Qantas taken to Federal Court after refusing to let assistance dog on flight

Rachael Fullerton can’t imagine travelling without her assistance dog, Strike.

Ms Fullerton, who lives with multiple disabilities, said her faithful border collie has helped her reach unprecedented levels of independence since he came into her life a few years ago.

PIAC senior solicitor Sheetal Balakrishnan said Ms Fullerton could not fly without Strike, as he is trained and essential to alleviating the impact of her disabilities, and for Qantas not to allow this was discrimination.

“People with disabilities shouldn’t have to fight … to get fair treatment,” she said.

Watch the TV news story (2 minutes) or listen to the radio story  (3minutes)

Share this article

Wins

Towards Truth is a partnership between PIAC and UNSW Indigenous Law Centre.
Former disability discrimination commissioner Graeme Innes settled a dispute over a 'humiliating and distressing' experience.
We secured a settlement for our client Yasir* who alleges he was forced to wear handcuffs to access healthcare.

Keep up to date with our work

Subscribe for updates including media coverage, event invitations and progress stories. You will hear from us about twice a month.