Key Plan Metrics
Strategic Domains
Priority Areas
Measurable Actions
Consultation Partners
Quick Domain Jump & Action Breakdown
Find My Accessible Voting Pathways & Rights
Select any scenario below to see the dedicated accessible voting services, accommodations, and protections provided under this plan:
Message from the Acting Electoral Commissioner
Foreword on the second DAIP under the Disability Inclusion Act 2018
A message on the release of the ECSA Disability Access and Inclusion Plan 2025–2028 (2026–2030 State Plan alignment).
We are pleased to present the Electoral Commission of South Australia’s Disability Access and Inclusion Plan 2026-2030, our second under the Disability Inclusion Act 2018. This plan reaffirms our commitment to upholding the rights of people living with disability by ensuring every South Australian can participate in democracy, including ensuring every eligible elector can vote.
We believe every South Australian deserves the opportunity to participate in our democracy with confidence, dignity, and independence. We embrace a workplace that encourages accessibility, values diversity, and empowers people with disability to participate fully and meaningfully in both our democracy and our organisation. We encourage our next generation of voters to understand their civic rights.
Since the release of our previous Disability Access and Inclusion Plan (2020–2024), expectations of accessibility and inclusion have evolved, technology has advanced, and the community has shared valuable feedback on how we can continue to remove barriers. In responding to these insights, this updated Plan introduces proactive, practical, and measurable actions to ensure our services, communications, and environments are genuinely inclusive for electors, staff, candidates, and visitors alike.
Through internal staff engagement consultations, consultation with our Disability Engagement Advisory Committee (DEAC), as well as feedback received during other electoral and community engagement events, we have heard clearly that while many of our initiatives have made voting more accessible, barriers still exist, and so it is our charter to continue to listen and do better.
The Electoral Commission of South Australia’s 2025–28 Strategic Plan firmly places inclusion, integrity, and trusted service delivery at the heart of our work.
Our Reconciliation Action Plan strengthens how we engage with First Nations peoples, including our responsibility to deliver culturally safe elections for the SA First Nations Voice to Parliament and the APY Executive Board.
Our internal reforms, flowing from our People Matter Employee Survey Action Plan, staff fatigue management and psychosocial policy initiatives, support a workforce that is informed, culturally aware, and equipped to champion inclusion across all operational areas.
This next Disability Access and Inclusion Plan therefore will build a stronger organisational culture of inclusion by providing staff with disability awareness training and guidance on delivering accessible services and, during an election, practical support to voters who may face barriers to participating. We will continue to improve our physical and digital accessibility, enhance communication formats such as Large Print and plain English, and partner with disability and community organisations to test and refine our approaches.
Importantly, we recognise that achieving true accessibility is an ongoing journey that requires continuous reflection, collaboration, and accountability.
We recognise that past processes have not always met expectations, but we are committed to building trust through action. By embedding these commitments into our everyday operations and election planning, we aim to ensure that our electoral processes remain fair, accessible, and empowering for every South Australian.
We thank everyone who contributed to the development of this Plan, particularly the members of the Disability Engagement Advisory Committee, our staff, and the South Australians who shared their lived experiences. Your input guides our work and strengthens our democracy.
About Us & Strategic Context
Our mandate, core organisational values, vision, and legislative alignment
The Electoral Commission of South Australia (ECSA) is an independent agency and aims to be an accessible, contemporary, responsive and respected electoral service provider, recognised for our people, leadership and innovation.
Purpose
ECSA conducts fair and impartial elections for the South Australian Parliament, local governments and statutory bodies, while promoting democratic participation through public awareness, education, and accessible electoral services.
Our Values
Integrity
We are honest, transparent, and act with impartiality in everything we do.
Professionalism
We strive for excellence, deliver high-quality services, and are accountable for our actions.
Innovation
We embrace new ideas and technology to continually improve our systems and services.
Accessibility
We are committed to providing services that are inclusive and accessible to all South Australians.
Our Vision for Disability & Access Inclusion
ECSA is committed to creating an accessible, inclusive, and equitable democratic experience for all South Australians. We believe that participating in democracy is a fundamental right, and we strive to ensure that people with disability can vote, engage, and work with us independently, with dignity, and without barriers.
Our Workplace & Staff
ECSA is dedicated to fostering an inclusive, diverse, and supportive workplace where all employees feel valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their best. We recognise that an inclusive organisation begins with its people, and we are committed to providing accessible workplaces, fair recruitment processes, and ongoing opportunities for professional growth.
Strategic & Legislative Context
The broader strategic and legislative context references key frameworks:
- Disability Inclusion Act 2018 (SA)
- State Disability Inclusion Plan 2025–2029
- Australia’s Disability Strategy 2021–2031
- United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities
The ECSA Strategic Plan (Next 3 Years) Focus Goals:
- Elections delivered with integrity.
