2025-03-12
Data obtained by the Greens NSW has revealed that, on its current trajectory, it will take at least another 47 years until all NSW train stations are fully accessible.
Under questioning from Greens NSW MP Abigail Boyd, Transport for NSW confirmed that 100 train stations across the state are still not independently accessible for people with disability, and by the completion of the NSW government’s currently funded Safe Accessible Transport program in 2027, only 6 additional train stations will be independently accessible.
In 2002, the NSW Government signed onto the Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport, in recognition of its obligations under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of People with Disability. These Standards obliged NSW to achieve full accessibility of train stations by 2022.
Quotes attributable to Abigail Boyd, Greens NSW MP and Spokesperson for Disability Rights & Inclusion:
“The NSW government’s track record is abhorrent when it comes to disability accessibility and inclusion. We’re already three years past the deadline committed to over 20 years ago, and we’ve now learnt we’re another 47 years off track.
“It shouldn’t take a Government 70 years to make our public transport accessible for everyone. People with disabilities shouldn’t have to wait this long just to catch a train in NSW.”
“Transport for NSW confirmed today that the delays are a result of a ‘function of funding’. Budgets are about choices, and the lack of funding to meet these really very basic requirements are evidence of the NSW government’s lack of regard for people with disability or with mobility needs in this state.”
Background:
Media contact:
Angus Hoy
0416 130 969
abigail.boyd@parliament.nsw.gov.au