DOCUMENT 1 FOI 24/25-1215
Research – Modified Vehicle Purchases
There has been a theme developing in requests before the AAT for the Agency to purchase a vehicle and then to also fund modifications to the vehicle. In an effort to assist participants/applicants in identifying appropriate pathways to purchase their own vehicle, we would like to compile a list of resources including the following: • Low Income Loan resources Brief • Pre-owned modified vehicles for sale (is there a database/website etc. where these are listed? What are the safety requirements when selling/purchasing a pre-owned modified vehicle?) • Community Organisations who assist in fundraising What wheelchair accessible ride share services are available and where? (e.g. Uber WAV was being trialled in Australia in 2018, GoGet was a service available at Royal North Shore Hospital)
Date 14/05/2021 Naomi s47F- personal pri - Senior Technical Advisor (TAB/AAT) s47F- personal p Requester(s) Shannon – Assistant Director (TAB/AAT) Researcher Jane s47F- personal priva - Research Team Leader (TAB)
Cleared N/A
Please note:
The research and literature reviews collated by our TAB Research Team are not to be shared external to the Branch. These are for internal TAB use only and are intended to assist our advisors with their reasonable and necessary decision-making.
Delegates have access to a wide variety of comprehensive guidance material. If Delegates require further information on access or planning matters they are to call the TAPS line for advice.
The Research Team are unable to ensure that the information listed below provides an accurate & up-to-date snapshot of these matters.
2 Low Income Loan Resources …………………………………………………………………………………………….. 2 2.1 MoneySmart …………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 2 2.2 Good Shepherd ……………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 3 3 Locating Pre-Owned Modified Vehicles ……………………………………………………………………………… 4 3.1 Car Sales …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 4 3.2 E-Bility ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 4
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3.3 Fabcar …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 4 3.4 Freedom Motors Australia ………………………………………………………………………………………… 4 3.5 Wheelchair Vehicle Sales ………………………………………………………………………………………….. 5 3.6 Integrity Care Sales and Rentals ………………………………………………………………………………… 5 3.7 Auto Mobility ………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 5 3.8 Mobility Vehicle Sales ………………………………………………………………………………………………. 5 3.9 Import Revolution ……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 5 3.10 Nation Wide Mobility Vehicles ………………………………………………………………………………….. 6 3.11 MotorMan Imports ………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 6 3.12 East Coast Commercials ……………………………………………………………………………………………. 6 3.13 Insurance ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 6 4 Community Fundraising Organisations ………………………………………………………………………………. 6 4.1 Variety Vehicle Modification Grant ……………………………………………………………………………. 6 4.2 Sunshine Butterflies …………………………………………………………………………………………………. 6 4.3 Vehicle Modification Subsidy Scheme ………………………………………………………………………… 7 4.4 Australian Lions Foundation ……………………………………………………………………………………… 7 4.5 Rotary Australia ……………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 8 5 Wheelchair Accessible Ride Share Services ………………………………………………………………………… 8 5.1 Uber ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 8 5.2 GoGet …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 9 6 References …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 9
2 Low Income Loan Resources
There are various websites that compare fixed and variable interest rates for personal loans as well as payday loan lenders. However, it isn’t appropriate to provide links as these companies are often paid advertising fees by lenders and payday lenders can often end up being more expensive due to excessive administrative and establishment fees. Only government approved and not-for-profit organisations are presented below.
2.1 MoneySmart
Moneysmart is run by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), the corporate, markets, financial services and consumer credit regulator in Australia.
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Its aim is to help Australians of all ages, backgrounds and incomes to increase their financial wellbeing and build a better life. Through the Moneysmart website they:
• encourage saving • provide simple steps for the 1 in 3 people who feel stressed and overwhelmed by money • encourage informed use of financial products and services • increase retirement preparedness • provide specialist support for priority audiences
They provide assistance with the below area:
• Managing your money o Financial counselling o Urgent help with money o Save for an emergency fund o Managing on a low income o Problems paying your bills • Reduce you debt o Get debt under control o Pay off your mortgage faster o Debt consolidation o Switching home loans • Plan for your future o Saving o Grow your super o Develop an investing plan o Financial advice o Life insurance • Grow your wealth o Buying a house o Investor toolkit o Choose your investments o Shares o Managed funds and EFTs • Tools and resources o Budget planner o Choosing a financial advisor o MySuper funds list o Superannuation calculator o Unclaimed money
2.2 Good Shepherd
Good Shepherd are a charitable organisation that support women, girls and families experiencing hardship. They provide various financial services including:
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• No Interest Loans (NIL) – up to $3,000 • Insurance – affordable and simple insurance policies • Good Money Stores – financial services for people on low incomes
3 Locating Pre-Owned Modified Vehicles
Many of the suppliers of new modified wheelchair accessible vehicles sell used or demonstrator vehicles. These listed on each individual website and are often in high demand (some note they sell out before being listed on their website).
