To address barriers and safety concerns, we need to focus on prioritising accessibility investments in transport infrastructure, integrating accessibility into all infrastructure stages, and enhancing universal design standards for transport assets.
People have told us that accessible infrastructure and rolling stock are fundamental to making transport an inclusive, barrier-free environment. We have also heard that, while some assets pose barriers, others may pose a risk of fatality or a serious injury. The impact of these critical barriers and safety risks on users are significant as they mean some assets are not able to be used by some people. Particular issues exist with bus stops and accessible tram stops, footpaths and pedestrian crossings. Addressing these risks is a priority for DTP.
Strategic directions for assets are to:
- Prioritise investments to identify the interventions that will deliver the most benefits so they can be completed first.
- Embed accessibility in infrastructure projects at all stages.
- Design new infrastructure and replacement rolling stock, and all parts of the transport network such as footpaths, bus stops, tram stops and train stations, so that they can all work together and reduce the need for additional supports like ramps to get from the platform to the train.
- Improve guidance and standards to apply universal design in supporting accessible outcomes for infrastructure projects and design.
- Manage existing infrastructure to ensure accessibility outcomes continue to be delivered.
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