26 June 2019 - Media release

Echuca’s new Changing Places Facility was officially opened by the Minister for disability, ageing and carers, Luke Donnellan today. This state of the art facility will support the needs of people with disabilities as well as carers, service providers and visitors.

Campaspe Shire Mayor, Cr Adrian Weston said the facility is part of the Changing Places project which is seeing facilities built across Australia to meet the needs of people with severe and profound disabilities.

“The facility is more than an accessible toilet and has been built to a set of guidelines and specifications which ensures it has all the necessary features to comfortably change an adult. This includes enough space for two carers, height adjustable change tables, a tracking hoist system, shower and toilet, in a safe and clean environment,” Cr Weston said.

“It will break down social exclusion by improving the ability of people with severe disability to more fully participate in their community,” Cr Weston said.

The project has been funded by a grant from the state government of $100,000, to which council has added a further $80,000.

Located in the Echuca High Street car park, the area was selected due to its central location, close to the central business district and shops, with suitable parking as well as being a short distance from the port precinct.

Facilities are easily located through the Changing Places website. Users have access 24/7 and are provided with a MLAK key which accesses all similar facilities across the country.

Application forms for the MLAK key system to access the facility can be found on council’s website and are also available in hard copy from all customer service centres. More information on accessing the Changing Places facility can be found on council’s website.

“Changing Places has opened up a life outside of the home for many people and the central location will support local disability service providers as well as visitors,” Cr Weston said.