23-Sep-2020:
Master Locksmiths Access Key (MLAK)
The origins of the Master Locksmiths Access Key (MLAK) date back to 1994. The MLAK system was developed by the Master Locksmiths Association of Australasia Ltd (MLAA). ACROD and Pittwater Council. The system was developed to help increase the availability of accessible, clean and functioning public facilities for the people that don’t always have the luxury of using standard facilities.
Over 25 years later, the MLAK system remains a unique and innovative system that uses a universal lock and key to allow people with special needs to access dedicated public facilities 24 hours a day.
Accessible facilities should be open during daylight hours, however, they are often closed after hours due to the risk of vandalism.
Easy access to public toilets is something the general public often takes for granted, but for people with special needs, the issue is not always straight forward.
Where is the MLAK System Used?
The MLAK system is used Australia-wide. The system has been installed at railway stations, accessible toilets in Council facilities and in National Parks, as well as adaptive playground equipment such as the Liberty Swing. It is also used for the fantastic Changing Places facilities.
Spinal Cords Injuries Australia maintains a directory of MLAK-enabled facilities throughout Australia.
To access this directory, please visit: https://scia.org.au/accessible-toilets/
Who is Eligible for an MLAK Key?
Access to MLAK keys is restricted to people who have a disability, or who have written authority from:
- A doctor
- A disability organisation
- Centre Management or the owner of a building with an MLAK-enabled facility on site
How Do You Purchase an MLAK Key?
MLAK keys can only be purchased from Business Members of the Master Locksmiths Association of Australasia (MLAA), or directly from the National Support Office of the MLAA.
Simply visit the MLAA website, enter your suburb or postcode in the Find A Locksmith box, and look for the words “Master Locksmiths Access Key (MLAK)” in the list of services.
MLAA Contact Details:
Website: www.masterlocksmiths.com.au
Email: national@masterlocksmiths.com.au
Phone: 03 9338 8822
Toll Free: 1800 810 698