Our Commitment to Accessible Tourism
We understand that accessible travel means different things to different people. Whether you're a senior traveller seeking comfort, have mobility challenges requiring wheelchair-accessible transport, need special assistance for hearing or visual impairments, or are travelling with a support person — we're here to make your journey smooth, safe, and enjoyable.
- Wheelchair-accessible vehicles with ramps and hydraulic lifts available on request
- Professional drivers trained in disability awareness and mobility assistance
- Flexible tour modifications tailored to individual accessibility needs
- Clear, upfront communication about accessibility features of each tour and destination
- Priority seating near doors for guests with mobility requirements
- Regular comfort breaks and accessible rest stops on all tours
- One-on-one boarding and alighting assistance from trained staff
- NDIS-compatible tours and charter services for community participation
Accessible Tour Features & Disability Travel Support
Wheelchair & Mobility Support
Our accessible coaches accommodate manual wheelchairs, electric wheelchairs, walkers, mobility scooters, and other aids. Designated vehicles include ramps, hydraulic lifts, and tie-down points that meet Australian safety standards.
Companion & Carer Assistance
Support persons, companions, and carers are always welcome. We offer discounted or complimentary companion tickets on many tours, along with flexible seating so you can sit together comfortably.
Comfortable, Modern Coaches
Our touring fleet features wide aisles, grab rails throughout, low-step or kneeling entry, air-conditioning, on-board restrooms on long routes, and comfortable seating with extra legroom options.
Clear Communication & Sensory Support
Guides use PA audio systems and can provide written itineraries and large-print materials. With advance notice, we accommodate hearing loops, visual descriptions, and other sensory accessibility needs.
Flexible Pacing & Rest Breaks
Every tour includes generous time for boarding, comfort stops, meals, and sightseeing. We never rush guests and adapt pacing to the group's needs — especially important for seniors and those with chronic conditions.
Medical Awareness & First Aid
All staff hold current first aid certificates. We accommodate portable oxygen concentrators, CPAP machines, medication refrigeration, and other medical equipment. Emergency protocols are in place on every tour.
NDIS-Compatible Accessible Tours & Charters
Many of our accessible tours and private charter services can be used as part of your NDIS plan for community participation, social connection, and capacity building. We work directly with participants, support coordinators, and plan managers to make the process simple.
Community Participation
Group day tours that foster social connection and community engagement, perfect for NDIS Core Supports funding.
Private Charters
Customised accessible charters for disability support groups, day programs, and respite services across South-East Queensland.
Support Worker Friendly
Support workers travel free or at reduced rates when accompanying NDIS participants on our accessible tours.
Easy Invoicing
We provide NDIS-ready invoices with line items that match plan categories, making claims straightforward for plan managers.
Planning Your Accessible Tour or Holiday
Before You Book — Talk to Our Accessibility Team
We encourage you to contact our dedicated accessibility coordinator before booking. Our team will:
- Assess which tours and destinations best suit your specific accessibility requirements
- Provide detailed information about the physical demands and terrain of each activity
- Arrange specialised wheelchair-accessible vehicles or equipment if needed
- Suggest itinerary modifications for mobility, sensory, or medical needs
- Answer questions about facilities, gradient, surfaces, and access at each destination
What to Tell Us When Booking an Accessible Tour
To ensure we deliver the best possible experience, please share the following details:
- Mobility aids: Wheelchair type and dimensions, walker, scooter, or other equipment
- Boarding assistance: Whether you need help getting on and off the coach
- Medical equipment: Oxygen, CPAP, medication storage, or other health needs
- Dietary requirements: Allergies, intolerances, or special meal requests
- Sensory needs: Hearing impairment, vision impairment, or sensory sensitivities
- Comfort preferences: Seating position, rest stop frequency, and pacing needs
- Support person details: Whether a carer or companion will be travelling with you
💡 Book Early for Accessible Vehicles
Wheelchair-accessible coaches and specialised arrangements require advance booking. We recommend contacting us at least 2–3 weeks before your desired tour date to guarantee availability of accessible vehicles and equipment. Popular school holiday periods and weekends book out fastest.
Accessible Tour Destinations in Australia & New Zealand
We carefully evaluate the accessibility of every destination on our tour routes. Our accessibility assessments cover parking, pathways, restrooms, terrain gradient, rest areas, and alternative options for guests who may not be able to complete certain walking sections.
Popular Wheelchair-Friendly & Accessible Tours
While we work to make all our tours as accessible as possible, the following are particularly well-suited for guests with mobility needs, wheelchair users, and seniors seeking comfortable travel:
City Tours — Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane & Adelaide
Major Australian cities feature excellent accessible infrastructure including ramps, lifts, and accessible public facilities at key attractions. Our city tours use low-floor coaches for easy boarding.
