Access and Inclusion

Creating inclusive events is essential for building a sense of community and ensuring that everyone feels welcome and valued. By removing barriers to participation, whether physical, sensory, financial, linguistic, or gender-based, events become spaces where diverse voices are heard, ideas are exchanged, and connections are forged. This not only promotes diversity but also enhances the overall experience for all attendees, providing the opportunity for enhanced learning and the sharing of knowledge, strengthening community and making space for personal growth by challenging biases and broadening horizons.

What to consider

Physical Accessibility
Ensure venues/sites are accessible to individuals with mobility impairments by providing wheelchair ramps/level entries, accessible parking and accessible toilets.

Sensory-Friendly
Offer sensory-friendly options to support attendees with sensory sensitivities, such as quiet spaces, noise-cancelling headphones, and sensory-friendly activities.

Communication Accessibility
Provide clear and accessible communication materials, including website content, event information, and signage, to ensure that all attendees can easily access important information about the event. Meet the needs of people with hearing or vision impairments by providing live captions, Auslan interpreters, communication boards, or volunteer support staff.

Language Accessibility
Accommodate attendees who speak languages other than English by providing interpretation services or translated materials upon request.

Financial Accessibility
Offer affordable or subsidised ticket options to ensure that events are accessible to individuals from diverse socio-economic backgrounds.

Gender Equity
Ensure diverse representation of genders across all event aspects, from management to participation. Consider the needs of transgender and non-binary individuals when organising facilities and accommodations. Create a welcoming, safe atmosphere that empowers attendees to express themselves freely. Amplify diverse voices and viewpoints in promotional materials, social media channels, and other communication platforms. Incorporate gender-inclusive language in all event materials.

Guidance

Please refer to the Guidelines and Checklist for Inclusive events for help in planning your inclusive event

Best practice examples

Social story: Rip Curl Pro 2023 Social Story
Sensory map: Rip Curl Pro 2023 Sensory Map