Abstract

The transportation sector is increasingly recognized as a key domain for leveraging digital technologies that enable distributed data management, enhance transparency, and improve operational efficiency (Alhogail et al., 2024). Recent advances in digital technologies have positioned digital identity wallets as a key innovation in public transport systems. However, current research largely focuses on banking or general identification, with limited attention to transport-specific digital wallets designed for vulnerable populations, including older adults, persons with disabilities, and low-income individuals (Kjørven et al., 2026). To address this gap, this study examines the key determinants of inclusive mobility through digital identity wallets in public transport systems. A conceptual framework is developed by extending Social Inclusion Theory and Digital Divide Theory to assess whether digital identity wallets enhance accessibility, empowerment, and usability for vulnerable populations. The study adopts a mixed-methods approach in the Australian public transport context. Quantitative data will be collected through an online survey targeting vulnerable public transport passengers. Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) will be employed to test and validate the proposed conceptual framework and examine the relationships among the constructs. Qualitative data will be collected through semi-structured interviews with selected passengers to gain deeper insights into their experiences, perceived barriers, trust issues, and inclusion challenges. The findings will offer guidelines for developing privacy-preserving, accessible, and equitable transport services, along with evidence-based recommendations for urban planners, transit authorities, and policymakers. Theoretically, the research extends technology adoption, trust, and social inclusion theories to the context of digital identity wallets in urban transport, empirically validating an integrated framework tailored to vulnerable populations. Practically, it provides actionable recommendations for designing secure, accessible, and inclusive digital identity wallet systems that enhance mobility and participation for vulnerable populations in public transport environments.

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