Melbourne's tram network is once again failing to meet national accessibility standards, with a recent report revealing little improvement in the past five years. The Victorian Auditor-General's Office (VAGO) found that only 18% of Melbourne's tram services were accessible in 2023-24, where low-floor trams met level-access platforms. This is a 3% increase since the previous assessment, but the number of stops with level platforms only rose from 27% to 29%. The report highlights a concerning trend: the Department of Transport and Planning's efforts to deliver level-access stops have slowed since the 2020 audit. With the world's largest tram network, over 480 trams, and 1,628 stops, Melbourne's public transport system is crucial for commuters with mobility restrictions. However, the report reveals a stark disparity, as people with mobility issues often face longer wait times for low-floor trams compared to other commuters. This issue has been exacerbated by the department's failure to meet accessibility targets, as outlined in the Howard Government's 2002 laws for accessible public transport. Disability advocates, like Terry Wesselink, a 60-year-old with a connective tissue disorder, are speaking out against what they perceive as neglect. Wesselink, who uses a mobility walker, struggles with steep steps on the Route 19 tram, which lacks level platforms. As a result, she often drives to the next accessible stop, a four-kilometer journey, rather than using her closest tram line. The Auditor-General's report confirms the department's legal advice on its failure to meet accessibility targets and the absence of specific targets, time frames, or funding allocations in their plans and strategies. The Victorian Greens MP, Katherine Copsey, describes the lack of progress as 'shameful', emphasizing the need for increased funding to prioritize accessibility. Premier Jacinta Allan acknowledges the government's investments in making public transport more accessible, including the new Metro Tunnel. However, disability advocates argue that more support is required to bridge the gap between modern and legacy infrastructure, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their abilities, can access Melbourne's tram network.
