People in Gosford and Woy Woy can now complete government transactions in a quieter and less stimulating environment with the rollout of Quiet Hour at more Service NSW Centres across the state.
Quiet Hour was successfully trialled at eight centres in 2022 before being expanding to an additional 54 centres and now to even more in NSW to support those with low-sensory needs.
For a set time each week, Gosford and Woy Woy Service Centres will make small changes such as turning down music and ticket announcements and reducing lighting where possible.
Customers are asked to put their mobile phones on silent mode and minimise conversations with other customers during that time.
“Quiet Hour is so important because it understands and recognises the different needs of others and helps us deliver the best possible service,” State Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said.
“The staff are so supportive and passionate about delivering the best customer service possible.
“This is an important program helping ensure government services are available to every person no matter their accessibility needs.
“We encourage everyone to visit the Service NSW website to find out when their nearest Service Centre is offering the service particularly those people who have sound and light sensitivities.”
Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government, Jihad Dib, said it was important for everyone, regardless of their background or circumstance, to know they are welcome in a NSW Service Centre.
“For people who require limited distractions, such as autistic people, Quiet Hour will allow them to complete their driver’s knowledge test and access other services in a quieter, calmer environment,” Dib said.
“A Service Centre should be available to everyone who needs it, and Quiet Hour is one of many programs Service NSW has rolled out in recent times to improve the overall accessibility of government services.”
The Service NSW website has a full timetable of when each centre is offering the service as well as other accessibility facilities available including mobility parking and public transport access.
For more information, go to https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/about-us/our-organisation/supporting-customers-with-disability
Source:
NSW Government