Mackay Regional Council has launched a detailed guide for businesses and retailers on how to cater for all members of the community.
Councillor Alison Jones, Community Development & Libraries portfolio, said the informative booklet would aid the region’s business owners in improving access to their premises, goods and services.
“Good access benefits everyone, and it’s important that retailers remember that many groups make their choices on where to shop or socialise based on how accessible and accommodating a place is,” Cr Jones said.
“Whether you are an elderly person, someone with a disability or a parent with a pram, it is important that your needs are catered for.”
The detailed booklet was an initiative of council’s Equitable Access Advisory Committee (EAAC). It outlines four simple ways to improve access, from making it easier to enter a building and walking around the aisles, to providing good customer service.
Cr Jones said better accessibility not only translates into a safer shopping experience but also a safer working environment for employees.
Mackay Regional Council is always looking at ways to improve access to their facilities, such as the recent installation of automatic doors on the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre, thanks to joint funding from Council and the Australian Government’s Accessible Communities initiative.
Cr Jones said the EAAC pushed for the funding to improve accessibility to the MECC and the group was proud to see this upgrade occur for the residents of the region.