The E-Bility and Car Sales website appear to have the most used vehicles listed. They are the easiest to navigate and show vehicles from across the country.
Unable to find any safety requirements for sellers or purchases of pre-owned modified vehicles. It is generally the purchasers’ responsibility to research a particular vehicle and have it inspected by a qualified mechanic before purchasing.
3.1 Car Sales The Car Sales website doesn’t have a feature which allows for the identification of wheelchair modified vehicles. However, you can keyword search ‘disability’ or ‘wheelchair’ and cars which match this description will be shown.
3.2 E-Bility E-Bility is an accessible marketplace for all disability equipment and products. E-Bility is owned by the not-for-profit organisation IDEAS. The website advertises private, commercial ex fleet or refurbished disability access vehicles. Cars are listed by individuals sellers with descriptions provided. 3.3 Fabcar Fabcar stock a wide range of new and used wheelchair accessible vehicles for sale in Perth, Western Australia.
3.4 Freedom Motors Australia Prices not listed but can be requested. List the vehicle details (year, model, fuel type, petrol, colour, and odometer), modification details, inclusions, condition.
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3.5 Wheelchair Vehicle Sales Queensland business Wheelchair Vehicle Sales supply quality used vehicles from Japan that are factory modified. They currently have government approval to import 52 different vehicles models (see compliance page for list). A Description and vehicle details are provided for each vehicle.
3.6 Integrity Care Sales and Rentals
Integrity Car Sales and Rentals have a diverse range of wheelchair accessible cars and vehicles for sale. The modified vehicles advertised for sale are converted or manufactured specifically for disability access in mind. All cars have Engineers Certificate and comply with the Australian Design Rules.
- All disability vehicles are checked, tested, serviced and come with log books and warranties
- All Wheelchair Car Conversions are done by the vehicle manufacturer to the highest standards
Various wheelchair access vans and van customisations include: • Private and commercial use • New and used existing vehicles for wheelchair car access • Sloping mechanism • Swivel chair • Front seat or back seat passenger options available • Multiple disabled access options available, i.e. two wheelchair positions available
3.7 Auto Mobility Supplier of Wheelchair Access Vehicles (new and demonstrator models). They offer nation-wide service and repair, quality assurance and after sales support. They can provide multiple options including driver’s seat, front passenger, and second or third row conversions.
3.8 Mobility Vehicle Sales
Company based in Adelaide, South Australia. For interstate buyers, vehicles can be transported all over Australia to your door. They advise to contact them with requirements as vehicles often sell before being listed on their website.
Imported vehicles are handpicked from Japan. The company “have nearly 25 years vehicle importing experience”.
3.9 Import Revolution Service the Melbourne, Geelong, Bendigo, Ballarat, and Gippsland areas regions. Provide imported cars which adhere to the Australian Design Rules through a registered automotive workshop. Sell new and used wheelchair accessible vehicles.
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3.10 Nation Wide Mobility Vehicles Located on the Sunshine Coast. List a range of vehicles such as Toyota Noah, Nissan Cube, Toyota Hiace, Toyota Porte, Toyota Tarago and Kia Carnival.
3.11 MotorMan Imports Registered motor vehicle dealer at sells second hand wheelchair vehicles.
3.12 East Coast Commercials Sell wheelchair buses and vans. No information provided on types or safety requirements.
3.13 Insurance
Blue badge insurance offers insurance for cars that have been converted for drivers or passengers with a disability. Other insurance companies can often see disability modifications as risks which leads to higher premiums. Some of the benefits include:
• Discounted premiums, by up to 25%^, for Disability Parking Permit users. • New for old replacement option for disability conversions. • Cover your family, friends, carers or support workers who drive your car. • Monthly repayment options available. • Up to $5,000 cover for assistive technology (wheelchair, walkers, mobility scooter etc.) while in your car.
4 Community Fundraising Organisations
4.1 Variety Vehicle Modification Grant
Variety provides up to $10,000 towards the modification of a vehicle to make it possible for a child to access and travel in the family vehicle, something they are currently unable to do due to their disability.
Vehicle modifications include changes to a vehicle or the installation of equipment in a vehicle that will enable a child to gain access to the vehicle. This can include enabling the child to:
• Get in and out of the vehicle with or without a wheelchair. • Carry their wheelchair in or on the vehicle without lifting. • Be transported safely whilst seated in their wheelchair.
4.2 Sunshine Butterflies
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Sunshine Butterflies offers a ‘Personal Fundraising Initiative’ to assist families, individuals, and disability groups or clubs to raise funds for various supports. Through Sunshine Butterflies:
• Members are able to raise the funds needed to achieve their goals by using the security of a registered charity with deductible gift endorsement. • Sunshine Butterflies will help members create their own personal fundraising page online. • Members are able to send their page link to friends, family and colleagues who can read their story, make a donation and leave a personalised message. • Personal Fundraising allows prospective donors to give directly to an appeal of their choice. • Creating a personal fundraising page is quick, easy and most importantly secure. Donations are collected online and automatically transferred to Sunshine Butterflies who will then allocate the amount to the individual, family or group once the desired goal is reached.
