'Safe travels!' part 3: Australian holiday destinations
Every Australian (and visitor!) deserves access to our country’s cities, attractions, and services. With so much to offer from dazzling beaches and reefs to grand old mountains, Australia is meant to be explored. Part three of our ‘Safe travels!’ series explores some of Australia’s most famous destinations – and some hidden gems – all with an ‘accessible’ lens.
Perth, Western Australia – the capital of Western Australia has a Universal Access plan that emphasises accessibility in areas such as public transport, parking, toilets and walking routes. Perth is committed to the concept of universal access and inclusion rather than access for people with disabilities, with the emphasis on mainstream facilities and services being accessible for all.
Sydney, New South Wales – Not only does the Harbour City have accessible tourist attractions; the city also has a dedicated website for people with disabilities – www.sydneyforall.com. Plus, the city’s popular Harbour Bridge climb offers services for people with vision and hearing difficulties through Auslan interpreted climbs.
Cairns, Queensland – For those wanting to see the Great Barrier Reef, Quicksilver Cruises offer many services for people with disabilities and recently even took a low-vision customer scuba-diving. Cairns and Palm Cove have also done some fantastic work to improve the accessibility of their urban environment.
Port Stephens, New South Wales – A two hour drive north of Sydney, Port Stephens is acclaimed for its disability friendly attractions and accommodation. Little Beach at Nelson Bay also offers access to the water via a dedicated wheelchair ramp. Plus, state-of-the-art Sandcruiser Beach Wheelchairs are available for loan from Halifax and Fingal Bay Holiday Parks, at no cost to the general public and park visitors.
Uluru, Northern Territory – All restaurants, bars, hotel reception areas, town square and shops at Ayers Rock Resort have access for wheelchairs. Notable mention to ‘The Sounds of Silence’ dinner tour which is suitable for people with disabilities, with special transfers arranged to the site with prior notice. The base walking tracks at Uluru are also accessible.
Phillip Island, Victoria – This popular tourist destination has several accessible accommodation options and attractions. The famous ‘Penguin Parade’ at Ventnor has ramp access and wide, manual doors which are left open during summer and at viewing time.
Useful links
http://www.australiaforall.com/
http://www.cairns.qld.gov.au/community-environment/disability-services/access-for-all-directory
