Latrobe City Council has opened a brand-new Changing Places accessible toilet and change room facility in Apex Park, Moe. This will become the third facility of its kind in Latrobe City, with Changing Places facilities available at the Traralgon Library and Service Centre and the Gippsland Regional Aquatic Centre.
A Changing Places facility provides the necessary facilities for people who cannot use standard accessible toilets. They enable people with high support needs to take part in the community, from work and study to cultural and recreational activities.
Mayor of Latrobe City Council, Councillor Darren Howe, said that building facilities in the community that are welcoming and inclusive underpins Council’s values, and goals of the Public Toilet Plan.
“It is our priority to provide well-maintained public toilet facilities that are accessible, safe and sustainable for the whole community,” said the Mayor.
“Apex Park is a much-loved destination for local families and visitors to the region, and this facility will allow more people to spend quality time there which will help to enhance community health and connection.”
West Ward Councillor, Sharon Gibson said she was delighted to see the opening of the Changing Places facility.
“The new Changing Places facility in Moe will enable people with a disability to access public toilet facilities when out enjoying our town. It will also ensure dignity for all members of our community.”
Changing Places facilities can be accessed 24/7 and usually include: a height-adjustable adult-sized change table, a constant-charging ceiling track hoist system and a peninsula toilet with space for two people either side.
The facility must be opened with a Master Locksmiths Access Key (MLAK). A MLAK key can be accessed 24/7 at the Moe Police Station or Council’s Moe Service Centre during opening hours.
Eligible people who wish to purchase an MLAK can do so via Master Locksmiths at https://masterlocksmiths.com.au/mlak-order-form/; whilst those that hold a Victorian Companion Card may be entitled to one free MLAK key through partnership with the Victorian Government.
There are now 116 Changing Places in Victoria out of 259 nationally.
The total project cost was $260,000 with $110,000 contributed from the State Government’s Department of Fairness, Families and Housing and the remaining $150,000 funded by Latrobe City Council.
To find existing Changing Places locations, visit https://changingplaces.org.au/find
To read more information about Council’s Public Toilet Plan, visit: https://www.latrobe.vic.gov.au/Property/Development/Projects/Recreation_and_Open_Space/Plans_and_Strategies