- Strengthening public awareness and trust in electoral services.
- Building a trusted and future-ready organisation.
Disability Access and Inclusion Plan Development
Consultation process, advisory committees, related policies, and key achievements
Consultation & Lived Experience
In developing the Disability Access and Inclusion Plan 2025–2028, we have undertaken a comprehensive and inclusive consultation process to ensure the voices of people with disability were central to the design of the Plan.
In the lead up to the 2026 State Election, DEAC provided advice on systemic barriers, voting accessibility issues, communication needs, and service design. Specific feedback was provided on mental health-related voting barriers, experiences of voters in hospital settings, and the needs of people with neurological conditions, autism and sensory impairments. Feedback has highlighted the importance of low-sensory environments, prioritising clarity and predictability in voting information, and ensuring that staff are equipped to provide respectful and inclusive support. We also consulted staff via the People Matter Employee Survey (PMES) Action Plan, resulting in new policy development such as the Fatigue Management Plan. We will incorporate findings from the State Election Independent Review and ongoing DEAC feedback.
Disability Engagement Advisory Committee (DEAC) Members:
Relationship to Other Policies & Strategies
ECSA Strategic Plan 2025–28
Prioritises integrity in election delivery, strengthened public trust, robust governance, and inclusive engagement with all South Australians.
Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP)
Strengthens culturally safe electoral participation for First Nations people, including those with disability, emphasizing respectful relationships and cultural learning.
People Matter Employee Survey (PMES) Action Plan
Focuses on improving communication, culture, wellbeing, and engagement across the organisation, building a safe, respectful and accessible workplace.
Fatigue Management Plan
Takes a risk-based approach to managing fatigue, contributing to broader commitments to accessibility, health, safety, and equitable participation for all staff.
Telephone Assisted Voting (TAV) Legislative Reforms
Introduced after ECSA recommendations to Parliament post-2022. Available for the 2026 SA State Election and First Nations Voice election for electors who are blind, vision-impaired, or motor-impaired.
Misinformation / Disinformation Counter-Strategies
Research highlights that predictability, clarity, and 'what to expect' communications are powerful ways to counter misinformation and anxiety.
Key Achievements & Recent Initiatives
Expanded Voting Options & Accessible Services
More ways to vote than ever before, including expanded early voting (no eligibility restrictions), streamlined online postal vote application processes, telephone assisted voting (TAV) for blind, vision-impaired, or motor-impaired electors, and call centre support.
Launch of ECSA TV
Clear and accessible video explainers with captions designed to reduce anxiety, demystify voting processes, and support voters with cognitive, neurological or mental health conditions.
Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard Program
Introduction of the Sunflower Lanyard Program ensuring voters with non-visible disabilities can opt into supported assistance in polling places.
Inclusive Early Voting Centres
Pilot of inclusive early voting locations designed for voters who may benefit from lower-sensory, calmer environments, informed by DEAC guidance and community feedback.
Fatigue Management Plan
Development and implementation of a new Fatigue Management Plan, acknowledging the importance of staff wellbeing and psychological safety.
Vision Australia Media Partnership
Media partnership with Vision Australia to deliver accessible electoral information through podcasts and radio broadcasts.
Multilingual Resources in 21 Languages
Translated enrolment and voting materials in 21 community languages, plus Large Print guides and plain English publications.
Mis/Disinformation Counter-Project
Embedding a mis-dis project within the 2026 State Election to analyze impacts and counteract misleading claims through proactive communication.
DAIP Actions Tables
Complete multi-domain action roadmap, performance measures, timeframes, and responsibilities
Domain 1: Inclusive environments and communities
Outcome Statement: A South Australia where all people with disability can participate as equal citizens and feel connected to their communities
Objective: To influence community attitudes to remove discrimination and build a South Australian community that values difference and respects the contributions people with disability make to our communities. This includes ensuring the community itself is fully accessible.
