Mapleton’s call for inclusive toilets falls short in Lilyponds Park upgrade

Mapleton residents have been left disheartened after Sunshine Coast Council confirmed that upcoming toilet upgrades at Lilyponds Park will not include accessible facilities for people with mobility challenges.

The existing public amenities were closed in July 2024 due to what Council described as a “catastrophic failure” of the sewerage system. Since then, the Mapleton and District Community Association (MADCA) has campaigned for the new facilities to incorporate features such as wheelchair access, ramps, and grab rails—highlighting that Mapleton currently has no public accessible toilets.

Council has now reaffirmed its position: the upgrade will replace the failed composting toilets with a flushing system at a cost of approximately $230,000, but there are no plans to redesign the building or add accessible features. A report dated May 15 from Council’s Ethical Standards Branch concluded that the building is in good condition and the number of cubicles would remain unchanged.

MADCA President Max Standage expressed frustration at the decision, saying inclusive facilities were a basic expectation for a community space like Lilyponds Park. Mr Standage said the community had consistently called for modern, accessible toilets to ensure everyone could equally enjoy this park.

Council said it bases project priorities on a “robust condition assessment regime,” and while accessibility was one of the highest-weighted factors, the Lilyponds site did not rank highly enough among more than 200 public amenities across the region. It also noted that of the top 25 sites identified for future upgrades, 17 currently lack accessible facilities.

The Council’s report acknowledged the relevance of the Human Rights Act 2019, particularly Section 15 on equality before the law. However, it found the decision justifiable “due to the fiscal responsibility obligated on Council.”

For now, Council has advised that the nearest accessible toilet is located 3km away at Mapleton National Park—an option previously flagged by MADCA as unsuitable due to access restrictions.

A faint possibility remains: the covering email to the report mentioned that “some possible solutions and alternative funding options” are being considered. “If and when Council is in a position to provide any details… further information will be released,” it said.

MADCA encouraged residents to contact the Queensland Ombudsman at ombudsman@ombudsman.qld.gov.au or by phone at (07) 3005 7000.