Wine Tours — Barossa Valley, Hunter Valley & More
Selected wineries offer wheelchair-accessible cellar doors, tasting rooms, and restaurant facilities. Our wine tours include accessible drop-offs at every venue.
Scenic Coach Tours — Coastal & Mountain Routes
Enjoy Australia's stunning landscapes from the comfort of our coach, with accessible viewing points and photo stops near the vehicle. Minimal walking required.
Harbour Cruises — Sydney, Brisbane & Beyond
Selected vessels feature level boarding, accessible restrooms, and covered seating. Our team coordinates with cruise operators to ensure smooth accessible transfers.
Find Us with Voice Search
Looking for accessible tours hands-free? You can find Cooee Tours using voice assistants on your phone, smart speaker, or computer. Just say one of these phrases to your device:
Try saying these to Siri, Google Assistant, or Alexa:
Our website is optimised for voice search so you can find us however you browse — by voice, keyboard, or screen reader.
What Our Accessible Tour Guests Say
"Cooee Tours made my mum's 80th birthday trip possible. She uses a walker and was worried about keeping up, but the driver was so patient and the coach was perfect. We had the best day touring the Barossa Valley — accessible wineries, beautiful views, and no stress at all. Truly inclusive travel."— Sarah M., Adelaide · Barossa Valley Wine Tour
Frequently Asked Questions About Accessible Tours
Can I bring my wheelchair on a Cooee Tours tour?
Yes! We accommodate both manual and electric wheelchairs on our accessible vehicles. Please provide the dimensions (width, length, height) and weight of your wheelchair when booking so we can ensure proper fit and secure tie-down. Folding manual wheelchairs can also be stored in the luggage compartment on standard coaches.
Do you offer discounts for seniors or people with disabilities?
We offer senior discounts on many tours for guests aged 65 and over — just mention it when booking. Companion carers providing essential support often receive discounted or complimentary tickets. NDIS participants may also use plan funding for eligible tours. Contact us for specific pricing.
How accessible are the rest stop facilities?
We plan every route with accessible rest stops in mind. All major stops include accessible restrooms compliant with Australian standards. Before your tour, we can provide a detailed list of facilities at each stop along your specific route, including accessible parking bays and path surfaces.
What if I need to cancel due to health reasons?
We understand that health issues can arise unexpectedly. Our cancellation policy includes compassionate provisions for medical circumstances — please refer to our terms or contact us to discuss your situation. We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance that specifically covers medical cancellations.
Can tour activities be modified for my accessibility needs?
Absolutely. We regularly work with guests to modify activities. For example, if a tour includes a bushwalk, we can arrange for you to enjoy an accessible viewing platform, visit a nearby alternative attraction, or remain comfortably on the coach with refreshments. Just let us know your preferences when booking.
Is there assistance available for boarding the coach?
Yes, all our drivers and tour staff are trained in safe boarding assistance techniques. Accessible vehicles feature ramps or hydraulic lifts meeting Australian Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport. All coaches have grab rails, and we always allow extra time for boarding — no one is ever rushed.
Are Cooee Tours NDIS compatible?
Yes, many of our accessible group tours and private charter services align with NDIS Core Supports and Capacity Building funding categories — particularly community participation and social activities. We provide NDIS-ready invoices and work directly with plan managers and support coordinators. Contact our accessibility team to discuss how we can fit your plan.
Can you accommodate service animals or assistance dogs?
Absolutely. Accredited assistance animals are welcome on all Cooee Tours vehicles at no extra charge, in accordance with Australian law. Please let us know when booking so we can allocate appropriate seating and ensure comfort for both you and your animal throughout the tour.
Accessibility Resources & Partners
We partner with Australian accessibility organisations and continuously improve our knowledge and services. These resources may also be helpful for planning your trip:
- Australian Network on Disability: Information on accessible tourism, travel planning, and workplace inclusion across Australia
- National Disability Services (NDS): Advocacy, support, and service information for people with disabilities
- Vision Australia: Resources and travel tips for travellers with vision impairment
- Travability: Australia's accessible travel directory — find wheelchair-friendly accommodation and attractions
- NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme): Information on plan funding for community participation and travel
🌟 Our Ongoing Promise
We're constantly improving our accessible tourism offerings based on guest feedback and evolving best practices. If you have suggestions for how we can better serve the accessibility community — whether it's a new destination, a vehicle feature, or a service improvement — we'd love to hear from you. Your input directly shapes better travel experiences for all Australians.
Let's Plan Your Accessible Adventure
Our dedicated accessibility coordinator is ready to help plan your perfect accessible tour, holiday, or charter. Contact us to discuss your needs, ask questions, or book your inclusive travel experience.
Phone: Available on our contact page
Email: Available on our contact page
Office Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm AEST