Tuesday, 20 June 2023

 Lizzie BLANDTHORN (Western Metropolitan – Minister for Disability, Ageing and Carers, Minister for Child Protection and Family Services) (12:38): I rise to update the house on the Andrews government’s actions to promote inclusion across Victoria. Last week I was pleased to announce $2.3 million in funding for 13 new Changing Places facilities. These grants will enable councils, not-for-profit community organisations and tourist destinations to construct fully accessible toilet facilities, making sure public spaces can be enjoyed by everyone. Each Changing Place has a height-adjustable adult-size changing table, a ceiling tracking hoist system and enough space for two people either side of a peninsular toilet, making community spaces and events more accessible for the 1.1 million Victorians and many more visitors who are people with disability. As Victorian Disability Advisory Council member Martin Heng observes:

These facilities are incredibly important to allow people with high support needs, particularly those who need a hoist to be able to use the toilet, to get out into the community.

Since 2015 the Labor government has invested in new Changing Places initiatives, supporting the construction of 70 facilities. In 2022–23 the Labor government’s Changing Places program invested $5.4 million to build 30 new facilities throughout Victoria.

This is just one way the Andrews Labor government is supporting access and inclusion in Victoria. We are also delivering the disability liaison officer program, which supports Victorians with disability to access critical health care. We are investing in the Victorian disability advocacy program, which helps people receive the services and supports they require to access and participate in public life. We are also supporting the public education campaign Change Your Reactions to promote better attitudes towards people with autism. Indeed I note in passing that last Sunday was Autistic Pride Day, and I would like to take this opportunity to celebrate the important contributions that autistic Victorians make in our community. These new Changing Places show that the Andrews government is continuing to do what matters for Victorians with disability.