| Action | Measure | Timeframe | Responsibility & Data Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engage the DEAC in the review of the Disability Access and Inclusion Plan (DAIP). | Feedback reviewed and as required, incorporated into the DAIP | December 2026 | Electoral Commissioner |
| Following the conclusion of the Independent Review, relevant recommendations will be incorporated, and a final version of the DAIP will be completed. | Recommendations incorporated | December 2026 | Electoral Commissioner |
| Active participation to ECSA means to deliver an electoral experience and workplace culture that embraces accessibility, values diversity, and empowers people with disability to participate fully and meaningfully in both our democracy and our organisation. The voter experience includes expanded voting services (for example no eligibility to use Early Voting Centres and the Hidden Disability sunfol wer lanyard and inclusive voting centres initiative), streamlined online postal vote application processes, telephone assisted voting and call centre support. | Implemented. Our workforce continues to embrace inclusion. | Ongoing | Electoral Commissioner |
| We will continue to reform electoral services within legislation to support active voter participation – such as addressing mobile polling limitations to broaden the use of the declared institution legislation for future elections. We will continue to explore ways that our workforce can diversify and grow in their understanding of inclusion. | Implemented. Our workforce continues to embrace inclusion. | Ongoing | Electoral Commissioner |
| Implement legislative reforms introduced after ECSA's recommendations to Parliament ie post 2022 State Election for the 2026 State Election | Reforms Implemented • Enrolment on the day • Voting exemption for itinerant electors • Postal vote application process • Eligibility criteria for early voting removed. | 2026 State Election | Elections |
| ECSA Workplace (including TEWs) is supportive and inclusive targets such as age, CALD, youth | Staff targets – disability 3% Staff targets - inclusion (CALD 10%, Youth 15%, Aboriginal 3%) | Ongoing | Human Resources |
| ECSA Leadership understand all layers of inclusivity and actively engage | Positions are offered to people living with disability 75% | Ongoing | Human Resources |
| Action | Measure | Timeframe | Responsibility & Data Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Incorporate wheelchair and other disability-access friendly features at all ECSA locations and when possible, at early voting centres and polling locations. | Implemented. 75% of all polling locations have accessibility features. | Ongoing | Elections - Premises |
| Incorporate appropriate icon and signage to support and highlight inclusive premises. All promoted premises will include an icon detailing their level of accessibility and/or inclusion, including hidden disabilities. 3 premises will be categorised as inclusive; sensory, visual impairment and CALD. | Implemented. 100% premises categorised for accessibility and inclusion level. 3 premises categorised as inclusive. Implemented. | 2026 State Election Ongoing | Elections – Premises with Communications and Engagement |
| Introduce the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard Program for the 2026 State Election and ongoing elections where a face-to- face service is required. This program ensures voters with non-visible disabilities can opt into supported assistance in polling places. | Implemented. All ECSA staff and electoral officers receive training, including specialised modules on hidden disabilities, inclusive service delivery, and respectful communication at polling places. | March 2026 and then ongoing | Human Resources |
| Continue ECSA's Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), particularly in relation to culturally safe electoral participation for First Nations people, including those with disability. The RAP's emphasis on respectful relationships, cultural learning and inclusive service design complements the DAIP's commitment to equitable access for all electors and staff. Implement strategies recognised to empower, engage, and create new opportunities to build relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. | Implemented. Full commitment and support from ECSA leadership to continue RAP development. *In all we do, we will ensure to the best of our ability that electors (and staff) feel culturally safe. | Our Reflect RAP was implemented – in February 2025. Ongoing | Communications and Engagement |
| Incorporate multilingual capabilities into election communications as well as Large Print guides and plain English – including for electors as well as potential parties and candidates. | Implemented successful How to enrol, How to vote and the Official state election guide in plain English and translated into 21 languages. | Ongoing | Communications and Engagement |
| Post-election survey of electors NewFocus engaged to undertake the elector survey. This survey will include questions to establish elector voting options awareness, their experience and satisfaction, where electors sourced their information from and the demographics. | Implemented. The voting experience of electors with disability is captured after voting on the day or through post-election surveys. | Ongoing | Communications and Engagement |
| Implement ECSA TV (video explainers) ECSA TV provides clear and accessible explainers videos designed to reduce anxiety, demystify voting processes, and support voters with cognitive, neurological or mental health conditions. Videos include captions. Playlist focuses on topics such as postal voting and election milestones plus operational opportunities such as entering a polling location | ECSA YouTube google analytics and website traffic - No benchmark as this is a new initiative | Trial 2026 State Election Implemented outcomes (internal use only) | Communications and Engagement |
