The network of Changing Places across Western Australia is set to be expanded thanks to a $2 million McGowan Government election commitment.
Changing Places, or Accessible Adult Change facilities, are specialist bathroom facilities for people who cannot use a standard or accessible toilet. They are a dedicated, room-sized facility that includes a ceiling hoist, a height-adjustable, adult-sized change table and room for two carers to assist.
WA’s first Changing Places were installed in 2015 after it was identified that universal access toilets did not meet the needs of many people with a disability. Without access to suitable toilet and change room facilities many people with disability are unable to participate in everyday activities such as visiting their local shopping centre.
Since 2019, the National Construction Code has since 2019 required Accessible Adult Change facilities to be included in certain classes of public buildings including shopping centres, sport venues, museums, art galleries, theatres and airports.
There are now 34 Changing Places across WA, with 22 in metropolitan Perth and others in Broome, South Hedland, Geraldton, Moora, Guilderton, Toodyay, Chidlow, Meckering, Bunbury, Collie, Narrogin and Katanning.
The funding is expected to support the construction of an additional 10 to 15 Changing Places. Proposals for new Changing Places are being sought through a competitive expression of interest process.
Eligible proponents will include local government authorities and community not-for-profit groups.
Under a ‘sliding scale’ co-contribution arrangement, the State Government will contribute up to $170,000 for recommended regional applications and up to $150,000 for recommended applications in the Perth metropolitan area.
Successful applicants are expected to be announced in June 2022.
As stated by Disability Services Minister Don Punch:
“Changing Places have proven to be a very successful initiative in a just a few years – and this latest round of election commitment funding will enable Changing Places to become a more familiar part of the built environment across Western Australia.
“The expressions of interest process will allow consideration to be given to locating new Changing Places, so priority can be given to locations where usage is expected to be high.
“By improving amenities for people with disability, Changing Places provide increasing options for people with disability, their families and carers to travel, bolstering accessible tourism and in turn, economic development in the regions.”
