Access for All Abilities
There are many sectors of the population who have limited access
to transport. These sectors often forfeit activity because travel
is so difficult for them.
These include
- People who cannot drive as they are either too young or have
relinquished driving with age;
- People with limited mobility due to illness or disability;
- People who choose not to, or cannot afford to own a car;
- People who are geographically isolated from alternative services
Local governments have a legal responsibility to ensure the
local environment is fully accessible for users of all abilities.
Federal legislation, the Disability Discrimination Act (1992) makes
it unlawful to discriminate against a person on the basis of having,
or potentially having, a disability. It is estimated that 19% of
the population has a permanent disability, which increases to 35%
if temporary disabilities are included.
Local governments can ensure a barrier free environment by requiring
all public spaces to be fully accessible and by educating local
service providers and facility owners as to requirements and resources
for accessibility.
The following tasks can be undertaken by local governments to promote
an inclusive approach and acknowledge responsibilities under the
Disability Discrimination Act
What local governments can
do
Local governments can find themselves extending their role in
transport when acting in community best interest. Additional activities
may not be expensive and can provide a real local benefit.
Institutions and agencies
A summary of the roles of federal, state and other agencies
Available tools and resources
There are a number of useful resources to help local governments
Learn from others
Look at work done elsewhere to get ideas for your area.
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