Access to public transport enables Australians to work or study, visit family and friends, and access critical services such as healthcare. However, one in 6 people aged 15 years and over with disability have difficulty using public transport. Without equitable access to public transport, discrimination can arise.

2022 Review of the Transport Standards

The 2022 Review of the Transport Standards discussion paper was publicly released for consultation on 22 December 2022. Public consultation is open until 30 June 2023.

We're seeking your feedback on whether the Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport 2002 (the Transport Standards) are effectively removing discrimination for people with disability on public transport services.

Further information, including the discussion paper, translations and ways to have your say is available on the 2022 Review of the Transport Standards page.

Reform of the Transport Standards

During 2021 and 2022, the Australian Government held public consultations to investigate the impacts, costs and benefits associated of potential reforms to the Transport Standards.

Feedback from the consultation process will support evidence-based analysis and recommendations on the reforms for consideration by Transport Ministers in mid‑2023.

• Further information about reform areas and an overview of public consultation activities is available on the Stage 2 Reforms page.
• Public submissions to the Stage 2 Consultation RIS can be viewed on the Stage 2 Reform of the Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport 2002 Have Your Say page.

What are the Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport 2002 (Transport Standards)?

The Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport 2002 (Transport Standards) are formulated by the Attorney-General under subsection 31 (1) of the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (the DDA). The Transport Standards seek to remove discrimination for people with disability in relation to public transport services to provide equality and independence.

The Transport Standards apply to train, tram, bus and coach, ferry, taxi and aviation services and are designed to provide certainty to providers and operators of public transport services and infrastructure about their responsibilities under the DDA.

The Transport Standards require all of Australia's public transport networks and associated infrastructure to be fully accessible by the end of 2022 (with the exception of trains and trams, which have until the end of 2032).