Media Release by The Hon Bill Shorten MP

Government calls for submissions on Disability Parking Scheme

The Australian Government today launched a discussion paper and national public consultations about the new Australian Disability Parking Scheme.

Today’s announcement follows a $3 million commitment by the Government in the 2009-10 Federal Budget to develop the Scheme across Australia by the end of 2010.

Parliamentary Secretary Bill Shorten said the proposed Scheme would ensure there is a clear and fair policy to establish one set of eligibility criteria, national minimum standards for parking concessions, and one Australia-wide parking permit to replace more than 100 different parking permit types currently issued across Australia.

“Disability parking schemes make it easier for people with disability to be independent and perform everyday tasks,” Mr Shorten said.

“We want to make sure that parking is as easy as possible for people who need it, and ensure that we prevent abuse of existing disability parking programs.”

“Establishing a National Parking Permit was an election commitment by the Rudd Government and we want to hear from people with disability and the broader community about how best to do this.”

The Government will hold public consultations throughout June 2009 in each capital city, plus Alice Springs, Cairns and Townsville, to allow all Australians the opportunity to give input and feedback on the direction of the new scheme.

You will need to register for the consultations by calling 1800 630 740 or 1800 555 677 (TTY) if you are able to attend.

For more information and to download copies of the discussion paper, please visit the Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs website

Please call 1800 630 740 or 1800 555 677 (TTY) if you require an alternative version of the discussion paper such as Easy English, on a CD, in Braille or in another language.

You can email your submission to Access Parking (accessparking@fahcsia.gov.au) or post it to

Australian Disability Parking Scheme submissions (East Wing), FaHCSIA,
PO Box 7576, Canberra Business Centre ACT 2610.

Submissions must be received by 5pm AEST Friday 31 July 2009. The outcomes of the consultations and submissions will be published on the FaHCSIA website.