Guide Dog Access Get to know your rights
Most Victorians are generous in providing open access for Guide Dogs. Unfortunately, there may be some instances where people don’t completely appreciate the important role Guide Dogs play for people with low vision. Alternatively, they may not be fully aware of their legal obligations.
It is important to be aware of your rights when travelling with a Guide Dog. It is also worth knowing the obligations of other people in the community.
Increased knowledge will benefit everyone by creating a safe and welcoming environment in shops, restaurants, vehicles, theatres and other public areas.
Access for Guide Dogs Legal obligations
In line with Victorian State Laws, a person with low vision accompanied by a Guide Dog is permitted to:
- Travel on any form of public transport, including taxis, buses, trams and trains
- Enter any public place
- Visit any theatre
- Eat in any restaurant
- Shop in any store (including supermarkets and food stores)
The only exceptions where a Guide Dog is not permitted are operating theatres, commercial kitchens and some parts of the zoo.
It is generally discriminatory and unlawful for anyone to attempt to deny these rights to a person with low vision, or treat that person less favourably, solely because he or she is accompanied by a Guide Dog.
These laws also apply to people training Guide Dogs and Guide Dog puppies.
Access for Guide Dogs Making a complaint
Taxi access: Guide Dogs are welcome in all Victorian taxis and hire vehicles. If you experience poor taxi or hire vehicle services, contact the Taxi Services Commission on 1800 638 802 or visit www.taxi.vic.gov.au to lodge a formal complaint. Your complaint can be taken via phone or in person if you have difficulty completing a form.
General access: If you have been denied access to a public area or transport service and were unable to self-resolve the issue with the proprietor, please contact us on 1800 804 805.
