Seniors parking is a type of parking space available for older Australians. Like other courtesy parking spaces, they’re not a legal requirement, but are made to make things easier for the people who use them. This begs the question—who can park in seniors parking and is someone with disabilities entitled to it, too?

In this article, we explain the differences between parking spaces for disabled people and for senior citizens. Also, we explain how to determine whether you qualify to park in either space.

Who can park in seniors parking?

​Seniors parking isn’t governed by national legislation like accessible parking spots are. They’re parking spots—usually close to building entrances—that businesses offer as a courtesy to their older customers. Centres expect those who don’t need the parking space to leave them open for those who do. It’s fairly easy to spot seniors parking as they’re often marked in red to differentiate them from disability parking spaces.

With seniors parking, there’s no law around who can and can’t use it. Though these bays are allocated for senior citizens, anyone can park in seniors parking without legal repercussions (including disability parking permit holders).

With that said, it’s considered bad etiquette for younger people (with or without mobility issues) to park in a seniors or pram parking space.

Most people avoid it as a social taboo. Plus, car park operators can ask someone to move if they feel they’re not eligible to use this kind of parking. If you have a disability, it’s best to use your Blue Badge disability parking space, rather than park in a seniors parking space.

Why is there seniors parking?

Making parking spaces available just for seniors is more than just a nicety. It’s an accommodation that supports ageing safely and with dignity. Some older citizens move slower or tire more easily, even without a formal disability. Having closer access to the places they need to go makes a huge difference. It also reduces the risk of falls on uneven surfaces.

Also consider that carrying items like groceries or heavy bags may be harder for older people over long distances. Some seniors may be more affected by heat, cold, or rain, so shorter walks help. Some people feel that seniors parking is so necessary that it should be legally mandated like disability parking is.

Where can I find seniors parking spaces?

As mentioned, seniors parking is not a legal requirement, so you’re not guaranteed to find it everywhere you go. Malls, shopping centres, airports, retirement villages and some public facilities may sometimes offer them. At the time of writing, here are some facilities that mentioned having senior parking spaces:

• Hobard Airport
• Eastlands Shopping Centre
• Bull Creek Central
• Parkmore Shopping Centre
• Mount Pleasant Centre

Different places may have different requirements for using a seniors parking space. At some of them, you may have to show your Seniors card or see centre management for a permit to park there. It differs from place to place, so seniors are advised to do their research before they go.

Who can park in disability permit parking spaces?

Like seniors parking, the aim of disability permit parking spaces is to provide easier access to shops and other locations for people who have difficulty with their mobility.

However, unlike seniors parking, disability parking spaces are a legal requirement – not just a courtesy. If you have visible or invisible disabilities, you may be eligible for a disability parking permit. This permit will enable you to use an accessible parking space. The law protects these spaces, and only permit holders can use them.

Contrary to popular belief, these permits are not easy to get. Read about how to get a disability parking permit.

What about people with invisible disabilities?

Many people think only people who use wheelchairs or other disability equipment have disability parking permits. This is simply not true. Individuals with heart conditions, respiratory problems, balance issues and many other medical conditions have disability parking permits but don’t ‘look’ disabled.

A wide variety of disabilities can’t be seen just by looking at someone. Multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, cancer, arthritis, lung disease and fibromyalgia, among others, are examples.

Although invisible disabilities don’t always necessitate the use of mobility equipment, they do affect people’s ability to walk long distances without difficulty. It’s for this reason that many people with invisible disabilities qualify for disability parking permits.

You should be very aware of this before confronting or reporting someone who’s taken up an accessible or seniors parking space. Read more about disability parking spots in our article: Why accessible parking spaces are designed the way they are.

Insurance for your needs

If you’re a senior citizen, you may be driving a WAV or using disability converted driving controls. Blue Badge Insurance – the first mobility insurance specialist in Australia – provides disability car insurance. We also offer affordable insurance for wheelchair accessible vehicles and converted cars.

This insurance also covers family, friends, carers and support workers while they’re driving the car with the DPP holder in it.

Mobility is freedom. Protect yours with Blue Badge Insurance. Click below to get a quick quote.