Getting around Ballarat: Accessible services and support
You can search for accessible programs and services are available in the City of Ballarat, via the Ballarat Community Directory
Accessible parking
Permits give parking concessions to those with impaired mobility.
There are three types of Accessible Parking Permits available to Victorian residents:
- An Australian Disability Parking (ADP) Permit (for individuals)
- A Victorian Double Time Permit (for individuals)
- An Australian Disability Parking (ADP) Permit (for organisations)
Accessible Parking Permit applications are managed by Vic Roads who will help to work out which permit you are eligible for during the application process.
Assistance Dog Relief Area
City of Ballarat residents with assistance dogs will now have access to a dedicated relief area in Ballarat’s CBD.
Located on Doveton Street South, next to Target and the multi-story carpark.
The relief area provides a safe space for guide and assistance dogs to relieve themselves, it is also designed to raise awareness of the unique needs of people with guide and assistance dogs.
The relief area includes:
- A shelter with seating
- Some fencing (though not fully enclosed)
- A path
- A drinking fountain (donated by Central Highlands Water)
- A rubbish bin
Apply for an Assistance Dog registration fee exemption
Assistance or guide dogs (and seeing eye dogs) have the right to accompany their owners almost anywhere including planes, public transport, theatres, shops, hotels and more. These access rights aren't just for fully trained guide dogs but also for guide dogs in training and even guide dog puppies older than 7 weeks.
Owners of assistance dogs may be eligible for a registration fee exemption.
To be eligible for free registration you must provide reasonable evidence that:
- You have a disability that necessitates an assistance dog
- The assistance dog has been trained to alleviate the effects of the disability, as defined under the Equal Opportunity Act 2010 (EO Act)
- The assistance dog has completed obedience training, as outlined in the relevant Order
- The assistance dog is at least 12 months old
- The assistance dog is microchipped
- The assistance dog is desexed
You will not be eligible for free registration if:
- Any of the above criteria are not met
- You have been found guilty of two or more offences under the Domestic Animals Act (DA Act) in relation to the same assistance dog
- The assistance dog has been declared menacing or dangerous
- The assistance dog is a restricted breed
Public Transport
Free travel passes are available to eligible customers to travel free on the public transport network, some conditions may apply. The types of passes include:
- Access Travel Pass
- Assistance Animal Pass
- Companion Card Holders
- Scooter and Wheel Chair Travel Pass
Public Bus Service
CDC Victoria provides fully accessible, air-conditioned, low-floor buses. Buses can lower to the curb, with ramps for wheelchairs, strollers, walking frames, and small scooters
Learn more about CDC Victoria Accessibility and the BusAble Program.
Multi Purpose Taxi Program
The Multi Purpose Taxi Program (MPTP) assists with accessibility and mobility needs by offering subsidised commercial passenger vehicle (CPV) fares to eligible members. Members receive a 50% discount on the total fare, up to $60 per trip. Some restrictions may apply. The program does not cover the full cost of a taxi fare.
Go to Safe Transport Victoria to learn more.
Accessible Walks
Discover walking maps in the Ballarat area
Accessible walking maps have been audited to provide mobility disability information, some local walks include:
Discover accessible travel options with Visit Ballarat
Report an accessibility issue
City of Ballarat e-services - this includes:
- Request Service
- Payments
- Registrations
- Permits
Submit a issue/report using the Snap Send Solve app.