The Andrews Labor Government is investing to ensure popular tourist destinations, community facilities and public spaces are more accessible for people living with disability.
Minister for Disability, Ageing and Carers Colin Brooks today announced the 2022 Changing Places funding round, providing $5.4 million to build 30 new fully accessible Changing Places facilities across the state.
More than 325,000 Victorians rely on these facilities when accessing popular destinations, parks and events. Expanding the network of changing places further cements Victoria's status as the nation's most accessible and inclusive state.
There are now 96 Changing Places in Victoria out of 213 nationally. Each one has a height-adjustable, adult-sized changing bench, a tracking hoist system and enough space for two people.
Funding of up to $180,000 is available to local governments and popular tourism destinations to build accessible restrooms with adult change tables and hoists.
The new grants round builds on $5 million already invested by the Government to build Changing Places facilities across Victoria.
Those who are Victorian Companion Card holders are also now eligible for a free Master Locksmith Access Key - a universal access key used to open Changing Places facilities.
The Labor Government is also investing $2.5 million in new Universal Design grants to improve the accessibility of community facilities and public spaces. Small grants up to $100,000 and large grants of up to $500,000 will go to building accessible infrastructure in existing facilities.
To find out more about the Universal design grants visit www.vic.gov.au/universal-design-funding-roundExternal Link To find out more, or apply for a Changing Places grant visit www.vic.gov.au/changing-places-funding-roundExternal Link
To find maps of popular tourist spots with Changing Places toilets and your closest facility visit changingplaces.org.auExternal Link
As stated by Minister for Disability, Ageing and Carers Colin Brooks
"We're ensuring that Victoria's most popular tourist destinations can be accessed and enjoyed by all people, no matter what your ability - that's why we're proud to support Changing Places."
"Small renovations to community facilities can make a very real difference. The Universal design grants will help improve access so that more people can get the best out of their day-to-day lives, without worrying about accessibility."
As stated by Victorian Disability Advisory Council Chair Dr George Taleporos
"We must do everything possible to support people with disability to fully participate in all aspects of our community."
"Making our state more accessible and inclusive with these grants is an important part of reaching that goal."
