Media releases

World-class research by Federation University Australia is helping improve bus safety and accessibility for passengers using wheelchairs and mobility devices. 

The University has today welcomed the Victorian Government’s announcement of a first phase roll-out of wheelchair containment and restraint systems in up-to 30 metropolitan buses, which will create a more independent, comfortable, and reliable journey for passengers. 

It follows two years of research by Federation into the most appropriate and effective wheelchair containment and restraint systems, using 3D modelling and real-world testing, with sensors mounted on buses in metropolitan Melbourne, Gippsland, Geelong and the Mount Dandenong area. 

The safety system allows passengers to position themselves within the allocated space within buses without intervention from the driver. 

The research brought together health and engineering expertise led by Federation’s Professor of Occupational Therapy Carolyn Unsworth and Mechatronics Senior Lecturer, Dr Gayan Kahandawa who tested varying driving conditions and scenarios like unexpected harsh braking and sharp corners. 

It was shown the systems reduced the risk of mobility devices sliding and tipping, improving safety and stability for passengers. 

This research and roll-out will help inform the Victorian Government about future use of wheelchair containment and restraint systems. 

Quote attributable to Federation University Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation) Professor Chris Hutchison 

“Federation University is bringing together world-class research expertise from across disciplines to find solutions that will make a real difference to people’s lives and enhance communities.” 

Quote attributable to Federation University Occupational Therapy Professor Carolyn Unsworth 

“This innovative research seeks to improve the independence, safety and comfort of people who use mobility devices and who rely on our public transport network to be able to access the community.”  

Quote attributable to Federation University Mechatronics Senior Lecturer, Dr Gayan Kahandawa 

“Using 3D modelling as well as real world testing, we have documented and tested the movement patterns of people in their mobility devices when travelling in buses to identify an optimal solution to promote safe travel.”