Page 36 - drive a2b dec 2019 web

TRANSPORT

&

MENTAL

WESTERN
AUSTRALIA HEALTH
NEWS

by Julie Murray

Access to good transport options has a
significant impact on the health and wellbeing of
people and allows them to participate in social,
cultural and recreational activities.

It is important that transport is easily accessible,
reliable and affordable and that people feel safe
and comfortable using it. Issues with transport
are often cited as a factor impacting on social
inclusion and subsequent medical and mental
health issues especially for older and disabled
adults. Access to transport is a basic human right
and should be available to everyone regardless of
age, disability or location.
Despite transport being included in many
Australian state's Disability Inclusion and Access
Plans, including in Western Australia, the reality is
that only taxis fill the void providing transport for
many, when public transport or other providers
are not able to offer service. This includes
evenings, weekends and special public holidays
such as Christmas Day.

In many regional cities and towns locally
operated taxis become the only option for
many. Unless you are disabled yourself, a family
member, carer or work in a health related industry
this is probably of no consequence for the
majority of the public until it directly affects them
or their loved ones.

36 DRIVE A2B magazine · December 2019 / January 2020