Frankston’s Australia’s Most Accessible Beach program will return for the 2026-27 summer after strong demand during its first season.
Frankston City Council unanimously backed the program’s return at its 20 April meeting, following a pilot at Frankston Foreshore over the 2025-26 summer.
The program, delivered with Accessible Beaches Australia and supported by Surf Life Saving Victoria, provided beach matting, beach wheelchairs and walkers, a hoist, shaded areas, support staff and volunteers.
Council said the pilot ran across 30.5 operational days, with more than 456 participants from 247 groups taking part. A further 241 community members used the accessible beach matting.
Strong Response From Beach Users
Council said 91.8 per cent of participants reported the accessible beach was the main reason they visited Frankston.
It also said 29 per cent of participants had not been able to visit a beach for more than 11 years before taking part in the program.
Frankston City Mayor Cr Sue Baker said the response showed the program had met a clear community need.
This initiative reminded us that accessibility is ultimately about people and their experiences. It shows what can be achieved when inclusion is treated as a priority, not an afterthought.
The incredible response from the community made it clear this was something they didn’t want to lose. Council is delighted to have delivered a program that gave so many Victorians such a special summer, and just as delighted to confirm it will return next year.
Program About More Than Beach Access
Cr Nathan Butler said the program’s impact went beyond physical access to the beach.
This program is about much more than access to the beach, it’s about belonging, dignity and feeling seen.
When members of our community tell us they’re doing something they never thought they’d be able to do again, that’s when you know you’re delivering something truly meaningful.
Funding And Future Works
Council said the first season was supported by more than $200,000 in financial and in-kind contributions, including $45,000 from council.
Surplus sponsorship funds will be used to help deliver the program again next summer.
Council has also applied for $108,184 through the Commonwealth Accessible Australia Initiative to help build a new Changing Places facility at the Frankston Waterfront.
The proposed facility would include adult change tables and ceiling track hoists for people with complex disabilities and high support needs.
While the program’s return has been secured, its longer-term future will depend on continued funding, sponsorship and operational support.
