Indigo Shire will receive more than $356,000 to improve accessibility at a number of community buildings as well as build a changing places facility at Chiltern's Martin Park.
The Victorian Government has announced universal design grants to help ensure programs and services are accessible to as many people as possible inclusive of age, disability, gender identity, culture, and language.
In Indigo Shire, the following facilities will be upgraded:
- Rutherglen Maternal and Child Health Centre - $65,000
- Chiltern Senior Citizens Clubrooms - $85,500
- Rutherglen Senior Citizens Clubrooms - $26,200
Mayor, Bernard Gaffney said this much welcomed funding will support these ageing but heavily utilised buildings to be upgraded and accessible to all users, regardless of ability.
In addition, $180,000 has been allocated to build a changing places facility in Chiltern, providing the town with its first fully accessible restrooms.
Changing places provide suitable facilities for people who cannot use standard accessible toilets, allowing people with high support needs to fully take part in the community.
Cr Gaffney said this new facility at Chiltern will provide greater access to social and tourism opportunities for people with a disability, their families and carers.
"We were extremely fortunate to receive funding in the last round to build a changing places facility at Yackandandah's Sir Isaacs Park, and now with this latest funding announcement, we will have two of these important facilities in the Shire, making it even more attractive for locals and visitors".
"We are very grateful to see the state government taking access and inclusion seriously, particularly in regional Victoria."
He added, "Making Indigo Shire facilities accessible to everyone is a key priority of Council and aligns closely with our Disability Action Plan."
