Accessibility in Sydney

In the months leading up to our trip to Sydney, my mind constantly thought about what it would be like there. It is so far away, and I had no idea if accessibility was a priority there.

Would I feel accepted? Would the streets and sidewalks be accessible? I knew public transportation was going to be a big part of our trip, so naturally, I had some anxiety surrounding the accessibility of that as well.

In my “research” leading up to the trip, I gathered that there was at least an attempt at accessibility and inclusion, but until there, it was hard to really know for sure.

From the time we arrived in Sydney, we met helpful humans. They do things a bit differently once exiting the plane. Typically, my wheelchair is ready when I get off the plane. In Sydney, they had me get in one of their wheelchairs and took me to the top of the jet bridge, where I had to wait for my wheelchair.

As we continued through the airport to customs, we were stopped along the way by a lady working at the airport. She was very friendly and wanted to know if she could help us and gave us a lot of helpful tips, as we were brand new to Australia.

Once we got to customs, there was another wonderful lady who saw us, and offered to help us through the entire process. She was with us all the way until our driver picked us up. It was comforting and a huge help to us. Australia has strict rules for entering their country, and we were coming in with our giant bike, wheels, and luggage. I was nervous! Note: the only thing they ended up taking from us were our beef protein sticks. I felt as though I had committed a crime trying to get my protein in!

From there on, the trip proved to be very accessible. If something was not accessible, there was a wholehearted attempt to make an accommodation. Not tucked away in a corner, we were offered some of the best tables at many restaurants.

We had the wonderful opportunity to see a performance at the iconic Sydney Opera House. The entire experience was seamless. People came from out of nowhere if we looked like we were struggling at all and offered to help us. We even met two local ladies who had season tickets, and they found us at intermission to check on us and see if we needed anything. Beyond any expectations we had.

We rode the ferry, the train, and the buses while there. All were accessible, and the staff helpful.

We visited the Taronga Zoo, which proved to be a hilly, but accessible experience.

We visited Manly Beach as well as Bondi Beach during our time there. Both had accessible pathways along the water. Bondi Beach has large ramps down to the sand. Both also noted that beach wheelchairs were available upon request, but we did not use one.

As previously mentioned, Sydney was hillier than we expected. As we explored, there were areas that were not the easiest for my husband to push my wheelchair. Not only did he have to conquer the hills of the marathon, but he also had more hills to conquer during the rest of our time there.

If I had to pick a favorite part, it would be that I was able to freely wheel all around the Sydney Harbour, taking in the gorgeous views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge from multiple angles. The stunning view never grew old, and I miss it every day.

Another highlight was being on the train and looking out the window to see about 20 kangaroos in a field, just as we would see deer here. It was so neat to see.

Going on a trip overseas – or any trip as a disabled person, for that matter – there is a lot more to think about and figure out once there. It certainly adds another layer of stress and anxiety when visiting a new place.

At times, it can feel very frustrating and daunting. The wish that we could just go and enjoy without having to think about all the details that most never give a second thought, can stir up negative emotions.

When we travel, we try to have the mentality of we will find a way to figure things out. Keeping emotions in check and bringing patience always helps. We have learned throughout the years, that it does not do either of us any good to get frustrated.

We were so grateful for the lovely and kind people we met along the way in Sydney and for our opportunity just to be there. There were too many helpful people to count. We both agreed that Sydney felt like a big, warm accessible hug most of our time there.

Cheers mate!

Until next time…

Amy Shinneman is a former National Ambassador for the Muscular Dystrophy Association, disability blogger, freelance writer, wife, and mom of two boys. She is the recipient of The Reporter’s Winter 2025 Ink-Stained Wretch award. You can find her blog at humblycourageous.org and reach her on Instagram @ashinneman.