Queenslanders with vision loss are to be eligible for parking permits for their carers for the first time following changes to the State’s disability parking system.
The new laws will also see some of the toughest fines introduced for drivers who illegally use disability parking spaces, increasing from $266 to $533.
Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Mark Bailey said the reforms were scheduled to come into effect on 31 August.
“This is a common sense change that will make life easier for thousands of Queenslanders,” Mr Bailey said.
“The existing parking scheme only provides parking concessions to people who are either unable to walk and always rely on a wheelchair, or who have a severe restriction to their ability to walk.”
He said disability advocacy groups like Guide Dogs and Braille House, and a significant grass roots movement, had told of the unique challenges Queenslanders with vision loss faced.
“These parking concessions make it possible for permit holders to go about their daily business by providing access to conveniently located bays at shopping centres, hospitals, medical centres, train stations and entertainment venues,” Mr Bailey said.
Minister for Communities, Disability Services and Seniors, Coralee O’Rourke said the expanded criteria for the parking permit scheme would define vision impairment consistently with the Federal Government’s Social Security Guide.
“These are practical reforms that have come from an independent assessment of the current system our Government started last year,” Mrs O’Rourke said.
“It will ensure people with vision impairment and their carers are supported with safer and more convenient access in car parks across the State.”
Mr Bailey said the expanded scheme would be introduced alongside tougher penalties for people illegally using disability parking spaces.
“Drivers who illegally park in disability spaces should expect to be harshly penalised,” he said.
“It’s arrogant and selfish behaviour that the community doesn’t support,” he said.
