent with Council’s vision of being a “City of Choice to Live Work and Raise a Family” and the Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan’s core priority of “A Socially Connected Community” where all people feel valued, their differences are respected and their basic needs are met so they can live in dignity.
Therefore, this policy applies to:
- All people who live, work and raise a family in the City of Casey;
- All employees including any person directly employed by the City of Casey or employed through an agency on a contract basis and Council’s volunteers.
Context
Through the delivery of its Council Plan, Council is committed to strengthening community and promoting inclusion. The City of Casey is Victoria’s most populous municipality and will be home to over 450,000 residents by 2036. Rapid population growth impacts on the relationships and connections people have with others.
While the population in the City of Casey is one of the most rapidly growing in size, it is also rapidly growing in diversity. With a current population of over 280,000 residents, a rich diversity including, for example; over 150 cultures, more than 140 languages spoken, and with more than 120 faiths represented, the Council has long been aware of the opportunities and challenges this presents[1]. Under the Local Government Act 1989, Council plans for and delivers services and facilities that are accessible and equitable and meet the diverse needs of the community. Therefore, Council needs to acknowledge the differences among members of the community by adapting services and environments to address inequity and disadvantage when planning for the existing and future population and provide accessible and equitable (fair) services which are in the best interests of its local community.
Council has a significant leadership role to play in influencing and promoting the development of equitable and inclusive environments which promote diversity, access and inclusion both in the community and in the workforce that supports the community. Council also has a role to advocate in the best interests of the community and to build social cohesion.
[1] 2011 Census data
Policy
This policy details Council’s legislative requirement and Council’s commitment to valuing diversity by promoting community, celebrating and planning for diversity in Council’s decision making and promoting diversity and inclusion in the community and workforce. It provides for Council to continue to advocate on behalf of Casey’s residents in a way that results in all people feeling valued, their differences are respected, and that they can participate equally.
This policy will inform strategic actions on diversity planning across the organisation and the community.
The City of Casey is committed to providing equitable and inclusive services, facilities, works, programs and employment practices thereby ensuring that within reason:
- All people within the City of Casey can enjoy a secure and quality lifestyle, cultural and economic opportunities, and a sense of community.
- People of all backgrounds and abilities have the opportunity to achieve their potential and participate fully in and at the City of Casey.
- Council’s planning and service delivery takes into account the needs of all people in the community.
- All people gain access to quality services, opportunities and environments without discrimination.
- All residents of the City of Casey feel supported and welcome to fully participate in Council services, programs and planning.
The City of Casey’s commitment to Diversity, Access and Inclusion is reflected in the following themes which support Council in addressing and incorporating diversity, access and inclusion across the following three theme areas.
Three – Community, Services and Council
The diagram shows the three themes of Community, Services and Council as connected and interrelated and also important and significant on their own.
Priority 1: Council – Inclusive and Reflective of the Community
This theme affirms and guides Council’s commitment to building an inclusive organisation that values, recognises and respects the diversity of its community.
Key Aims
- Support Council’s decision makers to represent and reflect the diversity of the population and provide leadership in advocating in the best interests of the community.
- Council will seek to promote the benefits of access and equity, while rejecting discrimination and prejudice and challenge racism and negative stereotyping.
- Maintain compliance with legislation and uphold human rights.
- Develop inclusive recruitment and employment strategies which support and develop a diverse workforce which is responsive to the community.
- Develop a positive message to the community that Council values diversity and supports equal opportunity in the community and workforce.
- Ensure that Council’s external and internal communications i.e. imagery, language, messaging and signage is representative of the community.
Priority 2: Services – Accessible, Inclusive and Responsive
This theme affirms and guides Council’s commitment to provide services that are planned, developed and delivered by well-equipped providers that meet the needs of a diverse community.
Key Aims
- Maintain an efficient organisation that delivers accessible, inclusive and culturally safe services, which are effective in their responsiveness to the diverse needs of the community.
- Develop its workforce and resources to be responsive and inclusive of the diverse population.
- Promote engagement with the community which is inclusive of all residents.
- Continue to provide and advocate for facilities, built environments and public open space to accessible and inclusive.
Priority 3: Community – Inclusive, Accessible and Cohesive
This theme affirms and guides Council’s commitment to support meaningful participation of all local people in community life and to working with and advocating for community groups to build social cohesion.
Key Aims
To work in partnership with residents, agencies, community groups/organisations to promote and celebrate diversity, inclusive practice and develop social cohesion.
- To advocate for equitable opportunities for all residents to participate fully in community life.
6. Legislative and Policy Context
Casey’s Diversity, Access and Inclusion Policy is guided by the following Federal and State legislation and policies. The implementation of this policy will also ensure Council continues to meet its legal and policy obligations under Federal and State legislation.
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Federal
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State
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Administrative updates
It is recognised that, from time to time, circumstances may change leading to the need for minor administrative changes to this document. Where an update does not materially alter this document, such a change may be made administratively. Examples include a change to the name of a Council department, a change to the name of a Federal or State Government department, and a minor update to legislation which does not have a material impact. However, any change or update which materially alters this document must be by resolution of Council.
Review
The next review of this document is scheduled for completion by 28 February 2020.
Disclaimer
Council policy documents change from time to time and it is recommended that you consult the electronic reference copy at www.casey.vic.gov.au/policiesstrategies to ensure that you have the current version. Alternatively you may contact Customer Service on 9705 5200.