Guidelines for both Council-run and third-party event organisers to make events more accessible has just been introduced.
The Accessible Event Guidelines are a tool for organisers to consider access and participation of all people including those living with a disability in the planning stages of their events, how this can be implemented and resources to enable everyone to participate.
Northern Beaches Mayor Michael Regan said it’s a legal requirement under the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (Cth) and Disability Inclusion Act 2014 (NSW) to provide accessibility and inclusion provisions for people with disability.
“Council is constantly working to ensure the inclusion of people living with disability have the same access to services and opportunities as everyone else.
“Our commitment is demonstrated in our own Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) 2017-2021 which we consulted with the community and identified more attention be given to the planning and delivery of sporting, cultural and recreational events and so this guide was formed creating a toolkit for the planning and delivery of events.
“Whether a disability is caused by an accident, trauma, genetics or disease – is temporary, permanent, total or partial, lifelong or acquired, visible or non-visible, it is important to provide equitable opportunities for everyone.
“We know social participation has significant social, physical and mental health benefits and should be made available for everybody to benefit.” Mayor Regan said.
The Guidelines include best practice considerations such as the venue choice, accessible viewing and seating areas, accessible marketing and communications, sound and audio-visual technology, wayfinding and signage, staff training, transport and emergency protocols.
Members of the public are encourage to contact Council if they have any questions, concerns or would like to ensure their specific needs are met at a Council-run event.
The Accessible Event Guidelines is in addition to our Guide to Events on the Northern Beaches which includes information things you should consider when planning an event, including permits and approvals that may be required when staging an event at a Council venue or one of our many open spaces.
If you’re planning an event, please visit our website
