Overview
The Lighthouse Project is a partnership project between the Disability Services Commission and Local Government Professionals Australia WA to increase the employment of people with disability in local government. Funding for the Lighthouse Project Grants Program was provided by the Disability Services Commission and administration of the grants was coordinated by LG Professionals WA.
The grants were available to any local government in Western Australia whose application, and proposed project or initiative, met the specified criteria. Grants up to $10,000 were awarded to implement projects arising from the Outcome 7 section of their Disability Access and Inclusion Plans (DAIPs). The projects were intended to directly or indirectly increase employment of people with disability within local government, and facilitate the culture and practices for ongoing positive employment outcomes.
The project supports local governments to meet their Disability Access and Inclusion Plan (DAIP) obligations in relation to Outcome 7 - Employment of people with disability - a legislative requirement which came into effect 1 July 2015.
The project comprises a range of initiatives to improve local governments’ understanding of the benefits of employing people with disability. It also assists local governments to develop targeted strategies to overcome barriers in employing people with disability.
The project included two grant rounds to local governments to improve the recruitment and retention of people with disability.
The project gives local governments access to advice and practical support so staff can build confidence and understanding about the needs of workmates with disability. Other initiatives focus on continuous improvement in the way people with disability are engaged with, and employed by, local government.
Personal stories
From the start of the Lighthouse Project, local government authorities have expressed a strong desire for personal stories and videos about people with disability working in local government. Three videos, from a metropolitan, regional centre and small regional local government location have been produced. Five written stories about employees at metropolitan and regional local governments have also been developed.
Personal stories on YouTube (see below)
- City of Greater Geraldton staff member books a solid reputation
- City of Melville customer service team officer provides warm welcome
- Shire of Denmark staff prove disability is no barrier to getting the job done.