A single step at your front door. A raised sliding door track. The entrance to a favourite café or a family member’s home. Small changes in height can become everyday barriers, making it harder to move freely between the places that are part of everyday life.
The right mobility ramp can help remove those barriers, but not all ramps are designed for the same purpose. Some provide installed, longer-term access around the home, while others are designed to travel with you—making it easier to visit friends and family, head away on holiday or navigate places where accessibility isn’t guaranteed.
Choosing the right wheelchair or mobility ramp starts with a few key considerations: where you’ll use it, the height you need to overcome, the space available, the mobility aid being used and whether you need an installed or portable solution.
In this guide, we’ll explain the different types of mobility ramps, where each one works best and what to consider before choosing one. We’ll also share practical insights from Occupational Therapist Anita Brown-Major and everyday examples to help you find a solution that suits your home, your lifestyle and the way you move through the world.
Because better accessibility isn’t just about getting through the front door—it’s about making more of everyday life accessible.
In this guide:
Understanding the different types of mobility ramps
Which features matter most to you?
How to measure for the right mobility ramp
How long does a wheelchair ramp need to be?
Meet the Q-assist Mobility Ramp range
Finding the right Q-assist ramp for everyday life
Where will you use your mobility ramp?
Before comparing different types of mobility ramps, it helps to think about where accessibility challenges occur most often. You might already have a particular step or doorway in mind, but taking a moment to look at your daily routine, or that of your loved ones, can help you choose a solution that works not just for today, but for the long term.
Start by thinking about the places where a change in height makes moving around more difficult. This could be:
- The step at your front or back door.
- A raised sliding door track between your home and outdoor area.
- A garage or laundry entrance.
- One or two steps leading into the garden or on/off a deck.
- Getting a wheelchair or mobility scooter into the car.
- Visiting family and friends.
- Holiday accommodation or caravan parks.
- Community spaces such as cafés, sporting clubs or medical appointments.
Once you’ve identified where better access is needed, the next step is thinking about the person who will use the ramp and the features they need in a ramp.
Consider who will use the ramp
A ramp that works well for one person may not suit another. Someone using a manual wheelchair, mobility scooter or walking frame will have different requirements, as will a carer assisting someone on the ramp.
Think about the mobility aid being used, the combined weight of the person and equipment, how often the ramp will be used and whether assistance is usually available. It’s also worth considering whether the need is temporary, such as during recovery from surgery or injury, or part of a longer-term accessibility solution.
With the person and the access point in mind, you can start to narrow down the type of ramp that may suit.
Understanding the different types of mobility ramps
Mobility ramps generally fall into two groups: installed ramps for regular access and portable ramps that can move between locations. Within those groups, different designs suit different changes in height and ways of using the space.
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Step RampsStep ramps provide installed access over a step and are particularly useful at regularly used entrances. |
Threshold RampsThreshold ramps are designed to bridge small changes in height, such as raised door thresholds, sliding door tracks or smaller transitions between rooms. |
Portable Folding Wheelchair RampsPortable folding wheelchair ramps are designed for flexibility. They can be used around the home when needed, then folded away or transported to other locations. They’re particularly useful for renters, people who travel regularly or anyone who wants an access solution they can take with them when visiting friends, family or community spaces. |
Portable Telescopic Wheelchair RampsPortable Telescopic Wheelchair Ramps consist of two lightweight channels that extend for use and retract for compact transport and storage. Because they’re compact and easy to carry, they’re well suited to people who regularly transport a wheelchair in a vehicle and need a portable access solution for one or two steps. |
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Which features matter most to you?
Once you’ve identified the type of mobility ramp you need, it’s time to think about the features that will make it the right fit for your home and lifestyle. While every situation is different, there are a few key considerations that can help narrow down your options.
Adjustable height
Not every step is the same height. Adjustable step ramps can be customised to create a better fit, helping provide a smoother transition over one step. They’re a practical option if you have an uneven or non-standard step height.
Portability
If you’ll be using your ramp in more than one place, portability is worth considering. Folding and telescopic ramps are designed to be transported easily, making them ideal for visiting family and friends, travelling and everyday trips out of home. When looking at the portability of a ramp check the:
- Product weight: Can you or the person assisting you comfortably move it?
- Set-up: Is the folding or telescopic mechanism practical for you to operate?
