Australian Government announces $17 million for more accessible spaces

The Australian Government has announced a $17.1 million investment to work in partnership with states and territories to increase accessibility in community spaces across Australia through the new Commonwealth Accessible Australia initiative.

Accessible Australia builds on the Government's Changing Places initiative to include funding for additional accessible infrastructure projects in national parks, beaches and play spaces nationwide.

The Federal Government will fund up to 100% of eligible accessible infrastructure for inclusive national parks, beaches and portable Changing Places facilities.

This includes funding for all terrain or beach wheelchairs and accessible paths or mobi-matting.

It will also fund up to 50% of build cost for fixed Changing Places facilities and inclusive play spaces to include features like liberty swings and sensory play platforms, with remaining build costs and ongoing maintenance to be met by state and territory governments.

Minister for Social Services and the National Disability Insurance Scheme, Amanda Rishworth notes "Changing Places is already building facilities in 39 communities across the country, providing the highest level of accessible bathrooms for people with complex needs, helping to remove the barriers some face in participating fully in their community.

"Through Accessible Australia, we are significantly broadening the types of accessible infrastructure and amenities that will be built across Australia, providing access - for the first time for many - to national parks, beaches and play spaces.

"These new facilities will be in addition to Changing Places projects recently announced, as we bolster our efforts to increase inclusion and promote accessible tourism."

The Australian Government will also provide funding to state and territory governments to help with the design, development and delivery of Accessible Australia projects.

"People with disability have the same rights to be included in our communities, to access the spaces we gather in, and to experience our beautiful natural environment.

"By working together, we can make Australia truly accessible for all," Minister Rishworth added.

For more information about the Commonwealth Accessible Australia initiative, visit the Department of Social Services website.

Image. Accessible beaches. Credit: Mable