- Perth Zoo to be added to growing network of WA locations with a dedicated, specialist bathroom facility
- Cook Government commits $154,800 to develop a Changing Places facility as part of ablution block upgrades to improve accessibility for visitors with disability
- International Changing Places Awareness Day (19 July) helps raise public awareness about these life-changing facilities
Perth Zoo is set to become even more accessible for visitors with disability with the addition of a new Changing Places facility, adding to the growing State-wide network of accessible bathroom facilities.
The Cook Government is contributing $154,800 to the Zoological Parks Authority to construct a dedicated, specialist bathroom facility located on the Main Lawn in the heart of the Zoo.
The new Changing Place facility forms part of the next exciting phase in the Perth Zoo Master Plan. This will include an overhead Primate Run where gibbons will traverse ropes high above visitors, and the development of new visitor amenities to complement the recently completed caf and playground.
The announcement comes as Western Australians celebrate International Changing Places Awareness Day (19 July), which helps raise public awareness of these life-changing facilities for people with disability.
Changing Places are for people who cannot use standard or accessible toilets and include a ceiling hoist, height-adjustable adult-sized change table and room for two carers to assist. They may also include a combined accessible shower facility and privacy screen to uphold the user's dignity.
The Changing Place at Perth Zoo will provide an opportunity for people with disability to extend their visit to the Zoo in comfort, safe in the knowledge that their needs will be catered for in a dignified and accessible manner. It is expected to be operational in late 2024 ahead of Perth Zoo's busy summer season.
This new facility forms part of the State Government's $2 million commitment to expand the network of Changing Places locations across WA in 2021.
As stated by Acting Disability Services Minister Tony Buti:
"Changing Places give people with disability the confidence to travel and enjoy time in the community with family and friends without worrying about access to appropriate facilities.
"The Cook Government is proud to provide a Changing Place facility at Perth Zoo to support visitors with disability and ensure they can relax and enjoy their time at this iconic location.
"Changing Places has proven to be a very successful initiative. Since 2021, we have committed to expanding the network of Changing Places locations across WA with an investment of $2 million."
As stated by Environment Minister Reece Whitby:
"Perth Zoo has long been a place for all in the community to gather and make memories and that's why it's important we continue providing amenities that can accommodate visitors of all abilities.
"This new Changing Places facility will enable those who need it to extend their visit and spend more time connecting with nature and enjoying wildlife within our inner-city oasis.
"As we move into the next phase of Perth Zoo's impressive Master Plan, which is supported by a $51.8 million investment from the Cook Government, I look forward to seeing these new facilities come to life as we continue to provide a great day out in nature for all Western Australians."
