Author: Gwenda Darling, Assistance Dog Handler and Aged Care Advocate
My assistance dog Redleigh has been by my side through some of the hardest days of my life. Since being diagnosed with younger onset dementia in 2012, I’ve relied on Redleigh not just for guidance and safety, but for companionship, independence, and confidence.
Redleigh and I have been welcomed in places where I never imagined I would feel seen and included. He has accompanied me to Parliament House, sat beside me at government meetings, and joined me in countless public spaces as we appear together on boards and advocacy events. Everywhere we’ve gone, Redleigh has been accepted and treated as the essential support he is.
Yet, despite all this, transport remains a constant battle. Recently, a taxi driver refused to let Redleigh into the car. His reason? “Company policy.” In that moment, I felt vulnerable, frustrated, and shocked. How can a dog that is welcomed in Parliament House be denied access to a taxi? How can a person like me, who has fought for dignity, choice, and human rights for older Australians, be left stranded simply for needing my lifeline?
Redleigh isn’t a pet. He is my assistance dog, trained to support me as I navigate life with dementia. Without him, simple tasks—like attending appointments, visiting friends, or just getting home safely—become overwhelming, stressful, and unsafe. Denying him access isn’t just inconvenient; it undermines my independence, my safety, and my dignity.
I tell this story because it shouldn’t be happening. People with dementia, trauma survivors, and countless others rely on assistance animals every day. We deserve consistent access everywhere the law allows—including taxis, rideshares, and public transport.
Redleigh and I will continue to speak out. Access for assistance dogs is not negotiable—it’s a right. And until it is treated as such, I will keep sharing my story, because no one should be left behind simply for needing the support of a loyal, trained companion.
About the Author: Gwen is a dedicated member of the Aged Care Council of Elders, providing valuable insights to the government on aged care and promoting ageing well. With a career spanning over 50 years in both government and non-government organisations, Gwenda is a Palawa woman deeply committed to justice for Elders, particularly within the aged care system. Her extensive leadership roles include CEO of Anaiwan Aboriginal Land Council, Chairperson of Gandangarra Local Aboriginal Land Council, and Director of Hunter Aboriginal Children’s Services. Diagnosed in her late 50s with younger onset (behavioural-variant frontotemporal) dementia, Gwenda has become an advocate for dementia awareness and participates actively in research. Gwen lives independently at home with the support of her assistance dog, Redleigh, whom she trained under the auspices of the National Assistance Animal Training Group.