| Support the People Matter Employee Survey which highlights areas where inclusion and staff experience need strengthening. Note; these insights have informed ECSA's commitment to building a safe, respectful and accessible workplace. | Develop a proposal for leadership review and ways forward. | Ongoing | Human Resources |
| Action | Measure | Timeframe | Responsibility & Data Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Action Plan for the People Matter Employee Survey created in consultation with staff. | Implemented. Staff survey results improve over time. | Ongoing | Human Resources |
| Implement Skodel Strain Index; psychosocial risk assessments and prevention plans. Trial Skodel Platform; ECSA Staff invited to suggest practical improvements to address identified risks. Suggestions aligned with relevant psychosocial hazard categories to inform a set of recommended actions and ECSA psychosocial Risk Assessment. | The effectiveness of controls will be measured using: • Changes in risk scores, focusing on both prevalence and impact. • Feedback from follow-up check- ins, particularly on previously flagged issues. • Changes in average scores on targeted risk questions. • Tracking the implementation of agreed controls. | Ongoing | WHS Progress reviewed quarterly. |
| ECSA will implement: • A check-in to help determine whether risks have decreased in prevalence or impact, whether new risks have emerged, and how effective the implemented controls have been. • Where risks remain or worsen, further action or adjustment will be considered. Reviewing control measures will be done regularly, especially before any workplace changes that could introduce new or different health and safety risks. | Trial implemented. Develop a proposal for leadership review and ways forward. | Ongoing | WHS Progress reviewed quarterly. |
| Action | Measure | Timeframe | Responsibility & Data Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pilot inclusive locations for the 2026 State Election which target hidden disabilities such as autism, anxiety with the aim to reduce barriers for electors with hidden disabilities, or for parents with children who require lower stimulus environments. • Inclusive early voting locations are established and operational. • All sites are designed and set up in accordance with inclusive/ sensory design guidelines. | Electors report reduced barriers to voting at inclusive locations. 100% premises categorised for accessibility and inclusion level. 3 premises categorised as inclusive and are operational. Each of the 3 locations delivered at least one public relations and media activity promoting inclusivity. | Pilot 2026 State Election | Joint project between Elections – Premises team and Communications and Engagement |
| • Environmental adjustments (e.g. lighting, noise reduction, signage) are implemented at each location. • Staff and volunteers at all three sites complete accessibility and hidden disability awareness training. • Partnerships with DEA members are confirmed and active at each site; locations have activities planned to draw awareness to the initiative and provide additional support in partnership with our DEA members. | Electors with hidden disabilities report a more comfortable voting experience. Increased confidence in accessing voting services among target groups. Lessons learned and recommendations are documented for future elections. | Pilot 2026 State Election | Joint project between Elections – Premises team and Communications and Engagement |
| Action | Measure | Timeframe | Responsibility & Data Source |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Embed ongoing disability engagement Establish the DEAC as a continuous, election- independent advisory group, supporting design, delivery and review of inclusive initiatives across all electoral events. Engage the DEAC to 1. Review the terms of reference 2. Agree to ongoing stakeholder engagement. |
Moved from one-off consultation to structured, ongoing co-design and partnership. | September 2026 | Communications and Engagement |
| Existing; Committee has 3 meetings completed plus targeted conversations regarding specific initiatives eg inclusive locations or vision impairment. | Implemented. | 2026 State Election | |
| Develop a communications plan to support the implementation of the updated Disability Access and Inclusion Plan (DAIP). | Develop a proposal for leadership review and ways forward. | September 2026 | |
| Expand accessible information formats Provide key materials (e.g. DAIP, voting information) in Large Print and other accessible formats, ensuring compliance with accessibility standards. Review and enhance Large Print guides and expand content through platforms such as ECSA TV and the Electoral Education Centre. | Large and simple language options of the updated Disability Access and Inclusion Plan is published, meets accessibility standards, and is made available through appropriate channels (e.g. website, video and stakeholder distribution). | December 2026 | Communications and Engagement |
| Expand accessible information formats in the Electoral Education Centre to embrace multiple audiences to strengthen civic and democratic literacy and build long-term voter confidence, participation, and informed decision-making: | Develop a proposal for leadership review and ways forward. | December 2026 | Communications and Engagement |
|
1. Expand digital delivery channels to improve accessibility and reach. Supports diverse community needs through multiple formats (video, web, audio, multilingual) 2. Reduce reliance on static PDFs in favour of dynamic, user-centred content formats. Enhances usability, navigation, and mobile accessibility |
Develop a proposal for leadership review and ways forward. | December 2026 | Communications and Engagement |
