The idea for the Better Access Map originated in work completed by St Vincent de Paul Society's Ability Links program. From their work with people with a disability, their families and carers, Linkers identified a gap in the availability of reliable information about the accessibility of the built environment. Initially, Ability Links begun research into assessments of venues and whether the gathered information would be useful in supporting people with a disability to be more active in their community.

The initial testing was a success, receiving a great deal of interest from businesses, peak bodies and people with a disability. It became clear that all people benefit from having reliable information that allows us to choose what to do and where to go quickly and easily. The Better Access Map smartphone application positioned the project at the forefront of a movement for social inclusion, promoting accessibility in communities throughout NSW. From 2022 onwards our focus has been on expanding the reach and accessibility of this project across Australia.

You can read more about how you can get involved below.