Council has secured an investment of more than $188,000 from the Albanese Government for a Changing Places facility at Weeroona Parade in Queenscliff, helping people with disability and high support needs enjoy the beach and spend time in our coastal community.
Federal Member for Corangamite Libby Coker announced the successful funding and said everyone should have the opportunity to enjoy Queenscliff and its beaches.
“This funding will make a real difference for people with disability and their families, giving more people the chance to spend a day at the beach without having to worry about whether the facilities they need will be available”, Libby Coker MP said.
Changing Places facilities provide accessible toilets and change rooms for people with high support needs who cannot use standard accessible toilets. They include a height-adjustable adult change table, a hoist and enough space for a wheelchair and two carers.
The Changing Places facility at Weeroona Parade will be portable, allowing Council to trial accessibility options as part of the proposed inclusive beach project. Unlike permanent facilities, the unit can be relocated if needed, giving Council the flexibility to review its location as the project progresses and move it in future if a more suitable site for all-abilities beach access is identified.
Borough of Queenscliffe Mayor Cr Donnie Grigau drew on his own experience as a carer and how facilities such as Changing Places are important.
“Having been a carer myself, I know how important facilities like Changing Places are. Something as simple as going out for the day can become incredibly difficult when the appropriate facilities aren’t available”.
Mayor Grigau went on to say, “This is a practical investment that will make a very real difference to people’s lives and help make Queenscliff a more accessible and welcoming place for everyone”.
This new accessible public change room and toilets will help more locals and visitors enjoy Queenscliff. The facility is expected to be completed in mid-2027.
Council will share further updates as this project progresses.
