The first training course of its kind in Australia to support the safe transportation of children
with disabilities and medical conditions launched today.
The comprehensive course has been funded by the Australian Government Department of
Social Services.
Chief Executive, Helen Lindner, said Mobility and Accessibility for Children in Australia Ltd
(MACA) created the self-paced online course Transporting Children with Disabilities and
Medical Conditions in response to feedback from allied health professionals.
“We know that lack of training is the most significant challenge health professionals face
when it comes to supporting the transport needs of children with disabilities and medical
conditions,” Ms Lindner said.
“In our national survey, allied health professionals told us they wanted to learn about how to
support children’s transport needs from online training – and we’ve taken that onboard.
“This training will equip participants with the best practice knowledge and skills to help build
their confidence in assessing and supporting children’s vehicle transport needs.”
Transporting Children with Disabilities and Medical Conditions is designed for allied health
professionals, as well as those responsible for the safe transportation of children with
disabilities or medical conditions. It is also relevant for government organisations, disability
agencies, and industry.
The course features contributions from esteemed experts in child restraints, research, road
safety and health, and covers a range of topics including:
• Children’s vulnerability as road users
• Road safety principles and approaches
• Vehicle standards and road rules
• The leading role of allied health professionals
• Products and standards
• Best practice prescribing
• Common transport challenges
• Scope of practice
• Importance of good documentation
• Restrictive practice.
The course also introduces The MACA Guide, a best practice prescribing tool, and explains
how it can help with embedding safe transport into day-to-day practice. Participants receive
a copy of The MACA Guide when they have completed the course.
NSW Occupational Therapist, Claire Pilkington, said the training was recommended for all
OTs working with children with disabilities and medical conditions.
“The MACA online training is excellent and addresses the large gaps in information and
support in the area of disability transport for children,” Claire said.
“As a result of the training, I feel more confident to raise and explore the issues around
vehicle transport with families.
“The MACA training and resources available after the training ensure that I have information
and guidelines to help me work in this area.”
Delivered through innovative online platform FutureLearn, participants can complete the 6-
to-8-hour course at their own pace. It includes videos, interactive tasks, tests, and
opportunities to share ideas and join in discussions with other participants.
To find out more or to enrol, visit https://www.macahub.org/training
Media Contact: Sarah O’Connor 0423 638 853
