Victorians, such as those in Hume and Whittlesea, are being encouraged back onto public transport with the opportunity to test out all modes of accessible public transport for themselves at a Try Before You Ride event.
The state government has announced it is committed to delivering a more inclusive and accessible network with upgrades to public transport that make a difference by investing $157.8 million in the 2022/23 State Budget to upgrade train, bus and tram stops across Victoria to improve accessibility, safety and comfort.
“No matter who you are, everyone should feel confident when travelling on our public transport network,” public transport minister Ben Carroll said.
“Whether you’re someone with accessibility needs, a senior, a parent, carer, or someone with little experience travelling on public transport, the aim is for people to feel more confident and comfortable when using the network.”
“We’re committed to ensuring our public transport network is accessible to all Victorians. We’ve delivered significant accessibility improvements by building hundreds of new and accessible trains, trams and buses, constructing 44 new or upgraded train stations, 81 level access tram stops and we’ve upgraded over 2,800 bus stops.”
For the first time in central Melbourne attendees will be able to use a low-floor bus, a low-floor tram, metropolitan and regional trains, regional coaches and accessible taxis.
They will also have the opportunity to practice boarding and disembarking stationary vehicles, learning about accessibility features, and asking questions about the network.
They can also access the Travellers Aid lounge located at Southern Cross Station, which offers a range of services to assist passengers with accessibility needs.
Try Before You Ride will be held across two locations – Southern Cross Station and tram stop 125 near the intersection of Clarendon Street and Whiteman Street in Southbank.
Attendees are required to register for the event and choose attendance times.
Details: www.ptv.vic.gov.au/more/travelling-on-the-network/accessibility/try-before-you-ride/
