About this project
Mobility is central to ageing well, enabling older South Australians to maintain independence, social participation, and access to essential services. However, the increasing digitalisation of transport systems – such as app-based ride-hailing, QR-coded ticketing, and online bookings – risks excluding older adults who often face challenges with access to technology, digital literacy, or affordability. In addition, digital-based transport services operate mainly in the cities, and are not adequately delivered in rural or remote areas.
In particular, segments of the older population – specifically those in rural areas, culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities, or low-income households – are vulnerable to digital exclusion and adversely affected. While digital systems can improve efficiency and cost effectiveness for users, their rollout without inclusive alternatives can lead to inequitable outcomes and reinforce car dependency, especially for these vulnerable groups.
This project directly addresses the “Getting Around” pillar of the Strategic Research Agenda for Ageing Well in South Australia, examining systemic factors that discourage equitable transport access and applying an equity lens to ensure that no groups are left behind in the transition to digital transport systems.
