In this paper, key findings are presented from an Australian Research Council (ARC) Linkage project that investigated the geographies, mobilities and politics for disabled people who roll powered assisted devices (wheelchairs and mobility scooters). Online now 'Geographies, mobilities and politics for disabled people: power-assisted device practice': https://t.co/v7RBkEAV4t #mobility #geographies #disability #politics @TheresaHarada @KathyMee10 @GeogSocNSW —
Art exhibition Ballina, NSW 2022 In August 2022 the Ignite Gallery (part of Northern Rivers Community Gallery) hosted an exhibition of art works by people who use wheelchairs and mobility scooters. This historic building was used as a fire station but now provides an accessible community space. The art works included black and white photographs,
On 6 December 2017, the following matters were referred to the Senate Rural and Regional Affairs and Transport References Committee (the committee) for inquiry and report by 20 September 2018:
Summary There are issues with the timely provision of Assistive Technology (AT) to NDIS participants, however ATSA acknowledges that the NDIA is listening to participants, AT suppliers and allied health practitioners (AHPs) and is responding to their concerns. The changes that are planned by the NDIA, such as the new Pathways program, are yet to
ATSA is supportive of the changes that have been proposed so far;
“Evidence that the vehicle contained the mobility features at the first point of sale to the original market, such as first registration documents, EU Compliance certificate or Japanese export certificate would be required for eligibility acceptance. With respect to wheelchair restraints, Australia requires a higher wheelchair total mass than is contained in the Japanese standards. The reforms will require that the Australian Standards (with higher mass restraint limits) be used as a compliance requirement – which can be done by a Registered Automotive Workshop using a Model Report.” (Explanatory memoranda to Road Vehicle Standards bill, Page 101).
However, these changes do not fully address the significant issues of the bill;
1. Disregarding the safety requirements of a daily use vehicle.
2. Leaving the local industry at a high significant financial and competitive disadvantage.
3. Placing Australian industry, skills and jobs at risk.
More changes are necessary to address these needs. I refer you to our original submission along with the following additional submission.
Executive Summary
This Senate Inquiry provides the opportunity to better understand the needs of assistive technology (AT) users while ensuring their safety and that of the general community. It is also an opportunity to aid Australian AT businesses by aligning the Australian AT market with the international marketplace.
A person with a disability does not choose to use a specialised vehicle they require them. These vehicles are an integral to their lives therefore it is imperative that the vehicle is fit for purpose, safe and reliable.
Nationals senator John Williams wants to limit the speed of mobility scooters.
His campaign shines a spotlight on an often overlooked piece of technology, one that could offer lessons for our transport future.
There are a range of initiatives which need to be implemented to improve the transition to the NDIS, participant outcomes, reduce cost to Government and increase the competitiveness and viability of businesses supplying AT.
The NDIA’s current approach to the supply of AT supports, involves an inconsistent and overly complex set of procedures, combined with high risk ‘quote shopping’ for often complex solutions. This has resulted in extended delays in the supply of AT supports, adversely impacting people with disability and placing undue financial burden on businesses risking the sustainably of AT suppliers.
The situation is compounded due to a lack of communication at the local office level, consistency or national standards from the NDIA.
Basic actions like letting a participant or suppler know “what is happening to their application for AT supports” are not consistently being performed causing confusion and unnecessary concerns. This fails to address the essential needs of NDIS participants and the industry that is endeavouring to support them.
Move Together
