Wednesday, 4 March 2026

 Lizzie BLANDTHORN (Western Metropolitan – Minister for Children, Minister for Disability) (12:09): I rise to update the house on how the Allan Labor government is supporting all Victorians to participate in activities across the state through our investment in Changing Places facilities. For those who may not know, Changing Places facilities are larger than standard accessible toilets and have extra features such as a tracking hoist and space for two or more carers. They make a huge difference to people with disability who need them as well as their families, and we are delivering these facilities right across the state. Last week I was pleased to open the Changing Place at Yarraville Gardens with local MP Katie Hall from the other place and members of Maribyrnong City Council. Yarraville Gardens is located in the heart of the Maribyrnong community, and now more community members, including people with high support needs, can enjoy everything these gardens have to offer. This Changing Place is not only functional, it is one of the prettiest I have visited, and I was very pleased to meet Thomas, the artist who designed a striking mural on the facility, which complements the surrounding parklands and greenery beautifully.

Here in Victoria we are leading the charge in making Australia a more accessible place for people with disability, with 189 out of the 358 Changing Places nationally located in our state. I am proud of the fact that the Victorian government has provided $11.4 million towards Changing Places since 2015 to build these facilities. This includes $180,000 for the Yarraville Gardens facility. A key commitment in Inclusive Victoria is to create more inclusive outdoor spaces so all Victorians can take part in nature and community life; facilities like the new Changing Place in Yarraville will help us reach this goal. We are proud of our continued commitment to the Changing Places initiative alongside our work in Inclusive Victoria to make Victoria accessible for everyone. To learn more about Changing Places and find these facilities, they are listed on the Changing Places website.