- Changing Place facility is now available at Sorrento Beach
- People with specialised needs have a greater opportunity to visit and enjoy Hillarys Boat Harbour and the surrounding northern beaches
Disability Services Minister Stephen Dawson today celebrated Disability Awareness Week and the opening of the latest Changing Place facility at Sorrento Beach, next to Hillarys Boat Harbour.
A Changing Place is a clean, accessible and specialised public bathroom facility that includes a ceiling hoist, adult changing table, secure automatic door and enough space for two support people.
There are currently about 200,000 Australians with a disability who require assistance to meet their bathroom and personal hygiene needs. Without appropriate public facilities, their options are limited and the opportunities to actively participate in community life are restricted.
The Changing Place facility at Sorrento Beach was installed by the City of Joondalup with funding provided by the State Government's Changing Places local government grants program which is administered by the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries.
The Sorrento Beach Changing Place opened to the public on November 6 and is the latest facility to join the State's growing Changing Place network. Its opening was officially celebrated at a City of Joondalup community event coinciding with Disability Awareness Week.
Disability Awareness Week (December 3-9) raises awareness of the importance of access and inclusion in Western Australia. Events to celebrate the week are listed at http://www.disability.wa.gov.au
Comments attributed to Disability Services Minister Stephen Dawson:
"Expanding the Changing Place network is crucial to improving access and inclusion for people with disability and their families and carers across our State.
"Changing Places help to reduce social barriers and can provide greater opportunities for people with disability to participate in community life.
"The new Changing Place at Sorrento Beach will allow people to travel more freely to this popular recreational hub and coastal area knowing that they have access to convenient and appropriate bathroom facilities."
Minister's office - 6552 5800
