Golden Plains Shire is transitioning to the Victorian Government’s new Accessible Parking Permit Scheme on 22 March 2021.
This year, Victorian councils will be transitioning to the new online scheme, which will provide community members with an easier, streamlined online application process, that is consistent across the state.
The Accessible Parking Permit Scheme includes a number of improvements to the existing system, including introducing 6, 12 and 24 month temporary permits, increasing permit lengths from 3 to 5 years, and removing the need for permit holders with a permanent medical condition or disability to undertake a medical assessment when they renew their permits. Occupational Therapists will also now be able to assess applications, in addition to General Practitioners.
In line with the new scheme, Council will remove its $10.20 renewal processing fee, making the process easier and more affordable for Golden Plains Shire residents.
From Monday 22 March, Golden Plains Shire residents and organisations requiring a new or renewed permit, will need to apply through the Accessible Parking Permit Scheme. To renew or apply, residents will now need to:
- Begin their application online at accessibleparking.vic.gov.au.
- Take the reference number they receive by SMS to their General Practitioner or Occupational Therapist, who will complete an online assessment with them and then submit the application.
- If the application is successful, the applicant will receive their permit in the mail, or can organise for it to be collected from Council’s Bannockburn or Smythesdale Customer Service Centre.
Residents without access to a mobile phone or the internet can contact Council’s Customer Service team at 5220 7111 for a paper application or if they require any assistance.
All existing disability permits remain valid until their expiry date and permit holders are not required to do anything until it’s time to renew their existing permit. Council has already advised local residents with permits expiring in March and April of the transition to the Accessible Parking Permit Scheme.
Mayor Cr Helena Kirby said the Accessible Parking Permit Scheme would deliver benefits to local permit-holders.
“Council is moving to the Victorian Government’s new Accessible Parking Permit Scheme later this month, which will simplify the process for our residents to apply for Double Time and Disability Parking permits.
“The new system brings benefits including permits that last longer, removing the need for some residents with a permanent disability to no longer require medical reassessments to renew permits and allowing applicants to visit an Occupational Therapist instead of a GP. The online scheme will also be more affordable to our residents, with Council removing the $10.20 processing fee from the old system.
“Our Customer Service team will remain available to assist residents with navigating the new state-wide system, and I encourage permit-holders with questions to visit or call the team if they need assistance.”
Further information for permit-holders is available here.