Policy Submission: National Transport Commission's discussion on automated vehicle trials in Australia

We have submitted our recommendations to the National Transport Commission  for trials of automated vehicles in Australia.

While we agree that that driverless technology does hold many potential benefits for road users who may have difficulty accessing traditional transport options, current guidelines do not reference disability in the key management criteria for trials of automated vehicles.

Additionally, if trials of automated passenger carrying vehicles continue, there must be an emphasis on safety, in particular any practical challenges relating to securing people living with disability in a driverless vehicle.

 

Our Recommendation

The key management criteria in the guidelines for trials of automated vehicles in Australia should require applicants to describe how the their trial considers and addresses the needs of people living with disability.

Safety issues should also be addressed by the applicant.

 

The full submission paper can be downloaded through the link below.