Government rolls out draft aviation disability standards

“For too many Australians, air travel can still be harder than it should be. That might mean uncertainty at booking, inconsistent support at the airport, or difficulty travelling with mobility aids and other essential equipment,” the Transport Minister told delegates at the summit.

“That is why the Government is working to improve accessibility across aviation – because every passenger should be able to travel with dignity, confidence and clear information.

“The consultation paper, which we are releasing today, has been shaped through a number of co-design workshops held last year with people with disability and consultation with the aviation industry.

“Drawing on solutions developed by people with disability, the Australian Government has developed a set of draft options for standards to improve accessibility and your experience travelling with disability – from booking a flight, to navigating the terminal, to the journey itself.”

Feedback is open until 2 October on the draft standards, which include “multiple proposed solutions” for each stage of the passenger journey.

“This is not work government can do alone. It requires airlines, airports, regulators, workers and disability advocates to keep working together on practical improvements that make a real difference for passengers,” the Minister said.

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“Already, airports and airlines are stepping up. Two weeks ago, I had the opportunity to visit Adelaide Airport’s new sensory room that is available for passengers flying domestically and internationally, and their support dog Elmo who does valuable work calming nervous fliers.

“There are examples of co-designed accessibility innovations like this popping up across the country, and we can’t wait to continue working with industry and advocates to improve the experience of passengers.”

In a statement, Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme Jenny MacAllister thanked those who had participated in the consultations.

“Australians with disability have made a terrific contribution here. Now there are real options for the community to consider,” she said.

“If you have lived experience to share about the barriers you face when travelling, or want to advocate for someone who has, then make sure to read the consultation paper and have your say.”

Separately, the Government has also released a new Australian Air Passenger Travel Guide to help passengers, including those with disabilities, navigate air travel.