Tram injuries crisis shows need for better accessibility
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The Victorian Government needs to invest in tram accessibility to resolve the current tram safety crisis, says the Victorian Council of Social Service (VCOSS).
‘The significant rise in injuries on and around trams revealed today could be addressed by the government meeting its legal obligations on safety and accessibility,’ said Kate Colvin, VCOSS Policy Manager.
‘The Government spending on tram accessibility has been so low it hasn’t met its legal requirement to deliver 25 per cent accessible services by 2007 – and isn’t on track to achieve the required 55 per cent accessibility by 2012.’
‘Low floor trams and super stops make tram use safer because people board more quickly and sit down before the tram takes off and there are no steep tram steps to fall up or down.’
‘Super stops create a safer space for tram users to avoid traffic when boarding or leaving trams.’
‘More handholds and seating on trams would also help people avoid falling while onboard.’
‘This crisis of tram safety demonstrates the importance of a major new commitment to low floor trams and super stops and for the State Government to meet its legal obligation to deliver accessible services.’
For more information, or to arrange an interview
contact John Kelly – M: 0425 701 080Follow the conversation at www.twitter.com/vcoss
VCOSS
Level 8, 128 Exhibition Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
T: 03 9654 5050 F: 03 9654 5749 W: vcoss@vcoss.org.au E: vcoss@vcoss.org.au