Meet Simba the Guide Dog who is welcome everywhere you are.

At REA, the diverse lived experiences of our people help us shape better outcomes for our customers and consumers.

This starts with access.

We're committed to shaping a workplace where people who live with disability have equitable access to opportunity, and the tools and resources they need to be successful.

Associate Quality Analyst, Chris Gould has been with REA for more than three years' now, and brings with him his Guide Dog, Simba, who we're recognising today for International Guide Dog Day.

2021 Guide Dogs Australia, Guide Dog Handlers Surveyresearch shows, Guide Dog Handlers still regularly face discrimination when trying to navigate the world with their Guide Dog. The confusion between rules for domestic pets and Guide Dogs or service animals has seen 1/3 of Guide Dog Handlers denied access to public spaces over the course of 12 months, as well as being refused by almost every second taxi or rideshare driver.

Guide Dogs Australia's message for International Guide Dog Day is this: "Wherever you can go, Guide Dogs can go too."

From cafes to the movies, taxis and Ubers to open-homes, doctors appointments to gyms, Guide Dogs are welcome and are vital for the freedom and independence of their Hander.

Learn how Simba supports Chris to navigate his life:

What types of things does Simba help you with?

Simba is incredibly skilled at guiding me in dark environments, like my nighttime walk home from the train station. He expertly navigates around any obstacles, even when people park on the footpath. Beyond that, he assists in locating doors, curbs, elevators, stairs, and objects like bollards. Unlike a cane, he can anticipate and plan our route.

Why is Simba so important to your independence?

Simba is crucial to my independence because he mitigates the overwhelming nature of navigating crowded or stimulating environments, such as airports. Instead of scanning for hazards myself, he takes on that work, allowing me to concentrate on one task at a time. This enables me to retain my autonomy, where I might otherwise avoid these situations or require human assistance.

How can people accommodate a Guide Dog in the office or in their homes?

To accommodate a guide dog, provide a safe, food-free space for it to rest when not working. Also, ensure children are supervised around the dog. Remember, a guide dog may eat anything left accessible, and a sick guide dog can't perform its essential duties.

Have you faced any discrimination in the past when trying to get around with Simba?

Yes, I've faced discrimination numerous times, often due to a lack of awareness of the law. Usually, a peaceful discussion resolves these issues. However, when it doesn't, it's important to report the incident to the guide dog provider or Blind Citizens Australia. Persistent problems with services like taxis and Ubers should be publicly addressed to raise awareness and combat guide dog discrimination.

What would you like people to know about engaging with a Guide Dog?

Always ask the handler's permission before engaging with a Guide Dog, whether it's harnessed or not. Do not distract the dog when it's working, as this can put the dog and the handler in danger. Distraction includes making noises that might attract the dog's attention.

How can people speak with kids about the differences between Guide Dogs and domestic pets?

Explain to kids that all dogs serve a purpose, from companionship to assisting with mobility - thats why they are amazing. Guide Dogs just follow special rules to protect their safety and their handler's. It's important to never pat a dog without the owner's permission, regardless of whether it is a working dog or not.

You can learn more about welcoming people with low vision or blindness in this handy guide, and read about access for Guide Dogs and their Handlers on the Guide Dogs Australia website.

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