From July 1, the Accessible Pathways Grants Scheme will no longer be available in its current form, in which annual applications are made for specific sites.
 
Instead, the PTA will use the annual funding allocation to resolve accessible pathway issues identified in its new Bus Stop Accessibility Works Program.  Under the program, the government initially has allocated more than $3 million per annum to the PTA to progressively upgrade its network of 13,000 bus stops to meet the requirements of the Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport (Disability Standards) and the Disability Discrimination Act.
 
It has been identified that new pathways or existing pathways links, may need to be constructed in order to meet disability standards.  In such circumstances, the owner (usually Local Government) will be offered funding of half the cost of constructing a fully-compliant pathway, subject to PTA conditions (Click Link) and funding availability.

If the need for a new accessible pathway to improve access to public transport is identified, PTA funding may be offered on the same basis – entities are encouraged to make direct contact with the PTA to discuss this requirement.  Assessments will be made on a case-by-case basis in the context of ensuring the proposed location has a genuine requirement, is physically suitable, and can be incorporated into the program.

Inquiries should be forwarded to Grainne.Quigley@pta.wa.gov.au, or 9326 2922.