| 3. Strengthen public trust by delivering consistent, easy-to-understand information across all platforms. Reinforces clarity, transparency, and predictability in the voting experience 4. Support lifelong civic learning by providing accessible and engaging educational content for all stages of life. Ensures all community members, regardless of age or background, can confidently participate in elections. | Develop a proposal for leadership review and ways forward. | December 2026 | Communications and Engagement |
| Strengthen targeted outreach and partnerships Deliver targeted communication campaigns through trusted channels, including partnerships with organisations such as Vision Australia Radio and community radio channels, who have a particular focus on first audiences (e.g. first-time voters, people with disability, culturally diverse communities) to improve reach and reduce barriers such as anxiety or low awareness. Discuss and consider how ongoing involvement can be implemented. | Implemented delivery of a media partnership for the 2026 State Election with Vision Australia to deliver accessible information through podcasts and radio is implemented. Implemented delivery of a media partnership for the 2026 State Election with community radio station FreshFM to focus on "first time voters" to reduce anxiety in youth. | Ongoing consideration to inclusive media within election campaign budgets | Communications and Engagement |
| Improve misinformation management The impact of mis-dis on people living with disability, particularly when related to processes, public services, or voting is significant, creating communication and accessibility gaps. 1. Establish a proactive misinformation and disinformation response framework within election communications. | Implemented | 2026 State Election Pilot Project | Joint project between Compliance as lead and Communications and Engagement |
|
2. Identify instances of election-related misinformation and disinformation are monitored, recorded, and responded to within agreed timeframes through approved communication strategies. 3. Record and respond to election-related misinformation, recognising the heightened impact on people with disability and the need for clear, accessible corrections. |
Implemented | 2026 State Election Pilot Project | Joint project between Compliance as lead and Communications and Engagement |
| 4. Implement communication channels to facilitate clear, accessible and effective communication. | Implemented | 2026 State Election Pilot Project | Joint project between Compliance as lead and Communications and Engagement |
| Drive continuous improvement and scalability Treat initiatives (e.g. accessible media, stakeholder engagement, misinformation response) as ongoing priorities rather than one-off election activities. | Feedback shows voters expected to be noticed but weren't. Clear "ask once" protocol implemented Develop a proposal for leadership review and ways forward. | Ongoing | All |
| Action | Measure | Timeframe | Responsibility & Data Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| • Strengthen national alignment and consistency • Actively engage with the Australian Electoral Commission's National Disability Access Committee to ensure consistency of accessible services across jurisdictions. • Leverage shared insights and best practice to inform continuous improvement in South Australia. | Outcomes and learnings from meeting support initiatives | Ongoing | Communications and Engagement |
| Integrate DEAC input into operational planning and staff capability development, including direct engagement with senior election staff. Provide practical exposure to election environments (eg call centre and Telephone Assisted Voting) to support informed, experience-based advice. | • Committee meeting – senior staff attend all meetings • Committee walk through of call centre and TAV | 2026 State Election | Communications and Engagement |
| Training materials are delivered reinforcing inclusive practices through briefings, recognition of best practice, and ongoing support to build staff confidence in providing discreet and appropriate assistance to voters with disability. • Training materials for election staff includes guidance on how to offer appropriate support to voters living with disability. | 100% staff educated in overarching principles. Training material for election staff included in training package. | March 2026 and then ongoing with reviews | Human Resources ROLO/Training and Communications and Engagement |
| Implement ECSA's Fatigue Management Plan recognising health, safety and wellbeing are fundamental to an inclusive environment. Apply a risk-based approach to workforce management to ensure sustainable, safe delivery during high- demand election periods. | Review implementation and develop a proposal for leadership review and ways forward. | 2025-2026 implementation and then ongoing with reviews | Human Resources |
| Drive continuous improvement through collaboration Foster a culture of ongoing consultation, feedback and iteration, ensuring initiatives are informed by both staff experience and community input. Align collaboration, innovation and operational delivery to support equitable participation for both voters and staff. | DEAC are across all inclusive initiatives being delivered to staff. | Human Resources | |
|
Voters experience elections as a continuous journey (awareness → planning → travel → queue → vote → exit). Breakdowns (e.g. queues, signage, first contact) happen between systems. Opportunity: • Map the full journey for different cohorts (eg wheelchair, autistic, Deaf voter) • Identify "stress points" (queues, entry) • Design seamless transitions. |
Develop a proposal for leadership review and ways forward. | Prior to next parliamentary election | Elections |
Domain 2: Education and employment
Outcome Statement: A South Australia where all people with disability benefit from inclusive educational experiences, equitable employment opportunities and financial security
Objective: To ensure equal opportunity to learning and earning is achieved by addressing the barriers and obstacles people with disability of all ages continue to face at all levels of the education and employment experience.