- Carrying: Does it have handles or a carry bag?
- Storage: How much room does it take up when stored, and where will you keep it?
Weight capacity
It’s important to choose a ramp that safely supports both the user and their mobility aid. If you use a power wheelchair or mobility scooter, remember these can weigh considerably more than a manual wheelchair. Always check the ramp’s maximum weight capacity before purchasing.
Ramp width
Ramp width needs to accommodate the mobility aid being used. On some wider ramps, there may also be room for a support person to walk alongside where assistance is required.
Surface grip
Look for a ramp with a non-slip surface designed to provide traction in both wet and dry conditions. This can help improve confidence and safety when entering or leaving your home, particularly in outdoor environments where weather conditions can vary.
Guard rails
Guard rails (also called raised side edges) are designed to reduce the risk of accidentally rolling off the edge of a ramp. While they don’t replace safe use, they provide an additional physical edge along the sides of the ramp, which may be particularly useful for people who use their ramp independently or are building confidence navigating changes in level with a mobility aid.
Visual safety features
For people with low vision or reduced depth perception, high-contrast edge markings can make a significant difference. These visual indicators help define the edges of the ramp, making it easier to identify where the ramp begins and ends in different lighting conditions.
Australian Standards
Australian Standards can provide important requirements and guidance around accessible design, ramp gradients, construction and product performance. The relevant standard depends on the type of ramp and how it will be used.
Within the Q-assist range, the installed Step and Threshold Ramps are designed to meet the applicable requirements of AS 1428.1, while the Portable Folding and Telescopic Wheelchair Ramps meet AS 3856.
When comparing ramps, check the product information for its applicable Australian Standard, maximum weight capacity, recommended gradient and installation or safe-use instructions.
How to measure for the right mobility ramp
Choosing the right mobility ramp starts with accurate measurements. The height of a step or threshold, the space available and the gradient required all influence which type and length of ramp will be suitable.
Before choosing a ramp, there are three key measurements to take:
- Total rise: Measure vertically from the ground or lower surface to the top of the step, threshold or landing. This is the height the ramp needs to overcome.
- Available space: Measure the clear space available for the ramp to extend out from the step or threshold, including enough room to approach and move away from the ramp.
- Width: Measure the access point to make sure there is enough width for the ramp and the mobility aid being used.
How long does a wheelchair ramp need to be?
Once you know the total rise, you can work out the ramp length required using the appropriate gradient.
A ramp gradient describes the relationship between its height and length. For example, a 1:10 gradient means that for every 1mm of vertical rise, 10mm of ramp length is required.
The gradient required under Australian Standards depends on the type of ramp:
- Step Ramps – 1:10: multiply the rise by 10.
- Threshold Ramps – 1:8: multiply the rise by 8.
- Portable Ramps – 1:6: multiply the rise by 6.
So, if you have a 90mm-high step and need a Step Ramp:
90mm rise × 10 = 900mm ramp length
For a 150mm rise where a Portable Ramp is suitable:
150mm rise × 6 = 900mm ramp length
And for a 300mm rise:
300mm rise × 6 = 1800mm ramp length
The important thing to remember is: as the height you need to overcome increases, the ramp needs to become longer to maintain the required gradient.
Always check your measurements against the specifications and Safe Use Instructions for the individual ramp before purchasing, and if unsure, check with your Occupational Therapist.
See How It’s Done
Measuring is easier when you can see the process in action. Here we demonstrate how to measure an access point and use the gradient to determine the ramp length you need.
Meet the Q-assist Mobility Ramp range
With your measurements in hand, you can now compare them with the specifications of the Q-assist ramp range.
Threshold & Step Ramps
Designed for longer-term access around the home, Q-assist Threshold and Step Ramps provide solutions for small doorway transitions through to single steps at frequently used entrances.
All Q-assist Threshold and Step Ramps meet Australian Standard AS 1428.1.
