Council is pleased to announce it has been successful in securing grant funding through the Australian Government's Changing Places initiative for the construction of an adult changing facility for use by people with significant physical disability for toileting and changing, situated at Sycamore Street Carpark.
Installed adjacent to the existing toilet block, the new Changing Places facility will provide access to a centrally located peninsula toilet with privacy screen, a constant-charging ceiling track hoist system, an accessible shower, a height-adjustable adult-sized change table and an automatic door.
Once complete, the new facility will be accessible via a Master Locksmiths Access Key (MLAK). MLAK keys can be used nationwide, allowing our local community, as well as visitors and travellers with accessibility requirements, to make use of the new facility.
Manager Community Development & Cultural Services Emma Di Muzio said the project was brought to Leeton Shire Council's Disability Inclusion Group for final checking prior to commencement of works.
"A Changing Places facility allows individuals with high support needs to take part in all elements of community life, without having to limit their time out due to concerns about being able to access a suitable toilet. Changing Places facilities provide suitable facilities for people who are not accommodated by standard accessible toilets.
"Discussion with our relevant stakeholders ensured the design and build of the facility will meet the needs of people with disability and their carers," she said.
Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth said this partnership with all levels of government is another example of Australia's Disability Strategy coming to life.
"This new Changing Places facility illustrates our shared commitment to breaking down barriers for people with disability to create a more equal society.
"Having access to Changing Places opens up the community and makes it easier for people with disability to get out and enjoy activities that many of us take for granted," Minister Rishworth said.
Mayor Cr Tony Reneker welcomed the news and acknowledged the Australian Government for their contribution.
"Council sincerely thanks the Australian Government for their assistance in bringing a new Changing Places facility to our community in Leeton. The funds are helping us to deliver an important project in Leeton's Disability Inclusion Action Plan," he said.
Council has allocated $220K for the new facilities in the 2024/25 Budget with the Commonwealth Department of Social Services (administered by the NSW Department of Communities and Justice through a Federation Funding Agreement) contributing 50% towards the build.
Delivery of the modular components and construction are expected to be completed in the latter half of 2024. Council will keep the community abreast of the project with further communications to be released as the project progresses.