| Action | Measure | Timeframe | Responsibility & Data Source |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Electoral Education (regulation/ Act requirement) • Educator is employed to have a background in law and civics education, who actively collaborates with the Department of Education. • Implement an ongoing review and refinement process for the education website, ensuring content remains audience-centred, accessible, and inclusive. |
Electoral Educator (employee) Employed. Electoral Education Centre (website) Implemented. | Employed 2024. Ongoing | Communications and Engagement |
| • Establish a standardised accessibility and plain language framework for all electoral education materials, including guidelines for large format, Auslan, translated content, and alternative formats. | Develop a proposal for leadership review and ways forward. | In progress. | Communications and Engagement |
| • Develop and deliver a targeted civic education program for people with disability, co-designed with the sector and focused on both voting processes and critical information literacy. | Implemented for the 2026 State Election. For 2027, target 5 incursion program sessions to be delivered to inclusive audiences. | March 2026 Ongoing | Communications and Engagement |
| Action | Measure | Timeframe | Responsibility & Data Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Partner with the Parliament Education Office, as well as the Dept for Education to introduce school children to the electoral system and democratic processes. | We have successfully participated in Civics in Education and conference | Ongoing | Communications and Engagement |
| Action | Measure | Timeframe | Responsibility & Data Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Increase employment participation, representation and career pathways for people with disability, through inclusive recruitment, accessible work design, and investment in lived experience. Create identified roles such as: • Accessibility Support Officers at polling booths • Inclusion Champions / Accessibility Leads | 5% target employment rate Outcome = 4.1% March 2026 State Election result (voluntary disclosure) | Prior to next parliamentary election | Human Resources with Elections |
| Develop employment pathways through: • Pre-election training programs for people with disability • Partnerships with disability employment providers | A formalised partnership with a disability employment provider | Prior to next parliamentary election | Human Resources with Elections |
| Engage people with disability in: • Content creation (e.g. ECSA TV, Large Print) • Training development • User testing of services | People with disability are engaged to support content creation and other duties relevant to their skill. | Ongoing | Human Resources with Elections and Communications & Engagement |
| Action | Measure | Timeframe | Responsibility & Data Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Move beyond "number of staff with disability" to: • Experience and retention • Workplace satisfaction | Satisfaction score from People Matters Survey improves. | Prior to next parliamentary election | Human Resources |
| Actively manage psychosocial hazards to reduce the risk of harm to employees | Develop a proposal for leadership review and ways forward. | Ongoing | WHS |
| Review all workplaces (including temporary election sites) and consider: • Quiet/low sensory spaces (inc smell) • Lighting, noise and congestion impacts • Accessible amenities and workstations | All workplaces are reviewed and categorised. | Prior to next parliamentary election | Human Resources With Health & Safety Representative |
|
Move from policy to risk management: • Manage high-pressure conditions (fatigue, conflict, stress, etc) • Clear escalation pathways for incident |
Develop a proposal for leadership review and ways forward. | Prior to next parliamentary election | Human Resources With Health & Safety Representative |
| Include practical inclusion in induction: • Eg supporting hidden disabilities | Implemented. | March 2026 | Human Resources |
Domain 3: Personal and community support
Outcome Statement: A South Australia where people with disability can access quality, tailored personal and community supports addressing their individual needs
Objective: To build a service system in South Australia that takes a person-centred approach that recognises the contributions and potential of all people with disability.
| Action | Measure | Timeframe | Responsibility & Data Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ensure accessible and trusted information Embed a mis-dis information project within the 2026 State Election to look at the misinformation impacts and counteract, when possible, through communication strategies. Recognise that inaccessible information increases vulnerability to misinformation, particularly for people with disability. | Implemented. Develop a proposal for leadership review and ways forward. | 2026 State Election Pilot Project Ongoing | Joint project between Compliance and Communications and Engagement |
| Simplify access through centralised information. Create a single, accessible digital entry point (landing page) to reduce reliance on multiple information sources, particularly for voters with sensory or cognitive needs. Streamline how voters find and navigate key election information. | Implemented. | 2026 State Election | Communications and Engagement |
| Improve physical accessibility of voting environments At least one desktop voting screen will be available in every polling place to support electors using a wheelchair or mobility aid to cast their vote. | Implemented. | Ongoing | Elections |
| Promote accessibility through communication and design • Use tools such as ECSA TV and visual explainers to prepare voters for the physical voting experience and reduce anxiety. • Ensure accessible resources are clearly promoted and easy to identify. | Implemented. | Ongoing but updated for 2026 State Election | Elections (supported through Communications and Engagement) |
| Edge voting screens with black strips to provide improved contrast for electors with vision impairment. | Implemented. | Ongoing | Elections |
| Promote the queue priority system and offer to electors with disability, or those who are pregnant, being accompanied by children, the aged, frail or infirm, and will mobility issues. This initiative is updated to include the Hidden Disability Sunflower Lanyard program. | Implemented. | Ongoing but updated for 2026 State Election | Elections |
| Promote voting services and make available outside of the polling place for voters who are unable to leave their vehicle. Signage will include the mobile number of the polling booth manager so they can easily be contacted for assistance. | Implemented. | Ongoing | Elections |
| Introduce Telephone Assisted Voting reforms with TAV available in all elections. | Implemented. | 2026 State Election | Elections |
| Promote the Register of Declaration Voters to electors with a disability, enabling them to have their voting material issued by post on an ongoing basis for every state election. | Implemented. | Ongoing | Elections – Mobility Team |
| Promote the option to request the attendance of mobile voting teams at relevant locations to provide on-the- spot voting facilities. Include a mobile polling team who visits to specific organisations who support itinerant electors, or those with disability who are not normally a designated as a declared institution. | Implemented. | Ongoing with reform action by 2030 State Election | Elections – Mobility Team (supported through Communications and Engagement) |
| Action | Measure | Timeframe | Responsibility & Data Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Promote the option that if the elector is unable to complete and sign a postal vote application and postal ballot themselves, the elector can apply to have the materials fliled in and signed by a person of their choice if the necessary requirements are met. | Implemented. | Ongoing | Elections (supported through Communications and Engagement) |
| Promote the option to be enrolled as a silent elector to people with disability, who are potentially more vulnerable to risk of abuse or exploitation, particularly women. | Implemented. | Ongoing | Communications and Engagement |
| Action | Measure | Timeframe | Responsibility & Data Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Continue to provide information and awareness material for accessibility and representation of people who live with a range of disabilities - create a single landing page web resource on www.ecsa.sa.gov.au | Implemented. | Ongoing | Communications and Engagement |
| Ensure ECSA's website remains accessible – W3 standards www.ecsa.sa.gov.au | Implemented. | Ongoing | Communications and Engagement |
| Action | Measure | Timeframe | Responsibility & Data Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Create an accessible and prefli lable "Plan your vote" sheet – a one pager to help plan the voters experience. | Implemented and accepted via the State Election. | 2026 State Election | Elections (supported through Communications and Engagement) |
| Consider ongoing use for the "Plan your vote" sheet. Action post State Election to ensure content is fully accessible and not reliant on PDF form or download due to accessibility issues. | Develop a proposal for leadership review and ways forward. | December 2026 | Communications and Engagement |
Domain 4: Health and wellbeing
Outcome Statement: A South Australia where all people with disability can attain the highest possible health and wellbeing outcomes throughout their lives
Objective: To have a well-connected health and mental health sector that is easy to access, navigate and interact with for all people with disability.
