Not Accessible – Not Acceptable!
28/07/2011
The Government’s failure on accessibility standards was highlighted today by a protest held by Kelly Vincent MLC outside the SA Travel Centre.
The SA Travel Centre was recently privatised by the Rann Government. The successful tender has resulted in a new location for the information centre. The new office is inaccessible for those using wheelchairs and walkers, and even mothers with prams.
“It is totally unacceptable for a Government agency to award a contract to a private tender with no provisions for accessibility,” said Ms Vincent.
“This situation is proof that the Government does not care about the rights of people with disabilities and does not consider their needs to be a priority.”
Currently there is a set of stairs which must be negotiated to enter the Travel Centre, and there are plans to install a chair lift to improve accessibility. Three weeks ago, on July 6, the Labor Member for Croydon Mick Atkinson told 5AA radio the Centre would be accessible by today. It remains completely inaccessible to those with mobility needs.
“Mick Atkinson’s statements on 5AA raised the hopes of the disability sector that immediate action would be taken to fix this stuff-up. Nothing has been done and we are once again disappointed by the Government,” said Ms Vincent.
The SA Travel Centre is the first point of contact for tourists who come to South Australia. Ms Vincent says the lack of accessibility at the centre leaves a damning first impression.
“Any person with disabilities who visits South Australia and experiences the indignity of attempting to enter the SA Travel Centre will be left with a sour taste in their mouth. This Centre serves as a mark of a non-inclusive society,” said Ms Vincent.
“I hope my protest shows the Government that ignoring accessibility is not an option and it considers it a high priority in future.”
