Disability Parking Permits and Parkinson’s: What You Need to Know

For some people living with Parkinson’s, walking long distances, managing fatigue, maintaining balance, and moving safely between a vehicle and a destination can become increasingly difficult. A disability parking permit may help you access parking closer to the shops, essential services, appointments, work, and your community activities.

What is a disability parking permit?

The Australian Disability Parking Scheme (ADPS) provides a nationally recognised permit that allows eligible people to access designated accessible parking spaces and certain parking concessions when travelling within Australia. While the scheme establishes minimum national standards, state and territory governments manage their own permit programmes and eligibility requirements.

A disability parking permit may assist people whose mobility is significantly restricted, including some people living with Parkinson’s.

Who may be eligible?

Eligibility requirements vary across states and territories. In general, permits are available to people who have a significant walking restriction that is either permanent or temporary. This may include people who:

  • Cannot walk without substantial assistance.
  • Use a wheelchair or mobility aid.
  • Experience severe difficulty walking short distances.
  • Need to stop frequently due to fatigue, pain, or other health-related limitations.
  • Have an eligible vision impairment in jurisdictions where this is recognised.

Having Parkinson’s does not automatically qualify you for a permit. Assessment is based on how your symptoms affect your mobility and functional ability. Your treating health professional (e.g. GP or OT) will need to assess whether you meet the eligibility criteria in your state or territory.

Some organisations that transport eligible people can also apply for permits.

How to apply

The application process differs between jurisdictions. In most cases, you will need to:

  1. Complete an application form.
  2. Provide proof of identity.
  3. Have a medical practitioner or other authorised health professional complete the clinical assessment section.
  4. Submit the application to the relevant state or territory authority.

Some jurisdictions charge application or replacement fees.

Using your permit correctly

A disability parking permit can only be used when the permit holder is travelling in the vehicle, either as the driver or a passenger. It must not be used by family members, friends, or carers when the permit holder is not present.

When displayed, the permit should be clearly visible from outside the vehicle and show the permit number and expiry date.

Depending on your location, a permit may allow you to:

  • Park in designated accessible parking bays.
  • Access certain time-related parking concessions.
  • Use recognised permit concessions when travelling interstate.

A permit does not allow parking in prohibited areas such as Clearways, No Stopping zones, or locations where parking restrictions still apply. Rules vary between jurisdictions, so always check local requirements before travelling.

For the most current eligibility criteria and application processes, visit your state or territory scheme:

Where to get support

If Parkinson’s symptoms are affecting your driving or mobility, speak with your neurologist, Parkinson’s nurse, general practitioner, physiotherapist, or occupational therapist. They can help assess your functional mobility and discuss whether a disability parking permit may be appropriate for your circumstances. They can suggest driving aids or transport alternatives to make your commute safer.

For additional information about living with Parkinson’s, visit:

Parkinson’s Australia
Young Onset Parkinson’s Australia

Sources

Australian Disability Parking Scheme

maca | Blog – Understanding Disability Parking Permits

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