Extension sought on Disability Access and Inclusion Plan deadline

Councils are required to prepare DAIPs that align with the updated State Disability Inclusion Plan 2025-2029, however many have expressed concern at the six-month timeframe for development that was changed in legislation last year.

Additionally, the legislation switched DAIP reporting from financial year to calendar year, meaning councils will also need to submit a review of their existing plan before April 2026.

Our asks

LGA has formally requested that the Department and the Minister extend the DAIP submission deadline from February 2026 to May 2026.

This would allow councils a more realistic period to undertake meaningful consultation, align with the State Plan and ensure their DAIPs are robust and deliverable.

LGA also reiterated the need for clearer guidance on the new and revised measures to support effective local implementation and avoid placing undue pressure on council resources.

Background

The state government recently consulted on its draft State Disability Inclusion Plan 2025–2029, with public submissions closing on 26 May 2025.

LGA lodged a submission on behalf of the local government sector, informed by member feedback and discussions at LGA committee meetings in May.

Following this process, an updated version of the Plan was presented to councils and other public authorities at the Inclusive SA Community of Practice meeting on 19 June.

This reflected feedback from both the consultation period and the Minister’s Disability Advisory Council, with stakeholders asked to provide any last comments by 24 June.

The state government also advised the final Plan is likely to be gazetted in early August 2025.

Find out more

If councils have any questions regarding the new State Plan and reporting deadlines, they can contact LGA Senior Policy Advisor Belinda Tassone.