In Australia, 3.9 million people, or nearly 20 per cent of the population, have a disability. These may be temporary, such as a sports injury, or they may be permanent. They may be something that is brought on by ageing, like poor vision, hearing or mobility, or the person may have had the disability from birth.

Other people may have occasional mobility difficulties - e.g. pushing a pram or shopping trolley, escorting an elderly person or a toddler. Even a delivery person may have difficulties moving around because of changing levels or blockages on the footpath (e.g. A-frame signs, displays of goods, tables and chairs).

The need for good access is required for many different groups of people, all of whom are potential customers. At any point in time, over 20%, or one in five, of the CommonGround population has a disability. The extent and type of disability varies and can include physical disability, vision impairment, hearing impairment and intellectual disability. Not all disabilities are visible. The need for good access also extends to others including the elderly, people suffering from recent illness or injury and young families. By providing greater access to all potential customers, you create a more inclusive community whilst also building your customer base and increasing business revenue.

CommonGround Council wants small business and retailers to be more accessible for people with a disability, older people, parents with prams and small children. To meet this goal, the "Good Access is Good Business" guide was developed. But many of the requirements for an accessible business such as friendly service, uncluttered aisles and easy access make common business sense.

Some things to consider include:

• Nearest accessible parking
• Flat or ramped entry, no step
• Wide doorway
• Adequate circulation space foe a person in a wheelchair to move around
• Lowered counter or service area
• Adequate and consistent lighting
• Photo's of menu items or labelled pictures of items or services to order
• Access to all internal facilities
• Nearest accessible toilet

If you would like to find out how accessible your premises are, contact Council's MetroAccess Officer for a self-assessment checklist. Checklists are available for different types of businesses.

For further information, to obtain a copy of the "Good Access is Good Business" guide, contact Council's MetroAccess Officer on 9999 1111.

Or Email Council