Sometimes, knowing what to expect from an outing makes it more enjoyable. That’s why we worked with Access Ability Australia to create a series of detailed guides to help you plan visits to local sporting facilities and playgrounds.
Access Keys are customised, highly detailed guides offering more predictability for people with disability, seniors and families. They are designed to be suitable for everyone, regardless of ability.
The guides cover:
- prediction
- orientation
- structure
- sensory integration
- accessibility
- safety features.
They allow users to navigate themselves around the venue with clear instructions on where to find things such as toilets.
Access Keys are written guides containing colour photos, supportive text, maps and sensory information to assist people in knowing what they might experience at a venue.
The guides also include details about:
- accessible parking
- entry points
- venue layout and amenities.
Depending on the venue, some Access Keys may contain information about accessible events, programs and wellbeing aspects.
The guides are available in full colour and large print, text-only formats.
Access Keys and Master Access Locksmith Keys (MLAKs) are both useful tools in planning an outing.
While Access Keys are printed information guides detailing what to expect at a venue or location, MLAKs are physical keys you use to access certain facilities.
MLAKs allow people with disability to access any specialist accessible amenity throughout Australia. This includes:
- Changing Places
- liberty swings
- elevators at railway stations
- secure accessible amenities.
You can get your own MLAK by emailing us at leisure@whittlesea.vic.gov.au.
An MLAK for the Civic Centre Marveloo in South Morang is also available at the Customer Service Desk during business hours.
Find out more about MLAKs
In addition to Access Keys, social stories can also be useful in preparing for new situations or destinations.
You can also download social stories, which we've developed for people with different communication support needs.
They're designed so people can better prepare for social interaction through information about:
- specific social situations
- how and why these situations may arise
- what typical responses might be.
They are useful tools for anyone who likes to know what to expect ahead of time.
Watch this video to learn more about social stories.
Access Keys are currently available to download for the following venues. Some also have social stories to download.