Travelling with a Wheelchair in Australia: Car, Plane and Public Transport

Getting Out and About With a Wheelchair

Having a wheelchair should mean more freedom, not less. But the practicalities of getting a wheelchair into a car, onto a plane, or through a train station can feel overwhelming at first. This guide covers the practical tips that make wheelchair travel in Australia straightforward.

Car Travel

Fitting a Wheelchair in Your Car Boot

A folding wheelchair is essential for car travel. Here is what to check:

  • Folded dimensions: Measure your boot opening and depth. Most folding manual wheelchairs collapse to roughly 30cm wide x 75cm tall x 35cm deep.
  • Weight: If you or a carer will be lifting the chair in and out, weight matters.
  • Quick-release wheels: Chairs with quick-release rear wheels pop apart for even more compact storage.

Loading Tips

  1. Fold the chair. Remove cushions and loose items first.
  2. If it has quick-release wheels, pop them off.
  3. Angle the chair into the boot frame-first.
  4. Use a boot liner to protect your car from scratches.
  5. Secure the chair so it does not slide around while driving.

Vehicle Modifications

If the user transfers from wheelchair to car seat, vehicle modifications may be needed. These can include wheelchair hoists, ramp access, or hand controls. NDIS can fund vehicle modifications under specific circumstances, so discuss it with your OT and support coordinator.

Flying with a Wheelchair

Australian Airline Policies

All major Australian airlines (Qantas, Virgin Australia, Jetstar, Rex) are required to accommodate wheelchair users under the Disability Discrimination Act. Key points:

  • Your wheelchair flies free. Airlines cannot charge for transporting a wheelchair as checked luggage. This is in addition to your normal baggage allowance.
  • Ask for gate check. Request gate check so your wheelchair comes to the aircraft door. You use it through the terminal and get it back at the aircraft door on arrival.
  • Manual folding chairs can sometimes be stored in the cabin if space permits; check with your airline.

Pre-Flight Checklist

  1. Call the airline at least 48 hours before departure to arrange assistance
  2. Arrive early (at least 2 hours domestic, 3 hours international)
  3. Bring any tools needed to disconnect batteries or fold the chair
  4. Label your wheelchair clearly with your name and flight number
  5. Photograph your wheelchair before check-in (in case of damage)
  6. Remove any loose accessories, cushions, and bags

Public Transport

Trains

Most Australian metro train stations built or renovated after 2000 are wheelchair accessible. Look for the wheelchair symbol at station entrances. Key tips:

  • Travel outside peak hours when possible for more space
  • Board from designated accessible doors (usually marked)
  • Station staff can deploy boarding ramps - press the assistance button on the platform

Buses

All major city buses in Australia are low-floor and wheelchair accessible. The driver deploys a ramp. Maximum one wheelchair space per bus (two on some newer models). Tip: avoid peak hour when the wheelchair space may be occupied by prams.

Taxis and Rideshare

Wheelchair Accessible Taxis (WATs) have ramps for non-folding wheelchairs. Book through your state taxi service. Wait times can be longer than standard taxis. For folding manual chairs, standard taxis and rideshare (Uber, DiDi) work fine - fold the chair and put it in the boot.

NDIS Transport Funding

NDIS can fund transport costs under Core Supports - Transport. This can include taxi fares, rideshare, or vehicle modifications. The amount depends on your plan. Talk to your support coordinator about what transport funding is available in your plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take my wheelchair on a cruise ship?

Yes. Most modern cruise ships have accessible cabins and can accommodate wheelchairs. Book an accessible cabin in advance. Manual folding wheelchairs are easy to manage on board.

Will my wheelchair get damaged during air travel?

It can happen. Airlines handle wheelchairs as fragile items, but damage does occur. Photograph your chair before check-in, keep any removable parts with you, and report damage immediately on arrival. Airlines are liable for repair or replacement costs.

Can I use my NDIS funding for transport costs?

Yes, if transport funding is included in your plan under Core Supports. This covers taxis, rideshare, and other transport costs related to your disability.

Which wheelchair suits travel?

A lightweight folding manual wheelchair is the easiest to travel with. Look for: low weight, compact fold, quick-release wheels.

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