Accessible transfers, checked vehicle by vehicle
Accessible transport works when the details arrive before the booking, not at the kerb. Describe each passenger's needs, and partner operators are asked for a vehicle that suits; nothing is settled until the operator states it on the quote.
What to send
For each wheelchair user: manual or powered chair, its size with the person seated, and whether they transfer to a seat or travel in the chair. Add carers, assistance animals, walking frames and scooters. Numbers matter, because every wheelchair position replaces seats and luggage room.
Measure the chair before asking. NSW sets a minimum space per wheelchair in accessible booked vehicles, and a large powered chair can exceed it.
What the law covers, and what it leaves open
The national accessible public transport Standards reach buses and coaches only when they are running a public transport service. Whether a private charter counts is not settled, and chauffeured hire cars fall outside the Standards. So no vehicle is assumed to be accessible: the operator confirms the lift or ramp, the restraints and the number of positions on the actual vehicle before you commit.
Regulations that apply
- Limousines, including chauffeured hire cars, are not conveyances under the Standards
- The Brisbane International Cruise Terminal has two accessible bays at the end of its 2-minute pick-up and set-down area
Accessible set-down at big venues
Major venues publish accessible drop-off points that a group transfer can plan around: Melbourne Park near the Eastern Plaza Car Park, the recommended Grand Prix gates at Albert Park, and dedicated bays at the Brisbane cruise terminal. Put the exact point on the run sheet so the driver heads straight there.
Add time at every stop. A lift cycle and securing each chair take longer than a standard boarding, and the schedule should allow for it.
Questions
Is an accessible vehicle guaranteed once I book?
No booking is final until the operator names a suitable vehicle on the quote. Give the details early, because accessible vehicles are fewer than standard ones.
Can a full-size coach carry a wheelchair user?
Some coaches are fitted with a lift; many are not. For several wheelchair users, a wheelchair-accessible minibus is usually more practical. Ask for both options if you are unsure.
Is the driver trained to secure a wheelchair?
NSW requires the driver of a wheelchair-accessible hire vehicle to be competent with wheelchair passengers, from loading to the journey itself. Elsewhere, state the need in your request and ask the operator to confirm.
Cities
Vehicles
- Full-size coach — 45-57 seats
- Midi coach — 25-35 seats
- Minibus — 13-24 seats
- Executive Sprinter van — 10-11 seats
- Executive car (sedan or SUV) — 1-3 seats
- Wheelchair-accessible minibus — Varies by layout; wheelchair positions replace seats seats
Describe the group
Chairs, carers and pickup points. A suitable vehicle is requested from partner operators and named on the quote before any booking is made.
Request a quote or call +61485016608