| Action | Measure | Timeframe | Responsibility & Data Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Implement ECSA's Fatigue Management Plan | Implemented. | March 2026 State Election | Human Resources |
| Mental health pulse checks Actively manage psychosocial hazards to reduce the risk of harm to employees. | Implemented. | July 2025 | Human Resources |
| Continue the service of the Peer Support and Contact Officers (PSCO) providing ECSA employees with informal, non-judgemental and confidential support which can be accessed in conjunction with support from Managers, Human Resources and the Employee Assistance Program (EAP). | Implemented and ongoing. | July 2024 | Human Resources |
| Align our EAP Providers to critical incident services in line with ECSA organisational requirements. | Implemented and ongoing. | July 2025 | Human Resources |
| Review opportunities for psychosocial support for major election events | Develop a proposal for leadership review and ways forward. | Prior to next parliamentary election | Human Resources |
| Review opportunities for office activities to support staff moral and support all and any hidden disabilities | Develop a proposal for leadership review and ways forward. | December 2026 | WHS |
Domain 5: Safety, rights and justice
Outcome Statement: A South Australia where all people with disability feel safe, have their rights upheld and have full and equal protection before the law
Objective: To improve the safety and overall experience of people with disability coming into contact with our emergency services, criminal justice and civil law systems.
| Action | Measure | Timeframe | Responsibility & Data Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Target expertise such as for the 2026 State Election Mis-Dis Information Project resource, to address mis and mal information shared which breaks down the democratic process | Implemented. | Prior to next parliamentary election | Compliance |
| Action | Measure | Timeframe | Responsibility & Data Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Educate ECSA staff on accessible complaint and feedback processes, including the variety of formats these can be submitted eg online written form. Increase accessibility options for feedback and complaints. | Develop a process for leadership review and ways forward. | Prior to next parliamentary election | Compliance |
| Improved process around the removal of a person from enrolment list due to disability. Add for 2030 State Election – check process of removal due to death or infirm – ensure action is accessible and straightforward and involves family or family carer in a sensitive manner. | Develop a process for leadership review and ways forward. | Prior to next election | Elections |
| Action | Measure | Timeframe | Responsibility & Data Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ensure feedback and complaints are fed back to the staff responsible to inform safety and quality systems. | Develop a process for leadership review and ways forward. | Prior to next election | Compliance |
DAIP Implementation
Embedding, monitoring, governance, and promotional strategies
Plan Distribution
- Multilingual and print alternative texts will be offered on request
- Shared with staff via the ECSA Intranet.
Embedding in Day-to-Day Operations
- Embed disability access and inclusion responsibilities into policies, procedures and service standards
- Apply universal design principles across facilities and service delivery
- Ensure procurement processes require accessible goods, services and infrastructure
- Provide regular disability awareness, inclusion and accessibility training for staff
- Incorporate accessibility checks into project planning
- Ensure reasonable adjustments are routinely considered and supported.
How progress will be monitored and reported
- Assign clear accountability for DAIP actions to senior leaders and business areas
- Track progress against measurable actions, milestones and timeframes within the DAIP
- Report progress internally through governance committees and executive reporting
- Publish regular public updates on DAIP outcomes and improvements achieved
- Review the DAIP at scheduled intervals to inform continuous improvement.
