Calls to fund Changing Places facilities
Published 09 October 2024
Mayor Peter Flannery said City of Moreton Bay is setting the standard for accessibility in South East Queensland and called for funding to deliver more Changing Places facilities.
“We are the first local government in Australia to adopt a dedicated Changing Places Network Plan to ensure that suitable facilities are available for people who can’t use standard accessible toilets.
“With the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games just around the corner, these facilities are a non-negotiable.
“Changing Places facilities literally change lives for people who need extra assistance to use public amenities, giving them the confidence and dignity to be more involved and engaged with their local communities.
“That’s why we’re calling on the next Queensland Government to recognise that Moreton Bay Matters and commit to building 10 new Changing Places facilities.
“This isn’t just optional, this is a necessity for our growing population and will give dignified, hygienic and safe access to public amenities for people with high support needs.
“We know that 7.1% of residents in City of Moreton Bay need assistance with day-to-day activities due to a disability, a long-term health condition or ageing.
“This number is much higher compared to the average for most neighbouring councils in Greater Brisbane, and across South East Queensland.
“We are committed to making our City the most accessible in South East Queensland and we’ve got the plan to make it happen, but we need support to fund these.
“The next State Government has the opportunity to step up and significantly boost access to Changing Places facilities through a commitment to our planned network.
“Council itself has already funded Changing Places facilities in three of our Council-owned facilities, and a further six are already planned for delivery in the coming years including three as part of the SEQ City Deal.
“These Changing Places facilities make City of Moreton Bay a more inclusive place to live, work and play.
“The next State Government has a real opportunity to boost inclusion across Queensland by expanding access to Changing Places facilities.
“This plan is the driving force, inspiring more facilities not just in Moreton Bay, but across Queensland and Australia—because everyone deserves to fully participate in their community.”
Queenslanders with Disability Network CEO Michelle Moss said it’s fantastic to see City of Moreton Bay leading the way.
“Council has laid the foundation with their Changing Places Network Plan, and I'm excited to see it lead to more Changing Places facilities being introduced across Moreton Bay and Queensland,” she said.
“This is a critical step toward creating more inclusive and accessible spaces for everyone in our community, and we’re proud to support Council in driving these positive changes.”
Changing Places facilities provide safe, equitable, and dignified access to public amenities for people with high support needs and their carers.
They contain specialised equipment such as:
- a height-adjustable adult change table
- a ceiling hoist
- a centrally-located toilet
- a privacy screen
- a shower (optional).
As one of Australia's fastest growing local government areas, City of Moreton Bay matters. We need our fair share of funding so we can future-proof our city and ensure it's a place where our community, economy, lifestyles and environment prosper together.
To find out more about City of Moreton Bay's Changing Places Network Plan, visit our website.