AS/NZS 2890.6: Accessible Parking Compliance Guide
AS/NZS 2890.6: Accessible Parking Compliance Requirements
A shopping centre in Frankston received a complaint to the Australian Human Rights Commission. A wheelchair user couldn't access their vehicle because adjacent cars had parked over the shared access zone. The markings were there, but they weren't compliant—the shared area was 300mm too narrow.
AS/NZS 2890.6 sets out requirements for accessible parking that align with the Disability Discrimination Act 1992. Getting these details wrong isn't just poor practice—it's potentially illegal discrimination.
Legal Framework
Accessible parking requirements stem from multiple overlapping obligations that property owners must understand.
Key Legislation:
- Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (Commonwealth)
- Disability (Access to Premises - Buildings) Standards 2010
- National Construction Code (references AS/NZS 2890.6)
- State and territory building regulations
Non-compliance can result in complaints to the Australian Human Rights Commission, with potential outcomes including enforceable undertakings and compensation orders.
Minimum Number of Accessible Spaces
The required number of accessible spaces depends on total parking provision and the building class. AS/NZS 2890.6 sets minimum ratios.
Standard Requirements:
- 1-50 total spaces: Minimum 1 accessible space
- 51-100 spaces: Minimum 2 accessible spaces
- 101-150 spaces: Minimum 3 accessible spaces
- 151-200 spaces: Minimum 4 accessible spaces
- 201+ spaces: 4 plus 1 per additional 100 spaces
Healthcare facilities, aged care, and disability services typically require additional accessible spaces beyond these minimums.
Accessible Bay Dimensions
Accessible bays require specific dimensions to accommodate wheelchair transfers and mobility aids.
Bay Requirements:
- Bay width: 2400mm minimum
- Bay length: 5400mm minimum (same as standard bays)
- Shared access area: 2400mm wide (can be shared between two bays)
- Total width with shared area: 3600mm (single bay) or 3000mm per bay (paired)
The shared access area allows space for wheelchair deployment from side-loading vehicles and provides circulation space for mobility aids.
Line Marking Requirements
Accessible parking requires specific marking elements beyond standard bay lines.
International Symbol of Access:
- Minimum size: 1000mm x 1000mm
- Colour: White symbol on blue background
- Position: Centred in bay, visible from aisle approach
Shared Access Area Marking:
- Yellow diagonal hatching at 45 degrees
- Hatching lines: 100mm wide, 600mm spacing
- Clear boundaries defining the shared area
Location Requirements
Accessible spaces must be located appropriately to provide genuine access, not just token compliance.
Placement Requirements:
- Located on shortest accessible path to main entrance
- Level surface (maximum 1:40 grade)
- Connected to continuous accessible path of travel
- Protected from vehicle traffic routes
- Covered spaces preferred where available
Vertical Signage
Floor markings alone are insufficient. Vertical signage is required for each accessible space.
Sign Requirements:
- International Symbol of Access displayed
- PERMIT HOLDERS ONLY text
- Reference to relevant state permit scheme
- Mounted at 1.0-1.5m height for visibility
- Visible from bay approach and within bay
Common Compliance Failures
We regularly audit accessible parking and find these common issues.
- Shared access area too narrow or missing entirely
- Symbol of access undersized (below 1000mm)
- Faded markings making spaces unclear
- No connection to accessible path of travel
- Spaces located too far from accessible entrance
- Missing or inadequate vertical signage
Request an accessible parking compliance audit
Frequently Asked Questions
Can anyone use accessible parking spaces?
No. Accessible spaces are reserved for vehicles displaying a valid Australian Disability Parking Permit. Unauthorised use attracts significant fines under state road rules—up to $570 in Victoria.
Do private carparks need to comply with AS/NZS 2890.6?
Yes. The Disability Discrimination Act applies to services and facilities provided to the public, regardless of whether the carpark is publicly or privately owned.
What if our building was built before the current standard?
Existing buildings may have limited compliance obligations, but the DDA requires reasonable adjustments. If upgrading is reasonably practicable, failure to do so may constitute discrimination.
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