The Disabled Space Invader
There has recently been an increase of people using disabled car spaces without a permit in Strathbogie Shire.
People with a disability need accessible parking as they have fewer choices in moving about the community safely, easily and independently than members of the public generally.
However tempting it might be to just "duck in and out of the store" by parking in the disabled car space in front please consider the huge problem it causes for someone with a disability.
DAC committee member Councillor Furlanetto said, "The majority of people do the right thing, but for those who don't, I ask them to 'think twice' and consider what their thoughtlessness might mean to others."
The state-wide Disabled Persons' Parking Scheme currently operates in Strathbogie Shire
.Types of permits
| Code | Description | Duration |
| A | For a driver/passenger with a disability | 3 years |
| B | For a passenger with a disability | 3 years |
| C | For an organisation providing a transport service for people with disabilities (separate application) | 1 year |
| D | Temporary permit | 6 months |
There are two permit categories but a person may hold only one disabled person's parking permit.
Category 1 (blue permit): a permit holder may park in a signed disabled person's parking bay for the specified time only, or may park in any ordinary parking space for twice the specified time. The permit must be displayed in the vehicle.
A person is eligible for a category 1 permit if diagnosed by a doctor:
- With a significant mobility disability that requires the use of a complex walking aid and/or prevents access to a vehicle in a standard size parking space (A or B)
- With an acute or chronic illness in which minimal walking may endanger health acutely or in the long term (A or B)
- To be an extreme danger to him/herself and others in a public place without the attendance of a carer (B)
- With a significant disability that is not likely to ever improve (A or B) or not likely to improve in the next 6 months (D)
Category 2 (green permit): a permit holder may park in any ordinary parking space for twice the specified time, but is not permitted to park in a signed disabled person's parking bay.
The permit should be carried by the permit holder when not in the vehicle. Permits must not be left on display in the vehicle when parked.
A person is eligible for a category 2 permit if diagnosed by a doctor:- With a significant mobility disability or severe illness that does not affect his/her ability to walk distances but requires him/her to take rest breaks during continuous walking (A, B or D)
Traveling interstate
Permits are recognised elsewhere in Australia. Parking concessions may be different in other States and Territories and you should check the conditions applying to the Disabled Persons Parking Scheme in the State or Territory you intend to visit. For more information contact Council or go online to www.vicroads.vic.gov.au and download the 'Disabled Persons Parking Schemes in Australia' brochure.
Other
A disability parking permit does not exempt the permit holder from parking fees (no paid parking in Strathbogie Shire though) or parking in restricted locations such as Clearways, No Standing and No Parking Areas, Taxi Only Areas, etc.
Cancellation
A permit is automatically cancelled after the expiry date and may be cancelled at any time for wilful misuse or breach of the Conditions of Use. Penalties may be imposed for misuse of the permit.
How to apply
Application forms are available from Strathbogie Shire Council and are to be completed by the applicant and his/her medical practitioner. Permits will only be issued to established residents of the Shire. The Disability Advisory Committee worked with Burton's and Strathbogie Shire Council to amend the Accessible Parking Bay outside Burtons IGA Euroa on Brock St.
The Disability Advisory Committee is working to create a more accessible and inclusive community in the Strathbogie Shire and welcomes feedback from the community.
If you are aware of any other access or inclusion issues in our Shire please raise them through the Strathbogie Shire Council Disability Advisory Committee by phoning Community Services on 03 5795 0001 or 1800 635 956.
If you are eligible for a permit or would like more information on disabled parking permits please contact the compliance department on 03 5795 0000.