We’re partnered with Guide Dogs WA to assist people who are blind or vision impaired to access a Guide Dog. Guide Dogs are approved under NDIS funding and you do not have to be totally blind in order to receive one. You are eligible to apply if you are:
- 16 years of age or older
- Legally blind
- A resident of Western Australia.
A Guide dog can provide you with the confidence to get around safely and enjoy mobility and independence to lead a more fulfilling life. They can reduce reliance on other people and empower you by:
- Helping to navigate around obstacles in your path
- Stopping when there’s a change in surface level, such as a kerb or set of stairs
- Locating doors, seats and pedestrian buttons at traffic lights
- Locating destinations you use regularly, such as the shops, cafes and restaurants.
- Use public transport with confidence.
Assessment process
Upon completion of an application form, a Guide Dog Mobility Instructor will contact you to discuss your needs and to find out more about your vision impairment and lifestyle. Following this, a suitable dog will be matched to you, based on your individual needs. A 3-4 week intensive training course will begin to provide the best chance of success with your new dog.
More information about the Guide Dog program, including how to apply is available on the Guide Dogs WA (link opens in new window) website.
Guide Dogs are not suitable for everybody, but if you require assistance in getting around safely, our team of Orientation and Mobility specialists can provide support and training and provide information about white canes or other mobility aids.