FAQs

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How do I apply for a disability permit? 

You can apply for a parking permit online through the Accessible Parking website.  

There is a link on the council website under ‘disability parking’ or you can visit www.accessibleparking.vic.gov.au     

There are 3 steps to apply:  

  1. start your application online 

  1. give your reference number to your doctor or occupational therapist to complete a medical assessment and finish the form 

  1. If your application is approved, you’ll get your permit in the mail. If not, you’ll get a letter explaining why your application was declined.    The  permit types are: 
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What type of permits will be issued under the scheme?

The permit types are:

• An Australian Disability Parking (ADP Permit)
• A Victorian Double Time accessible parking permit (PX2)
• An ADP Permit (for organisations)

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How long will a permit be valid for? 

A permit issued to someone who has an impairment expected to last longer than 6 months, can be issued a permit for 6, 12, 24 months or 5 years.

Organisation permits will be valid for 12 months.

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What is a recognised mobility aid or device? 

A mobility aid has more than one point of contact with the ground, like crutches (used in both upper limbs), a walking frame, a walking stick with three or more feet, a motorised mobility scooter or wheelchair, or a manual wheelchair.
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What to do if I do not have a mobile phone?

A mobile number is required to complete the online application. You will also receive updates on your permit and your reference number for your General Practitioner (GP) or Occupational Therapist (OT) via your phone.

If you don’t have one or can’t use someone else’s, contact your local council for a paper form.   You can take this to your GP or OT to complete the functional assessment.  

Please note that paper applications take longer to process than online applications. 

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Can I pick up the permit from council offices?

Yes, you can choose to pick up your permit from the council office when completing your application.  

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How long does it take to get a permit? 

Once the council approves your application, it will take between 10 to 14 days to arrive in the mail.  

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What if I do not have internet access or physically cannot complete the online application? 

Your carer, family or friends, GP or council customer service staff can help you should you require assistance or have no internet access. 

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Can I use a paper form instead and what is the process?

Yes, a paper form is available for people with no access to a mobile phone or internet access, though the online process is quicker.  

You can get the paper form from your local council.  Fill in your personal details and take it to your GP or OT, who will complete the medical assessment.  Once complete, return the form to your local council. You’ll receive an update once your application has been processed. 

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Why is it too early to renew my permit? 

Permits can only be renewed in the six-week period prior to the permit expiry.  If you have special circumstances that require an early renewal, please contact your local council to discuss your options.   
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Can an applicant be issued with multiple permits? 

An applicant will only be entitled to one permit.

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What proof of identity will I need to provide in the Medical Practitioner appointment?

You will need to show photo identification, such as a Victorian driver licence, passport, or Proof of Age Card, to verify your identity.  

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Who can complete the medical assessment?

The medical assessment can be completed by an Occupational Therapist or a General Practitioner.

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What can an Occupational Therapist assess?

An Occupational Therapist can only assess the mobility of applicants. 

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Who can assess a person that is legally blind or a person with a neurological, cognitive or behavioural impairment?

Only a GP can assess a person that is legally blind or a person with a neurological, cognitive, or behavioural impairment.

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What should I do if I don't get a permit due to not meeting the eligibility criteria?

If you believe your GP or OT has incorrectly assessed your mobility issue or medical condition you may seek a second opinion. 

This is done by starting a new application with the functional assessment completed by a different medical professional.    

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Why did I receive a Victorian Double time permit instead of Australian Disability Parking Permit?

The type of permit you receive is based on an assessment of your mobility conditions and criteria. It is not by personal request. 

There is a hierarchy of needs within disability parking, prioritising those who need extra space to exit a vehicle or who have medical conditions that restrict walking to less than 100 metres. 

If you believe your GP or Occupational Therapist has incorrectly assessed your mobility issue or medical condition you may seek a second opinion from a different GP or Occupational Therapist.  

This is done by starting a new application with the functional assessment completed by a different medical professional.    

If you wish to dispute the eligibility criteria of the scheme or scheme operation you can request an explanation of the basis of the eligibility of the criteria and scheme operation from the Department of Transport and Planning. 

You can contact the Department of Transport and Planning at accessibleparking@transport.vic.gov.au 
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What should I do if my permit is declined due to duplicates, misuse, or conflicting functional assessments? 

You will need to contact your council for assistance regarding the decline of your permit. 

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Can I keep using my existing permit issued under the old Victorian Disability Scheme? 

Permits issued under the Victorian Disability Scheme may continue to be used until their expiry date. However, on and after 31 December 2024, you will need to apply for a new permit if your permit needs to be replaced.
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Why does my GP or OT not know the outcome of my assessment? 

Your GP or Occupational Therapist will answer a range of questions that assess eligibility for a permit based on the criteria. The answers to these questions determine your eligibility.  

However, your local council must first check your application against any known duplicate or previously cancelled permits before determining the outcome. Only after this step is completed will you be informed of the assessment result by mail. 
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Does my GP or OT decide if I get an Australian Disability Parking Permit or a Double Time permit? 

No, your GP or Occupational Therapist does not decide the permit type. The type of permit is determined by a functional assessment against set criteria questions, not personal preference.  

GPs and Occupational Therapists are required to answer criteria eligibility questions, and their responses determine permit eligibility and type.  
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How is the duration of a permit determined? 

How long you require a permit is determined by a functional assessment which is based on mobility impairment / condition(s) as well as how long the condition / impairment will impact mobility.  

GPs and Occupational Therapists are required to answer criteria eligibility questions, and their responses determine permit eligibility, duration and type.  
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Can I use my interstate or overseas permit in Victoria?

Yes, you can use your interstate or overseas permit in Victoria. 

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What does it mean to be legally blind?

Legally blind refers to a severe form of vision impairment. A person is considered legally blind if they cannot see at six metres what someone with normal vision can see at 60 metres, or if their field of vision is less than 20 degrees in diameter

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What evidence is required as a Sole Trader to be eligible for an organisational permit?

To be eligible for an organisation permit the sole trader must:

  • have an ABN

  • the vehicle registration must in the same name that is under the business name as it appears on the ABN

  • evidence on how they obtain their clients or

  • evidence that you are transporting people with a disability as a service.

Type of evidence could be:

  • A webpage or social media such as Facebook advertising their service.

  • A letter from a company showing proof on how they obtain their clients.

  • Any other documents that can demonstrate the service that they provide.

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