Campaspe Shire mayor Adrian Weston said the facility was more than an accessible toilet.
‘‘It is part of the changing places project which is seeing facilities built across Australia to meet the needs of people with severe and profound disabilities,’’ he said.
‘‘The facility will be built to set guidelines and specifications to ensure it has all the necessary features to comfortably change an adult including enough space for two carers, height adjustable change tables, a tracking hoist system, shower and toilet, in a safe and clean environment.’’
The site was selected due to its central location, close to the central business district and shops, with suitable parking as well as being a short distance from the port precinct.
‘‘Changing places has opened up a life outside of the home for many people and the central location will support local disability service providers as well as visitors,’’ Cr Weston said.
‘‘The facility will support many people who in the past have not been able to travel, opening up Echuca as a destination point, providing an added economic benefit as well as social benefit.’’
Facilities are easily located through the changing places website. Users have access 24/7 and are provided with a key which accesses all facilities across the country.
Echuca was selected as a needed location for a facility of this type following a survey conducted by the Department of Health and Human Services in 2016.
The results — engaging people with a disability, their families and carers — identified Echuca as one of the top four locations across Victoria needing a facility.
During construction, a section of the High St car park will be fenced off.
At times, access to the adjacent public toilet facility may also be impacted. Construction could take up to four months to complete.
The project has been funded by a $100,000 grant from the Victorian Government. Council will also contribute $80,000.