New South Wales

New South Wales is arguably Australia’s most diverse state with Australia’s largest city, Sydney, Sydney Harbor and Bridge, the Snowy Mountains, the Blue Mountains, the outback characterized by Broken Hill and the magnificent coastal waters.  One would think that was an exhaustive list, but far from that the list goes on with the Hunter Valley, the New England North West, the Illawarra, the Riverine,  the Murray River and the Capital Country.  For the tourist New South Wales is a must see and if you have special needs then you will also be catered for in the afore mentioned areas.  Let’s look at getting around New South Wales..

Airlines

New South Wales’s major cities are serviced by Australia’s three domestic airlines Qantas, Jetstar and Virgin Blue with regular daily flights.  If you are travelling within New South Wales to the smaller towns then you will most likely be flying with Qantas Link, REX Airlines, Brindabella Airlines, Aeroplican Airlines or Regional Express.  You will need to enquire with the smaller airlines as to their ability to accommodate your needs.

Airports

Sydney Airport, also know as Kingsford Smith Airport is located in the suburb of Mascot and is only a short drive from the Sydney CBD.  Being Australia’s largest city Sydney is Australian oldest and busiest Airport with annual passenger numbers passing thirty two million and handling in the order of 300,000 aircraft annually.  Both the domestic and international terminals provide excellent facilities for those with special needs.

Public Transport

Sydney has an excellent network of public transport catering for those with special needs; having visited every state capital I can confidently say that it is the most accessible system in Australia.  Services include Buses, Monorail, Trains, Ferries and Free City Explorer Coaches all of which are accessible.  The Sydney City Council has a comprehensive web site detailing this and much more information for travelers.  In addition, there is a downloadable map with all the information you could want about accessible facilities and much more in the Sydney CBD.

Car / Van Hire

There is not much you can’t hire in Sydney and this includes all of the usual accessible vehicles and equipment.  It is a good idea to book ahead as your visit may coincide with an event and capacity could be a problem.  Also, if you are considering hiring a self drive vehicle while in Sydney check with the company regarding the process for paying tolls as the Sydney area is alive with toll roads and it can be an unpleasant experience receiving an unexpected bill in the mail.

Taxis

Sydney is very well served by taxis; however as with any large city taxis are an expensive option of transport.  Accessible taxis are available on request; to book a wheel chair accessible taxi call 02 8332 0200

Accomodation

Sydney has a huge range of accommodation catering to those with special needs.  You can choose to stay in the city, the suburbs, by the beautiful beaches or by the harbor… and let’s not forget the Blue Mountains which are only two hours drive from Sydney and are peaceful and magnificent for those of you wanting to have an escape.

Coach Tours

There are numerous companies providing accessible travel around Sydney.  Firstly, don’t forget the public transport tours detailed above as they are Free and give you a wonderful perspective of Sydney.  You can choose to take a tour of the city and suburbs or there is a historical tour of specific landmarks around Sydney.  We have taken both of these tours and can highly recommend them.  Moving on to the paid variety; companies such as Australia in Style offer accessible tours of Sydney and the Blue Mountains and this can be an excellent option for a small private tour.

Trains

New South Wales has an extensive intra state rail system although only about half of the operating lines carry passengers, with the remaining lines for freight.  The passenger network extends to Queensland in the North, Moree in the North West, Broken Hill in the West and Albury in the South.  Passengers can board in Sydney for just about any train journey in Australia, although you will need considerable time on your hands as many of the trips are measured in days not hours.

Interesting Sites

Visit the Sydney Botanic Gardens in the CBD and enjoy a beautiful relaxing day

Visit the Sydney Opera House as they take pride in providing barrier free access

Enjoy a coach tour with Pegasus Coach Tours

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