The Master Locksmiths Access Key (MLAK) is a unique and innovative system that uses a universal lock and key to allow people with disabilities to access dedicated public facilities 24 hours a day. It was developed to help increase the availability of accessible, clean and functioning public facilities for people who don’t always have the luxury of using standard facilities.
The MLAK program was released in 1994, as a joint venture between the Master Locksmiths Association of Australasia (MLAA), Pittwater council and Acrod.

The MLAK system uses an Australian-made restricted key and lock barrel that is only available from MLAA locksmiths. The system can be made to work with just about any type of locking mechanism in Australia.

The MLAK system is widely used throughout Australia. It 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.

People with a disability are able to purchase an MLAK key which will open all toilets, playground equipment and other facilities fitted with a lock that uses the special MLAK cylinder.

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/

WHERE TO FIND A MLAK ENABLED FACILITY?
Many local councils throughout Australia have implemented the MLAK system and can tell you where you can find an MLAK-enabled facility in your area.

The National Toilet Map is a Federally funded initiative developed and maintained by Health Department as part of the National Continence Program. The National Public Toilet Map provides information on over 19,000 public available toilets across Australia, including accessibility, opening hours and facilities, such as showers and baby change. The National Public Toilet Map is also available as a free app for iPhone and for Android phones and tablets.

HOW ARE MLAK-ENABLED FACILITIES IDENTIFIED?
Facilities that are MLAK-enabled can be visually identified by dedicated MLAK signage. These signs usually feature the unique shape of the MLAK key head.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE?
Eligibility is restricted to people who have a disability or have written authority from one of the following:

• a doctor
• a disability organisation
• community health centre
• the owner or management of a building with an accessible toilet on site

HOW TO GET AN MLAK?
If you meet these criteria, please download the order form below, fill out the information and email to workshop@safeguardgroup.com.au