New Changing Places facility opened in Pakenham
Cardinia Shire Council celebrates the installation and opening of a new Changing Places facility in Barring-buluk Park located near the Pakenham Main Street Train Station.
Pakenham’s new Changing Places facility is built larger than standard accessible public bathrooms for people with high support needs and disabilities to use. This facility has been designed to enable people with a disability to engage in all areas of community life.
The Changing Places facility features an accessible toilet, hoist, adult changing table, shower, handrails and are further supported by the disability-friendly seating, mobility device charging points, accessible barbecues and drinking fountains available within the park.
Delivered by the Victorian Government’s Level Crossing Removal Program and funded through the 2023 Changing Places Grant, these facilities are helping to create a more accessible Pakenham that is in line with Council’s vision to enhance Pakenham’s liveability, access and inclusion.
Council’s Access and Inclusion Advisory Committee strongly advocated for a Changing Places facility to be installed in Pakenham as part of the Level Crossing Removal Program (LXRP) consultations. This Committee has continued to work closely with LXRP to see accessible features and amenities be delivered throughout the Barring-buluk park precinct.
Cardinia Shire Council Mayor Cr Jack Kowarzik, Henty Ward Councillor Liz Roberts, Council CEO Carol Jeffs and Advisory Committee members were joined by Emma Vulin MP and the Hon. Lizzie Blandthorn, Minister for Disability on Wednesday 26 March to officially open the new facilities.
“By 2030, we expect that more than 8,000 residents with a disability will call Cardinia Shire home. We’re planning to meet community needs now and into the future and continue to support carers and families to feel comfortable in public places.” Mayor Kowarzik said.
“When public facilities and open spaces are accessible, we empower all people to participate in all elements of community life that many of us take for granted. Without ‘Changing Places’ facilities, many people living with disability are unable to fully immerse themselves in the community, not by choice, but because of a lack of suitable public facilities.”
“I’m so pleased to see this essential facility delivered for the Pakenham community.” Mayor Kowarzik said.
To access these new facilities, a Master Locksmiths Access Key (MLAK) is required. People with disability and carers can access MLAK via a registered locksmith.
For more information about access and inclusion around the shire, please visit www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/accessandinclusion