New Changing Place for Heathcote and Elmore

Safe and private: Changing Place facilities are designed to help people with severe and profound disabilities freshen up with the support of their carers. Photo: FILE

THE City of Greater Bendigo has commenced construction of a new $210,000 Changing Place in Heathcote and new $520,000 accessible public toilet facilities and a Changing Place in Elmore.

CoGB Property Manager Daniella McClure said the City is committed to providing accessible public toilet facilities and improving disability access across the Greater Bendigo community.

“A new Changing Place facility to serve the Heathcote and wider community is currently being constructed adjacent to the Barrack Reserve public toilets which were opened in 2019.

“There will be no closure of the existing public toilet facilities while the new changing place is being constructed,” Ms McClure said.

“The new Elmore public toilet facility will feature five unisex cubicles, two DDA compliant unisex cubicles and a Changing Place,” Ms McClure said.

“During construction portable toilets for use by the community and visitors to the township are available in the Elmore Miniature Railway carpark.

“Both projects have been funded by the City of Greater Bendigo with grants of $110,000 for Elmore, and $180,000 for Heathcote, from the Victorian Government.

“The Heathcote Changing Place is expected to be complete by July 2024 and Elmore is expected to be completed before the end of 2024.”

Changing Place facilities provide a secure, fully accessible public toilet with space on either side for carers.

They also feature a moveable ceiling hoist, adjustable height adult changing table, privacy curtain and a safe clean environment for people with severe and profound disabilities.

Changing Places allow people with disabilities to participate more fully in events without having to worry if there are suitable toilet facilities available.

Access is available 24 hours, seven days a week to holders of a Master Locksmiths Access Key.

The MLAK system is fitted in a wide range of locations throughout Australia.

People with a disability can purchase an MLAK master key which will open all public facilities fitted with this specially designed lock.

For more information visit masterlocksmiths.com.au/mlak.