Transport Subsidies
Travel Concessions
Most public transport operators provide concession travel specified target groups. For example full time students, jobseekers, apprentices, vision impaired, ex-members of the Defence forces with disabilities and Seniors Card holders. Students who study part time due to their disability may also be eligible for concessions on public transport. Full time tertiary students automatically receive a student card that entitles them to discount on public transport . To obtain concessions on public transport a valid student card with photographic identification must be shown. Information on your eligibility for a concession card can be obtained from Centrelink.
Disability Parking Permit
If you have temporary or permanent disability that impacts upon your mobility then you may eligible for a disabled parking permit. Disability permits are issued by the transport authority in each State and Territory of Australia. The granting of a disability parking permit does not guarantee the holder access to a parking bay at all times. This depends on the provision of parking bays and their use. To find out if you are eligible for a disabled parking permit you will need to speak with your GP as applications for permits must be supported by a medical reference. Information on disability parking permits can also be obtained from the traffic authority in your State or Territory.
Examples of impairment that disability permits cover include:
- a significant ambulatory disability such as a the use of a complex walking aid that prevents access to a vehicle in a standard size parking bay
- significant permanent ambulatory disability that is not likely to improve in the applicants lifespan
- long-term ambulatory disability that is not likely to improve within six months
- significant intellectual disability that poses an extreme danger to the applicant and to others in a public place without the continuous attendance by a caregiver
- a condition that is critical or dangerous to the health of the applicant that is chronic or acute and affects the applicants ambulatory ability so that walking distances is injurious not just inconvenient
Taxi Transport Subsidy Scheme
If you have a permanent and severe disability which affects your mobility you maybe eligible for a taxi transport subsidy. Eligible participants can receive a subsidy of half the fare for each trip up to a maximum of $25.00. Participation in the scheme is not means tested, however, applicants must meet strict eligibility criteria. The receipt of a pension in some States and Territories of Australia does not automatically qualify an individual for participation in the Scheme. The eligibility of an applicant depends on the extent or severity of the disability or mobility limitation. To find out further information about this scheme contact your local transport authority or search on the internet under ‘ taxi transport subsidy scheme’.
Examples of the disabilities covered under the scheme include:
- physical disability that requires dependence on a wheelchair for all mobility outside the home
- severe ambulatory problem that cannot functionally be improved and restricts walking to an extremely limited distance
- total loss of vision or severe visual impairment (both eyes)
- severe and uncontrollable epilepsy with seizures involving loss of consciousness
- intellectual impairment or dementia resulting in the need to be accompanied by another person at all times for travel on public transport
- severe emotional and/or behavioural disorders that have a level of disorganisation that results in the need to be accompanied by another person at all times for travel on public transport
Mobility Allowance
You may be eligible for a Mobility Allowance if you are unable to use public transport without substantial assistance from others due to your disability, The payment is fortnightly and is non-taxable. To find out more about Mobility Allowance contact Centrelink on 13 1021 or log onto their website.