Changing Places changes lives

Published on 12 December 2019

The final touches are being added to the latest addition to the all abilities infrastructure along the Yarrawonga Foreshore – a Changing Places facility, one of only 123 Australia wide.

Deputy Mayor Peter Lawless said the Changing Places model was considered a best practice public amenities structure, which caters for people with severe and profound disabilities.
“This fantastic new facility was supported with a grant of $100,000 from the Victorian Government’s Department of Health and Human Services,” Cr Lawless said.

“It includes a toilet, a height adjustable adult change table and a tracking hoist system.
“Facilities such as these make a fun day out possible for families with severely disabled children or adults – they won’t have to go home early because they need to change, and carers don’t have to strain or struggle when toileting is needed.

“Changing Places will enhance the Yarrawonga Foreshore in its accessibility – laying adjacent to the all abilities playground and barbecue area and disabled parking bays – and provide the final piece in the puzzle by enabling people with a disability to engage and participate fully in society.”

Cr Lawless said all too often people with a disability may experience restricted access to social and cultural events and opportunities because of the inaccessible nature of most toilet facilities, even ones designed for ‘all abilities’.
“Changing Places facilities provide suitable toilets and spaces for people who cannot use standard accessible toilets,” he said.
“They allow people with high support needs to enjoy the day to day activities many of us take for granted.
“This may include people with an acquired brain injury, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, spina bifida, motor neurone disease and their carers.

“Changing Places facilities give people the freedom to live a life with more choices.”