The New South Wales government has recently announced a significant $15 million emergency funding package to address the state's critical shortage of wheelchair-accessible taxis. This move has been met with relief and cautious optimism by disability advocates and industry stakeholders, who see it as a vital step towards improving transportation options for people with disabilities.

The funding initiative comes as a response to the dwindling number of wheelchair-friendly cabs, which has seen a sharp decline of one-third in the past five years as of the latest count, only 625 accessible taxis are serving the entire state, a stark drop from the 941 available in October 2019. This shortage has left many individuals like Mark Tonga, who rely on these services for independence and participation in community life, facing significant challenges. The scarcity of accessible taxis has become so pronounced that Tonga humorously likens finding one to 'finding a unicorn.'


The reasons behind this shortage are multifaceted. Rising maintenance costs and diminishing government incentives have made it increasingly less viable for operators to maintain and run accessible taxis. This has led to a situation where people with disabilities are often left stranded or unable to attend important events, from family gatherings to medical appointments.


Recognising the urgency of the situation, the NSW government has stepped in with a package that includes several key measures. These include increasing the incentive payments, known as 'lift fees,' from $15 to $25 per trip for drivers who pick up passengers in wheelchairs. Additionally, interest-free loans of up to $125,000 will be made available to convert vehicles into accessible taxis, and grants will be offered to assist with the costs of modifying cabs. Furthermore, training modules will be developed to better equip drivers to assist passengers with disabilities.


While the emergency funding is set to be delivered in early 2025 and is only guaranteed for one year, Transport Minister Jo Haylen has assured that long-term funding will be secured for these critical services. The announcement has been welcomed as a 'starting point' by industry representatives, including NSW Taxi Council CEO Nick Abrahim, who acknowledges that while the funding won't completely fix the problem, it is an important step forward.

The issue of accessible transportation has been a contentious one, with the previous Coalition government's deregulation of the taxi industry being cited as a contributing factor to the current crisis. The removal of the cap on the number of ordinary taxi licenses, which allowed conventional cab licenses to be obtained for a mere $200 application fee, diminished the cost-saving appeal of wheelchair-accessible taxi licenses, which are free.

Physical Disability Council of NSW CEO Ed Morris has called for action to be taken sooner, emphasising the complexity of the issue and the need for a sustainable long-term solution. The sentiment is echoed by disability advocates who have long been campaigning for change, highlighting the fundamental right of people with disabilities to participate fully in society.

As the NSW government works towards implementing this funding package, the increased support is hoped to lead to a more inclusive and accessible transportation network. The move is not just about improving services but also about recognising the dignity and rights of all citizens to move freely and independently within their communities.
Members of the Seniors Discount Club, we'd love to hear your thoughts on this development. Have you or your loved ones faced challenges with accessible transportation? What improvements would you like to see in the services provided? Share your experiences and insights in the comments below, and let's discuss how we can advocate for a more inclusive society for all.