How the DAIP will be promoted to raise awareness and support
- Make the DAIP publicly available on the organisation’s website in accessible formats
- Promote the DAIP through internal communication channels
- Share progress, success stories and improvements through social media
- Use plain language and accessible communication formats to reach diverse audiences
- Encourage leaders to champion disability inclusion and visibly support the DAIP.
Acknowledgments
Recognising partner organisations, committees, and contributors
DEAC Members
- Blind Citizens Australia SA
- Catalyst Foundation
- CanDo Group (previously Deaf SA)
- JFA Purple Orange
- Mental Health Coalition of South Australia
- Multiple Sclerosis Society of SA/NT (MS)
- Office of the Public Advocate
- Office for Autism (and Autism SA)
- SeeDifferently (previously RSB)
Media Partner
Vision Australia
Peter Grecho (Vision Impaired)
Photography Credits
- Brenton Edwards, Stories Told Well
- Charlie Robinson, ECSA
- Fuller Creative, State Election Campaign Photography
- Jesse Blayney, ECSA
Glossary and Definitions
Clear explanations of accessibility, legal, and electoral terminology used throughout the plan
Accessibility
The design of environments, services, information and systems so they can be used by as many people as possible, including people with disability, without the need for adaptation or specialised design.
Accessible Format
Information provided in ways that meet diverse needs, including Large Print, audio, captioned video, screenreader compatible digital content, and translated materials.
Active Participation
The ability for people with disability to engage independently and meaningfully in civic, community, workplace and democratic processes, including enrolling and voting.
Assistive Support
Practical assistance provided to enable a person with disability to participate fully, such as staff support, accessible voting tools, or Telephone Assisted Voting, while respecting voter independence and privacy.
Carer
A person who provides care or support to a person with disability, illness, mental illhealth or ageing-related needs.
Culturally Safe
An environment that is spiritually, socially and emotionally safe for people, where there is no assault, challenge or denial of identity, particularly for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Disability
As defined under the Disability Inclusion Act 2018 (SA), disability may be physical, sensory, intellectual, cognitive, neurological or psychosocial, and may be visible or non-visible.
Disability Access and Inclusion Plan (DAIP)
A strategic plan required under the Disability Inclusion Act 2018 (SA) that outlines how an organisation will improve access, inclusion and participation for people with disability.
Disability Engagement Advisory Committee (DEAC)
A consultative body comprising disability organisations and advocates that provides advice to ECSA on accessibility, inclusion, service design and barriers to electoral participation.
Large Print
Information formatted using larger text, easy-to-read typefaces, strong colour contrast and a clean layout to make content easier to read for people with low vision or visual impairment.
Hidden (Non-visible) Disability
A disability that is not immediately apparent, such as autism, mental illhealth, neurological conditions, sensory processing differences, chronic illness or learning disability.
Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard Program
A voluntary program that allows people with non-visible disabilities to discreetly indicate they may need additional support, patience or understanding.
Inclusive Voting Centre / Inclusive Location
A voting location designed to reduce physical, sensory, cognitive or environmental barriers, for example through low-sensory settings, clear signage, calm environments and trained staff.
Neurodivergent / Neurodiversity
A term recognising natural variations in how people think, process information and interact with the world, including autism, ADHD and other neurological differences.
Plain English
Communication that is clear, direct and easy to understand, avoiding jargon, complex sentences and unnecessary technical language.
Psychosocial Disability
Arising from mental illhealth that may affect participation, communication, concentration, social interaction or confidence, episodically or long-term.
Reasonable Adjustment
A change or modification that enables a person with disability to participate on an equal basis, provided it does not impose unjustifiable hardship (for example modified duties, flexible arrangements or alternative communication methods).
Self Determination
The right of people with disability to make decisions about their own lives, including how they participate in voting, employment and community activities.
Telephone Assisted Voting (TAV)
A voting method that allows eligible electors who are blind, vision-impaired or unable to vote without assistance due to motor impairment to vote with support via a secure telephone process.
Universal Design
The design of products, environments, services and information to be usable by all people, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for specialised adaptation.
Voter Confidence
A voter’s trust and comfort in understanding the voting process, knowing what to expect, and feeling safe, respected and independent when participating in an election.
Wellbeing and Fatigue Management
Organisational practices designed to protect physical and psychological health, recognising that fatigue can affect safety, judgement, service quality and inclusion.
Contact Details & Alternative Formats
Request accessible Word, Large Print formats, or submit inquiries
Electoral Commission South Australia (ECSA)
GPO Box 646, Adelaide SA 5001
Website: https://www.ecsa.sa.gov.au (opens in a new window)
Email: ECSA.Inclusion@sa.gov.au
This Disability Access and Inclusion Plan (DAIP) is available on the Electoral Commission South Australia website. If you require a copy in an alternative format (such as Large Print or a fully accessible Word version), please contact ECSA.Inclusion@sa.gov.au.
Download Full Official PDF (90 Pages · 4.1 MB)