About AuSAP
AuSAP is the first global assessment program for vehicle restraint systems used by children 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 children 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.
The program has established itself as world leading, with potential for global impact. It draws on the contributions of generous stakeholders and experts, across sectors and countries, committed to achieving the vision of zero deaths and serious injuries on our roads.
Aims
AuSAP is key enabler to MACA achieving its vision - contributing to rapidly increasing our knowledge and understanding of the prescribing practices, safety and performance of the vehicle restraint types used by children with disabilities and medical conditions.
Due to the size and complexity of the challenge, the aims of the program are broad, ambitious and regularly reviewed in response to new research and learnings.
Improve knowledge
Our goal is to improve knowledge and raise awareness of the motor vehicle transport needs of children with disabilities and medical conditions
Uphold rights
We uphold the rights of children with disabilities to safe and equitable motor vehicle transport
Influence safety
AuSAP aims to influence the design and safety of vehicle restraint systems
Expand options
AuSAP aims to expand safe vehicle restraint options for children with disabilities and medical conditions
Support health professionals
AuSAP aims to support allied health professionals in their assessing and prescribing role
