Access to reliable and affordable transport is one of the biggest barriers for Australians with disability who want to participate in sport, whether as athletes, volunteers, officials, or spectators.New research from Uber and inclusivity consultancy Get Skilled Access highlights just how transformative genuine transport choice can be.
The landmark national trial, Real Access, Real Choice – Why State-Based Taxi Subsidy Schemes Need to be Modernised, found that expanding government-funded taxi subsidy schemes to include rideshare options like Uber would significantly boost independence, safety, and community participation.
Across the 12-week trial, 148 people with disability were given Uber credits equivalent to their state’s taxi subsidy value. The results were compelling:
- 97% said their access needs were met when using Uber.
- 96% reported feeling safe.
- 92% said rideshare increased their independence.
- 98% supported making rideshare a permanent part of state subsidy programs.
But beyond the numbers, the impact was profound. Participants described taking on work shifts, attending appointments, and joining in community and sporting activities that they would have otherwise missed.
For many athletes, getting to training, local competitions, or state championships often depends on the availability of accessible, affordable transport options. When rideshare isn’t included in state subsidy schemes, opportunities to participate can be lost before the game even begins.
Vision Australia, Disability Voices Tasmania, Carers Australia, and Children and Young People with Disability Australia are among the organisations now calling on state governments to urgently reform outdated subsidy models. Victoria’s Multi-Purpose Taxi Program already takes a “provider-neutral” approach, allowing both taxis and rideshare to receive subsidies. Advocates say extending this model nationwide would ensure funding supports the person — not the transport provider.
As Emma Foley, General Manager for Uber ANZ, summed up: “Transport isn’t just about getting from A to B. It’s how people stay connected, independent and able to participate in everyday life.”
A modern, inclusive transport system would help Australians with disability get to the places that matter, workplace, healthcare, and yes, the sporting field. Expanding choice could mean the difference between sitting on the sidelines and being part of the action.
Read the full Real Access, Real Choice report here.
Emma Foley and Zack Alcott will join the lineup of speakers at the ASAPD Sport and Disability Forum, sharing insights from this research and exploring what true transport choice means for sports participation and community inclusion.
Get your tickets to the Sport and Disability Forum here.