17Consultation by defined entities

17 Consultation by defined entities

(1)  A defined entity is to consult with people with disability when developing or reviewing any policy of, or program or service provided by, the entity that has a direct and significant impact on the public.

(2)  In consulting with people with disability in relation to a policy, program or service, the defined entity is to consider the following:

(a) the effects that the policy, program or service may have on people with disability;

(b) how the policy, program or service may be developed or varied in order to –

(i) ensure accessibility; and

(ii) promote universal design; and

(iii) reduce, remove and prevent barriers to disability inclusion; and

(iv) promote disability inclusion;

(c) any barriers to disability inclusion that may be compounded by intersectionality;

(d) the principles.

(3)  In consulting with people with disability in relation to a policy, program or service, the defined entity is to conduct the consultation –

(a) in an equitable way so that people with disability have as much say in the planning and development of policies, programs and services as other members of the community; and

(b) through the use of flexible approaches to suit individuals and groups, taking into account access and communication needs, respecting difference and giving people with disability an equal opportunity to contribute.