The ARA is coordinating industry input to the Australian Government’s first major reform of the Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport (DSAPT) in 20 years. The ARA’s Accessibility Committee drives activity relating to the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) as well as rail company reporting against the DSAPT.
Public transport operators continue to enhance accessibility of rail services across the network by investing in upgrades and adopting best-practice approaches.
Embedding accessible design in new projects
New rail developments, stations and trains are now designed to ensure easy access for people with a disability.
Station and train upgrades
There is a great deal of legacy infrastructure across the rail network that was first built before current accessibility standards existed. Public transport operators continue to invest in upgrades to stations, trains and platforms to improve accessibility across the network. This work can include raising platforms, installing additional ramps and lifts, installing facilities for assistance animals and introducing beacon technology to improve access for people with low vision.
Operators also invest in new or upgraded trains to improve accessibility outcomes.
Accessibility temporary exemption reports
The ARA’s members operating public transport networks report on their progress on an annual basis.