Issues faced by people with disability who use public transport are under review with feedback being sought on reforms to the standards of national transport accessibility standards.
Calling for input on possible reforms for the Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport 2002 (Transport Standards), the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts said the Standards require all of Australia’s public transport networks and associated infrastructure to be fully accessible by the end of 2022, with the exception of trains and trams, which have until the end of 2032.
“Access to public transport is critical for people with disability to fully participate in the community and the economy,” the Department said.
“The reform process is looking at ways to improve the Transport Standards to ensure they meet their objectives of removing discrimination for people with disability in accessing public transport,” it said.
“In early 2021, we began the first of the two-stage process, consulting with the Australian public on 16 reform areas of the Transport Standards.”
The Department said the current (second) stage of the reform process covered 54 reform areas, including major reforms and minor updates.
It said reform topics included finding and accessing information about public transport, technology, ticket purchasing and capability to travel, as well as the accessibility of public transport infrastructure when boarding.
“Further reform topics include safety and accessibility aboard public transport, along with what types of transport are covered by the Transport Standards,” it said.
“This consultation process is seeking public views on the proposed reforms, including potential impacts on individuals and organisations.”
The Department said people could have their say on the reforms as well as take part in a survey until 9 August.
The Department’s 389-page Stage 2 Consultation Regulation Impact Statement can be accessed at this PS News link and information on how to have a say at this link.
