Taxi transport subsidy schemes and vision loss

State by state subsidy schemes:

• New South Wales Taxi Transport Subsidy Scheme.
  Phone: 131 500
• Australian Capital Territory Taxi Subsidy Scheme.
  Phone: (02) 6207 0028
• Western Australia Passenger Transport Subsidy Scheme.
  Phone: 1300 660 147
• Northern Territory Transport Subsidy and Incentive Schemes.
  Phone: (08) 8924 7229
• Queensland Taxi Subsidy Scheme.
  Phone: 1300 134 755
• South Australia Taxi Fare Subsidy Scheme.
  Phone: 1300 360 840
• Tasmania Taxi Subsidy Program.
  Phone: 1300 135 513
• Victorian Multi-Purpose Taxi Program.
  Phone: 1800 638 802

General information

General eligibility

Generally, to be eligible for a scheme in your local area you must:

• Be a permanent resident of Australia.
• Apply in the state you normally reside.
• Not be a member of a similar scheme in another Australian state or territory.
• Be over school age (preschool aged children, regardless of disability, are ineligible for inclusion in the scheme).
• Have a severe and permanent disability in one of the specified categories.

Vision eligibility

Each state may apply various vision eligibility, but here are some general guidelines:

• Total loss of vision in both eyes or severe permanent impairment of 6/60 or less in each eye or,
• Field of vision reduced to 10 degrees or less all round or,
• Total loss of lower half field of vision.
• Homonymous hemianopia (field loss, usually due to stroke) with significant mobility limitations.

How to apply

Usually, participation is not means tested.

To apply, you need go to your local state or territory resource and fill out the application form provided. You may also have to provide supporting documents from your medical practitioner which show you meet the criteria.

How it works

Every State or Territory functions a little different and great information that is specifically relevant to your location can be found using the links provided.

Can subsidy schemes from each location be used in other states?

Generally, each State or Territory will offer a reciprocal arrangement. It is best to contact your provider when travelling interstate to find out the best course of action. Remember to give yourself two to three weeks to process any reciprocal vouchers and complete paperwork.