Back to News & Updates

Landmark accessible transport petition to be handed to Parliament

By Western Cape Network on Disability

On 3 December 2025, the Western Cape Network on Disability (WCND) will formally hand over its petition calling for urgent amendments to the National Land Transport Act (NLTA) to ensure equitable, reliable, and accessible public transport for persons with disabilities. The handover will take place at Parliament in Cape Town as part of a symbolic and celebratory gathering marking the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.

Off the back of sustained pressure on the Dial-a-Ride system, which continues to serve only a fraction of those eligible, the petition sets out a detailed legal case for amending the NLTA to guarantee full and equal access to public transport for persons with disabilities. Despite the Act referencing accessibility, its provisions remain discretionary, unenforceable, and inconsistently implemented, resulting in widespread exclusion from employment, education, healthcare, and social participation.

The petition calls for Parliament to:

  • Make accessibility requirements mandatory, not optional, for all transport authorities and service providers.
  • Establish national enforceable standards for accessible public transport.
  • Legally require consultation with organisations of persons with disabilities in all transport planning and design.
  • Strengthen oversight and accountability mechanisms within the Department of Transport.
  • Recognise transport access as a fundamental human right, essential to equality, dignity, and participation in society.

The petition also proposes modernised definitions, the establishment of advisory bodies led by persons with disabilities, mandatory training for transport staff (including on non-apparent disabilities), standards for infrastructure and vehicles, and a National Land Transport Accessibility Fund to support implementation.

“By incorporating these amendments, the NLTA would transition from a well-intentioned framework to a powerful and precise legislative tool capable of delivering a truly inclusive, equitable, and dignified land transport system for all South Africans with disabilities.”
— Anthony Ghillino, WCND Chairperson

A delegation of disability sector representatives will enter Parliament to deliver the petition and attend the official International Day address, while persons with disabilities, organisations, allies, and supporters are warmly encouraged to gather outside Parliament to show unity and pride in this milestone achievement.

This is not a protest, but a celebration. It is a moment to honour the collective work that led to this petition reaching the national legislative arena, and a powerful acknowledgement that people with disabilities can and do influence the laws that shape their lives.

Landmark accessible transport petition to be handed to Parliament | WCND