Why Your Business Needs a Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP)
Beyond Compliance: Crafting a Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) for a Thriving Workplace and Community.
In Australia, over 4.3 million people identify as having a disability. That’s 1 in 5 Australians. Yet, despite this significant statistic, many businesses still struggle to create truly inclusive environments where everyone can thrive. This is where a Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) comes in. In today’s dynamic business landscape, fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion is not just a moral imperative; it’s a strategic advantage. One crucial aspect of this journey towards inclusion is the adoption of a Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP). At GSA, we understand that true inclusion goes beyond mere compliance – it’s about embracing diversity, ensuring equity, and reaping the numerous benefits that disability-inclusive workplaces and communities bring.
What is a DIAP?
A DIAP is a roadmap for creating accessible and inclusive workplaces, communities, and environments for people with disability. They are specifically designed to help your business or organisation uncover opportunities that will increase disability inclusion. A DIAP is more than just ticking compliance boxes; it delves into best practices for fostering dignity, equity, and full participation. It provides a comprehensive roadmap for businesses to navigate the often complex terrain of disability inclusion, offering a structured approach to creating an accessible, inclusive, and welcoming environment for all.
Why is a DIAP important for your business or organisation?
The benefits of a well-implemented DIAP extend far beyond ethical considerations. Here are just a few compelling reasons why your business should prioritise disability inclusion:
Economic Impact
- Approximately four million people with disability have a combined disposable annual income of around AU$54 million. (Source: Australian Human Rights Comission)
- Businesses that are inclusive of people with disability report a 9% increase in profit margin and a 2% increase in revenue. (Source: World Bank)
- The cost of excluding people with disability from the workforce is estimated at $30 billion per year for Australia. (Source: PwC)
Social Impact
- In Australia, 4.3 million people have a disability. (Source: Australian Institute of Health and Welfare)
- Only 51.1% of people with disability are employed, compared to 81.5% of people without disability. (Source: ABS)
- 90% of organisations claim to value diversity, only 4% prioritise disability. A DIAP demonstrates your commitment to social responsibility and promotes diversity and inclusion within your organisation. (Source: The Valuable 500)
Compliance and Reputation
- The Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (DDA) requires Australian businesses to provide equal access to goods, services, and facilities for people with disability.
- Implementing a DIAP shows your commitment to complying with the DDA and avoids potential legal action.
- A positive reputation for disability inclusion can attract more customers, employees, and investors.
Additional Benefits
- Increased innovation and creativity: diverse teams bring new perspectives and solutions to the table.
- Improved employee morale and engagement: employees feel valued and respected when their organisation is inclusive.
- Reduced staff turnover: people with disability are more likely to stay with an employer who is committed to inclusion.
How GSA Can Facilitate Your Journey?
At Get Skilled Access (GSA), we understand that every business is unique. That’s why we don’t offer one-size-fits-all DIAP solutions. We take a collaborative approach, working closely with your team and employees to develop a customised plan that aligns with your specific needs and goals.
Our process is designed to be:
- Collaborative approach: We believe that true change happens when everyone is involved and included in the proccess . We work with your team to build a strong understanding of the benefits of disability inclusion and secure their buy-in for the DIAP.
- Discovery-focused: Through in-depth desktop review and focus groups, we gain a deep understanding of your company culture, challenges, and opportunities. This allows us to tailor the DIAP to your specific context.
- Goal-oriented: We break down your DIAP into clear, achievable short, medium, and long-term goals. This ensures that you see progress and momentum from the outset.
- Experience-driven: Our consultants have lived experience with disability, giving them a unique perspective and understanding of the challenges and solutions.
- Owned and Celebrated: Your DIAP is not just a document; it’s a living roadmap for change. We empower your team to take ownership of the plan and celebrate its successes along the way.
A Constant Companion – Ongoing Advice and Support
Even in the face of challenges, GSA remains your steadfast companion throughout your journey, offering continuous advice and support through personalised consultations and expert guidance. We’re here to address your questions, tackle unforeseen challenges, and celebrate your victories. With GSA by your side, you can navigate the ever-changing landscape of disability inclusion with confidence, knowing you have a dedicated partner committed to your success.
Embracing disability inclusive recruitment isn’t merely a commendable ambition; it’s a strategic imperative. It’s about unlocking a vast pool of talent, fostering a dynamic and resilient workforce, and constructing a workplace where everyone can thrive. Let GSA be your guide on this transformative journey, assisting you in charting a course towards a genuinely inclusive future, enriching your organisation and empowering your people every step of the way.
About GSA
At GSA, we’re not just consultants; we’re people with disability, lived experience of disability and allies of disability inclusion. Along with our extensive array of professional skill sets, this authenticity infuses our process, making us uniquely positioned to guide your organisation on its inclusive journey. We understand that every organisation is on a unique path, and we’re here to guide you through it. While we are the experts in disability inclusion, we also understand that you know your business better than anyone else. That is why our approach is one of co-design. We call in, not out. We work alongside you to create a pathway that suits you and your organisation’s objectives.
Medibank Case Study
We increased disability awareness across departments and created better outcomes for employees and customers with disability.
AITSL Case Study
GSA gave teachers the support and training to encourage full participation from students with disability.