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| Product Name | Ramp Type | Length × Width | For Rises Between | Weight Rating | Key Features | Where to Use | Suitable Mobility Aids |
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| Q-assist 19mm Single Sided Aluminium Threshold Plate | Threshold | 150mm × 1000mm* | – | – | Low-profile aluminium threshold plate; fixings included; cut to size or join multiple lengths together; turn into a two-way threshold | Small internal or external thresholds and doorway transitions, such as differences between flooring types | Manual and motorised wheelchairs, mobility scooters and walkers or walking frames |
| Q-assist 280mm Solid Aluminium Threshold Ramp | Threshold | 280mm × 815mm | 10mm – 35mm high | 360kg | Non-slip surface; fixings included; turn into a two-way threshold | Internal or external thresholds and small changes in level | Manual and motorised wheelchairs, mobility scooters and walkers or walking frames |
| Q-assist 360mm Compact Step Ramp | Step | 360mm × 1000mm | 30mm – 75mm high | 360kg | Non-slip surface; kerb rails; fixings included; high visibility tape; extra-wide ramp to fit mobility aid and assistant alongside | Single steps at entrances and other frequently used internal or external access points such as thresholds and kerbs | Manual and motorised wheelchairs, mobility scooters and walkers or walking frames |
| Q-assist 900mm Adjustable Step Ramp | Step | 900mm × 1000mm | 75mm – 180mm high | 360kg | Adjustable height; non-slip surface; kerb rails; fixings included; high visibility tape; extra-wide ramp to fit mobility aid and assistant alongside | Higher single steps at front or rear entrances, garages, patios, decks and around the home and in the garden | Manual and motorised wheelchairs, mobility scooters and walkers or walking frames |
Portable Ramps
For accessibility that needs to move with you, Q-assist Portable Ramps are designed for use both in and out of the home. All Q-assist’s portable wheelchair ramps meet Australian Standard AS 3856 and have been independently tested to meet strict safety criteria.
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| Product Name | Ramp Type | Length × Width | For Rises Between | Weight Rating | Product Weight | Key Features | Where to Use | Suitable Mobility Aids |
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| Q-assist 900mm Portable Folding Wheelchair Ramp | Portable Folding | 900mm × 750mm | 15mm – 150mm high | 400kg | 11kg | Folding design; non-slip surface; kerb rails; carry bag with handle; high-contrast markings | Home, thresholds, single and multiple steps, community access, visiting family and friends, holidays and travel | Manual and motorised wheelchairs, mobility scooters and walkers or walking frames |
| Q-assist 1800mm Portable Folding Wheelchair Ramp | Portable Folding | 1800mm × 750mm | 15mm – 300mm high | 400kg | 14kg | Longer folding design; non-slip surface; kerb rails; carry bag with handle; high-contrast markings | Larger changes in height at home or away, steps, vehicle access, community access, holidays and travel | Manual and motorised wheelchairs, mobility scooters and walkers or walking frames |
| Q-assist 1525mm Telescopic Wheelchair Ramp | Portable Telescopic | 1525mm × 200mm each | 15mm – 254mm high | 300kg | 6kg | Two telescopic channels, 200mm wide each; compact for transport and storage; non-slip surface; kerb rails; carry bag with handle | Thresholds, single or multiple steps, and vehicle access as well as community access, holidays and travel | Wheelchairs only |
Finding the right Q-assist ramp for everyday life
The tables above make it easier to compare the specifications, but choosing the right ramp is also about how it fits into everyday life. The same access challenge can mean something very different depending on the person, where they need to go and how often they need to get there.
Here are a few everyday scenarios that show how different Q-assist ramps could help make the places that matter more accessible.
Margaret wants to enjoy her patio again
At 78, Margaret uses a walker around her home but finds the raised threshold between her living room and patio difficult to navigate. She wants to be able to move between the two spaces more easily without needing assistance each time.
The Q-assist Solid Aluminium Threshold Ramp creates a smoother transition over small changes in level like this, helping Margaret continue enjoying both her indoor and outdoor spaces.
Q-assist option to consider: Solid Aluminium Threshold Ramp
Peter wants an easier way into his own home
Peter, 71, uses a mobility scooter for longer distances. There’s one step between his garage and the house, and because he uses this entrance several times a day, setting up a portable ramp each time isn’t practical.
A Q-assist Adjustable Step Ramp can remain in place, giving Peter a more convenient way to navigate an entrance that’s part of his everyday routine.
Depending on the height of the step, Q-assist offers 360mm Compact and 900mm Adjustable Step Ramp options.
