Changes to Accessibility Parking Permit application process

Published on 15 March 2021

Residents wanting to apply for an Accessibility Parking Permit will be able to do so via a new process from Monday, 22 March.

Gannawarra Shire Council is joining all municipalities across Victoria to roll out the new Accessibility Parking Permit scheme, to be overseen by VicRoads.

The scheme, which replaces the Disability Parking Permit scheme, will standardise permits to better align with the Australian Disability Parking Scheme, making sure Victorian permits are recognised across the country.

“The new Accessibility Parking Permit online service provides residents with an easier, streamlined online application process whilst reducing the misuse of permits as they’re more secure, making them harder to duplicate,” Council Chief Executive Officer, Tom O’Reilly said.

“VicRoads has been working closely with medical professionals, disability advocacy groups and local councils for 18 months in the development of the new scheme.”

Two types of permits will be issued through the Accessibility Parking Permit scheme:

• A green permit, which allow people with limited mobility additional time to park for double the time in a regular parking space; and
• A blue permit, known as the Australian Disability Parking Permit, will allow people who’ve been assessed as needing additional space (such as wheelchair users), to park in an accessibility parking bay.

“This two-tiered scheme ensures fairness so people most in need of a disability parking bays can access one,” Mr O’Reilly said.

“Other changes to the scheme include the introduction of temporary permits for 6, 12 or 24 months;  increasing the permit length from 3 years to 5 years for individuals; and the introduction of a permanent disability classification, so reassessments are not required for some people’s future permit renewals.”

Residents wanting to apply for an Accessibility Parking Permit can do so from Monday, 22 March online via a VicRoads portal, which is available at www.gsc.vic.gov.au/parking

“Residents who need assistance to complete an application are welcome to visit either the Cohuna or Kerang Customer Service Centres, where our friendly staff are able to help. Residents can also visit their local Neighbourhood House if they need assistance in completing an application,” Mr O’Reilly said.

“Residents who currently hold a Disability Parking Permit may continue to do so until their current permit expires.”