Queensland Government guides the way on accessible and inclusive events

The guide, and accompanying checklist and online video, could help to unlock an untapped market for accessible tourism estimated to be worth millions of dollars.

Event organisers – from school fetes to sporting world cups - can use the guide to assist in all stages of event planning, from pre-event consultation and preparation, venue considerations, promotion and marketing, registration/ticketing to seating, signage, transport and parking, and creating a welcoming environment.

A successful, accessible and inclusive event, whether it’s in-person or online, is one where all attendees have an opportunity to access and experience every aspect of the event and leave with a sense of enjoyment, togetherness and satisfaction.

Accessible tourism and events also make good business sense with domestic spending by travel groups including people with a disability in Australia worth $13.5 billion (source Tourism Research Australia).

There is an estimated additional untapped potential for accessible tourism nationwide of $735 million or $1.8 billion when including the travel party.

The Queensland Government co-designed the Accessible Events Guide with the Queenslanders with Disability Network as part of the Year of Accessible Tourism.

Queensland’s Year of Accessible Tourism has been extended to 2024 to ignite change and further drive the delivery of more accessible and inclusive experiences.

A $12 million investment has funded more than 250 projects to enhance accessible tourism experiences, by helping tourism and events businesses better cater to visitors of all abilities.

The Queensland Government’s support for accessible events also includes sponsoring Ability Fest 2024, a one-day all-abilities live music festival founded by the Dylan Alcott Foundation, to be held in Queensland for the first time in 2024.

View the Accessible Events Guide and Checklist.

Additional accessible tourism resources.

Accessibility in action – read how the Queensland Music Festival joined forces with Spinal Life Australia to deliver an inclusive music experience.