Tabatha Badger | Lead Candidate for Lyons
The Greens call on whoever is in government after the next election to commit to providing more disability access across Tasmania's National Parks and beaches to the tune of $3 million every year for the next four years.
"Tasmania's National Parks are our greatest natural asset, and deserve to be accessed and embraced by all - sadly however that is not currently possible for some.
"Only four of Tasmania's 19 National Parks provide adequate disability access, with the most immersive experience on offer limited to a 25 minute trip into Russell Falls at Mount Field National Park.
"Tasmanian Parks and Wildlife Service (PWS) has a responsibility to provide opportunities for everyone to connect with nature, and while this may not be possible across all of Tasmania's 19 National Parks due to their wild isolation, a plan is needed to identify areas fit for providing greater support for people with a disability.
"Providing autonomy and agency for people with disability is critical if we are to bridge the divide that exists between disabled and non-disabled people, and the government has a key role in facilitating this.
"Tasmania's wilderness is protected so that everybody has a real and equitable opportunity to be immersed in and connected with the natural world. This includes people with a disability and they shouldn't have to fork out huge amounts of money for exclusive experiences from private operators in our National Parks.
"The Greens congratulate PWS on making a start to providing access-friendly sites across the state, and for providing TrailRider all-terrain wheelchairs at three of our iconic National Parks - but there is more to be done.
"The Greens call on whoever is in government after the next election to commit to providing more disability access across Tasmania's National Parks and beaches, starting with a commitment of $3 million every year for the next four years."
