Join us on Sunday 6 December as we celebrate our 20th Anniversary of Carols in the Park. Join thousands of other families at the Wiley Park Amphitheatre from 6pm for a night of Christmas carolling under the stars.
Disability Access to Public Facilities
The Provision of Disability Access at Council Events guidelines (165KB) were compiled by Canterbury City Council's Community Worker, Disability Services with assistance from Council staff involved in events management and delivery and Council's Disability Access Committee. Canterbury City Council requests that any reproduction of these guidelines acknowledge their source and the contribution of the dedicated group of volunteers that constitute its Disability Access Committee.
Provision of Disability Access at Council Events guidelines (165KB)
MLAK scheme
What is the MLAK scheme?
The Master Locksmiths Access Key (MLAK) is a relatively new scheme that is gaining acceptance by people with mobility issues in the community. It uses a universal lock and key to allow people with disabilities 24 hours a day access to public facilities.
The installation of MLAK affords equity and dignity to people with a disability in that toilet facilities designed and dedicated to their use can be readily accessed by them.
Easy access to toilets is something that the general public often takes for granted. Accessible toilets, however, are often locked after hours to keep facilities clean or reduce vandalism. The scheme allows accessible toilets to remain available after hours. People with disabilities therefore feel more comfortable to go out in the evening.
Who can supply MLAK?
Many Master Locksmiths participate in the scheme. They can supply and install MLAK locks. The can also supply MLAK keys. A list of Master Locksmiths participating in the scheme can be obtained by phoning 1800 810 698.
Where has MLAK been installed?
Many councils support the MLAK scheme. MLAK has been installed in many sites in New South Wales including shopping centres, public parks and recreation areas, amenity blocks within business districts, elevators at railway stations, entertainment and sporting venues, libraries, clubs, caravan parks and camping grounds.
How successful is the scheme?
After a trial period with Pittwater Council in 1994-95 there are now over 300 facilities fitted with MLAK. In Britain, where a similar scheme exists, there are over 4000 accessible facilities fitted with the universal lock. Spinal Cord Injuries Australia maintains a database of MLAK locations. It is updated regularly with new sites. A list of all sites in New South Wales can be obtained by visiting the information page of Spinal Cord Injuries Australia Web site at http://www.spinalcordinjuries.com.au or by phoning 9661 8855.
Where are MLAK facilities in Canterbury?
In Canterbury City, the following locations have disabled toilets that are fitted with MLAK:
- Campsie Central Library, Amy Street, Campsie
- Campsie Centre (lower level near centre management), Amy Street, Campsie
- Campbell Field, Princess Street, Canterbury
- Bennett Park, Karne Street, Riverwood
- Gough Whitlam Park, Bayview Avenue, Earlwood
- Lees Park, Harmony Street, Ashbury
- Punchbowl Park (at the tennis courts), Viola Street, Punchbowl
- Wiley Park (near Amphitheatre) Wiley Park
A sign is attached to facilities indicating it is fitted with MLAK.
How can I obtain a MLAK key?
As a service to resident of Canterbury with a disability, Council's Disability Access Committee has purchased a supply of keys. You may obtain a key from our Community Services Division located at 139 Beamish Street Campsie. Keys are available free of charge.
To receive a key you will need to be a resident of Canterbury, have a disability affecting your mobility that is apparent or otherwise a letter from a medical practitioner, disability organisation or community health centre verifying your disability. Proof of identity will be required if you are requesting a key on behalf of a friend or family member.
Who can give me more information?
Council's Community Worker, Disability Services can provide more information on the MLAK scheme. You can contact the Community Worker, Disability Services on 9789 9432 or by fax on 9718 7227.