Accessible Tourism

Tourism Victoria

In 2009 Tourism Victoria released the Accessible Tourism Plan 2010-2013. This plan focuses on the importance of accessible tourism and the strategies that will be adopted to address accessible tourism issues.

Please see a synopsis from the report below:

Accessible tourism enables people with access requirements to function independently and with equity and dignity through the delivery of universally designed tourism products, services and environments.

Tourism Victoria’s Accessible Tourism Plan 2010-2013 is needed to provide a consistent approach to accessible tourism issues.  It recognises the social responsibility of providing accessible tourism and aims to encourage businesses to see the economic and social benefits of offering accessible product.

The Plan builds on the Victorian State Disability Plan 2002-2012 and recognises the legal obligations of new developments to provide more accessible facilities. It is also in line with the Tourism Victoria Business Plan 2008-2011 and the Victorian Government’s 10 Year Tourism and Events Industry Strategy.

Why do we need an accessible tourism plan?

Tourism Victoria’s Accessible Tourism Plan 2010-2013 is needed to provide a cohesive approach to accessible tourism issues.  It recognises the corporate social responsibility of accessible tourism and aims to encourage businesses to see the economic and social benefits of offering accessible product.

Although not easily measured, it is clear that this is a growing tourism market and as such, the tourism industry will benefit from a greater focus on this issue.

To download the complete Accessible Tourism Plan 2010-2013 please click here.

Travellers Aid

Over the years, Destination Melbourne and Travellers Aid Australia have had an extremely supportive relationship, born out of the recognition of the benefits we bring to each other.

After all, Destination Melbourne’s objective of providing visitors with the best experience possible matches up with our goal of providing equitable and inclusive travel-related support, including to Melbourne’s tourists and public transport users!

Recently, our cooperative work together has included fundraising activities, education and accessible awareness activities, information about services that support visitors, and promotion of key initiatives.

Renee Street from Destination Melbourne notes: “Destination Melbourne is delighted to be working in partnership with Travellers Aid Australia. We enjoy a natural synergy. We are passionate about Melbourne and supporting the visitor experience. At Destination Melbourne we feel privileged to be working with a great organisation that makes a positive difference to the lives of hundreds of travellers every day.”

At Travellers Aid Australia – we feel the same. We are grateful for, and celebrate, Destination Melbourne’s support! Thank you!

There are many ways your organisation can partner with Travellers Aid Australia, including through payroll giving, fundraisers, or in-kind support.

If you would like to investigate a Business Partnership with Travellers Aid Australia, visit www.travellersaid.org.au/donate or contact Tammy Schlitz, Fundraising Manager, fundraising@travellersaid.org.au to discuss.

If you would like to read more about helpful hints in assisting people with a disability please click here.