The Hon Amanda Rishworth MP
Minister for Social Services
The Hon Erin Thompson MP
State Member for Davenport
The Albanese Labor Government is proud to be partnering with the South Australian Government and the City of Marion to have opened a new accessible changing place for people with disability today.
The Changing Places facility in Glenthorne National Park is the second of five in South Australia co-funded under the Government's $32.2 million Changing Places Initiative.
Changing Places facilities offer the highest level of accessibility to ensure people with disability with complex needs have access to safe, suitable, and specialised bathroom facilities in their community.
Opening the new facility today, Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth said the Albanese Government is committed to creating more inclusive communities for all Australians.
"Changing Places facilities are an important way we can design a more accessible Australia where people living with disability can fully participate," Minister Rishworth said.
"Connection to the natural environment is valuable for all members of our community. That's why we have built this new facility in a national park, in alignment with the Inclusive Homes and Communities Outcome of Australia's Disability Strategy 2021-2031.
"Accessibility and inclusion must be at the forefront when designing community spaces to avoid barriers before they arise, or else we risk excluding people with disability."
Member for Davenport, Erin Thompson echoed the importance of this work in the local community.
"Glenthorne National Park is a treasured part of our southern community, and this new Changing Places facility ensures that everyone, regardless of their accessibility needs, can enjoy it fully."
"This addition represents a meaningful step towards breaking down barriers and making sure all members of our community have the freedom to connect with nature and participate in outdoor activities with confidence and dignity."
This initiative is a joint investment between federal, state and local governments to ensure the facilities are appropriately located and managed to suit the community it is designed for.
Mayor for City of Marion, Krish Hanna reiterated the importance of creating quality accessible spaces.
"Marion Council built the state's best playground here at Glenthorne National Park and we're delighted to contribute to this Changing Places facility so that people with disabilities can enjoy the playground as they should."
All Changing Places facilities under the Initiative include:
- a height-adjustable adult-sized change table
- a constant-charging ceiling track hoist system
- a centrally-located peninsula toilet
- more circulation space than standard accessible toilets
- an automatic door with a clear opening of 950mm at minimum
- a privacy screen.
