CONSTITUENCY STATEMENTS
Ms BELYEA (Dunkley) (10:53): Dunkley is buzzing. Last week I announced that we have secured $108,000 for the Frankston inclusive beach project through the Accessible Australia initiative. This project has been championed by our community and is one I have supported with over 30 organisations and the support of Frankston City Council's Councillor Bolam and Councillor Butler.
It is a great example of what happens when local advocates, families, volunteers and governments work together to remove barriers and create opportunities. For too many people living with a disability, a trip to the beach is not as simple as arriving at the foreshore and walking onto the sand. Australia's Most Accessible Beach pilot showed what it is when we change that.
During the summer of 2025-26, Frankston's waterfront featured accessible beach matting, beach wheelchairs and walkers transfer equipment, shaded rest areas and trained staff and volunteers. The results were outstanding. More than 456 participants across 247 groups took part in coming to the beach and using the accessible beach matting.
More than 91 per cent of participants said the program was the main reason they visited Frankston. Nearly one-third had not visited a beach in more than 11 years, and for some it had been over 20 years since they'd had a dip in the ocean. This project is about accessibility that leads to inclusion.
The beach should not be a place people see but cannot reach. It should be a place where everyone can spend time with loved ones and that everyone can enjoy. The next phase of this important project will deliver a changing places facility at the Frankston waterfront, providing the specialised equipment and space that people with complex disabilities and their carers need to enjoy a day at the beach with dignity.
Australia's most accessible beach has put Frankston on the map for accessible tourism and recreation. This recent investment by the federal government, along with Frankston City Council, is about opening our beach up to everyone, helping families make memories together and ensuring every person has the opportunity to participate and to enjoy a day at the beach.