Accessibility

Getting Here and Access Throughout

• Accessible designated parking
• Wheelchair access throughout the Centre
• Lift access to the gymnastics viewing area

Aquatic Accessibility

• Hydraulic hoist (SWL 230kg)
• Electronic chair pool lift (SWL 182kg)
• PAL2 pool lift (SWL 136kg)
• Four aquatic wheelchairs
• Gradual railed ramp entry to 50m Pool and Multipurpose Pool

Changing Facilities
We also provide the following changing facilities:

• Two Adult Change Facilities which can be reserved if required for patrons living with disability by calling reception
• 1 accessible change room with wall-mounted, height adjustable change table and ceiling hoist
• 24 individual change rooms
• 2 family change rooms

Assistance Animals

• Assistance animals are welcome, including an assistance dog within the meaning of section 4(1) of the Equal Opportunity Act 2010 (Vic)
• Assistance dog lead points

Communication and Sensory Support

• Hearing Loop access for people who are deaf or hard of hearing
• Communication Board for people who have difficulty with speech or understanding spoken language
• Sensory quiet times between 3:00pm – 3:45pm

Free or discounted entry is permitted to carers and companions on presentation of a valid carers or companion card. Please see below for further details:

Companion Card
BALC accepts the Companion Card which allows the support person free entry if they are accompanying a paying person who requires their support. This entry does not allow the support person to participate in any activities but only act as a support to the person. If the support person would like to participate in an activity, they must pay the concession fee associated to that activity.

Carers Card
Carers who hold a Carers card are eligible for concession rates when visiting the centre to care/support someone or when visiting on their own. If the carer would like to participate in an activity, they must pay the concession fee associated to that activity.

Agency Support Workers supporting a client with a disability
BALC allows Agency Support Workers free entry if they are accompanying a paying person who requires support to access our facilities.  Agency Support Workers must have visible identification in the way of a uniform or identification badge that shows they work for an agency. If they don’t have any identification, they should be able to present a companion card. If the support person would like to participate in an activity, they must pay the appropriate fee associated to that activity.

To assist members and patrons with sensory needs, we are pleased to offer a calmer and quieter environment in centre each day between 3pm – 3:45pm.

Noise will be kept to a minimum, our phones will be turned down, lights dimmed where possible and there will be no music played across the centre during this time.

You can also help us by keeping noise to a minimum when visiting during this time.

Sensory Quiet Time
3pm – 3:45pm

*Please note Sensory Quiet Time will not run during events held at BALC.

Wearing a Sunflower lanyard or pin lets staff and others know you have a hidden disability or condition. It’s a globally recognised symbol that helps you communicate your needs without having to explain them. Participation is completely voluntary and designed to empower you in public spaces like shops, transport, and community facilities.

BALC staff have completed Sunflower Program training. You may see staff wearing white Sunflower lanyards or pins, this indicates they’ve been trained to recognise and support people with hidden disabilities.

Patrons of BALC can can collect a green Sunflower lanyard from the reception desk. No registration required, just ask at the front desk.

To learn more about the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program, visit: A symbol for non-visible disabilities, also known as hidden disabilities or invisible disabilities.

A social story is a short, illustrated guide that helps individuals especially children  understand and prepare for social situations they may encounter.

Our swimming social story is designed to help you or your child become familiar with our centre and pools, reduce anxiety, and feel more confident when visiting.

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

• Two new Changing Places facilities
• Two new accessible, sensory-friendly family change rooms
• Automatic sliding doors to existing accessible change rooms
• Automatic entry gates to replace turnstiles
• Accessibility upgrades to the group fitness studios and health club and the café

To learn more about the Upgrades, visit: Ballarat Aquatic & Lifestyle Centre (BALC) Changing Places and All Abilities Upgrades | City of Ballarat