Transport Accessibility Project Katherine Marshall & Kerri Cassidy

About DRC Victorian Disability Advocacy Program We conduct individual & systemic advocacy Staffed & managed by people with disabilities Member driven

Disability Standards Goal: to eliminate discrimination in the public transport system Timeframe: 100% accessibility by 2020 Limitations: Review process Community consultation

Transport Project Goals Understand transport issues for Victorians with disabilities Understand the impacts that inaccessible transport has on individuals and communities

Method Public forums Online survey 1:1 Interviews

Safety Staff Public Mode-specific issues

Trains Common issues: lack of independence due to reliance on drivers access to train stations V/Line accessibility PSOs Positives: more reliable than buses, taxis, trams new stations with independent access for wheelchair users very successful

Trams Common issues: very few wheelchair accessible stops low floor trams not used on lines with accessible tram stops lack of priority seating Overcrowding Positives: independent access for wheelchair users when low trams combined with accessible stops

Buses Common issues: Bus safety: taking off, accelerating, braking, turning corners too quickly Issues with bus drivers Positives: Some regular bus drivers get to know the passengers’ needs Smart bus visual display

Taxi & Rideshare Common issues: Taxis unreliable Taxis driving past people who use a wheelchair Lack of respect when assisting wheelchair users into vehicle Uber Assist not showing available drivers Uber drivers’ lack of awareness of disability Rural areas: limited services Positives: Ongoing relationships with taxi drivers

Information Common issues: Announcements on the train, tram and bus without visual equivalent Announcements of stations and stops unreliable “Change of circumstances” announcements not accessible Staff give incorrect information due to lack of understanding Over-reliance on apps

Community Consultations Common issues: No opportunity to give meaningful feedback Not listened to when try to complain People in rural and regional areas left out Positives: Consultation for new High Capacity Metro Trains

Regional Issues exacerbated due to lack of services and alternative options. Some regions have no taxis or public transport. Heavy focus on getting to and from Melbourne. Lack of opportunity to give feedback.

Impacts 63.10% of individuals stressed or anxious when accessing transport. 67.24% of people said they miss out on doing things they would like to do due to transport barriers. Commonly limits: education, employment, community engagement, social activities

Recommendations Accessibility Audit Enforcement of Standards Feedback registry Community consultation Staff training Public awareness campaign Timelines Accessible Information Platform access Increasing priority seating

Where to from here? Finalise report of findings & recommendations Prepare & submit submission to Transport Standards Review Conduct advocacy campaign with partners Final report to Office for Disability