The NSW Government today released the "Guide to Transport and Government Services for Pilgrims With A Disability" – detailed information on access routes and transport for people with disabilities who are coming to World Youth Day, including 817 visitors with disabilities and 236 carers who have so far registered.
NSW Minister for Disability Services and Government spokesperson for World Youth Day, Kristina Keneally, said the Iemma Government has well developed plans to assist people with disabilities who will be participating in World Youth Day or who live near WYD venues such as Randwick racecourse.
"The Guide includes information on accessible transport services and walking routes to key World Youth Day venues, relevant health and safety information and contact lists for disability services in Sydney," Ms Keneally said.
"Arrangements in place include two dedicated shuttle bus services on the weekend of 19 and 20 July for World Youth Day visitors with a disability who want to attend the Evening Vigil with the Pope, or the Pope’s Final Mass at Randwick Racecourse at Centennial Park.
"A shuttle service for registered visitors who have told us they have a disability will operate between Central Station and Randwick, supplemented by another shuttle from Bondi Junction to Centennial Park for members of the general public with a disability.
"World Youth Day events in the CBD, at sites such as Barangaroo, have been organised close to accessible train stations at Circular Quay and Wynyard, and there will be volunteers on hand to assist visitors to get to their destinations."
Ms Keneally said government services will also be provided to support Sydneysiders with a disability who live in areas which will be impacted by World Youth Day events.
"We have been doorknocking areas which will be particularly affected by road and transport changes so that we can identify and accommodate the needs of people who are frail, have a disability or an illness that requires home attendant care," Ms Keneally said.
"Services which will be available include event assistants for residents with special needs, temporary disability parking spaces, and the supply of footpath ramps.
"Hard copies of the guide will be made available to registered World Youth Day visitors with a disability and disability service providers, and the guide will also be available online at www.wydca.nsw.gov.au. The online version includes an audio reader feature to assist people who are blind or vision impaired."