Transport apps to help disabled commuters

The NSW government is calling on developers to be part of an event designed to create apps that will help people with impairment or disability easily use the public transport system.

People with vision or hearing impairments or mobility, physical or cognitive disabilities have said tailored apps could make it easier for them to use public transport, said a Transport for NSW spokesperson.

Selected app proposals will receive seed funding, ongoing access to transport data, as well as a promotion of their product by Transport for NSW.

“Planning a journey, knowing that our stop is coming up next or even knowing which side of the train to alight from are tasks that most of us take for granted,” the spokesperson said.

“But for customers with disability or impairment, it can be a huge case of anxiety.

“Accessibility apps alongside way-finding and on-board and station announcements will also reduce safety risks for people with disability by providing improved navigational tools and reliable transport information.”

The project also contributes to the NSW government’s Disability Action Plan, which ensures compliance with the Disability Discrimination Act to provide better support and services for commuters with a disability.

Interested parties can apply online here. Applications close at 2pm on November 21.

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