Paving the Way to Employment for People with Disabilities

For many Australians living with physical disabilities, the journey to employment begins long before the job interview; it starts with being able to get there. In NSW, transport has long been a barrier to employment, but recent government initiatives are aiming to change that.

The NSW Government’s Safe Accessible Transport (SAT) program is being promoted as a major step toward removing transport barriers that have long hindered access to work, education, and community life.

Previously, in the NSW Government’s Disability Inclusion Action Plan of 2018–2022, it was recognised that accessible transport was a critical first step toward full participation in community life, including work. The plan outlined a vision for “barrier-free end-to-end journeys” that included upgrades to infrastructure such as train stations, ferry wharves, and interchanges. At the time, new transport modes such as the Sydney Metro and Light Rail were already being designed with accessibility in mind, featuring improved signage, ramps, lifts, and real-time information systems.

Despite these efforts, advocacy groups like People With Disability Australia (PWDA) pointed out that many transport systems still fall short; inaccessible buses, missing real-time updates, and a lack of enforcement of accessibility standards continue to hinder people’s ability to travel independently. This directly affects candidates ability to attend job interviews, maintain employment, and access essential services

Privatisation of transport services has also raised concerns. According to PWDA, changes such as route removals and service cancellations have disproportionately impacted people with disabilities, especially when replacement services aren’t wheelchair accessible. These disruptions have meant missed shifts, lost opportunities, and increased isolation

As Transport NSW continued to evolve its systems and employment strategies, they realised it’s essential that people with disabilities are not just considered but actively consulted. Because accessibility isn’t a bonus, it’s a right. This led to the SAT Program announced in September 2025.

What Is the SAT Program?

Launched as a combination of the Transport Access Program (TAP) and the Commuter Car Park Program (CCP), the SAT initiative is backed by over $800 million in funding through 2028–29. It aims to make public transport safer and more inclusive for people with disabilities, older adults, parents with prams, and anyone facing mobility challenges.

Recent budget allocations include an additional $40 million for upgrades to the Wentworth Park Light Rail stop, reinforcing the government’s commitment to accessibility. This is likely due to the soon to be opened new Sydney Fish Markets, which are located just under 100m from Wentworth Park light rail station.

Why It Matters for Employment

Accessible transport is a critical enabler of employment. Without reliable, inclusive transit options, people with physical disabilities face significant barriers to:

• Attending job interviews
• Commuting to work consistently
• Accessing training and education
• Participating in community and professional networks

By upgrading stations and wharves to meet the Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport (DSAPT), the SAT program directly supports job seekers and employees with disabilities in navigating their daily commute with dignity and independence.

Where Are the Upgrades Happening?

The program prioritises locations based on:

• Passenger demographics and needs
• Proximity to essential services like hospitals and schools
• Current and projected usage
• Accessibility of nearby transport hubs

Stations like Bardwell Park, Macquarie Fields, and Queanbeyan are currently in delivery, while others such as Griffith, Moss Vale, and Tuggerah have already completed upgrades. Many more including Canberra, Kotara, and Mount Victoria, are in the design and planning phase.

A Step Toward Inclusive Employment?

Does the SAT program do more than just improve infrastructure? Does it send a powerful message about inclusion?

What we do know for certain is that when transport systems are designed with accessibility in mind, they empower people with disabilities to pursue employment opportunities, contribute to the workforce, and live more independently.

For employers, this means a broader talent pool and a more diverse, resilient workforce.

For job candidates, it means fewer barriers and more possibilities.

And that, we very much support.

Where would you like to see more public transport improvements?

Ref:

1. https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/projects/current-projects/safe-accessible-transport-program?fbclid=IwY2xjawMrCEJleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHlOkX9pfu5BvDRBBBUtKgqo7Ex8dgPqp2ZqpOEF0Mmw18I5Bd1L5TYzhamlC_aem_lhg0KbVWWjr45JP0krZkPg
2. chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/system/files/media/documents/2018/tfnsw-disability-inclusion-action-plan-2018-2022.pdf
3. https://lsj.com.au/articles/ramping-up-public-transport-access-for-people-with-disability/
4. https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/about-us/careers/supporting-people-disability
5. https://www.pdcnsw.org.au/article/disability-standards-public-transport-review/
6. chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://dcj.nsw.gov.au/documents/community-inclusion/disability-inclusion/nsw-disability-inclusion-plan/nsw-disability-inclusion-plan.pdf
7. chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.infrastructure.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/dsapt–new-south-wales-government.PDF
8. chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.infrastructure.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/dsapt-physical-disability-council-of-nsw.pdf
9. https://www.nsw.gov.au/community-services/support-for-people-disability