4.3 Vehicle Modification Subsidy Scheme
Administered by the State Wide Equipment Scheme. Maximum subsidy of $10,000, per person, over a seven year period.
A VMSS subsidy is not available as a contribution towards the cost of: • the vehicle • modifying multiple vehicles • non-disability-specific items such as rear-vision cameras, rear-parking sensors, global positioning system devices, mirrors and cruise control • vehicle transmission conversion • vehicle running costs, statutory charges or insurance premiums • modifications to vehicles owned by organisations • items of second hand vehicle related modifications
Refer to the Vehicle Modification Subsidy Scheme guidelines for further information on eligibility and inclusions.
4.4 Australian Lions Foundation
The Australian Lions Foundation provides various grants that may possibly cover vehicle purchases or modifications.
General grants: must be for specific items and not for general or central funds. Projects for which support is sought must be community based welfare projects
Special Purpose Grants: To provide help and assistance in all forms for community welfare on a National, State or District basis. Such Grants may have conditions imposed, as regards use of the funds and ultimate accountability, as are deemed necessary. No matching funding shall be required for a Special Purpose Grant.
Compassionate Grants: Grant of funds to a person or families that are suffering financial hardship through illness or other necessitous circumstances judged worthy by the Trustees. In the first instance the applicant should contact the “Chairman of the Australian Lions Foundation” explaining details of the circumstances.
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4.5 Rotary Australia
In January 2017, Rotary Australia announced its Compassionate Grants program to help Australians in need. Grants are assessed by the Rotary Australia Benevolent Society (RABS) and funds distributed to disadvantaged Australians identified by local Rotary Clubs or Rotary Districts as being in need within their local or wider community. Projects granted funding must meet RABS criteria for registration. They must provide direct relief to people in need. If the intended recipients are disadvantaged, the relief should target that disadvantage.
The concept of disadvantage is unlimited and could have arisen from sickness, suffering, distress, misfortune, disability, destitution, helplessness or poverty, any aspect of the negative side of the human condition. The criteria are not prescriptive but are to be used as a guide to determine the disadvantage.
Example of projects funded where person or group was potentially disadvantaged under the above criteria:
Provision of a modified family motor vehicle for a 6 year old with cerebral palsy Modifications to a home to assist access and functionality for a quadriplegic Financial assistance for a seriously injured sportsman’s family Ongoing support for non PBS medicines for a sufferer of Lymes disease Provision of a specialised bed for a person with Parkinson’s Disease Supply insulin pumps to three children with juvenile diabetes Provision of improved prosthetics for an amputee Assistance to a family who lost everything in a fire Provision of financial assistance to a young family whose mother drowned
5 Wheelchair Accessible Ride Share Services
5.1 Uber
No evidence that Uber Wheelchair Accessible (WAV) is available in Australia. There are various reports of trials in Brisbane and Newcastle approximately 5 years ago. A submission to the Inquiry into the operation of the Point to Point Transport (Taxis and Hire Vehicles) Act 2016 [1] found that:
- The trial supported only a limited number of riders.
- Success of the trial was limited due to eligible Taxi Transport Subsidy Scheme (TTSS) members not being able to use subsidies on Ube, and therefore are unable to compete on price.
In March 2020, Commercial Passenger Vehicles Victoria (CPVV) announced a pilot with Uber, inviting existing scheme members in the Greater Geelong area to use their subsidies through Uber [1].
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Subsidies can be applied to a range of products including Uber X, Uber Assist and Uber XL, providing people with a permanent disability a greater choice in their transportation options.
Uber Assist uses certified drivers who can give special assistance to riders who may need extra help. Drivers can help load and unload assistive devices that can fit in the trunk of a standard sedan once folded or disassembled. The ‘transport for all’ report conducted by the Disability Resources Centre found that no participants in their survey used Uber assist as vehicles were never available when they needed them [2]. Others reported not wanting to use the service as they “…did not feel that the drivers were adequately trained or regulated.”
5.2 GoGet
Car share company GoGet has a Kia Carnival that is wheelchair accessible.
The car is available at a site located at the Royal North Shore Community Health Centre. 2 Herbert Street, St Leonards, NSW, 2065.
6 References
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Uber. Submission to Inquiry into the operation of the Point to Point Transport (Taxis and
Hire Vehicles) Act 2016. 2020. Available from: https://www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/lcdocs/submissions/68063/0083%20Uber.pdf.
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Disability Resources Centre. Transport for all. 2019. Available from: https://drc.org.au/wp-
content/uploads/2018/11/drc0001-transport-report-online.pdf.
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