About AuSAP
AuSAP is the first global assessment program for vehicle restraint systems used by people with disabilities and medical conditions
The story of AuSAP
The origins of this program started over a decade ago when Helen Lindner, MACA’s Chief Executive, initiated a project to assess the special purpose car seats available in Victoria in 2013, when working with VicRoads, the Victorian road agency. At the time, this work informed government funding and prescribing practices for Victorian allied health professionals. It also provided the first example of independent assessment of special purpose car seats - no program globally had independently reviewed these products before.
AuSAP today
Helen founded MACA in 2019 in response to the significant gaps in research, policy, practice and products, impacting on the rights of people with disabilities and medical conditions to safe transport.
The establishment of an independent safety assessment program, building on the earlier Victorian project, was seen as critical to advancing MACA's vision.
In 2020 MACA received establishment funding from the Victorian Transport Accident Commission in July 2020, and AuSAP was born.
Today, this world leading program draws on the contributions of generous stakeholders and experts, across sectors and countries, committed to achieving MACA's vision of ensuring every person has access to safe and equitable transport.
Aims
AuSAP is a key initiative of our organisation, advancing its vision of ensuring every person has access to safe and equitable transport.
The aims of the program are broad, recognising that a whole-of-system approach is needed to improve safe transport for people with disabilities.
Uphold rights
Uphold the rights of people with disabilities to safe and equitable motor vehicle transport
Improve knowledge
Improve knowledge of the safety and performance of specialty vehicle restraint systems and accessories
Influence safety
Influence the design and safety of specialty vehicle restraint systems and accessories
Expand options
Expand safe vehicle restraint options
Support prescribers
Support allied health professionals in their prescribing role
