Changing Places and All Abilities Upgrades

The City of Ballarat is upgrading BALC facilities to enable increased participation and more active recreation opportunities for people with disability and accessibility needs.

The project will deliver new Changing Places facilities, additional accessible and family friendly change rooms, and a range of broader accessibility improvements throughout the centre.

Construction will follow a staged approach to minimise disruptions for patrons and is due to commence in early May 2026. While each stage is under construction, the remainder of the centre will operate as normal.

The project has received $748,124 in funding from the Victorian Government, along with a $449,375 contribution from the City of Ballarat.

To read the full media release announcement, please click here.

Project Highlights:

– Two Changing Places facilities (one with hoist and direct pool access).

– One Accessible Adult Change facility.

– Conversion of two existing change rooms into accessible, friendly family change rooms.

– Refresh of existing accessible and family change rooms with new automatic sliding doors.

– New automatic sliding doors to all group fitness studios and the health club.

– New automated push?button swing door between the pool deck and the café.

– Installation of automated gates with wider entry points to replace turnstile at the front entrance.

What is Changing Places?

Changing Places facilities are larger than standard accessible toilets and include additional features such as tracking hoist and extra space for two or more carers. These features allow people with high support needs to use bathroom facilities safely, comfortably and with dignity.

To read more about Changing Places, please click here.

Master Locksmiths Access Key (MLAK)

Both Changing Places facilities will be fitted with a Master Locksmith Access Key (MLAK) system. A MLAK will be required to access these change rooms upon completion.

The MLAK system was developed to help increase the availability of accessible, clean and functioning public facilities for the people that don’t always have the luxury of using standard facilities.

People who hold a Victorian Companion Card may be eligible for a free MLAK.

To apply for an MLAK, fill out the Master Locksmith Access Key application to confirm your eligibility.

Alternatively, please visit Rodd Locksmiths Ballarat, 13 Armstrong Street North, who can provide an MLAK to individuals who qualify for them.

To read more FAQ’s about the MLAK system, please click here.