Accessible parking permits

Changes have been made to the Disability Parking Permit Scheme in Victoria, to better align with the Australian Disability Parking Permit Scheme.

VicRoads introduced the new scheme, known as the Accessible Parking Permit (APP) Scheme on 22 March 2021.

Council is now processing parking permit applications online as part of our adoption of the new state-wide APP Scheme.

Anyone living in the Macedon Ranges Shire that requires a new or replacement accessible parking permit must now follow the new application process. Old application forms will no longer be accepted from residents within the shire.

All existing Macedon Ranges Shire Council permits will remain valid until they expire.

About the Accessible Parking Permit (APP) Scheme

Three different parking permits are issued under the new APP Scheme:

  • An Australian Disability Parking (ADP) Permit – formerly the Category 1 Blue disabled permit
  • A Double Time (DT) Permit – formerly the Category 2 Green Permit
  • An ADP Organisation Permit – formerly Blue organisation permit.

Apply for or renew a permit

To apply for a permit or renew an existing permit, applicants should:

  1. Start an application online at Accessible Parking Victoria
  2. The applicant will receive an application reference number via SMS*
  3. Applicant then takes reference number to their GP or occupational therapist
  4. GP or occupational therapist will complete an online assessment and submit the application
  5. Local council will review the application
  6. If an application is successful, the applicant will receive their permit in the mail.

* Online applications are strongly encouraged, as will provide a faster outcome. Council's customer service staff are available to assist with this process if applicants are having trouble. A paper-based version of the application is also available for those who do not have access to a mobile phone or the internet.

Replace your permit

To replace your permit, applicants should:

  1. Start an application online at Accessible Parking Victoria
  2. The applicant will receive an application reference number via SMS*
  3. Local council will review the application
  4. If an application is successful, the applicant will receive their permit in the mail.

* Online applications are strongly encouraged, as will provide a faster outcome. Council's customer service staff are available to assist with this process if applicants are having trouble. A paper-based version of the application is also available for those who do not have access to a mobile phone or the internet.

'How to' guide for GPs and Occupational Therapists

  1. The applicant will start their application online at Accessible Parking Victoria
  2. They will receive an application reference via SMS*
  3. The applicant will provide you with their application reference
  4. You will then complete an online assessment and submit to council*
  5. Local council will review the application
  6. If the application is successful, the applicant will receive the permit in the mail.

* Online applications are strongly encouraged, as will provide a faster outcome. Council’s customer service staff are available to assist with this process if applicants are having trouble. A paper-based version of the application is also available for those who do not have access to a mobile phone or the internet.

'How to' guide for organisations

  1. Start your application online at Accessible Parking Victoria
  2. You will receive an application reference number via SMS and email*
  3. Your local council will review the application
  4. If your application is successful, you’ll pick up your permit(s) from Council.

Benefits of the new APP Scheme

The new APP Scheme and online service provides significant improvements in the administration and enforcement of disability parking in the Macedon Ranges Shire, freeing up parking bays for the people who really need them.

Many improvements have been made, including:

  • making sure the eligibility criteria for a permit is consistent across the state,
  • allowing occupational therapists to complete assessments, in addition to GPs,
  • introducing a permanent disability classification, so many will no longer have to return for reassessment,
  • increasing the permit length from three years to five years for individuals,
  • providing temporary permits for 6, 12 or 24 months, and
  • a new single permit design to be used across the state.

 

More information

For more information on the changes to disability parking and the APP scheme visit VicRoads.

Both Macedon Ranges Shire Council and VicRoads are here to help during the transition. If you need assistance with using the APP platform or have feedback on the changes, you can contact VicRoads on 1300 965 677 or email acesssibleparking@roads.vic.gov.au.

You can also contact our customer service team at Council on (03) 5422 0333 or email mrsc@mrsc.vic.gov.au for assistance with your application.