East Gippsland joins pilot disability parking scheme
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We are one of eight councils piloting a new Accessible Parking Permit (APP) Scheme and online system. The changes by VicRoads to disability parking are designed to create an easier and fairer system.
It will standardise permits to better align with the Australian Disability Parking scheme (ADPS), making sure our permits are recognised across the country.
Sam McPherson, Manager Regulatory and Compliance Services said another benefit of the new scheme is to reduce the misuse of permits as they’re more secure, making them hard to duplicate. The permits are valid for five years instead of three and a permanent ongoing permit can be applied for now.
"The eight pilot councils are Knox City, Yarra Ranges, Baw Baw, Latrobe City, South Gippsland, Wellington, East Gippsland and Bass Coast. We were keen to be involved in the new pilot scheme, with our ageing population we have about 2,500 disability parking permits," Mr McPherson said.
Medical practitioners and occupational therapists will be able to recommend short-term permits for six, 12 or 24 months.
“Introducing a fairer and simpler system for all and the convenience of longer permit duration will mean people don’t have to apply as often, also the inclusion of occupational therapists as assessors, in addition to GPs is a terrific measure.”
When it’s time to renew your Disability Parking Permit you will get a letter from Council with instructions.
Applications are online: a carer, family or friends, GP, occupational therapist or council customer service centre staff can help. You’ll receive an application reference number via SMS to your phone. Take your reference number to your GP or occupational therapist. Your GP or occupational therapist will complete an online assessment and submit your application. Council will review the application. If your application is successful, you’ll receive your permit in the mail.A paper-based version of the application is available for people with no access to mobile phone numbers or internet access. Please contact our customer service centre if you require a paper form.
Double time (green permits) and permits for organisations will continue under the new scheme.
The Victorian Department of Transport has been working closely with medical professionals, disability advocacy groups and local councils for 18 months in the development of the new APP scheme. General practitioners and occupational therapists will be responsible for assessing applicants while councils will continue to assess applications. VicRoads will issue permits from a centralised mail house direct to customers.
All existing permits will remain valid until their expiry date. All renewals will be online with the new scheme from Monday, December 14. Details on how to apply for the new Accessible Parking Permit (APP) Scheme are on our website.
For further information visit the VicRoads website www.vicroads.vic.gov.au