Keys provided for toilet access
Gosford Council has decided to provide keys to disabled residents to allow them 24-hour access to public toilets.
The Master Locksmith Access Key system will allow disabled community members 24-hour access to 27 public toilets on the Peninsula.
These include toilets at shopping centres such as the Peninsula Plaza and in open reserves such as Correa Bay or Rogers Park, according to Gosford Disability Access Committee member Cr Terri Latella.
She said the new service provided equity access for all people with difficulties.
"Our life on the Central Coast embraces an aging population and a growing population for young families both of which require consideration and thoughtfulness in order to provide the best mobility and service access," Cr Latella said.
"We should not forget that an estimated 25 per cent of our population has access issues such as physical and emotional disabilities including sight or hearing impairments.
"The emphasis is on raising awareness and coming up with solutions to make all our lives much more comfortable, enjoyable and rewarding.
"The recent Federal Government changes to the Fair Work Act and the Disability Discrimination Act will improve the standards of equity access in the work place and to the built environment."
According to Cr Latella, the Master Locksmith Access Key fits into specially designed locks allowing access 24-hour a day to public amenities for people with access and mobility difficulties.
Cr Latella said the key can be used across Australia at any public toilet or other facility including lifts and adaptive playground equipment.
"If you feel that such a service would improve your quality of life, please contact council to discuss how to obtain a key," Ms Latella said
Press release, 10 Sep 2009
Terri Latella, Gosford Council