Apply for an Accessible Parking Permit
VicRoads have introduced a new Scheme for the issuing of disabled parking permits. The new Scheme is known as the Accessible Parking Permit (APP) Scheme and is an online application process that aligns with the requirements of the Australian Disability Parking Permit Scheme.
The APP relies on one centralised and digitised point of information which will reduce the subjectivity of the functional assessment, and enable greater enforcement of the Scheme by councils.
A reduction in the instances of duplicate permits being issued and permits being misused will occur through system-wide crosschecks and visibility across council boundaries. Councils will now also have state-wide visibility on permits to assist with enforcement.
All existing Maribyrnong City Council permits will remain valid until they expire.
To help councils manage the new scheme, the Victorian government created an online application service which Council is now using. Permits remain free of charge.
Below you will find some of the frequently asked questions and the answers in relation to the new Scheme.
How does an individual apply for a new permit or renew an existing permit?
- Start your application on the Accessible Parking Permit webpage.
- You’ll receive an application reference number via SMS*.
- Take your reference number to your GP or occupational therapist.
- Your GP or occupational therapist will complete an online assessment and submit your application.
- Maribyrnong City Council will review the application to check that the applicant's address falls within the council boundaries and for duplicate permits.
- If your application is successful you’ll receive your permit in the mail.
*A paper-based version of the application is available if you don’t have access to a mobile phone or the internet. Please contact Customer Service on (03) 9688 0200 if you require a paper form.
Application outcomes will take approximately 10 to 15 days from the time of your GP or OT visit to arrive in the mail so please plan accordingly.
How does an organisation apply for a new permit or renew an existing permit?
- Start your application on the Accessible Parking Permit webpage
- You’ll receive an application reference number via SMS
- Maribyrnong City Council will review the application
- If your application is successful you can pick up the permit from council
Under the APP Scheme, organisation permits must be picked up from their local council as proof of business registration and vehicle registration in your business name must be supplied when collecting the permits.
When did Council commence the new process?
Council adopted the new process from 1 May 2021.
What changes have been made to the Scheme?
Some of the improvements made to the Scheme include:
- Consistency of eligibility criteria across the state.
- Authorising occupational therapists to complete assessments, in addition to GPs,
- Introducing a permanent disability classification that requires no future re-assessment.
- Increasing the permit length from three years to five years for individuals.
- Providing temporary permits for 6, 12 or 24 months.
- A new single permit design to be used across the state.
What types of permits are issued under the new Scheme?
There are three types of parking permits issued under the new Scheme:
- An Australian Disability Parking (ADP) Permit (formerly the category 1 blue permit for individuals).
- A Double Time Permit (formerly the category 2 green permit for individuals).
- An ADP Organisation Permit (formerly blue permit for organisations).
Below are samples of the two individual permits types.
What are the conditions of use?
Conditions of use can be found on the VicRoads website.
What happens if I don't meet the assessment criteria?
Permit eligibility is determined by the criteria assessment entered by your GP or occupational therapist and is not determined by Maribyrnong City Council.
If you believe your GP or occupational therapist has incorrectly assessed your mobility issue or medical condition, you may seek a second opinion from a different GP or occupational therapist. This is done by starting a new application with the functional assessment undertaken by a different medical practitioner.
What if the permit you receive isn't the permit you applied for?
Permit type is determined by the criteria assessment entered by your GP or occupational therapist and is not determined by Maribyrnong City Council.
An applicant’s mobility issue is the sole determinant of permit type. It is important to remember that there is a hierarchy of needs within disability parking. People who require extra space to get out of a vehicle or whose medical condition restricts walking to less than 100m are given priority.
If you believe your GP or occupational therapist has incorrectly assessed your mobility issue or medical condition you may seek a second opinion from a different GP or occupational therapist.
This is done by starting a new application with the functional assessment undertaken by a different medical practitioner.
Can I dispute my disability parking permit outcome?
If you are unhappy with the outcome of your permit application you must contact VicRoads. Council is unable to assist with accessibility permit application disputes.
Contact VicRoads by phoning 1300 965 677 or send an email to accessibleparking@roads.vic.gov.au
Information for health professionals
Information for health professionals can be found on the VicRoads website