In a recently published Yahoo! News article, concerns about the accessibility of disability parking were highlighted at a Victorian Bunnings store.
The issue was raised by a frustrated Bunnings customer, who drew attention to the lack of consideration given to the placement and suitability of designated disability parking spaces. The accessible parking bays were located more than 75 metres from the store entrance and required customers to navigate a steep ramp to access the store, creating additional barriers for people with disability and those with mobility impairments.
PDA CEO Suzanne Gearing said she was not surprised by the concerns raised in the article, noting that she frequently encounters poor accessible parking layouts whilst out driving.
While she acknowledges that Bunnings is not alone in facing these issues, Suzanne said the example highlights how the needs of people with disability are too often treated as “an afterthought or a box-ticking exercise” rather than being considered from the outset.
You can read the full article:
Bunnings car park highlights problematic issue for millions – Yahoo News Australia
If you have a personal experience relating to disability parking or accessibility that you would like to share, we would love to hear from you. Please email us at team@pda.org.au.
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Today PDA’s star Policy/Project Officer, Sarah McInnes, was part of the NDRP’s “Evidence to Action: Accessible and Inclusive Communities” which explored the importance of changing community attitudes to improve genuine inclusion and accessibility within our communities.
As always, Sarah spoke eloquently, with conviction and with understanding around what is needed to achieve a society that is truly inclusive and respectful and which sees and utilises the value of everyone.
To watch her talk, go to:
She comes in at 18:16.
Prior to his resignation as PDA CEO taking effect, Jeremy Muir was interviewed by the “Saturday Paper” in regards to increased technology and surveillance by major retailers to reduce shoplifting.
This story went to print on Saturday.
With proposed “upgrades” bringing added inconvenience and potential safety issues to people living with disability or mobility issues, should these decisions be better considered?
Do you think that retail management needs to look at better options?
On Wednesday 10th December 2025, PDA’s accomplished Policy and Project Officer, Sarah McInnes, was a guest panelist at the Human Rights Day Symposium hosted by B-Hart.
Leading voices from government, academia and lived-experience perspectives addressed human rights in shaping disability service provision.
Big ideas, bold conversations, and plans for real action were shared by an incredible lineup of speakers including the Hon Nat Cook (SA Minister for Human Services), Pouya Farbod (Founder and CEO, B-HART), Skye Kakoschke-Moore (CEO – Children and Young People with Disability Australia), Natalie Wade (Associate Commissioner, NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission), Katrina Webb-Denis PLY OAM (Paralympian and Founder, Newday Leadership) and Michelle Ryan (Artistic Director, Restless Dance Theatre).
Congratulations to everyone involved in this incredible event. Should a recording become available, we will let you know.
PDA’s CEO, Jeremy Muir, and Project/Policy Offer, Sarah McInnes were recently guest speakers at the National Disability Research Partnership (NDRP) Evidence to Action event “Building Respectful Partnerships”.
This session brought together advocacy leaders and researchers who challenged common myths about working together in disability research.
To watch this very interesting discussion, go to:
https://youtu.be/QPRhsVz3pp4?si=7_2dmqfq1OIWO7u-&t=886
Melanie Hawkes (PDA’s WA Director) was recently interviewed by “In Plain Sight” podcast team of Simon and Abby.
It’s just gone up on their website and is a really great listen.
Covering the many experiences, opportunities and achievements of Melanie’s very full and very exciting life, this conversation celebrates her passion for self-exploration, creativity and embracing life.
Check it out at:
Check out Nas Campanella’s and Evan Young’s video story featuring PDA’s CEO, Jeremy Muir.
“Forget what you think you know about disability.
Many people view disability as something that needs a medical fix, not a societal one. That forces people with disability to work within the limitations of a world not designed for them. Could a shift in mindset help move the dial on accessibility and inclusion?“
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GiqCxQB-FOc
The ABC’s Nas Campanella and Evan Young have written a wonderful article featuring PDA’s CEO, Jeremy Muir, who talks about his independence being impacted by his surroundings and the built environment.
It is a really great read.
On Wednesday 30th April 2025, PDA’s CEO Jeremy Muir was interviewed by Vision Australia Radio’s Peter Greco in regards to PDA’s recent media release on airline accessibility following announcement of the Virgin Australia and Qatar Airlines partnership (https://newshub.medianet.com.au/2025/04/physical-disability-australias-response-to-airline-accessibility-following-virgin-qatar-airlines-partnership/96690/).
You can listen to his interview in full by clicking below and visiting PDA’s YouTube channel.
Whilst you’re there, don’t forget to subscribe to our channel.
Physical Disability Australia (PDA) expressed wary optimism of the newly approved partnership, in the hope that many more passengers will feel accommodated and respected in the skies.
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