The Victorian Government will support the roll-out of wheelchair restraints across a select number of metropolitan bus services, as part of an Australian first trial.
Research over the past two years, led by Federation University Australia, has looked into the most appropriate and effective ways to increase safety of wheelchairs on buses.
Using 3D modelling as well as real-world testing, investigations captured the experiences of mobility device users on buses across a range of routes.
Varying driving conditions were also tested to include all scenarios such as unexpected harsh braking and sharp corners. It was shown these systems reduce the risk of mobility devices sliding and tipping, improving safety and stability for passengers.
The wheelchair containment systems are part a $157.8 million package of accessibility and safety works included in the Victorian Budget 2022/23, giving Victorians better access to public transport.
The funding in the Budget will allow the research to progress into real-life scenarios, with the first phase seeing the wheelchair containment systems installed on up to 30 metropolitan, low-floor buses across different routes to assess their effectiveness over several months.
Minister for Public Transport Ben Carroll said the trial would help to create comfortable and safe travel for public transport commuters.
“This innovative research and roll-out is crucial in helping us understand the real-world experiences of people who use wheelchairs and mobility devices on our bus network and will help us improve safety,” he said.
This research and roll-out will help inform future use of wheelchair containment systems. The roll-out of the containment systems is expected to be delivered across 2022-23.
Related stories:
- Social infrastructure set to benefit from Victorian budget 2022-23
- Electric buses reach regional Victoria as part of three-year trial
- Victorian subsidy boosting electric vehicle uptake