Q-assist options to consider: Compact or Adjustable Step Ramp
Watch Occupational Therapist Anita Brown-Major demonstrate the Q-assist Adjustable 900mm Step Ramp:
John wants to keep visiting his grandchildren
John, 74, uses a mobility scooter and has good access around his own home, but his daughter’s front entrance has a single step. He visits most weekends and doesn’t want his family to make changes to their home just for his visits.
A Q-assist Portable Folding Wheelchair Ramp can travel with John, giving him a practical way to overcome suitable access barriers when he’s away from home. Available in 900mm and 1800mm lengths, both models fold for transport and have a 400kg maximum weight capacity.
Q-assist solution: 900mm or 1800mm Portable Folding Wheelchair Ramp
Watch Occupational Therapist Anita Brown-Major demonstrate the Q-assist 900mm Portable Folding Wheelchair Ramp:
Sarah’s mobility needs are temporary, but her front step isn’t
Sarah, 46, is recovering from surgery and temporarily using a wheelchair while her mobility needs change. Her home normally works well for her, but suddenly the step at the front entrance has become an obstacle.
A Q-assist Portable Folding Wheelchair Ramp can provide access while Sarah recovers, without requiring a permanent change to a home that may not need one in the long term.
Q-assist option to consider: Portable Folding Wheelchair Ramp
Alex needs an accessibility solution that fits his rental
Alex, 32, uses a manual wheelchair and rents an apartment with a small change in level at the entrance. He wants better access but also needs a solution that suits the temporary nature of renting.
Depending on the height and available space, a Q-assist Portable Folding Ramp or Threshold Ramp may provide the flexibility he needs without assuming that major modifications are required.
Q-assist option to consider: Threshold Ramp or Portable Folding Wheelchair Ramp
David needs a ramp that doesn’t take over the boot
David, 59, uses a manual wheelchair and regularly travels with his partner. With luggage and a wheelchair already competing for space in the car, carrying a large ramp isn’t always practical.
The Q-assist 1525mm Telescopic Wheelchair Ramp retracts into two compact channels for transport, giving David a portable option for compatible wheelchair access when he’s away from home.
Q-assist option to consider: 1525mm Telescopic Wheelchair Ramp
Watch Occupational Therapist Anita Brown-Major demonstrate the Q-assist Telescopic Wheelchair Ramp
Different people. Different places. Different solutions.
Accessibility isn’t one-size-fits-all. The right solution starts with the person, the places that matter to them and the way they want to move through everyday life.
At Q-assist, that’s what we mean by “making accessibility accessible” — practical products, straightforward information and solutions designed around everyday life.
Q-assist mobility ramps are available nationally through Bunnings Warehouse, both in-store and online.
NDIS participant? Bunnings can provide proforma invoicing for Q-assist products where applicable. Find out how to do this with Bunnings here.
Frequently asked questions
Q: How do I choose the right wheelchair ramp?
Start by considering where the ramp will be used, the height it needs to overcome, the available space, the mobility aid being used and whether you need an installed or portable solution. Our guide to the different types of mobility ramps can help you narrow down the most suitable type before comparing individual product specifications.
Q: How long does a wheelchair ramp need to be?
The required length depends on the vertical rise and the appropriate gradient. For example, a 90mm rise at a 1:10 gradient requires approximately 900mm of ramp length. See how to measure for the right mobility ramp for measurements, calculations and examples.
Q: What gradient should a wheelchair ramp be in Australia?
There isn’t one gradient that applies to every wheelchair ramp. The appropriate gradient depends on the type of ramp. Step Ramps use 1:10, Threshold Ramps 1:8 and Portable Ramps 1:6 within their specified loaded-height ranges. Learn more about slope gradients for wheelchair ramps and mobility ramps.
Q: Can I use a portable wheelchair ramp at home?
Yes. A portable wheelchair ramp can be used at home where a suitable temporary or flexible access solution is needed. For an entrance used frequently, an installed Step or Threshold Ramp may be more practical. See our portable wheelchair ramp options to compare the Q-assist range.
Q: What’s the difference between a threshold ramp, step ramp and portable wheelchair ramp?
A Threshold Ramp is designed for small changes in height such as doorways and raised thresholds. A Step Ramp provides installed access over a suitable single step. A Portable Wheelchair Ramp can be moved between locations, making it useful when accessibility needs to travel with you. See the different types of mobility ramps for a more detailed explanation.