Bayside businesses will have support to open their doors to more customers, with help from our new Business Accessibility Grants program.
The program aims to assist eligible businesses to create more accessible and welcoming spaces for everyone, including people living with disabilities, seniors, families using prams and shoppers with trolleys.
We will provide funding of up to $1,000 for portable ramps and match up to $10,000 for minor physical access improvements such as installing permanent ramps, upgrading restrooms, widening doorways and ensuring clear pathways.
Bayside businesses will need to meet eligibility criteria which adheres to our Business Accessibility Grants guidelines.
Participating businesses will display the Accessible Bayside sticker, helping customers to easily identify inclusive spaces.
How the grants work
There are two streams for our Business Accessibility Grants program, available for the 2026 - 2027 financial year. These are:
Portable ramps: (Grant amount - up to $1,000)
This stream would assist physical access needs, providing safe and convenient movement for wheelchair and mobility scooter users to navigate steps, as well as improved access for the ageing population and families using strollers.
- Eligible items include portable ramps and storage options.
- Eligible businesses would be assessed for suitability, and the most appropriate ramp. Council's preferred ramp provider would undertake an assessment of the building and provide recommendations.
Portable ramps will be put in place and removed to support individual access as required.
Minor physical access upgrades: (Grant amount - up to $10,000)
This stream would contribute towards minor physical access improvements for businesses, with a focus on doorways and bathroom accessibility.
- Eligible items include installation of accessible doorways, replacing shelving to improve movement inside, grab rails and accessible tapware.
- Tenants may require the building owner to approve upgrades. Costs for upgrades can vary, so co-payments are limited to $10,000 per application.
- A self-assessment tool provided by Council must be completed and submitted with each application.
Participating businesses will display the Accessible Bayside sticker, helping customers to easily identify inclusive spaces.
By making accessibility a priority, Bayside businesses contribute to a more vibrant, diverse and connected community.
