Australia, often referred to as the “Land Down Under,” is a vast and diverse country that offers travelers a wealth of experiences, from its stunning natural landscapes to its vibrant cities and unique wildlife. With its rich Indigenous heritage, friendly locals, and a wide range of activities for every type of traveler, Australia is a destination that truly has something for everyone. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the beauty, culture, and accessibility of this remarkable country.

Getting around

You’ll find there are plenty of accessible transport options throughout Australia for people using mobility devices. Trains, buses and ferries across the country have features like wide aisles and ramps. Australian airports offer a range of accessible support options. 

Plan ahead with state-specific mobility information for travelling around the Northern Territory, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania and Victoria. There are also great accessible resources for getting around Sydney, Perth and Melbourne. 

Road trips around Australia are spectacular, and travelling with a disability won’t stop you from enjoying the open road. You can hire wheelchair-accessible vehicles from companies like Wheelaway, or enquire with most major car hire companies.

Where to Stay

Australia offers a wide range of accessible accommodation options, including hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals. Many hotels have accessible rooms equipped with features like roll-in showers, handrails, and wider doorways. It’s advisable to contact the accommodation provider in advance to ensure that your specific needs are met.

Most accommodation providers across Australia cater to guests with mobility needs. You can also search for accessible-friendly stays with the Accessible Accommodation tool.

Experiences

Australia offers incredible accessible experiences for travellers who are capable of assisted walking as well as independent wheelchair users and assisted wheelchair users.

There are countless beautiful wheelchair-accessible trails across Australia, and you can start exploring them using AllTrails’ wheelchair-friendly trail guide. You can get amongst the country’s laid-back beach culture by using the Accessible Beaches directory. There are also wide, level pathways and accessible facilities at many of Australia’s icons to ensure you can tick off the bucket list moments, and you’ll find that most museums, galleries, parks and gardens are accessible for those with limited mobility.

Make trip planning easier with holiday providers like Amplify Accessible Travel Specialists, Melbourne-based TravAbility and Canberra-based GetAboutAble. Australia in Style offers a range of wheelchair-accessible tours in Sydney and surrounds. Cairns-based Out There Travel Care can provide a qualified carer to accompany you as you explore the magical Great Barrier Reef.

Things to know

Most Australian capital cities provide a mobility map displaying useful information such as disabled parking zones and spaces with steep gradients – download a map from the official tourism website for each city. You can also use the National Public Toilet Map to find wheelchair-accessible toilets across Australia. Travellers with high support needs can also access Changing Places toilets in major cities around the country.

Accessible Beaches

Australia boasts some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, and efforts have been made to make them accessible to everyone. Beaches like Bondi Beach in Sydney and Surfers Paradise in Queensland have accessible pathways, beach wheelchairs, and accessible restroom facilities.

Embark on Your Australian Adventure

With its diverse tapestry of experiences, Australia beckons travelers globally. Whether you’re soaking in Sydney’s vibrance, diving deep into Indigenous culture, or embarking on a gastronomic journey, Australia promises every traveler an unforgettable experience. With its promise of inclusivity, accessibility, and timeless memories, the Land Down Under awaits your exploration. Your Australian adventure beckons.